Annual Theme, Exhibits, and Art

Teacups and tulips display at Reiman Gardens

Annual Theme

Reiman Gardens' staff use a new theme to inspire its horticultural displays, educational programs, events, and products in the Gift Shop each year. The theme emphasizes a new dimension of the garden so guests can visit again and again to see and learn something new in the everchanging and exhilarating displays. We are excited to announce our theme for 2025: 

"Picture Perfect: Celebrating 30 Years of Beauty at Reiman Gardens."

Stay tuned for additional details about our summer exhibit and all of the events and programs that will honor 30 years as a university garden!

Current Exhibits

Each year, our outdoor garden spaces, Hughes Conservatory, and Garden Room each feature sculptures and artwork that reflect the annual theme. Over the years, Reiman Gardens has also collected many works of art integrated throughout the grounds. Find descriptions of each piece of art and its location here.

 

  • RG Express Train Display 2025 at Reiman Gardens

    Current Hughes Conservatory Display

    The RG Express
    On display November 8 - January 18, 2026 

    A Reiman Gardens holiday tradition is back! Visitors of all ages will be enchanted by the RG Express Train from November 8, 2025, through January 18, 2026. This detailed garden scale display was created by Applied Imagination, an internationally recognized company whose train displays merge botanical design and architecture. The RG Express is one of only 18 North American train displays of this magnitude! Walk past, around, and under miniature buildings and bridges built in the likeness of some of Iowa State University and Reiman Gardens' most significant buildings. Don't miss the magic of the RG Express this holiday season!