Red Admiral
ParkIowa, US
Reiman Gardens
Reiman Gardens is a stunning 17-acre botanical garden offering year-round beauty and discovery.
About
Reiman Gardens is a stunning 17-acre botanical garden offering year-round beauty and discovery. This award-winning public garden, located at Iowa State University, consistently ranks among North America's top gardens, blending horticultural excellence with unique attractions for all ages.
Step into the vibrant Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing, a tropical paradise where up to 800 exotic butterflies from around the world flutter freely amidst lush plants. Beyond this enchanting indoor sanctuary, explore over 20 distinct garden areas, including the award-winning Helen Latch Jones Rose Garden, renowned for its sustainable and beautiful rose collection, and the immersive Hughes Conservatory, home to a diverse array of tropical and rare plants. Don't miss Elwood, the 15-foot-tall concrete gnome, a beloved and frequently photographed landmark.
From the playful Patty Jischke Children's Garden with its splash pad and Iowa farm elements to the serene Sycamore Falls featuring cascading water and a towering campanile, Reiman Gardens provides a captivating escape. It's a place where natural beauty, art, and education intertwine, offering a memorable experience with each visit, whether you're admiring seasonal blooms, participating in educational programs, or simply finding a peaceful moment amidst nature. Explore the grounds like a pro—download the Snappit app to instantly identify animals and plants.
Reiman Gardens' roots stretch back to 1914 when Iowa State University first established a horticulture garden to educate students. The garden occupied different locations on campus over the years, with limited room for expansion. The modern Reiman Gardens began to take shape in 1993 with a generous gift from Iowa State alumni Bobbi and Roy Reiman, who envisioned a larger, more visible botanical garden at the university's entrance. Construction commenced in 1994, incorporating many collections from the older horticultural gardens. Officially dedicated on September 16, 1995, the initial 5-acre site included the Mahlstede Horticulture Learning Center, Herb Garden, Rose Garden, and Campanile Garden. Major expansions followed, such as the opening of the Patty Jischke Children's Garden in 1999 and the Conservatory Complex, including the Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing, in 2002, transforming Reiman Gardens into a year-round destination.
What to do here
Stroll through the themed outdoor gardens, experience the wonder of butterflies up close, explore diverse plant collections in the conservatory, let children play in their dedicated garden, and capture memorable photos with unique sculptures and garden art.
Seasonal info
Spring: Witness over 50,000 tulips and bulbs in bloom during the Spring Enchantment event.
Summer: Enjoy the peak blooming season for many outdoor gardens, trial gardens, and the annual Garden Art Fair.
Fall: Experience changing foliage and the popular "Spirits in the Gardens" event with intricately carved pumpkins.
Winter: The outdoor gardens transform for the Winter Wonderscape light show, while indoors, the Conservatory hosts the RG Express Holiday Train display.
Accessibility
Reiman Gardens aims to be accessible to everyone. Paved pathways are prevalent, and wheelchairs and motorized scooters are available for checkout at the front desk on a first-come, first-served basis. Many event paths are ADA accessible.
Don't miss
1
Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing
Immerse yourself in a warm, humid environment with hundreds of free-flying exotic butterflies.
2
Hughes Conservatory
Discover a lush collection of tropical and rare plants housed in an indoor setting.
3
Patty Jischke Children's Garden
A playful space with an Iowa farm theme, featuring a splash pad, tumbling mounds, and a covered bridge.
4
Helen Latch Jones Rose Garden
Admire a stunning collection of disease-resistant and winter-hardy roses.
Wildlife you might spot
12Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.
Snap map for this place
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Good to know before you go
Check the Annual Theme and Events
Reiman Gardens features an annual theme that influences displays and events. Check their website for current exhibits and special programming like Orchid Fest, Pollinator Fest, or Spirits in the Gardens to enhance your visit.
Plan for the Butterfly Wing
The Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing is a must-see. Plan to spend ample time observing the butterflies and moving slowly to encourage them to land on you.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
With 17 acres to explore and many distinct garden areas, comfortable footwear is highly recommended for walking the paved and unpaved paths.
Avoid ISU Football Game Days
Reiman Gardens shares parking with Jack Trice Stadium. On Iowa State University home football game days, parking at the Gardens may be restricted or unavailable, and traffic can be significant.
Bring Your Camera
With stunning floral displays, unique sculptures, and colorful butterflies, Reiman Gardens offers countless photo opportunities.
Visit the Gift Shop
No admission fee is required to visit the gift shop, which offers unique home and garden décor, books, children's items, and Iowa State University gear. Beverages and snacks are also available for purchase.
Frequently asked questions
- Yes, parking in lots S1 and S2 is free during open hours and events. However, parking is not available overnight or during Iowa State University home football games. Lot S3 is available for overflow during public events.
- Yes, picnicking is permitted in outdoor garden areas not reserved for private events. You can bring your own meals and non-alcoholic beverages. Alcohol is only allowed under the terms of a Reiman Gardens rental package.
- Yes, wheelchairs and motorized scooters are available to check out on a first-come, first-served basis at the front desk upon arrival. Reservations are not taken in advance.
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