Botanical Garden

Greater Des Moines’ Garden Oasis

Want to find your true nature at an urban oasis located in downtown Des Moines? The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a natural choice. Located amidst a vibrant cityscape and lovely river views, the 12-acre oasis is teeming with thousands of native plants and exotic greenery from across the world. Its verdant offerings include a soothing waterfall and pond, one of the country’s most extensive bonsai collections, and brilliant seasonal blooms galore. Below are when the breathtaking gardens are open to the public: 

Jan 1-May 31
Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Saturday-Sunday 9 a.m.-4p.m.
Closed Mondays 

June 1-Sep 29 (Summer Hours)
Tuesday 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m.
Wednesday-Thursday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Friday 10 am-7:30 p.m.
Saturday-Sunday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Closed Mondays 

Sep 30-Nov 12
Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Saturday-Sunday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Closed Mondays

Nov 13-Jan 3 (Holiday Hours)
Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Saturday-Sunday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Closed Mondays

Holiday Closures
New Year’s Day
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Thanksgiving Day
Christmas Eve
Christmas Day

Robert D. Ray Asian Garden
Daily 6 a.m.-10 p.m., free for all

Flora Café
Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Sunday Brunch 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

No matter the season, the Botanical Garden provides a range of fun, signature events and classes in an always friendly climate.

About the Botanical Garden

The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is more than a dome, it’s the connection point between plants, people and the natural world. ​It’s a place where you can be who you are, do the things you love and spend time with the people who matter most. A place where anyone can explore, create, connect, and find their true nature. 

In operation since 1979, the Botanical Garden borders the banks of the Des Moines River. The facility is an exceptionally lush greenspace place where you’ll want to linger. Its iconic, 80 feet tall geodesic-domed conservatory has been modernized and includes a living wall that changes throughout the year. Inside the dome, you can immerse yourself in a balmy paradise featuring over 1,000 tropical specimens.

The 18 outdoor gardens are interspersed with sculptures, a serene half-acre water garden, regal rows of shade trees, walking paths, a stunning orchid collection, a vibrant, fragrant rose garden, a unique Asian-style garden and much more. 

Events at the Botanical Garden 

In addition to seasonal events, like its popular holiday-themed Dome for the Holidays and recurring Friday night event, Dome After Dark, the Botanical Garden hosts a variety of signature events that take place throughout the year that will make you want to come back again and again. 

Starting in January, check out Botanical Blues, a Sunday concert series featuring live music inside the conservatory. Welcome the spring season with the Spring Garden Market, a celebratory four-day pop-up plant and botanic art sale. Music in the Garden is the outdoor concert series making summertime even more delightful! Have fun with your family at Trick or Trees in October, grab some bulbs at the Fall Bulb Sale and finally, don’t miss out on the decadent Champagne & Chocolate holiday fundraiser that’s become a must-see, must-attend event in the metro.

The Botanical Garden also features an impressive array of rotating monthly programs, ensuring there’s something for everyone. These include physical activities like Yoga in the Garden, educational opportunities like the Science of Tea, and crafty classes like Valentine Candle Making. There are also many other fun classes offered throughout the year. 

Know Before You Go

As with any visit to a place you’ll be strolling about, it’s best to wear comfy clothes and shoes. There are free coat racks to hang outerwear. If anyone needs a wheelchair, stroller, or sensory backpack (to help parents in situations that may be overwhelming for their child), each one of these is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Visitors will appreciate the ample free parking at the Botanical Garden. General Admission is $14 for adults, $13 for Seniors 65+, $13 for Active Military, $10 for kids ages 2 to 12, and free for children one year of age and younger. Complimentary Daily Admission is for members and EBT card holders through its Museums for All program. Members of participating AHS Reciprocal Admission Program Institutes receive two free General Admissions per visit during regular hours.

Inclusivity & Accessibility 

The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is ADA accessible with features such as wide paths, accessible doorways, additional restrooms, and more. Wheelchairs and strollers are available on a first come-first serve basis. Learn more about their inclusion efforts and get more information about the gardens on their website.