Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where is The Arboretum located?
A: The Arboretum is located directly east of Hawkeye Community College on East Orange Road. When traveling on Highway 20, take the Hawkeye Road exit and travel south. After three miles you will turn left on East Orange Road. The Arboretum will be on your left just past the college.  For more information, click here.

Q: Do I have to pay admission to visit The Arboretum?
A: Admission is free to the public and donations are always welcome.

Q: Can I bring my group to The Arboretum?
A: Yes!  For more information, click here.

Q:  When is the best time to visit The Arboretum?
A:  The Arboretum is open April through October, dawn to dusk.  The gardens can be slow to wake up in the spring, but subtle beauty can still be found throughout the grounds with the daffodils blooming and trees budding.  We encourage you to visit often throughout the season to see the gardens change.  The public restrooms will not be open until the beginning of May.

Q: How can I volunteer at The Arboretum?
A:  The Arboretum is a great place to volunteer!  For more information, click here.

Q: Can I volunteer at The Arboretum with my family?
A:  Yes!  The Arboretum is a kid friendly place to volunteer!  For more information, click here.

Q: Can I rent The Arboretum for my wedding or other events?
A:  The Arboretum is a beautiful outdoor venue for events of all sizes.  For more information, click here.

Q: Who maintains the gardens and grounds at the Arboretum?
A:  The Arboretum is maintained by volunteers and the Executive Director, Rob Pruitt.  If you would like to volunteer in the gardens, click here for more information.

Q: What else can I visit in the area?
A: The Arboretum is located south of Waterloo on East Orange Road and just minutes away from Lost Island Water Park, Crossroads Shopping Center and a variety of lodging and hotel options.  For more information, click here.

Q: What programs and events are held at The Arboretum?
A: The Arboretum is the backdrop for many special celebrations and events April through October. To learn more about Arboretum events, click here.  For a list of our education offerings, click here.

Q: Who governs The Arboretum?
A: The Arboretum is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, comprised of residents of the Cedar Valley and are elected for three-year terms. Board members are encouraged to also remain active in one of the five Standing Committees (Education, Events, Finance, Development, and Planning & Operations).

Q: What does the Arboretum provide for the Cedar Valley?
A: Public green spaces improve a community’s quality of life. They add beauty to our surroundings and refresh our spirits. The Arboretum provides summer education programs and volunteer opportunities for the young and old. Located just off Highway 20, The Arboretum is also a destination and resting spot for people traveling through the Cedar Valley.

Q: How does The Arboretum invest the gifts it receives?
A: The Board of Directors is committed to thoughtfully managing and administering gifts the Arboretum receives each year. They also work closely with the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa to advocate the Arboretum’s endowment fund.