All botanical gardens to visit in Iowa

Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at 11 botanical gardens in Iowa. Discover diverse plant species, themed gardens, and conservation efforts.

Do you love plants and nature? Here are the must-visit botanical gardens in Iowa:

  1. Reiman Gardens1

    Reiman Gardens

     Ames, IA
    Reiman Gardens is a sprawling 6.88-hectare botanical garden nestled within the campus of Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa. This expansive green space offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, providing visitors with a chance to immerse themselves in nature and explore a diverse range of plant species.
  2. Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden2

    Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

     Des Moines, IA
    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.
  3. Vander Veer Botanical Park3

    Vander Veer Botanical Park

     Davenport, IA
    The Vander Veer Botanical Park is a botanical garden that covers an area of 0.13 km² (33 acres). It is situated in the Vander Veer Park Historic District in Davenport, Iowa. This park is recognized as one of the earliest botanical parks west of the Mississippi River.
  4. Bickelhaupt Arboretum4

    Bickelhaupt Arboretum

     Clinton, IA
    Bickelhaupt Arboretum is a non-profit arboretum situated in Clinton, Iowa. It is open to the public from dawn to dusk every day, and there is no admission fee. This makes it an accessible and affordable destination for nature lovers and those interested in botany.
  5. Crapo Park5

    Crapo Park

     Burlington, IA
    Crapo Park, spanning 85 acres or 34 hectares, is a city park situated alongside the Mississippi River at Parkway Drive, Burlington, Iowa. The park is not just a green space but also houses an arboretum and a botanical garden, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers. The arboretum is home to more than 200 varieties of trees and shrubs, while the botanical gardens feature a variety of annuals and perennials.
  6. Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens6

    Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

     Dubuque, IA
    The Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, also known as Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens at Marshall Park, is a significant green space in Dubuque, Iowa. Spanning 21 hectares, this arboretum and botanical garden offers a diverse range of plant life and natural beauty for visitors to explore.
  7. Buxton Park Arboretum7

    Buxton Park Arboretum

     Indianola, IA
    Buxton Park Arboretum, located in Indianola, Iowa, is a 5.4 acre arboretum and botanical garden. It is situated at the intersection of North Buxton Street and West Girard Avenue. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban convenience, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and city dwellers alike.
  8. 8

    Iowa Arboretum

     Madrid, IA
    The Iowa Arboretum, located in Madrid, Iowa, is a vast arboretum and botanical garden that spans 152 hectares or 378 acres. This expansive green space is a haven for plant lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape in nature.
  9. 9

    The Brenton Arboretum

     Dallas Center, IA
    The Brenton Arboretum, established in 1997, is a 141-acre arboretum and public garden located in Dallas Center, Iowa, United States. This expansive green space offers a tranquil setting for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat from the city.
  10. 10

    Muscatine Arboretum

     Muscatine, IA
    The Muscatine Arboretum is a significant part of the larger Discovery Park, spanning 12 acres within the 85-acre park. Located in Muscatine, Iowa, the arboretum offers a unique opportunity to explore a variety of plant species in a serene environment.
  11. 11

    Newton Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

     Newton, IA
    The Newton Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is a significant botanical destination located within the serene Agnes Patterson Park in Newton, Iowa. Spanning across 6 acres, the arboretum and botanical gardens offer a diverse range of flora and fauna for visitors to explore and enjoy.