How do I get to the Botanical Garden?
Access to the Botanical Garden directly from University Avenue is closed. In order to access the Botanical Garden from University Avenue, please take Pennsylvania Avenue south to Des Moines Street, turn right on Des Moines Street to the “T” intersection at Robert D. Ray Drive. Finally, turn right on Robert D. Ray Drive and the Botanical Garden is on the right after you go under the I-235 bridge.
Is parking free?
Yes, parking at the Garden is free but there are limited spaces available. Sometimes during large events you will need to use overflow parking available along Robert D. Ray Drive. Thus, consider carpooling to larger events.
Do you offer free admission to members from other gardens?
We participate in the AHS Reciprocal Admission Program. Therefore, we offer complimentary daily admission during our general admission hours to members of participating gardens. Since we do, please bring a physical or digital membership card and we will honor our membership level that is the closest equivalent to yours. In addition, for members of close gardens within a 90-mile radius, we offer up to 2 complimentary daily general admissions.
Are strollers and wheelchairs available at the Garden?
There is a limited number of wheelchairs and strollers available on a first-come, first-served basis. Because they are free to borrow, you can find them located just inside the front entryway.
Is the Garden ADA accessible?
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is proud to be an ADA-compliant facility. Because we are, you'll find features like wide paths and sidewalks, accessible doors, additional restrooms, and a universal changing table. Since there is also an elevator, we provide all guests access to the conservatory balcony as well.
What is the smoking policy at the Garden?
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a nicotine-free environment. Because of this, cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, cigars, chewable tobacco and similar products are not permitted on the Botanical Garden property. Since this includes all grounds, buildings, restrooms, and parking areas, we are completely smoke-free.
Are pets allowed?
You may bring your service animal, but please leave your pets at home. The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden does not allow pets on Garden grounds. However, service animals are permitted in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These service animals are defined by the ADA as dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities. Finally, service dogs are working animals, not pets. Please keep in mind the work or task a dog has been trained to provide must directly relate to the person’s disability. Dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA.
Does the Garden offer tours? Yes!
The Botanical Garden offers private group tours by reservation. Make sure to go to the tours page for more details. Because tours are in demand, please book early.
Do wedding ceremonies, vow exchanges, or commitment ceremonies require advance reservations and a signed contract? Yes, they do.
Unscheduled or unpaid ceremonies are prohibited. Because of this, parties not in compliance will be asked to leave immediately. In addition, wedding-related photography, gatherings, and/or ceremonies require advance approval and reservation.
What does the Garden look like?
With indoor and outdoor space, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a great place to visit in all kinds of weather. Our gardens offer close encounters with plants and remarkable horticultural experiences. Finally, learn more about specific gardens and explore what’s in bloom on our Gardens & Societies page.
When is your on-site restaurant, Flora Café, open?
Flora Café is open from 11 am to 2 pm Tuesday through Saturday and on Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm. Flora is not open on Mondays. Also consider visiting our dining page for up to date information. Here you can find out about special dinners, picnic boxes, brunches, and other offerings.
May I bring my own food/drink to the Garden?
Outside food is not permitted. Dining options and refreshments are available at Flora Café and in the Garden Shop. Also, rental clients may use our approved caterers for food and beverages.
What is the photography policy?
Guests are invited to take candid, casual photography as well as pictures of the plants and landscapes. However, for portrait and professional photography, please consult our Photography Reservation Policy and make a photography reservation. Finally, keep in mind when the Botanical Garden is open and available for your shoot.
Does the Garden have an etiquette policy?
Our etiquette policy is designed to enhance your experience and protect the plants. We aks that you please review a copy here.
Does the Botanical Garden have a diversity statement?
It is: The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden stands as one team devoted to learning and practicing anti-racism, inclusion, diversity, equality and accessibility, such that the Garden can be a vital resource and advocate for our diverse community. Public gardens and community green spaces have an essential role in bringing our diverse community together. We believe the Garden is a platform for a hopeful and peaceful future. In summary, together we will dedicate ourselves to the active work of listening, learning and breaking down barriers and inequities.
Prohibited Items:
- No weapons and firearms or fireworks of any kind
- Do not bring outside food, picnics, coolers, grills, or use open flames
- Outside beverages (refillable water bottles welcome)
- Pets (service animals are welcome)
- Smoking, tobacco products and devices, or electronic smoking devices
- Music (Bluetooth speakers, playing instruments, etc.)
- Bicycles and recreational scooters (including "wheelie" shoes, skates, or skateboards)
- Outside alcohol
- Guests without shoes or shirts or with clothing that may be taken as profane, vulgar, racist, sexist, or sexually suggestive
- Blankets, collapsible lawn chairs, or stools are not allowed during daily general admission or for other events—they are encouraged for attendee use only during Music in the Garden
- Balloons, open flames, sparklers
- Large signage or banners
- Plants, flowers, flower petals, props, glitter, confetti, or candles
- Tripods or monopods are prohibited inside all buildings and conservatories
- Sporting equipment (soccer balls, baseballs and gloves, footballs, hula hoops, frisbees, etc.)
If you need more information
Please connect with us through our Contact Us page. Also, you can reach us at:
With these efforts we invite you to take part in the ecological conversation permeating our management, design, and educational decisions. Join us as we build a garden grounded in ecology that serves as an example for the community and beyond.
