Des Moines Botanical Center – Des Moines, Iowa

   Des Moines Botanical Center – Des Moines, Iowa

Located along the east bank of the Des Moines River, this center contains spectacular displays of plants, flowers, and free-flying birds.

Visitors can experience spring and summer vistas year-round under one of the largest geodesic domes in the United States without worrying about the weather outside. The center houses an extensive collection (over 1,750 species) of tropical, sub-tropical, and desert-growing plants—probably more than any other place in the Midwest. 

There are also extensive exterior gardens, a café, and a gift shop. Guided tours are available if reservations are made at least two weeks in advance.

Admission – $1.50 for adults, $.75 for adults age 65 and older, $.50 for children ages 6-17, and free for children under age 6

Directions – exit off of U. S. Interstate 235 onto Penn Avenue, turn left on Grand Avenue, and right on East River Drive

Hours – 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Monday – Thursday, 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Friday, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Saturday and Sunday (closed New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas)

Phone –(515) 323-6291 for Facility Manager Dawn Goodrich
(515) 323-6297 for Friends Director Elvin DcDonald