See answers to some of The Wanderwood Gardens frequently asked questions.
Daily admission provides access to all open garden areas and attractions.
Our hours vary based on the season, and are also dependent on the weather.
For the most current information, especially regarding weather-related closures, please check our social media channels.
All posted hours are subject to change.
Wanderwood Gardens Hours
(May – October):
The Wanderwood Gardens is located at 3810 Arboretum Dr, Dubuque, IA 52001 across from the Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens.
To help ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience for all guests, Wanderwood Gardens will utilize timed entry reservations upon opening. Members are strongly encouraged to reserve a visit time in advance to help guarantee admission during busy periods. Non-members will reserve a timed entry ticket online or through Guest Experiences when purchasing admission. Walk-up guests are welcome, but admission cannot be guaranteed if the gardens have reached capacity.
Yes. Wanderwood is a world built for small explorers! Because we focus on child-led play, we ask that all adults visiting the gardens be accompanied by children and that grown-ups keep their little explorers close and supervised at all times.
For the safety and comfort of all guests, unaccompanied adults must check in with Guest Experiences upon arrival or contact the gardens ahead of their visit to arrange entry. All guests are expected to follow our Rules for Safe Play, respect family spaces, and allow children and families first access to play attractions and interactive experiences. Wanderwood Gardens reserves the right to deny entry to any guest who does not follow garden policies or safety guidelines.
Wanderwood Gardens is primarily an outdoor experience, and many areas remain open in light rain or cooler weather. In cases of severe weather, unsafe conditions, or extreme temperatures, the gardens may close or adjust hours.
If weather conditions or other extenuating circumstances force closure, your ticket will be valid the next regular open day during the same admission window.
Weather-related updates will be shared on our social media channels. We recommend checking conditions before your visit and dressing appropriately for the weather.
Absolutely! Picnics are a wonderful way to enjoy your visit to Wanderwood Gardens. Guests are welcome to bring outside food and beverages to enjoy throughout the gardens.
To help keep Wanderwood safe and beautiful for everyone, we ask that you:
Thank you for helping us keep Wanderwood clean, welcoming, and ready for discovery.
For the safety of our guests, gardens, and wildlife, pets are not permitted at Wanderwood Gardens. Service animals are welcome in accordance with ADA guidelines.
Yes. Wanderwood Gardens is committed to accessibility and inclusion. Accessible paths, restrooms, and accommodations are available throughout the gardens. If you have specific accessibility needs, we encourage you to contact us before your visit.
Wanderwood Gardens is an outdoor experience with various terrains. We recommend:
During this period, the main garden attractions are closed to the public, unless otherwise announced (updates will be shared on our social media channels) . However, the Cottage Learning Center remains open and available for private reservations and pre-arranged events only.
Yes. Wanderwood offers Individual Plus, Household, and Household Plus Memberships, each designed to fit different family sizes and needs. Memberships sold prior to opening will activate on the date of our Grand Opening (approximately late June 2026) and are valid for one full year. Memberships purchased after our Grand Opening are valid for one full year, with renewal scheduled for the last day of the purchase month.
Only the registered adults listed on the membership are permitted under that membership. Any additional adults not listed must purchase a general admission ticket or use one of the one-time guest passes included with your membership. Every membership tier includes guest passes annually (see additional guest pass details below). Memberships are non-transferable.
Yes! Members receive free admission, but a timed entry reservation is still required. Reserving your arrival window helps us ensure plenty of room to play, explore, and wander.
All children and grandchildren (ages 3–17) are included under the membership type purchased. Children under age 3 are always admitted free.
Members enjoy exclusive early access to the gardens from 9:00–10:00 a.m. Friday mornings May through October, weather permitting. Member only hours are subject to change based on seasonal demand and member feedback.
Guest access depends on your membership level:
Guest passes are not valid for special events unless otherwise noted.
No. Memberships are intended for use by the registered household only and may not be shared or transferred.
Yes! All membership types can be gifted. Gift memberships sold prior to opening will activate on the date of our Grand Opening (approximately mid June 2026) and are valid for one full year. Gift memberships purchased after opening are valid for one year from the purchase date. with renewal scheduled for the last day of that purchase month.
All members enjoy:
As you enter The Wanderwood Gardens, you are invited to embrace the spirit of exploration through the W.I.L.D. Pledge, a reminder to treat each other, the gardens, and the environment with kindness and respect.
As you leave Wanderwood and continue your journey beyond the gardens, the L.E.A.F. Promise encourages you to carry the spirit of nature with you.