(Des Moines, IA) -- Staff at the Des Moines Botanical Garden admit they like their work environment, a lot!
"It's amazing, it's the only place with humidity right now!" says Azure Christensen. The domed respite from the arctic weather is proving to be popular among cold weary residents hoping for a quick escape from the frigid temperatures.
Christensen says people will come for a quick visit, others find it hard to leave the 70-degree dome and venture outside back into the reality of a cold Iowa winter.
The Botanical Garden has adopted a number of coronavirus mitigation strategies, including selling timed tickets to keep track of how many guests are inside at a time. There are no limits on how long you can stay.
Christensen they've been able to hold their annual "Botanical Blues" concert series, with some COVID adjustments - they have an early and late show on Sundays.
The Botanical Garden is also hosting "Dome After Dark," complete with luminaries and twinkle lights. That event continues this Valentine's Day weekend, through this Sunday night. She says the event is perfect for "date night" but also for families with children.
(Photos from Des Moines Botanical Garden)