Hours, Admission, Tours & Directions

Tours

The Arboretum provides guided tours of the grounds and gardens throughout the year. You can schedule a walking tour or a tour on our battery powered Oak Leaf Express. Tours must be scheduled in advance of your visit. To schedule a tour please call 515.795.3216 or contact us at info@iowaarboretum.org

Tour Fee (for individuals): $5 (plus the admission charge)

Small Group Fees (up to 20): $50 (includes admission and tour) – for organizations & clubs, business groups, or travel trip groups

Large Group Fee (21 to 45): $100 (includes admission and tour) –  for organizations & clubs, business groups or travel trip groups

The Iowa Arboretum is located between Boone and Madrid in rural Boone County. We are easily accessible by paved roads.

From the North and East

Take I-35 south to Highway 30 (Ames). Go west on Hwy 30 (13.1 miles) to Highway 17 Exit. Turn left to go south to Luther (4.8 miles). Turn right and head west on E-57 (2.4 miles). Watch for Iowa Arboretum/4-H camp sign and turn left at Peach Avenue (1.9 miles).

From the South

Option 1: Take I-35 north to Highway 210 (Slater/Maxwell Exit). Go west on Hwy 210 (12.6 miles) to Madrid. Turn right and head north to Luther (6 miles). Turn left and head west on E-57(2.4 miles). Watch for Iowa Arboretum/4-H camp sign and turn left at Peach Avenue (1.9 miles).

Option 2: Take 80/35 to Highway 141. Follow this north (10.3 miles) to Highway 17 and travel through Madrid to Luther (15.6 miles). Turn left and head west on E-57 (2.4 miles). Watch for Iowa Arboretum/4-H camp sign and turn left at Peach Avenue.(1.9 miles)

From the West

Take Highway 30 through Boone. Turn right and go south on either Quill Road (4.9) or Highway 17 (4.8 miles). Take a right on E-57 and head west (from Quill – 1.2 miles and from E-57 – 2.4 miles). Watch for Iowa Arboretum/4-H camp sign and turn left at Peach Avenue (1.9 miles).