Updated November 2026 by Erin Huiatt, Des Moines Parent
Quick answer: Winter Wonderscape is Reiman Gardens’ walk-through holiday light show in Ames, about 35 minutes north of Des Moines. In 2026 it runs select nights from Nov. 27 to Dec. 27, 5 to 9 p.m., with more than 200,000 lights on a brand-new route. Tickets are $17 for adults, $8 for youth and free under age 2, and buying online in advance is strongly encouraged.
Reiman Gardens in Ames, right next to Iowa State University, is a year-round attraction many families think of visiting in the warmer months, but Winter Wonderscape gives you a BIG reason to visit during the holidays. This walk-through light show is back for another year! Families will enjoy an outdoor walk through 17 acres of gardens filled with fantasy lights, sculptural forms, seasonal displays and so much more.
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Winter Wonderscape 2026: Dates, Hours and Tickets
| Dates | Nov. 27 and 29; Dec. 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26 and 27 |
| Hours | 5–9 p.m. (timed 30-minute entry windows; last entry 7:30–8 p.m.) |
| Adults (13+) | $17 |
| Reiman Gardens members and ISU students | $15 |
| Youth | $8 |
| Under 2 | Free |
| Tickets | Buy online in advance; tickets at the gate depend on availability. No refunds, including for weather, but a $5 Booking Flexibility Option lets you reschedule. |
| Location | Reiman Gardens, 1407 University Blvd., Ames (enter at the Main Entrance across from parking lot S1) |
Heads up: SNAP, EBT and reciprocal memberships can’t be used for Winter Wonderscape. Get your Winter Wonderscape tickets here.
What to Expect at Winter Wonderscape
Our family attended for the first time a few years ago, and we were extremely impressed by all of the thought and beauty that went into the entire 17-acre site. As you walk the grounds, you’ll find a wide variety of light installations: massive laser-lit disco balls, glowing tunnels, dynamic light strands dancing across a frozen lake, Elwood the Giant Gnome and so much more.
A Brand-New Route for 2026
This year, Winter Wonderscape follows a completely re-imagined route with more than 200,000 lights. The path is about ¾ of a mile, is fully ADA accessible and takes 40 to 90 minutes to walk. You’re welcome to walk the loop more than once!
Candy Land Hillside
The life-sized Candy Land display is back! A long winding path climbs the Hillside Garden like a Candy Land game board, with squares lit up in different colors and iconic Candy Land treats along the way.
Disco Balls and Glowing Tunnels
The massive disco balls were definitely a family favorite! Kids will love the twirling disco balls and laser lights, and the colorful tunnels make the perfect family photo spot.
RG Express Holiday Trains
Back by popular demand, the RG Express miniature trains wind through the indoor conservatory past bridges and tiny buildings inspired by Iowa State University, plus a spectacular waterfall. It’s included with your ticket, and it’s a great spot to warm up!
S’mores Making
Roast s’mores at the outdoor stations on the Paved Courtyard near Hunziker House. S’mores supplies are sold near the fire, and the stations are planned for every night, weather and staffing permitting.
Holiday Hideaway Greenhouses
Want a cozy spot for date night or the whole crew? Rent your own private Holiday Hideaway greenhouse for 2–6 guests. Each one includes Winter Wonderscape admission and a s’mores kit for every guest.
Treats and More
As you wind your way through the outdoor gardens (make sure you bundle up!), you can buy hot chocolate and other small treats. The Butterfly Wing and gift shop are closed during Winter Wonderscape, so plan a daytime visit to see the butterflies.
Tips for Visiting Winter Wonderscape with Kids
- Buy tickets early. Popular time slots sell out, especially on weekends.
- Go later for smaller crowds. Reiman Gardens suggests visiting after 7:30 p.m.
- Dress for the weather. The whole route is outdoors, and the show goes on in cold, snow and wind.
- Bring the stroller. Strollers, wheelchairs and mobility scooters are welcome on the accessible path.
- Know where the bathrooms are. You’ll find them in the Main Building, Hunziker House and at Sycamore Falls.
- Have your QR code ready. Print your tickets or pull them up on your phone at check-in.
Winter Wonderscape FAQ
Winter Wonderscape runs Nov. 27 and 29, plus select nights Dec. 4–27, 2026, from 5 to 9 p.m. at Reiman Gardens in Ames.
Tickets are $17 for adults, $15 for Reiman Gardens members and ISU students, $8 for youth and free for kids under 2.
The route is about ¾ of a mile and takes 40 to 90 minutes. You can stay until 9 p.m. once you enter during your time window.
Yes! The entire path is ADA accessible with gentle slopes, and strollers, wheelchairs and mobility scooters are welcome.
Reiman Gardens is in Ames, about 35 minutes north of Des Moines on I-35.
More Holiday Fun from Des Moines Parent
Looking for more holiday lights? Check out Dome for the Holidays at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, holiday parades in Central Iowa and our full guide to holiday events in Des Moines. This outdoor holiday light show is a must for your Holiday Bucket List!
