Free Nature & Art Talks at Reiman Gardens, Ames IA
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels with mostly seated indoor sessions and optional short accessible outdoor tours.
Overview
Reiman Gardens in Ames, Iowa invites you to immersive, free programs connecting nature and art. Dive into beekeeping basics or uncover the stories behind stunning public sculptures on campus.
Free Lectures at Reiman Gardens
NEXT: Wed Sep 10 • 6-7 PM • Honeybees 101 & Beekeeping Basics
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About This Adventure
Join local experts for a free program exploring nature and art! Discover the fascinating world of bees with a beekeeping basics session and an optional bee tour, or delve into the impressive public art collection on campus. Engage with knowledgeable speakers and enrich your understanding of ecology and creativity.
Join local experts and organizations for a FREE program to dive a little deeper into various nature-related topics.
FREE for all attendees (no admission required) in partnership with the ISU Lectures Series Preregistration is encouraged but not required.
Upcoming Programs:
Wednesday, September 10, 6:00 – 7:00 PM, with optional bee tour 7:00 – 7:45: Honeybees 101 and Beekeeping Basics
Learn the basics behind bees and beekeeping with beekeeper and Agriculture Specialist Zachary Koopman, ISU Research and Demonstration Farms. In 2023, Zack installed a unique group of honey bees near Sycamore Falls at Reiman Gardens, where they collect nectar and pollen, add to the local ecology, and produce honey.
If you've been wondering about keeping bees on your property (or about bees in general), bring your questions and if you're up for it, stay for a short guided trip out to see the bees on site!
Thursday, October 2, 6:00 – 8:00 PM: Cultivating a Collection: Art on Campus in Public Gardens
University Museums' Art on Campus Collection is one of the largest public art collections on a college campus in the nation. This session focuses on the sculpture located in the public gardens on campus, and the distinctive commissioning method for these works of art.
Art on Campus Curator Sydney Marshall will explore examples of art from Reiman Gardens and the Anderson Sculpture Garden located in the heart of campus. She will discuss the commissioning process, as well as the care and maintenance of these remarkable pieces within the collection.
COPY LINK
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Seating
Free lectures can fill up quickly; arriving early ensures a comfortable spot and time to mingle with speakers.
Dress for the Outdoors
Optional bee tours take place outside; wear weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes for safety.
Bring Questions
Lectures encourage interaction—come prepared with questions on beekeeping or public art for a richer experience.
Parking Considerations
University campus parking can be limited during events; check local signage for visitor parking zones.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Honeybees
- Local songbird species
History
Reiman Gardens has been part of Iowa State University since 1995, serving as both a horticultural showcase and educational resource.
Conservation
Programs emphasize sustainable gardening practices and local pollinator health to promote ecological balance in the Midwest.
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Adventure Hotspots in Des Moines
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Closed-Toe Shoes
Protect your feet during outdoor bee tours and garden walks.
spring|summer|fall specific
Layered Clothing
Adjust for temperature changes indoors and outdoors comfortably.
all specific
Notebook and Pen
Useful for taking notes during educational talks and Q&A.
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated especially during outdoor tours on warmer days.
spring|summer|fall specific