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Vander Veer Botanical Park: A Davenport Oasis

Discover tranquility and beauty at Vander Veer Botanical Park, a historic Davenport treasure with gardens, floral displays, and seasonal events.

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Vander Veer Botanical Park, a 33-acre haven in Davenport, Iowa, offers a serene escape with themed gardens, a conservatory, and a rich history dating back to 1885. From the vibrant rose garden to the tranquil Hosta Glade, the park provides a colorful and peaceful experience for all ages.

A brief summary to Vander Veer Botanical Park

Local tips

  • Visit the Conservatory to see seasonal floral displays, open Tuesdays through Sundays.
  • Walk the Grand Allée to the Stone Fountain for a scenic stroll.
  • Check the Davenport Parks and Recreation website for events and special celebrations.
  • Explore the themed gardens, including the Rose Garden and Hosta Glade.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Davenport Public Library at 321 Main St, head west on Main St towards W 3rd St, then turn left onto W 3rd St and walk south until you reach W Central Park Ave. Turn right onto W Central Park Ave, and continue walking for about 0.5 miles. Vander Veer Botanical Park will be on your left at 215 W Central Park Ave.

  • Public Transport

    Take a Davenport CitiBus route that serves Central Park Ave. Check the schedule for the nearest stop and bus frequency. Get off at the stop closest to 215 W Central Park Ave; Vander Veer Botanical Park is a short walk away. Single fares typically cost around $1 - $2.

  • Parking

    Vehicle entrances are located off Central Park Avenue. Parking is available within the park. Parking fees are not listed.

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Discover more about Vander Veer Botanical Park

Vander Veer Botanical Park, established in 1885, is a 33-acre botanical garden located in the Vander Veer Park Historic District of Davenport, Iowa. Originally named Central Park, it was modeled after New York City's Central Park and renamed in 1912 to honor A.W. Vander Veer, the first secretary of the Davenport Park Board of Commissioners. It is believed to be one of the first botanical parks west of the Mississippi River. The park features a diverse collection of gardens and trees, including many planted in the early 1890s. Key attractions include the Conservatory, which hosts seasonal floral displays year-round. From chrysanthemums in the fall to azaleas in the late winter, the Conservatory offers a vibrant and ever-changing experience. Visitors can explore themed gardens such as the Municipal Rose Garden, an All-America Rose Selections garden with a pergola and fountain, and the Hosta Glade, which includes various hosta varieties and woodland wildflowers. The Children's Sculpture Garden offers a whimsical setting with life-sized sculptures, while the All-America Selections Display Gardens showcase flowers and vegetables. The Grand Allée, a prominent walkway lined with trees and gardens, leads to the Stone Fountain, a popular spot with dancing water and changing lights. Vander Veer Botanical Park also serves as a venue for special events, including weddings and community gatherings. The park's central location and natural beauty make it a popular destination for relaxation, recreation, and horticultural education.

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