Today I was driving through Altoona and saw this surprise garden!
How have I lived in the metro area for years and have never heard about the Enabling Garden?
Even in the rain on an overcast day the garden is amazing!
The kids ran all over shouting out “look here”, “I am going over the bridge” and “Mom I found a fairy garden”!
Place/Event: Enabling Garden
Location: 1050 1st Ave S, Altoona, IA 50009 (shares a parking lot with Hy-Vee)
Cost: Free
Grade/age range: K-12
Group size: large or small
Hands-on: Yes
Stroller friendly: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Water: Yes
Food: No
Polk County Master Gardeners created the garden for people of all abilities to enjoy and learn about gardening. There are smooth paths and easy access to the flowers.
Check out the website to find all the events for learning programs and children’s art workshops that take place in this amazing garden.
I can’t WAIT to come back in the summer when more plants are in bloom!
The Children’s Garden is fabulous! We want to come back when it’s not raining!
There were tables to build with wood blocks, logs to crawl on, a tee-pee, musical instruments and more! In the sand-pit photo you can see the bike trail that runs along the garden.
Doesn’t this invite you to come, sit and relax?
SUMMER PHOTO UPDATE!
While we were in Altoona and thinking of gardens and parks (even though it was raining), I wanted to stop and share our other favorite park in Altoona Iowa –
Place/Event: Village Park
Location: 401 17th Ave NW, Altoona, Iowa 50009 (if coming from I-80, look for the big steer)
Cost: Free
Grade/age range: K-12
Group size: large or small
Hands-on: Yes
Stroller friendly: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Water: Yes
Food: No
This fun playground has 3 levels and my kids just love it!
There are tennis courts, volley ball courts, two playgrounds and a large open green space.
A Great place for a large group!
The Polk County ISU Extension office is also located in Altoona (across from the big steer) and offers lots of hands-on educational programs. ISU Extension offices are listed on my Mega List of over 50 Field Trips in your Local Community!
Don’t forget to check out Bass Pro Shop while you’re in Altoona or stop in for some fun at Adventureland during the summer season!
