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Explore the Historic Reiman Gardens: Adult Guided Tour in Ames, Iowa - Ames

Explore the Historic Reiman Gardens: Adult Guided Tour in Ames, Iowa

Ameseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–1.5 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most adults with basic mobility and no need for strenuous activity.

Overview

Discover the rich horticultural heritage of Ames, Iowa, with an expert-led Adult Guided Tour at Reiman Gardens. Explore diverse plant collections and immersive themed gardens while learning about sustainable gardening and local ecology.

Ames, Iowa

Adult Guided Tour

M-F only

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About This Adventure

Duration

  • 1 Hour

Let us Give You the Grand Tour!

In addition to Self-Guided Experiences, Guided Tours of Reiman Gardens highlight the Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing, Hughes Conservatory, and other areas of the Gardens. Add on a lecture for an additional fee, depending on availability.

Guided Tours must be booked at least four weeks in advance.

60-minute guided tours are $15 per person (for a minimum of 10 people), and this price includes all admission to the Gardens. If the minimum of 10 people cannot be met, groups have the option of switching to a self-guided experience; otherwise groups will be charged for the 10 people minimum ($150). Please Note: Discounts affiliated with Garden Memberships do not apply toward guided tours or group visits.

Groups must have a minimum of 10 guests and a limit of 12 guests per tour guide. Larger groups will be divided into smaller groups for ease of the tour and to maximize guests experience.

  • Groups of 60 or more will require additional tour time.
  • Bus driver admissions are included with group tours.
  • Tours are available Monday through Friday only, and must be arranged at least four weeks in advance.

Guided Tours include: personal, trained Reiman Gardens’ tour guide(s) exclusively assigned to your group; access to all areas of the Gardens, including the Butterfly Wing filled with exotic, live butterflies in flight; a walk through the ever-changing floral display in the 5,000 square-foot tropical Hughes Conservatory (except during Conservatory Changeout), a stroll through 17 acres of amazing outdoor gardens.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early to Avoid Crowds

Tours can fill up quickly during peak times; arriving 10 minutes early ensures a relaxed start.

Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes

The tour covers various garden terrains, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is key.

Bring a Water Bottle

Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, as the tour can last over an hour.

Check the Weather Forecast

Tours run rain or shine; dress appropriately to remain comfortable in changing conditions.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Monarch butterflies in the summer.
  • Songbirds frequenting the arboretum trees.

History

Reiman Gardens was established in 1995 through a generous donation from Bob and Mary Reiman to promote horticultural education in Iowa.

Conservation

The gardens emphasize sustainable gardening practices, native plant use, and pollinator habitat restoration throughout their landscape management.

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Adventure Hotspots in Ames

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Essential for navigating varied paths in the gardens.

Weather-appropriate clothing

Essential

Layer to adjust comfortably to indoor conservatory and outdoor garden temperatures.

Hat and sunscreen

Useful for sun protection during springtime tours.

spring specific

Reusable water bottle

Essential

Keeps you hydrated on warm summer days.

summer specific