The next step was to start a capital campaign to raise money for the project. A Capital Campaign Committee was formed and potential donors were identified. The first lead gift came from Adele and Dean Bowden, followed by other donations and grants  during the campaign. The project was started in May of 2023.

On September 4, 2024 a Ribbon Cutting event was held with 200 attending! On Thursday, September 5, 2024 the long awaited opening of our Treehouse Village became a reality.

Treehouse Village includes access to the Prairie and Woodland Trails and includes an elevated play structure, several treehouses, a suspension bridge and many accessible elements including paved trails, a wheelchair swing, and walkways to accommodate families of all ages and abilities. Admission to the Arboretum also includes all of the gardens and tree groves – 160 acres in total!

We hope to see you soon!

A Vision for Treehouse Village 

Imagine a place where children of all ages and abilities can come together to play and be outdoors with nature and their families. Many contributors have ensured that the Treehouse Village is now a reality. Together, we have created a space that sparks the imagination, fosters physical activity, and nurtures mental well-being.

We invite you to participate and support our continuing goals for this great project. We’d love for you to partner with us to help in the ongoing restoration of this Oak Hickory woodland, as well as our efforts to bring more families to the Iowa Arboretum & Gardens and this amazing new space.

Click the button below to donate today. THANK YOU!