Are the lectures truly free to attend?

Yes, all lectures at Reiman Gardens are free with no admission fees required.

Do I need to preregister for the lectures?

Pre-registration is encouraged to secure your spot but not mandatory.

Is the bee tour suitable for children?

Yes, children are welcome, but the bee tour requires close adult supervision for safety.

Are the outdoor bee tours wheelchair accessible?

The bee apiary is accessed via short, firm paths; however, accessibility may be limited—contact Reiman Gardens for specifics.

Can I ask questions during the lectures?

Absolutely, speakers encourage audience interaction to deepen understanding.

Is parking available at Reiman Gardens during the lectures?

Visitor parking is available nearby, but spaces may be limited during busy campus events.

Free Nature & Art Talks at Reiman Gardens, Ames IA

Reiman Gardens in Ames, Iowa, offers a distinct gateway to understanding the intricate relationships between nature and creativity through its free lecture series. Situated on the Iowa State University campus, this venue is more than a botanical landmark—it functions as an educational hub where scientific curiosity meets artistic expression. Visitors are invited to connect with subject matter experts who illuminate topics ranging from the essential ecology of bees to the history and care of public art collections cultivated on the university grounds.

One highlight includes the "Honeybees 101 and Beekeeping Basics" session, where participants can engage with beekeeper Zachary Koopman and learn about honeybee biology, sustainable beekeeping practices, and local environmental impacts. This program features an optional guided bee tour at the onsite apiary near Sycamore Falls. The proximity to a working apiary brings an immersive layer to the experience, underscoring the critical role pollinators play in Iowa’s landscapes and food systems.

Another unique offering delves into the University Museums’ Art on Campus Collection, one of the largest collegiate public art assemblages in the nation. Attendees learn not only about key sculptures gracing Reiman Gardens and the adjacent Anderson Sculpture Garden but also about the thoughtful commissioning and conservation processes vital to maintaining these outdoor artworks.

These free lectures create a dynamic interface between ecological stewardship and cultural enrichment. For outdoor enthusiasts, gardeners, art lovers, and educators alike, Reiman Gardens stands out as a local beacon of learning that builds a deeper appreciation for the natural and constructed environments that define this part of the Midwest. Its accessible programs invite visitors to enhance their knowledge while inspiring meaningful connections across disciplines and communities.

About Reiman Gardens

Reiman Gardens in Ames, Iowa offers year-round horticultural displays, seasonal events, educational programs, and volunteer opportunities that engage families, students, and garden enthusiasts. The facility hosts a variety of public experiences including speaker series, guided and self-guided tours, hands-on youth day camps, and specialized workshops such as dried floral wreath making and floral design. Signature experiences include the Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing — open daily and featuring up to 800 live butterflies from around 80 species — plus seasonal highlights like Butterfly Blizzard and Nature at NIGHT.

Reiman Gardens programs combine accessible outdoor activities with instructional series and community-focused nights. Regular offerings include Nature with Nathan, a six-part entomology speaker series; Rovers at Reiman dog-friendly evenings; Garden Flow six-week gentle stretching sessions; Nature Journaling workshops; and members-only Wednesday walking club access. Community events range from Autumn Equinox Gothic Soiree (ages 18+) to Trivia Nights, Maker Nights, and seasonal forest bathing walks. Volunteer roles support Spirits in the Gardens (October 10–12), Pumpkin Prep, Butterfly Wing docent training, seasonal gardening and displays, and group volunteer opportunities. Reiman Gardens also offers admissions options, guided tours for youth and adults, and special previews like RG Express and Bonsai Show Member Preview. All program descriptions, schedules, and registration details are published by Reiman Gardens; visitors should consult official listings for dates, age requirements, and availability.

Members' Wednesday Walking Club meets Wednesday mornings and provides access to the Butterfly Wing and Conservatory beginning at 9:00 AM, offering a quieter visit and the chance to see horticulturalists at work.