A Serene Escape: Robert D. Ray Asian Garden
Discover tranquility and beauty at the Robert D. Ray Asian Garden, a serene oasis in Des Moines celebrating Asian horticultural traditions and stunning landscapes.
Nestled in the heart of Des Moines, the Robert D. Ray Asian Garden offers visitors a tranquil oasis filled with stunning flora, serene water features, and cultural ambiance. This beautiful garden is perfect for leisurely strolls, peaceful reflection, and a taste of Asian horticultural traditions.
A brief summary to Robert D. Ray Asian Garden
- Robert D. Ray Dr, Des Moines, East Village, Iowa, 50309, US
- +1515-323-6290
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during spring for the cherry blossoms in full bloom for a truly picturesque experience.
- Plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and serene water features.
- Check the garden's calendar for special events or guided tours to enhance your visit.
Getting There
-
Walking
If you are starting from the Ankeny Town Center (located at 410 W 1st St, Ankeny, IA), head south on 1st St towards SW Ordnance Rd. Continue straight for about one mile until you reach the intersection with SW 8th St. Turn left onto SW 8th St and continue for about half a mile. You will eventually reach the intersection with SW 9th St. Turn right onto SW 9th St and follow it as it becomes Robert D. Ray Dr. Continue straight for about 1.5 miles, and you will see the Robert D. Ray Asian Garden on your right. The garden is situated at Robert D. Ray Dr, Des Moines, IA 50309.
-
Public Transit
From the Ankeny Town Center, walk to the nearest bus stop at the intersection of 1st St and SW Ordnance Rd. Board the DART bus route 1 towards Des Moines. Stay on the bus for approximately 25-30 minutes. Get off at the 5th Ave and Robert D. Ray Dr stop. From there, it’s a short 5-minute walk heading east on Robert D. Ray Dr to reach the Robert D. Ray Asian Garden, located at Robert D. Ray Dr, Des Moines, IA 50309.
Discover more about Robert D. Ray Asian Garden
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
State Historical Society of Iowa
0.7 km
Discover the captivating stories and rich history of Iowa at the State Historical Society, a must-visit destination in Des Moines.
The Des Moines Building
0.9 km
Discover urban living at The Des Moines Building, a vibrant apartment complex in the heart of Downtown Des Moines, offering modern amenities and local charm.
Court District
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant Court District in Des Moines, a unique hub for community engagement and nonprofit activities, rich with culture and local spirit.
Civil War Mortar
1.1 km
Discover the Civil War Mortar in Des Moines, a historical landmark that embodies the spirit and sacrifices of the Civil War era.
Polk County Historic Courthouse
1.1 km
Explore the majestic Polk County Historic Courthouse, a stunning architectural gem symbolizing Des Moines' rich history and culture.
Saint Paul's Episcopal Cathedral
1.1 km
Discover the architectural beauty and spiritual serenity of Saint Paul's Episcopal Cathedral in Downtown Des Moines, a true landmark of the city.
Senator William B. Allison Memorial
1.2 km
Discover the rich history of Iowa at the Senator William B. Allison Memorial, a significant landmark honoring political legacy and heritage.
Des Moines Liberty Sister
1.3 km
Experience the rich historical significance of the Des Moines Liberty Sister, a landmark that embodies the spirit of freedom and democracy in Iowa's capital.
Iowa Statue of Liberty
1.3 km
Discover the Iowa Statue of Liberty in Des Moines, a historical landmark that embodies freedom and the American spirit in a vibrant urban setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge
0.2 km
Explore the Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge, a magnificent tribute to women's contributions in history while enjoying scenic views in Des Moines.
Augmented Reality Mural -interactive- on Northern-most half pike
0.2 km
Explore the Augmented Reality Mural in Downtown Des Moines, where art meets technology in a vibrant display that tells Iowa's story.
Rotary Riverwalk Park
0.2 km
Experience the beauty of nature at Rotary Riverwalk Park, a serene urban oasis in Downtown Des Moines filled with scenic views and outdoor activities.
Des Moines Historic District
0.3 km
Explore Des Moines Historic District: A blend of history, culture, and modern attractions in Iowa's charming capital.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
0.5 km
Experience tranquility and natural beauty at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, a captivating destination for tourists in Iowa.
East Village Mural
0.6 km
Explore the East Village Mural in Des Moines, a colorful celebration of local art and culture in the heart of Iowa's vibrant community.
World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
0.6 km
Explore the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates in Des Moines, a hub of innovation for global food security and sustainability, surrounded by stunning gardens.
Des Moines Civic Center
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant arts scene at Des Moines Civic Center, a cultural landmark in Iowa offering world-class performances and events.
State Historical Building
0.7 km
Explore Iowa's vibrant history at the State Historical Building, a hub of culture and heritage located in the heart of Des Moines.
Cowles Commons
0.8 km
Discover Cowles Commons in Downtown Des Moines: A vibrant park blending art, nature, and community activities for an unforgettable experience.
Holocaust Memorial
0.9 km
Explore the Holocaust Memorial in Des Moines, a poignant historical landmark honoring victims and promoting education on tolerance and human rights.
The Slaughterhouse Haunted Attraction
0.9 km
Experience the ultimate thrill at The Slaughterhouse Haunted Attraction in Des Moines, where fear and fun collide in an unforgettable journey.
Des Moines Heritage Trust / East Union Depot
0.9 km
Discover the rich history of Des Moines at the Heritage Trust and East Union Depot, an engaging museum in the vibrant East Village.
Des Moines' Downtown Farmers’ Market
0.9 km
Discover fresh produce, artisanal goods, and Iowa's vibrant culture at Des Moines' Downtown Farmers' Market - a feast for the senses every Saturday morning.
Des Moines Sky Walks
1.0 km
Discover the interconnected beauty of Des Moines through the Sky Walks, an elevated pathway linking urban attractions, dining, and shopping in comfort.
Essential places to dine
Clyde's Fine Diner
0.4 km
Discover unique culinary delights at Clyde's Fine Diner in Des Moines' East Village - where classic comfort meets modern flair.
Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
0.5 km
Experience culinary creativity at Zombie Burger + Drink Lab in Des Moines – where gourmet burgers meet playful zombie themes!
Buzzard Billy’s
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Buzzard Billy's in downtown Des Moines - where great food meets fun ambiance.
Alba Restaurant
0.6 km
Discover culinary excellence at Alba Restaurant in Des Moines – where New American cuisine meets innovative flair in a vibrant setting.
Open Sesame
0.6 km
Experience authentic Lebanese cuisine at Open Sesame in Des Moines - where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Olympic Flame Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience the best of Greek and American cuisine at Olympic Flame Restaurant in Des Moines' East Village – where every meal is a flavorful journey.
Bar Nico
0.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Bar Nico in Des Moines' vibrant East Village—where tradition meets innovation!
Lucca
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Lucca in Des Moines – where every dish tells a story.
The Continental
0.6 km
Discover delicious food and craft cocktails at The Continental in Des Moines - a top gastropub and lounge in the East Village.
Railroad Bill's Dining Car
0.6 km
Experience delightful breakfasts at Railroad Bill's Dining Car in Des Moines - where comfort food meets friendly service.
Ceviche Bar
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant Cuban cuisine at Ceviche Bar in East Village, Des Moines – where every dish tells a flavorful story.
Splash Seafood Bar & Grill
0.7 km
Experience fresh seafood delights in downtown Des Moines at Splash Seafood Bar & Grill – where flavor meets atmosphere.
The Iowa Taproom
0.7 km
Explore the flavors of Iowa at The Iowa Taproom—your go-to destination for craft beer and delicious American cuisine in Des Moines.
HoQ Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience the best of New American cuisine at HoQ Restaurant in Des Moines - where organic meets innovative in every dish.
Scopri Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Scopri Restaurant in Downtown Des Moines - where every meal feels like a trip to Italy.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Chapter 2 Jewelry, Apparel, and Accessories
0.5 km
Explore Chapter 2 Jewelry, Apparel, and Accessories in Des Moines for unique jewelry and stylish fashion finds that reflect your personal style.
KIN
0.5 km
Explore KIN in Des Moines for exquisite jewelry, unique home goods, and captivating metaphysical supplies that define elegance and charm.
MARNe
0.5 km
Explore MARNe in Des Moines' East Village for a unique boutique shopping experience filled with local artistry and curated goods.
Janes - Family Shop
0.5 km
Discover a world of wonder for kids at Janes - Family Shop in Des Moines, offering unique clothing and toys for little ones in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
May Eleven
0.5 km
Explore May Eleven Boutique in Des Moines for unique clothing and accessories that embody local culture and creativity.
She Home & Gift
0.6 km
Discover unique home décor and gifts at She Home & Gift in East Village, Des Moines – a treasure trove of local creativity and charm.
Fontenelle Supply Co.
0.6 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at Fontenelle Supply Co. in Des Moines' East Village, where style meets local culture and charm.
Aimee
0.6 km
Discover unique fashion finds at Aimee, a charming boutique in Des Moines' East Village, perfect for stylish souvenirs and personalized service.
Porch Light
0.6 km
Explore Porch Light in East Village for unique antiques, home goods, and jewelry, a perfect stop for memorable souvenirs in Des Moines.
East Village Emporium
0.7 km
Explore East Village Emporium in Des Moines: Your destination for timeless antiques and unique treasures in a vibrant shopping district.
True Style
0.7 km
Discover the essence of modern fashion at True Style, a boutique in Des Moines offering unique clothing and personalized service.
Goldeneye Curations
0.7 km
Discover the charm of vintage fashion at Goldeneye Curations in Des Moines, where unique style meets sustainable shopping.
Domestica
1.1 km
Explore the artistic heart of Des Moines at Domestica, where unique gifts and local artistry come together in a charming gift shop experience.
The Plaza Shoppe
1.5 km
Discover unique treasures and local crafts at The Plaza Shoppe, a delightful gift shop in Downtown Des Moines, Iowa, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Vzz Vintage
1.5 km
Explore Vzz Vintage in Downtown Des Moines for one-of-a-kind clothing that celebrates style and sustainability.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bellhop
0.5 km
Discover Bellhop Bar in Des Moines for innovative cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere that captures the local nightlife spirit.
Nightingale Cocktail
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant mixology scene at Nightingale Cocktail, a top cocktail bar in Des Moines, where every drink tells a story.
Alleged Lee's
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail scene at Alleged Lee's, a funky bar in Des Moines' East Village, known for its creative drinks and lively atmosphere.
85 Bar
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant sports scene and delicious menu at 85 Bar in Des Moines, a must-visit destination for food and sports enthusiasts.
Locust Tap
0.6 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Locust Tap, a must-visit bar in Des Moines offering creative cocktails and a fun night out.
Black Sheep
0.7 km
Discover Black Sheep Bar in Des Moines: A cocktail haven with a lively atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and socializing in East Village.
503 Cocktail Lab and Tasting Room
0.7 km
Experience the art of mixology at 503 Cocktail Lab and Tasting Room, where unique cocktails meet stylish ambiance in Des Moines' East Village.
Ken's - a not so secret speakeasy
0.7 km
Experience the charm of a hidden speakeasy in Des Moines, where innovative cocktails and vintage ambiance create an unforgettable nightlife adventure.
Beechwood Lounge
0.7 km
Discover the charm of Beechwood Lounge in Des Moines - a cozy bar offering craft drinks and a lively atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
The New Northwestern Cocktail & Wine Bar
0.7 km
Discover the elegance of The New Northwestern Cocktail & Wine Bar in Des Moines, where exquisite drinks meet a chic atmosphere.
the LiFT
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Des Moines at The LiFT, a trendy bar and nightclub offering craft cocktails and unforgettable entertainment.
Tonic Court Ave.
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Tonic Court, a bustling bar and lounge in Downtown Des Moines, perfect for drinks, music, and sports.
Shorty's Somewhat Fancy Bar
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant energy and cozy charm of Shorty's Somewhat Fancy Bar, a hidden gem in Downtown Des Moines offering craft cocktails and local brews.
The Copper Cup
1.0 km
Discover The Copper Cup, a vibrant bar in Downtown Des Moines, offering craft cocktails, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Pints Bar Rooftop - PBR Country
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Des Moines at Pints Bar Rooftop, where stunning views and great drinks create unforgettable moments.
