Photo: John Hsieh
Photo: Cole Minton
Photo: Maruf Ahamed
Reiman Gardens
★4.8(1,325 reviews)$Activity
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers love spotting butterflies and exploring the children's garden areas, while elementary-aged kids appreciate the educational aspects, scavenger hunts, and more complex garden themes. Even teens interested in nature or photography find plenty to enjoy.🧡 Saved by 20 families
About
Reiman Gardens offers 17 acres of stunning botanical displays that captivate children with colorful seasonal flowers, interactive garden spaces, and winding pathways perfect for exploration. The highlight for kids is the year-round Butterfly Wing, where hundreds of exotic butterflies fly freely and often land right on your child's shoulder, creating magical photo opportunities and unforgettable nature encounters.
Highlights
- ✓The Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing with hundreds of free-flying tropical butterflies year-round
- ✓Children's Garden with interactive elements designed specifically for young explorers
- ✓Beautiful seasonal displays including spring tulips, summer roses, and fall mums
- ✓Indoor conservatory perfect for year-round visits regardless of Iowa weather
- ✓Educational programs and guided tours that teach kids about plants, pollinators, and ecosystems
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit the Butterfly Wing first thing when doors open at 9 AM,butterflies are most active in the morning and you'll avoid crowds for better viewing and photos
- 2.Wear bright colors (especially red, pink, and purple) to increase chances of butterflies landing on your kids in the conservatory
- 3.Pick up a free family activity guide at the entrance with scavenger hunts and challenges that keep kids engaged throughout the visit
- 4.Bring a stroller,the gardens are completely stroller-friendly with paved paths, and it's a good option for tired little legs
- 5.Check their calendar before visiting for special family events like fairy garden workshops, story times, and seasonal festivals that add extra value to your trip
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most comfortable temperatures for outdoor exploring, with stunning tulip displays in spring and colorful foliage in fall. Weekday mornings are least crowded, giving your family more space to enjoy the butterfly wing and gardens at your own pace.
What to Know
Admission runs about $10 for adults with reduced pricing for children (kids 3 and under are free). Free parking is available on-site, and while there's no on-site café, you can bring snacks to enjoy in designated areas or visit nearby Ames restaurants just minutes away.
Seasonal Notes
While open year-round, outdoor gardens are most spectacular from April through October. The indoor Butterfly Wing and conservatory provide excellent winter alternatives. Special seasonal events include Garden Glow (holiday lights in December), Pumpkin Days in fall, and fairy garden workshops in summer.
Nearby Eats
Head to Hickory Park Restaurant (10 minutes away) for family-friendly BBQ with a kids' menu and casual atmosphere, or try Cornbred (downtown Ames) for comfort food including mac and cheese and chicken tenders that kids love.
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