Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden: A Living Magazine
Explore garden design and plant varieties at Better Homes and Gardens' living Test Garden in Des Moines. Open Fridays, May-September.
The Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden in Des Moines, Iowa, is a vibrant, working garden that serves as an outdoor studio, testing ground, and idea center for the magazine. Open to the public on select Fridays, this half-block oasis showcases diverse garden styles and thousands of plants.
A brief summary to Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden
- 1716 Locust St, Des Moines, Downtown Des Moines, Iowa, 50309, US
- +1515-284-3994
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during open hours (Friday, noon-2 p.m., May-September) for self-guided tours.
- Note that the garden is closed on Friday, July 4th.
- Bring your own lunch and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy on the benches.
- Be prepared to carry out your trash, as there are no receptacles in the garden.
- Check for accessibility updates due to ongoing sidewalk and road construction.
Getting There
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Walking
The Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden is located in downtown Des Moines, near the Pappajohn Sculpture Park and the Des Moines Central Public Library. From either location, it's a short walk. Head southwest from the sculpture park or west from the library towards the corner of 15th Street and Locust Street. The garden is located on Locust Street.
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Public Transport
The Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden is accessible via public transportation. Check the local Des Moines public transit website for the most up-to-date bus routes and schedules. Several bus stops are located within a few blocks of the garden in downtown Des Moines. A single fare is typically around $1-2.
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Parking
Metered street parking is available on the north side of the Test Garden. Parking costs around $0.50 per hour. Check parking signs for time limits and restrictions. Consider nearby parking garages if street parking is unavailable; rates vary.
Discover more about Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden
0.0 km
Explore the Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden in Downtown Des Moines for a peaceful experience filled with stunning flora and innovative gardening inspiration.
Herndon Hall
0.5 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of Herndon Hall, a captivating landmark in Downtown Des Moines, Iowa.
Temple Theater
0.6 km
Discover the enchanting Temple Theater in Downtown Des Moines, a premier venue for performing arts, concerts, and community events.
Center Street Neighborhood Historical Marker
0.7 km
Discover the legacy of resilience at the Center Street Neighborhood Historical Marker, a tribute to Des Moines' vibrant Black business district history.
Saint Paul's Episcopal Cathedral
0.8 km
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The Des Moines Building
1.1 km
Experience urban living at The Des Moines Building, where comfort meets convenience in the heart of Downtown Des Moines.
Polk County Historic Courthouse
1.2 km
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Mahnke House
1.3 km
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Court District
1.4 km
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Witmer House
1.7 km
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Middlesex Plat Historic District
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State Historical Society of Iowa
2.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Giant Garden Trowel
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Terrace Hill Historic Site
1.0 km
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Des Moines Sky Walks
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The Slaughterhouse Haunted Attraction
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Cowles Commons
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A vibrant downtown Des Moines public space featuring art, events, and an interactive fountain for community engagement and enjoyment.
Science Center of Iowa
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Des Moines' Downtown Farmers’ Market
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Des Moines Civic Center
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Gray's Lake Park
1.5 km
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World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
1.6 km
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Rotary Riverwalk Park
1.7 km
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Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge
1.8 km
A stunning pedestrian bridge in Des Moines honoring Iowa's influential women, offering scenic views and a unique architectural experience.
Fort Des Moines II - Birthplace of Des Moines Memorial Cabin
1.8 km
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Des Moines Historic District
1.8 km
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Augmented Reality Mural -interactive- on Northern-most half pike
1.9 km
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Essential places to dine
Allora Cafe
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Django
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The Walnut
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Americana
0.3 km
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A Dong Restaurant
0.3 km
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Aposto at the Scala House
0.5 km
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Centro
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Proudfoot & Bird
0.7 km
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Bubba
0.7 km
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Malo
0.8 km
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Basil Prosperi
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801 Chophouse
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Mash + MARROW
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Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
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Noah's Ark Ristorante
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Funky Finds Vintage & Retro
0.3 km
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The Plaza Shoppe
0.6 km
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Domestica
0.9 km
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Vzz Vintage
1.4 km
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Shop33
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Wonderland Apothecary at Groovy Goods
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Groovy Goods Daydreams - Tobacco Pipes & Hippie Clothing
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Ancient Ways
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MARNe
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Janes - Family Shop
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Chapter 2 Jewelry, Apparel, and Accessories
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May Eleven
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KIN
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She Home & Gift
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Aimee
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Carl's Place
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Juniper Moon
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Hello, Marjorie
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the LiFT
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The Copper Cup
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Pints Bar Rooftop - PBR Country
1.3 km
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Revival House
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Star Bar
1.5 km
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Tonic Court Ave.
1.5 km
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Shorty's Somewhat Fancy Bar
1.5 km
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300 Craft & Rooftop
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El Bait Shop
1.6 km
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The High Life Lounge
1.6 km
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Black Sheep
2.0 km
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Ken's - a not so secret speakeasy
2.1 km
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