Adventure Collective Logo
Family Tours at Reiman Gardens in Ames, Iowa - Des Moines

Family Tours at Reiman Gardens in Ames, Iowa

Ameseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all ages and physical abilities; includes gentle walking with short stops.

Overview

Discover how Reiman Gardens’ Family Tour creates an unforgettable nature experience for families in Ames, Iowa. Walk through vibrant floral displays and a butterfly-filled conservatory on this engaging guided adventure.

Ames, Iowa

Family Tour

For all ages • M-F only • 1-2 Hours

Select participants and date

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 family tours are $7 per youth and $15 per adult (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

Book Early

Schedule Family Tours at least four weeks in advance to secure your preferred date.

Group Size Matters

Tours require a minimum of 10 participants; groups above 12 will be split for better experience.

Arrive Comfortable

Wear weather-appropriate clothing; the tour includes indoor conservatory and outdoor garden walks.

Plan for Weekdays

Tours run Monday through Friday only, ensuring a quieter, more focused visit.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Monarch butterflies in the Butterfly Wing
  • Local songbirds frequenting outdoor garden areas

History

Reiman Gardens was established in 1995 as part of Iowa State University’s commitment to botanical education and community engagement.

Conservation

The Gardens promote sustainable practices through native plant restoration and butterfly habitat preservation, minimizing pesticide use.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Des Moines

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Supportive footwear will keep you comfortable during indoor and outdoor garden paths.

Light jacket or sweater

Layering is useful due to varying temperatures between the conservatory and outdoor garden areas.

spring|fall|winter specific

Water bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated especially when visiting during warmer months with outdoor segments.

summer|null specific

Sun hat and sunscreen

Protect against sun exposure during the outdoor portions of the tour.

spring|summer|fall specific