A place like no other near Des Moines in Iowa
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a 14-acre horticultural destination located along the banks of the Des Moines River in downtown Des Moines. Opened in 1979 and extensively renovated in 2014, the garden features a striking geodesic dome conservatory that houses tropical plants, seasonal displays, and unique botanical collections throughout the year. The facility combines indoor and outdoor garden spaces into one of the Midwest’s premier public gardens, drawing visitors from across Iowa and beyond.
The indoor conservatory is the centerpiece of the garden, showcasing a diverse collection of tropical plants, including palms, orchids, and exotic flowers that bloom year-round. Visitors can explore the Water Garden with its reflecting pools and aquatic plants, or wander through the Gardeners Show House where seasonal floral displays rotate through the spring, summer, and autumn months. The conservatory’s controlled environment also supports a bonsai collection and an assortment of plants from arid regions around the world.
The outdoor gardens span the gently sloping landscape between the conservatory and the Des Moines River, offering themed spaces that highlight Iowa’s natural beauty. The Belin Garden features native prairie plants and grasses that demonstrate the ecological heritage of the region, while the Rose Garden bursts with color and fragrance during the peak summer months. A network of walking paths connects each garden room, creating a peaceful escape within the downtown urban core.
The garden hosts a robust calendar of educational programming designed for visitors of all ages. Botanical workshops, gardening classes, and family-friendly activities run throughout the year, with special emphasis on sustainable horticulture practices. The Dome After Dark series transforms the conservatory into an evening venue with live music and themed events, while the popular Botanical Blues concert series brings local musicians into the garden setting during the summer season.
The Hillside Garden offers one of the best vantage points within the grounds, with terraced plantings cascading down toward the river and providing panoramic views. This area highlights seasonal interest plants selected for their dramatic transformations through the year, from spring bulbs to autumn foliage. The garden’s commitment to environmental stewardship is evident in its water management systems, pollinator habitats, and educational signage that teaches visitors about conservation in an urban setting.