Digital Detox Summer
Pinterest has just released its summer 2025 trends report. Why does that matter? Because they’re predicting, based on posts and searches, people are looking for ways to get off their screens and into real life as the weather warms up. And it just so happens we know the perfect spot for this to happen—the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden!
Seeking Respite from Technology
If you want to walk away from your screens and literally ‘touch grass’ this season, here are some things we think you might enjoy with us. From opportunities to reconnect with the world around you through music and botanical beauty, to nature-enhanced quiet time, to garden-to-table delights, to an idyllic book club retreat, or boho crochet and cute crafts, the Botanical Garden has just what you’re looking to embrace right now.
Lean Into YOU moments
Make it a priority to give yourself time to stop, smell the flowers, enjoy the view and just…breathe. The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is here to help you achieve this. From secret gardens to colorful corners of blooms, you’ll find the perfect spot that speaks to you.
Simple Pleasure of an Outdoor Concert
Live music in nature offers the freedom to move to your own beat. You can get closer to other listeners or go further away and gaze into the skyline pretending you’re at a private gathering. Go on—go about freely, chat with other concert goers, or if you start to feel the rhythm in your bones, get up and move to the music. Wonder who’s playing next? Find out HERE
Extended Hours in the Quiet of the Evening
Summer is made for hot days and chill nights. It’s the season when time can slow down and your worries can melt away. Need to take it down a notch? Then do what those on in Spain do: partake in Hora del Vermut. “The Vermouth Hour” is not just about having a drink of vermouth, but it is a way of life in Spain. This is a treasured tradition people in Madrid have been savoring for years as a way to slow down. And now, you can partake in this cultural treasure at Flora during Summer Happy Hours on Tuesdays from 5 pm to 7:30pm. What’s on the menu? Check it out HERE.
Fresh Summer Craftivities
Summer 2025 is all about finding new hobbies. Do something creative with your hands instead of doomscrolling. We’ve got a variety of classes to tickle your fancy but not overtax your overworked mental state, including:
- Seasonal Shinrin-Yoku or “Forest Bathing” Jul 12
- Kokedama Jul 15
- Botany Book Club Jul 28
- Sip & Stroll Aug 1
- Bonsai for Beginners Aug 2
- Tomato Tasting Sep 6
- Dive into Dahlias Sep 9
Garden Party of Maker Made Items
The Botanical Artisan Guild is a creative group of makers who volunteer to create handmade items which are sold in the Garden Shop. Whether you want something handmade to hand out as your next hostess gift or are looking for a space where you’d be welcomed to join and lend a hand, we offer both. From pressed flower cards, to crocheted heirlooms, you’ll find something unique for yourself or to gift to your loved ones. Want to do it yourself? Take your inspiration from Pinterest and turn it into IRL creative pieces with the group! Please GO HERE to volunteer.
IFYKYK
Come hang with the cool kids at our urban oasis. The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden provides a perfect backdrop for disconnecting from the digital world and reconnecting with the earth around us.
