THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Join the Members' Wednesday Walking Club at Reiman Gardens for a relaxing stroll through Iowa's stunning botanical landscapes. Discover vibrant plant life, learn from horticulturalists, and enjoy peaceful outdoor moments. Read more to find out why this walking club is a favorite midweek escape.
Join the Members' Wednesday Walking Club at Reiman Gardens for a relaxing stroll through Iowa's stunning botanical landscapes. Discover vibrant plant life, learn from horticulturalists, and enjoy peaceful outdoor moments. Read more to find out why this walking club is a favorite midweek escape.
Book with Reiman Gardens
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Reiman Gardens · Ames, Iowa
Reiman Gardens, located on the Iowa State University campus in Ames, offers a peaceful escape into a curated landscape of vibrant blooms and lush greenery. Known for its meticulously maintained outdoor spaces and captivating conservatory, this spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The Wednesday Walking Club provides a unique opportunity to experience the gardens in a relaxed, member-only setting. Each week, participants stroll through scenic pathways lined with diverse plant life, from vivid perennial borders to towering trees. The gardens are especially notable for their Butterfly Wing, where fluttering wings create a colorful mosaic against a backdrop of tropical plants, and the conservatory, which houses rare and exotic flora. This outing isn’t just about viewing; it’s about engaging with a living tapestry that changes with the seasons. What makes this adventure stand out is the chance to observe horticulturalists at work and gain insights into sustainable garden practices. It's ideal for those seeking a gentle outdoor activity that intertwines natural beauty with educational insight. The serene atmosphere helps visitors unwind while soaking in the sights and scents of expertly curated landscapes. Whether you're a gardening enthusiast or simply seeking a calming morning walk, the Members' Wednesday Walking Club brings a distinctive touch of nature’s artistry to your week. Ames itself is a hub of Midwestern charm, making it easy to find local eateries and accommodations nearby after your stroll. For anyone interested in cultivating a deeper appreciation of horticulture in a welcoming setting, this club offers a memorable entry into outdoor serenity in Iowa. Plus, with the Butterfly Wing and conservatory open to explore after your walk, this trip easily combines leisure, education, and inspiration into one enriching experience.
easy.
1–2 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels, including casual walkers and seniors
Yes, membership or registration is needed to participate in the Wednesday Walking Club.
Members are encouraged to bring guests, but check with the club for any visitor policies.
Pets are not permitted inside the garden paths to protect plant and wildlife.
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended.
Members may have a different fee structure, but general garden admission may apply for visitors.
Yes, most pathways are accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Reiman Gardens was established in 1999 and is a collaborative project of Iowa State University and the Iowa State Horticultural Society.
The gardens prioritize native plantings and sustainable practices to support local ecosystems.
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.
Book with Reiman Gardens