Things to Do!
Thinking of visiting our Arboretum? Scroll down and see all the different things you and your family can do here at the Iowa Arboretum & Gardens!
Bring your Furry Friends!
Come walk our beautiful grounds & trails! Pets must be leashed and well-behaved on our grounds.
We look forward to you and your buddy enjoying our trails at the Iowa Arboretum & Gardens!
Come and explore with your furry friend for just a day or everyday! Consider a membership!
Only service dogs are allowed to be present for events/rentals in the Visitor Center. Service dogs are trained to assist people with disabilities, as per ADA guidelines. Emotional support animals do not qualify.
Treehouses to Re-Open in mid-March 2025!
Treehouse Village is here at the Iowa Arboretum and Gardens! Located on the east campus of our Arboretum, Treehouse Village includes paved trails and several treehouses. There is also a Nature Fort Building Area and a Forest Floor Creation Station for creative use of the natural materials found in the forest. Treehouse Village also provides access to our Prairie and Woodland Trail system.
Visit Treehouse Village Page HERE
Beautiful Prairie & Woodland Trails!
Prairie and Woodland Trails are located on our east campus across Peach Avenue from the Hughes Education Center. Four acres of restored prairie and 80 acres of self-guided, quiet paths wind beneath a canopy of mature trees, native wildflowers and scenic overlooks. Enjoy the tranquility of nature and the peaceful surroundings.
Grab a Visitor Guide & Grounds Map to guide your exploration! Free at the Guest Check In desk in the Hughes Education Center.
Make it fun by grabbing one of our Scavenger Hunts to take along on your walk! Free at the entrance in the Hughes Education Center.
Exhibits & Sculptures
Come take a walk and reflect on these beautiful sculptures at the Iowa Arboretum & Gardens!
Click here to read more about these beautiful additions to our Arboretum.
Take a Tour of the Gardens (Main Campus)
Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of our Arboretum with our guided tours! Explore our stunning grounds and gardens throughout the year a walking tour. Small groups and seniors may take a ride on our battery-powered Oak Leaf Express. Tours must be reserved at least two weeks ahead of a visit.
To ensure availability, please contact us to schedule your visit at groupvisit@iowaarboretum.org.
We look forward to providing you with an unforgettable tour experience at our Arboretum.
Bring the Arboretum Home!
Explore our Gift Shop for all your gardening needs and delightful treasures! Discover a range of garden tools, gloves, books, garden decor, children’s gifts, and stylish apparel and home decor inspired by nature. Indulge in the flavors of our small-batch jams and honey sourced from the Iowa Arboretum & Gardens and local beekeepers. Additionally, we proudly present a collection of turned bowls and urns, lovingly crafted from trees affected by the August 2020 derecho, generously donated by the talented members of the Ames Area Wood Turners. Each piece is a unique work of art, adding a special touch to your home.
The Arboretum Gift Shop is open during regular open hours.