Dome After Dark
Igloo Experience

What you can expect

Igloo Experiences take place outdoors in one of our private, PVC-structured geodesic domes. Experiences last 90 minutes for up to six guests. Complimentary chips & dip and a n/a drink option are included from Flora for everyone in your party. There will be an option to order from a selection of beverages and seasonal items through concession service from Flora. *Alcoholic and non-alcoholic options available. Menu may vary.

Where are igloos located?

The igloos are situated on our outdoor terrace, a short walk from our conservatory doors. While the igloos are heated, they can be cold so dress for the weather. Blankets are provided but feel free to bring extras. Please note that the extent of our outdoors gardens will be closed during Dome After Dark, other than the area where the igloos are located. You will be the only guests allowed outside during the event and must remain within the designated areas of the event. Restrooms can be accessed in the Evergreen Gallery or near the main lobby.

Enjoy Dome After Dark

Each person in your party gets access to enjoy Dome after Dark before or after your reservation. Guests with 6:15pm reservations are encouraged to tour the event after their reservation, and 8pm guests are encouraged to tour before. You have 90 minutes in the igloo from the start of your reservation. Your experience begins at your reservation time. If you arrive late, you will not be allowed extra time in the igloo.  

How much do Igloo Experiences cost?

$185 per Igloo, per 90-minute reservation. Valentine’s Day Rates: $200 per Igloo (2/13 & 2/14)

Botanical Garden members receive a $15 discount on igloo reservations. Because of this, Members and Garden Giving Club donors must sign in online during check out to apply their discount.

How do I reserve an Igloo Experience?

Reservations should be purchased online or over the phone to confirm availability. Please call 515.323.6290. Finally, all reservations must be purchased in advance; no reservations will be sold at the door.

Can I buy an Igloo Experience at the door?

No; All igloo reservations must be purchased in advance, and you will be unable to reserve onsite.

What should I bring with me?

Be sure to dress for the weather. While it may be warm in our tropical conservatory, it can be cold and snowy outside, even inside the heated igloos. Some blankets and pillows are provided, but feel free to bring extras. Games and books are welcome, but please note, the Garden is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

What should I leave at home?

Outside food and beverages are not permitted. Concessions and beverages are available for purchase from Flora and in the Garden Shop.

What if a night of Dome After Dark is cancelled?

If we need to close because of the weather, we’ll post on our website and our social media pages on the day of the event. If you have a reservation for a night that we close, we will email you at the email address used during checkout with news of the closure.

What if I need to cancel my reservation?

While Igloo Experiences are non-refundable, we will do our best to reschedule your reservation to another date and time, pending availability. Please contact events@dmbotanicalgarden.com in the event of needing to cancel your reservation.

Can I come earlier than my entry time to walk around the Gardens?

Doors will open for Dome After Dark promptly at 6pm. If your reservation is for 6:15pm, please arrive by 6pm and plan to tour the event after your time concludes at 7:45pm. If your reservation is for 8pm, plan to tour the event anytime between 6pm and 7:45pm before checking in with your host between 7:45pm and 8pm.

Please do not arrive before 6pm

This is when we are preparing for the evening during this time.

Where should we park?

A limited number of free parking spots are available onsite. Parking can fill up quickly, so attendees are encouraged to carpool or rideshare to this event to ease parking congestion. If needed, overflow parking is available along Robert D. Ray Drive.