Iowa Arboretum

The Arboretum is a hidden gem outside of the metro area. I've been here for a spring 5K race, and also to walk around with a friend and look at the plants and trees. There was a spring plant sale ending when we were there and the selection that was still available was really impressive. The grounds are beautifully kept and there are some really great plants and flowers to enjoy. There are also some walking trails through the trees.
The Arboretum has a wide variety of events throughout the year - it's definitely a destination for fun and learning. The building has a large meeting room available as well.

Very nice local for a wedding or an event!
I was here for a dress rehearsal of a wedding and was only inside but the facilities were top notch! And the circular room was quite nice for a little get together!

There was a wedding going on outside and the grounds looked beautiful! It's a bit in the middle of no where and an hour drive from Des Moines, but if you are looking for a beautiful, lush and GREEN place to have an event this might be your spot!

Are you looking for something to do for a couple of hours? The grounds of the Iowa Arboretum are wonderful for a solo stroll, a romantic getaway for two or for families to enjoy. If you follow the directions on the website, it took us about 20 minutes to get there from West Des Moines. We were the only two people walking around today and it was a partly sunny day with a cool breeze. There are different sections of the grounds, so some have flowers, others have a gazebo and pine trees, and some are in the cool shade down a wooden bridge section. There is a nice little garden gift shop that had bathrooms and air conditioning too. There were benches everywhere and some great photo opportunities. Just follow the signs for the Arboretum and the
4-H Campgrounds, which are just past the entrance to the Arboretum.

I was impressed at the quality, being in the middle of Iowa. It was beautiful, peaceful and a great way to get some exercise. If you are a fan of outdoors, I highly recommend stopping by. Everyone there was helpful and knowledgeable.