Activity Overview
Reiman Gardens is a beautiful 17-acre public garden in the city of Ames, Iowa, just 35 miles north of Des Moines. Owned and maintained by Iowa State University, Reiman Gardens is one of the most popular attractions in central Iowa. It features numerous garden areas, a butterfly wing, and an indoor conservatory that are filled with fascinating plant and insect species.
Reiman Gardens is a great attraction for families with children of all ages due to its focus on nature and family-friendly environment. Walk around, look at plants, watch butterflies soar, and smell the beautiful roses in the Antique Rose Garden!
Things to Do
- Take your kids to see Elwood, the World's Largest Concrete Gnome, who guards the Home Production Garden. They'll love having their picture taken with the giant friendly-looking gnome.
- Encourage your kids to make music with the chimes at the CoHorts Dancing Chimes Plaza and take them to see the diverse wildlife at Lake Helen.
- Visit the interactive farm-themed Children's Garden, which features a hideout, tumbling mounds, a scarecrow garden, and a corn crib pavilion. Your kids will love running around and playing there!
Reiman Gardens Insider Tips
- Don't miss the Butterfly Wing! This huge indoor tropical garden is home to butterflies from six continents that fly around and occasionally land on visitors. Just make sure not to touch the butterflies since their wings are very fragile.
- Reiman Gardens is the perfect place for a leisurely family stroll - explore its many plants and listen to the soothing sounds of its water features as you walk, or sit on a bench to take in the wonderful natural sights and sounds that surround you.
- Take your family to the gardens for a special guided tour designed for young children. These educational hour-long tours teach children about the native and tropical butterflies found in the Butterfly Wing as well as the plant and insect life cycles.
