The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, previously known as the Des Moines Botanical Center until 2013, is a significant botanical garden spanning 17 acres. It is conveniently located near downtown Des Moines, Iowa, on the east bank of the Des Moines River and north of I-235. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city.
The conservatory at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a hub of biodiversity, housing over 1,200 different taxa from around the globe. These are displayed in artistic settings that are designed to explore, explain, and celebrate the majesty of the plant world. This offers a unique opportunity for tourists to learn about and appreciate a wide variety of plant species.
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden hosts various events throughout the year, including a summer concert series that begins in June. These events provide an added layer of entertainment for tourists visiting the garden, making their experience more enjoyable and memorable.
Nature & Natural History Botanical garden Garden & Park Plants
Monday | Closed |
Tuesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Wednesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Thursday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Friday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Saturday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Sunday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Closed the following holidays:
New Year’s Eve: Closed at 3 p.m.
New Year’s Day: Closed all day
Memorial Day: Closed all day
Independence Day: Closed all day
Labor Day: Closed all day
Thanksgiving: Closed all day
Christmas Eve: Closed all day
Christmas Day: Closed all day
909 Robert D. Ray Dr, Des Moines
No exhibitions in Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden have been found.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden has 1 rating.
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a vibrant oasis in the heart of Des Moines, offering visitors a diverse collection of plants and flora. The garden features both indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing for year-round enjoyment. Many visitors appreciate the well-maintained tropical conservatory, which houses an impressive variety of exotic plants and creates a warm retreat during colder months. The outdoor gardens, particularly beautiful in spring and summer, showcase native Iowa plants alongside carefully curated international species.
Visitors often comment positively on the peaceful atmosphere and the educational aspects of the garden. The staff is generally described as knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the overall experience. The garden's layout is praised for being well-organized and accessible, making it easy for visitors of all ages to navigate.
However, some visitors note that the garden's size is relatively modest compared to botanical gardens in larger cities, which may leave some expecting more. A few reviewers mention that certain areas of the garden can feel a bit sparse during off-peak seasons. Additionally, while many find the admission price reasonable, others feel it's a bit high for the size of the facility.
The on-site cafe receives mixed reviews, with some praising the quality of food and others finding it overpriced. Parking is generally reported as adequate, though it can become crowded during popular events.
Overall, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a well-regarded attraction that offers a pleasant and educational experience for plant enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. It serves as a valuable green space within the city, though it may not rival the scale of larger botanical gardens in major metropolitan areas.
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