Things To Do
in Dubuque
Dubuque is a city located in the state of Iowa along the Mississippi River. It is known for its picturesque bluffs and historic architecture, including the iconic Fenelon Place Elevator. The city offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, boating, and fishing.
Dubuque also has a vibrant cultural scene with museums, art galleries, and festivals throughout the year.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll along the beautiful Riverwalk. Take in the views of the Mississippi River and the historic architecture of Dubuque.
Enjoy lunch at a riverside café and then visit the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium. Learn about the region's rich river history and its ecosystems.
Watch the sunset from the Riverwalk before heading to a local restaurant for dinner. Consider trying some classic Midwestern dishes.
Start your adventure at the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. Explore the beautiful grounds and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Head to the Dubuque Zoo and Aquarium to see a wide variety of animals. Don't miss the chance to attend the animal feedings and educational talks.
Dine at a nearby restaurant known for its farm-to-table cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely meal while discussing your day's nature-filled activities.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural heritage, featuring historic architecture and museums.
- Beautiful natural scenery along the Mississippi River, including parks and trails.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many urban areas.
- Friendly community with a welcoming atmosphere.
- Growing job opportunities in healthcare, education, and manufacturing sectors.
- Limited access to major urban amenities and entertainment options.
- Harsh winters with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures.
- Some challenges with public transportation connectivity.
- Economic reliance on traditional industries, which can be vulnerable.
- Limited diversity in dining and shopping options compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Dubuque
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Eagle Point Park offers beautiful views of the Mississippi River, picnic areas, hiking trails, and recreational facilities for outdoor activities.
The Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens provide a peaceful outdoor setting with a variety of gardens, walking paths, and seasonal events.
The Heritage Trail is a scenic trail for hiking, biking, and nature exploration, featuring stunning views of the Dubuque countryside.
Tours
Uncover the best of Dubuque with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Dubuque
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic cable car offering panoramic views of the city and river.
Beautiful gardens and scenic paths, perfect for photography and relaxation.
Picturesque park with views of the Mississippi River and Lock and Dam No. 11.
Food in Dubuque
Dubuque Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional favorite, these cheese curds are breaded and deep-fried to golden perfection. Enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness at local pubs like Jubeck New World Brewing.
Must-Try!
A classic Iowa offering, this sandwich features a breaded and fried pork tenderloin. Try it at places like The 1st & Main Restaurant.
This Irish-inspired dish consists of a hard-boiled egg wrapped in sausage meat, coated in bread crumbs, and deep-fried. Check out places like Brazen Open Kitchen & Bar for a delightful version.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Dubuque better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held in the historic area of downtown, this market offers a wide range of fresh produce, baked goods, and local delights every Saturday from May to October.
Head to the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium on select Fridays to savor a variety of gourmet food truck offerings amidst a lively atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Dubuque, it is important to respect personal space and maintain a comfortable distance while interacting with others.
Good manners are highly valued in Dubuque, and it is important to be polite, courteous, and respectful when interacting with locals.
Dubuque is a diverse community, and it is essential to appreciate and respect different cultures, traditions, and beliefs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Dubuque with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Dubuque
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Dubuque, United States. In restaurants, it is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill for good service. Tipping is also expected in other service industries such as hotels, taxis, and salons.
Payment in Dubuque, United States is commonly done using credit or debit cards, as well as cash. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular. Mobile payment apps are also widely used for convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Dubuque.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for blooming flowers, pleasant weather, and outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the Mississippi River.
Ideal for enjoying outdoor festivals, riverboat rides, and water-based activities along with warm temperatures.
Great time to visit for the beautiful fall foliage, crisp weather, and harvest festivals.
Best time for holiday events, winter sports, and enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Dubuque at Night
Hiking in Dubuque
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful area with trails that offer scenic views of the Mississippi River and diverse wildlife, perfect for hiking and exploring nature.
A park featuring extensive trails, scenic overlooks, and picnic areas, providing a great place for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.
A park with walking trails, woods, and fields, ideal for a peaceful hike and to enjoy nature close to the city.
A historic site with trails that lead to beautiful views and natural surroundings, offering a serene hiking experience.
A multi-use trail running from Dubuque to the nearby town of Dyersville, perfect for hiking and cycling while enjoying the scenic landscape.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Dubuque through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Dubuque by plane.
Located approximately 150 miles east of Dubuque, ORD is one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving as a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Situated around 250 miles northwest of Dubuque, MSP is a significant airport that connects travelers to numerous destinations both domestically and internationally.
Located about 200 miles southwest of Dubuque, DSM serves central Iowa and offers flights to various destinations across the country.
Approximately 120 miles northeast of Dubuque, MKE provides a range of domestic flights and some international services.
Around 350 miles southwest of Dubuque, MCI is a major airport serving the Kansas City metropolitan area with extensive domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Approximately 88.0% of the population identifies as White, making it the largest demographic group.
Roughly 6.5% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino.
About 2.3% of residents identify as Black or African American.
Approximately 2.0% of the population identifies as Asian.
Around 1.0% of the population identifies as belonging to two or more races.
Less than 1% of the population identifies as Native American.
The Pacific Islander population is less than 1%.
The Soul of Dubuque
Discover the essence of Dubuque through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played in schools and recreational leagues throughout Dubuque.
Widely played among youth and adults, with various leagues and clubs available.
A traditional American sport with community teams and events during the summer.
Enjoyed by many local leagues, both recreational and competitive, popular in parks.
High school and college football games attract many fans and community support.
Several golf courses in and around Dubuque offer recreational and competitive play.
With scenic trails and parks, outdoor activities like hiking and biking are very popular.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dubuque.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries provide a range of vegetarian dishes, from fresh salads to creatively crafted vegetarian entrees.
Several restaurants and cafes offer specifically marked vegan options on their menus, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for vegans.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy a variety of gluten-free dishes offered at local establishments, from gluten-free pastas to desserts.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Dubuque with these cultural adventures.
