The site was established in 1980 by a group of volunteers, transforming a former hay field into a public garden.
It is home to the largest collection of hostas in the state of Iowa.
The Arboretum serves as an official test site for All-America Selections, trialing new plant varieties before they hit the market.
Many of the specific garden sections are maintained by local master gardeners and community groups.
The grounds include a dedicated memorial garden and multiple water features intended for local wildlife.
The site operates without state or federal funding, relying entirely on donations and local support.
The Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens encompasses 56 acres of diverse landscapes, hosting over 60 distinct gardens including specialized rose, hosta, and Japanese gardens. It functions as a non-profit, volunteer-supported horticultural site, operating with free admission for the public. The grounds are divided into several themed zones, such as the English Garden, the Butterfly Garden, and a notable conifer collection. It serves as an All-America Selections display garden, showcasing top-performing plant varieties. The site features an extensive system of paved and mulch paths suitable for walking throughout the collection. Educational programming and horticultural workshops are periodically offered to the community. The Arboretum is integrated into the natural topography of the Mississippi River valley region.
The central gazebo and the surrounding Japanese garden bridge offer the best vantage points for landscape photography.
Bring comfortable walking shoes as the 56-acre site involves significant walking on varied terrain.
Carry bottled water, as amenities are spread out and vending options may be limited depending on the season.
Check the official website's event calendar before visiting to avoid days when large private events restrict access to certain areas.
Do not attempt to traverse the entire 56 acres in under an hour; plan your route according to specific garden themes.
Grounds are generally accessible daily, but specific buildings and indoor displays may have reduced availability during winter months.
Stay on marked paths to protect delicate plant beds and keep pets on a leash at all times.
