Reiman Gardens | Ames

Reiman Gardens is a premier botanical garden and horticultural center located on the Iowa State University Campus in Ames, Iowa. It is renowned for its expansive gardens, educational programs, and seasonal displays, offering both visitors and students a vibrant space for recreation, learning, and inspiration.

Historical Background
Reiman Gardens opened in 1995 after a generous donation by Roy and Bobbi Reiman, with the goal of creating a public botanical garden that would integrate horticulture, education, and aesthetic beauty. The garden has since expanded to include multiple themed gardens, conservatories, and event spaces, establishing itself as one of the Midwest’s most respected botanical institutions.

Layout and Features
Spanning more than 17 acres of outdoor gardens and 9,000 square feet of conservatory space, Reiman Gardens blends formal design with naturalistic plantings:

Themed Gardens: Include the Butterfly Wing, Sun Garden, Rose Garden, and Children’s Garden, each designed to highlight specific plant types, pollinators, or interactive experiences.

Conservatory: Features tropical and subtropical plants, orchids, and seasonal displays, offering a controlled environment for plant education and research.

Seasonal Displays: Gardens are designed to provide year-round appeal, with spring bulbs, summer perennials, fall foliage, and holiday-themed indoor exhibits.

Water Features: Ponds, fountains, and streams are incorporated into the landscape to enhance visual appeal and attract wildlife.

Walking Paths and Trails: Meandering paths connect all areas of the garden, providing scenic views, photography opportunities, and accessibility.

Educational and Community Role
Reiman Gardens is both a research and teaching resource for Iowa State University and a community attraction:

University Integration: Serves as a hands-on learning environment for students in horticulture, landscape architecture, biology, and environmental studies.

Public Education: Offers classes, workshops, guided tours, and outreach programs on gardening, sustainability, and plant science.

Community Engagement: Hosts family events, art installations, weddings, and seasonal festivals, fostering public interaction with the natural environment.

Conservation Focus: Emphasizes sustainable gardening, pollinator-friendly practices, and ecological awareness.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance
Reiman Gardens represents Iowa State University’s commitment to education, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. It serves as a bridge between academic research and public enjoyment, making horticulture accessible and inspiring for visitors of all ages.

Modern Identity
Today, Reiman Gardens is a signature attraction in Ames, celebrated for its beauty, diversity of plant collections, and educational programs. It is both a tranquil retreat for leisure and a dynamic center for learning, reflecting the university’s mission to integrate research, education, and community service.

It stands as a living laboratory and cultural landmark, showcasing the intersection of horticulture, design, and environmental awareness in a publicly accessible setting.