The Secret Garden In Iowa You’re Guaranteed To Love

If you thought the Hawkeye State was lacking in natural beauty to admire, think again! Reiman Gardens in Iowa, has long been one of the best gardens in Iowa. This lush escape offers multiple magical garden areas with native prairie species, a tropical sanctuary that is home to over 800 butterflies, a lily pad garden, a vegetable garden display, water features, antique rose garden, sculpture displays, and more. The structures and displays are always changing. In the past, Reiman Gardens has also been host to a large garden-themed Lego display, over 10 hidden, full-sized treehouses, and various play structures. If you haven't yet paid a visit to this secret garden in Iowa, be sure to do so this season.

The garden displays are constantly changing with the seasons. Here, tulips are in full bloom.

Lake Helen, located in Reiman Gardens, is a great place to see water lilies and critters that live nearby.

The indoor displays include an extensive butterfly garden, where you can see rare and beautiful species up close.

This covered bridge offers a bit of shade and a nice view of one of the main water features.

There are plenty of out-of-the way places to stop and rest for a bit.

This extensive herb garden smells wonderful. Each plant species is clearly marked.

The butterfly house is completely encased in glass. It's warm and inviting during the colder months, and the temperature is carefully controlled for the health of the butterflies who live there.

In June, the grass is bright green and as soft as a shag carpet.

Paths wind all over this 17-acre wonderland. Watch carefully for native birds, insects, and reptiles.

Some say Reiman Gardens is home to the world's largest gnome. This 15-foot-tall statue named Elwood is a fun addition to our enchanting Iowa garden.

While the best time to visit Reiman Gardens is when Iowa's weather is pleasant, this 17-acre wonderland is open year-round. Admission prices very by age group, but if you plan ahead, you can visit the gardens for free on select days. Reiman also holds special events, like youth programs, behind the scenes tours, and after-hours celebrations, so keep an eye on its website and social media for all the latest updates!

While strolling through one of the prettiest gardens to visit in Iowa is reason enough to visit Ames, we've also rounded up plenty of other things to do in this charming city - including some award-winning dining options, both sweet and savory. Actually, now that we mention it... this little community is quite a foodie hotspot, if we do say so ourselves!

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/iowa/award-winning-food-ia/