Garden playhouses headline a summer of fun at Reiman Gardens

Author: Andrew Gogerty | Image: Andrew Gogerty

The Burrow, Garden Playhouses Exhibit

Discover the beauty and fun of Reiman Gardens this summer, featuring the summer playhouses exhibit and many other activities for all ages

Garden Playhouses: A Magical Experience for Children and Adults

From June 1 to September 30, Reiman Gardens invites you to explore the summer playhouses exhibit, a collection of whimsical and creative structures designed by local and national artists and architects. Each playhouse is inspired by a different theme, such as fairy tales, nature, or space, and offers a unique and interactive experience for visitors. You can play in these imaginative playhouses or simply admire the craftsmanship and creativity behind them. The summer playhouses exhibit is a perfect way to spark your imagination and enjoy the outdoors with your family and friends. Here is a list of the playhouses and their artists:

  • Paper House, by volunteer Carroll Marty, Ames, Iowa
  • Stargazer, by Jungle Gym Juggernauts and Rogue Architecture, Denver, Colorado
  • The Burrow, by Blazing Star Woodworks and Derek Seward, Ames, Iowa
  • Polycarbonate Cube, by volunteer Carroll Marty, Ames, Iowa
  • Dear Reader, by Carroll Brothers Design and Nathan Carroll, Manchester, Iowa
  • Childhood Reflections, by the Blue Man Group and Rogue Architecture, Denver, Colorado
  • Woodland Tent, by volunteer Carroll Marty, Ames, Iowa
  • Prairie School, by volunteer Carroll Marty, Ames, Iowa
  • Hobbit House, by volunteer Carroll Marty, Ames, Iowa
  • Vine House, by Ray Williams and Reiman Gardens staff, Ames, Iowa
  • Moss Garden, by Against the Grain Woodworking and Design and Jorie Kruger, Johnston, Iowa

More Events and Activities to Enjoy at Reiman Gardens

The summer playhouses exhibit is not the only attraction at Reiman Gardens this summer. You can also enjoy a variety of events and activities for all ages and interests, such as:

  • Teacher Appreciation Day: On Friday, June 7, Pre-K-12 school district employees can enjoy free admission with a school ID card or badge. No preregistration is required.
  • Iowa Rose Society’s Annual Rose Show: On June 15, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., enjoy a stroll through Reiman Gardens’ award-winning rose collection and view the Iowa Rose Society’s annual juried show featuring the best roses in the state of Iowa. No pre-registration is required.
  • Father’s Day: On Sunday, June 16, we offer free admission to all fathers on Father’s Day. No preregistration is required.
  • National Picnic Day: On Tuesday, June 18, celebrate National Picnic Day by bringing your picnic to Reiman Gardens, which will have extended hours from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. No preregistration is required.
  • Summer Solstice Celebration: On Friday, June 21, celebrate the summer solstice with a picnic in the herb garden, fairy stories, solstice history, crafts, a dance performance by Mirage Dance Troupe, and drum circles from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. Preregistration is required at reimangardens.com/events.
  • Pollinator Fest: On Saturday, June 22, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., join Reiman Gardens for a variety of fun and educational displays, including live pollinators and plants and interactive pollinator-themed crafts and activities. No preregistration is required.
  • Youth Day Camps: During the week of June 24-28, youth ages 6-10 can participate in full-day art and STEM activities at Reiman Gardens from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. daily. Preregistration is required at reimangardens.com/events.
  • Iowa Regional Lily Show: On Saturday, June 29, from noon until 4 p.m., you can view lilies from Iowa and surrounding states as Reiman Gardens hosts the Iowa Regional Lily Society’s (IRLS) Annual Lily Show. No preregistration is required.
  • Garden Art Fair: On July 14, browse and shop from over 80 vendors selling original art, jewelry, pottery, and more, all inspired by nature and gardens. No pre-registration is required.
  • Quilt Show: On August 23-25, visitors can view quilts crafted by artists from around the Midwest. No preregistration is required.

Plan Your Visit to Reiman Gardens Today

Reiman Gardens is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is $12 for adults, $11 for seniors, $6 for children ages 2-12, and free for members and ISU students. You can also purchase a membership for unlimited access to the gardens and discounts on events and programs. For more information, visit reimangardens.com or call 515-294-2710. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the beauty and fun of Reiman Gardens this summer.