Discover the botanical beauty of Reiman Gardens in Ames, Iowa. With seasonal floral displays, a vibrant Butterfly Wing, and serene outdoor spaces, this 17-acre garden oasis invites visitors for a full day of nature immersion and family-friendly adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels with mostly flat, accessible paths
Wildlife
History
Established in 1995, Reiman Gardens reflects Iowa State University's commitment to botanical education and community engagement.
Conservation
The gardens prioritize sustainable horticulture practices and native plant conservation to support regional biodiversity.
Reiman Gardens
Discover the botanical beauty of Reiman Gardens in Ames, Iowa. With seasonal floral displays, a vibrant Butterfly Wing, and serene outdoor spaces, this 17-acre garden oasis invites visitors for a full day of nature immersion and family-friendly adventure.
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.
Location
Ames, Iowa
Central Iowa botanical destination
Butterfly Wing
Up to 800 butterflies
Around 80 species on display
Volunteer Roles
Multiple seasonal roles
Docent and event support available
Events & Camps
Year-round programming
Speaker series, camps, workshops
Find upcoming events, buy tickets, or sign up to volunteer and experience the Butterfly Wing, camps, workshops, and garden tours.
Visit the Butterfly Wing early
The Butterfly Wing closes at 4:30 PM daily, so plan your visit earlier in the afternoon to experience the vibrant flutter of hundreds of butterflies.
Check garden hours before you go
Regular hours run from 9 AM to 5 PM, with extended evening hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays from April through September for a different garden experience.
Wear comfortable footwear
The gardens span 17 acres with a mix of paved and natural paths. Supportive shoes will keep you comfortable on your strolls.
Consider weekday visits
Avoid weekend crowds by visiting Tuesday through Thursday for a quieter, more contemplative garden experience.
Comfortable walking shoes
To comfortably navigate varied paths across the gardens.
Sun protection
Hat and sunscreen to protect from sun exposure during outdoor walking.
spring|summer|fall
Light rain jacket
Useful for sudden showers common in Midwest weather.
spring|summer|fall
Camera or smartphone
For capturing seasonal blooms and the lively Butterfly Wing.