28 Best & Fun Things To Do In Dubuque, Iowa
Are you seeking for some fun things to do while visiting Dubuque, Iowa, to make your trip even more memorable? There’s nowhere else to look! You’re in the correct place since we’ll be discussing the top 28 Fun Things To Do In Dubuque, Iowa, to make your trip memorable.
A hidden jewel of the Midwest is Dubuque, Iowa, which lies tucked away beside the massive Mississippi River. The city is located in the Tri-State region, which consists of Wisconsin, Illinois, and Iowa.
See Also: 28 Best & Fun Things To Do In Sheridan, WY
It provides guests with an abundance of enjoyable activities and is rich in history, culture, and scenic beauty. There is something in Dubuque for everyone, whether you are traveling as a family with young children, as a couple, as a foodie, or just enjoying the beautiful outdoors.
We’ll walk you through 28 must-see locations and activities in Dubuque, Iowa, in this post so you can make the most of your trip to this alluring location. To get the most out of your trip, you should consider when is the best time to visit Dubuque while making travel plans.
28 Best & Fun Things To Do In Dubuque, Iowa In 2024
1. National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Visit the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium to get a deep dive into the complex ecosystems of the Mississippi to start your Dubuque experience.
One of the most well-liked tourist attractions in Dubuque is also this museum. The Mississippi River Center and the National River Center are the two structures that make up the museum’s waterfront complex.
The Mississippi Discovery Center, a touch tank, an observation deck, a boat tour, and a 3D and 4D digital theater featuring “The Flying Monsters” are all included at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium. River otters, a marsh, and sizable relics including boats, a blacksmith shop, a stream, and raptor aviaries with a bald eagle are among the outdoor exhibits they have.
350 E 3rd St, Dubuque, IA 52001 is the address.
2. Dubuque Arboretum And Botanical Gardens
Discovering this lovely garden, which opened its doors in 1980, is one of the best family-friendly activities in Dubuque. The 56-acre Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens include formal English, herb, rose, and hosasta gardens in addition to a Japanese garden and pond with koi fish for feeding.
Annually, the Arboretum welcomes around 55,000 people from around the globe. Admission is free. With 13,000 plants spanning 200 types, the garden is purportedly the biggest public hosta garden in the United States. It also features picnic shelters and a playground.
Bring your camera to the Arboretum to capture stunning images and share a picnic with your loved ones.
3800 Arboretum Dr., Dubuque, IA 52001 is the address.
3. Fenelon Place Elevator
Taking a ride on this well-known funicular is one of the enjoyable things to do in Dubuque nowadays. Built in 1882, this antique cable car provides an amazing perspective of the Mississippi River, which crosses three states: Illinois, Wisconsin, and Iowa.
This 3 foot narrow gauge funicular train, also called the Fourth Street Elevator, is regarded as the world’s shortest and steepest scenic railway. It is 296 feet long and rises to a vertical height of 189 feet from Fourth Street to Fenelon Place at a 41-degree slope.
Two observation decks with a great view of the Dubuque downtown area are located at the summit. Include a trip on the funicular railway to your list of things to do in Dubuque if you plan to visit soon.
512 Fenelon Pl., Dubuque, IA 52001 is the address.
4. Mines Of Spain Recreation Area
One of Dubuque’s main attractions is the Mines of Spain Recreation Area. Situated over 1437 acres of stunning prairie and woodland countryside south of Dubuque, Iowa, this park is a must-visit location in the city.
There is a picnic area, 4 miles of ski trails, 15 miles of walking/hiking trails, and the Betty Haupti Bird and Butterfly Garden in the park. Julien Dubuque’s Monument, situated at the Mines of Spain Recreation Area on the edge of a bluff above Catfish Creek, is another feature of the area.
Come explore this park and partake in outdoor pursuits including hiking, cross-country skiing, and picnicking as part of the exciting things to do in Dubuque.
8991 Bellevue Heights, Dubuque, Iowa 52003 is the address.
5. Crystal Lake Cave
One of the interesting things to do in Dubuque, Iowa, is explore the Crystal Lake Cave, which is roughly 15 miles from the city center. This underground cave, found in Iowa in 1868 by miner James Rice who was looking for ore-bearing stones, is a must-see sight.
The subterranean cave is teeming with impressive crystal cave formations, such as stalactite, argonite, travertine, satin, stalagmite, and calcareous spar. There is a tiny pool of glistening clean water in the cave.
Visit this fantastic attraction place for a day excursion to enjoy the splendor of nature.
Address: Dubuque, Iowa 52003, 6684 Crystal Lake Cave Road
6. Art On The River
Investigating this vibrant outdoor gallery honoring a variety of painters that is positioned along the Mississippi River is one of the free things to do in Dubuque.
An expert three-person panel reviews the outdoor installation art submitted by regional and national artists each year, and ten finalists are selected. This lovely walkway runs along the coast and is great for strolling.
In an effort to spark interest in great art among the general public, the ten artworks will be on display for the benefit of families, joggers, and walkers along the Mississippi Riverwalk for a whole year.
The address is 450 E. Dubuque, Iowa 52001-3rd Street
7. Eagle Point Park
Going to Eagle Point Park for the day is one of the greatest outdoor things you can do in Dubuque right now. One of the best parks in the Midwest, Eagle Point Park is spread across 164 acres and offers stunning views of Lock and Dam No. 11, the Mississippi River, and surrounding landscape.
The park features several amenities, such as family rooms, covered areas, a riverfront pavilion, and playgrounds. It also provides a breathtaking perspective of Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. In addition, there’s a band shell, six tennis courts, a horseshoe court, a rock garden, and a fish pond.
Only the first weekend in May through the fourth weekend in October is the park open for visitors. If you want to visit Dubuque at this time, be sure to include this tourist attraction on your agenda.
Address: Dubuque, Iowa 52001; 2601 Shiras Ave.
8. Dubuque Museum Of Art
The oldest cultural institution in Iowa is the Dubuque Museum of Art, which was founded in 1874 and is situated in the center of downtown Dubuque. With more than 2,200 pieces, the museum is a veritable gold mine of American art with a special emphasis on local creators.
The museum is renowned for its Grant Wood collection, a unique and comprehensive collection of American Indian photos taken by Edward S. Curtis, and several traveling shows.
Discover more about local artists and the arts by paying a visit to the Museum of Art, one of the unique things to do in Dubuque.
Address: Dubuque, Iowa, 52001; 701 Locust St.
9. Sundown Mountain
Searching for enjoyable winter activities in Dubuque? After that, tour Sundown Mountain. In the middle of Iowan farmland, this resort provides a range of difficult skiing and snowboarding terrain.
Spread across 45 acres, Sundown Mountain features a 475-foot vertical drop through terrain carved out of an ancient cedar forest. Three states as well as the Mississippi River valley are visible from the ski hill’s summit.
With a range of terrain and snowy fun for all ages and skill levels, this resort is an excellent destination for families to enjoy skiing and snowboarding.
6991 Asbury Road, Dubuque, Iowa 52002 is the address.
10. Bunker Hill Golf Course
Playing golf at the Bunker Hill Golf Course is among the top activities golfers can do in Dubuque. This picturesque eight-hole public golf course is a wonderful location for family golf outings.
Bunker Hill Golf Course welcomes golfers of all ability levels with breathtaking views and demanding play. A comprehensive calendar of golf events, a range of men’s and women’s leagues, junior golfer programs, and private instruction are also provided.
In addition, the golf course has putting greens for honing your short game, a fully equipped pro shop, a clubhouse with public bar, an equipment cart, and an on-course beverage cart.
2200 Bunker Hill Road, Dubuque, Iowa 52001 is the address.
11. The Grand Opera House
A fun family activity in Dubuque this evening is to see a show at the Grand Opera House. The Grand Opera House, a fully renovated theater that was constructed in 1890, hosts a range of performances, including concerts, comedies, plays, ballets, musicals, and traveling attractions.
Shows in the theater include Steely Dane, A Christmas Carol, The Nutcracker, Almost Maine, School of Rock, Cinderella, and Sinatra and Friends. A Year With Frog and Toad is another performance that is presented there.
Make sure to check the schedule and attend your preferred performance as part of your agenda.
135 W 8th St., Dubuque, IA 52001 is the address.
12. Stone Cliff Winery
Wine lovers will find that touring the Stone Cliff Winery is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Dubuque. This family-run winery offers wine tastings with a private view of the Mississippi River and is housed in the historic Star Brewery Building in the center of the Port of Dubuque.
In addition, the vineyard serves a delicious lunch buffet consisting of paninis and salads to pair with its wines. They host a Murder Mystery dinner once a month, which is a well-liked and entertaining event that pairs fine dining with well chosen wines and murder.
600 Star Brewery Drive, Dubuque, Iowa 52001 is the address.
13. Dubuque Farmers Market
A great weekend activity in Dubuque is to peruse the Dubuque Farmers Market. Open every Saturday from May through October, the farmers market is situated in the Upper Main District, near City Hall.
The oldest farmers market in the state of Iowa is located in Dubuque. Before relocating to its present site in 1858, the market started operating at Flat Iron Park in the 1840s.
More than 125 regional merchants are setting up shop at this market, offering an abundance of freshly harvested food, artisan crafts, and delectable baked delights. Talk to nearby farmers, eat handcrafted cheeses, and indulge in homemade pies while taking in Dubuque’s sense of community.
50 W 13th St., Dubuque, IA 52001 is the address.
14. Washington Park
A pleasant outdoor activity in Dubuque these days is to stroll around Washington Park, which is also called Washington Square. This park, which is part of Downtown Dubuque, is well-known for its lovely flora, gazebo, and City of Dubuque time capsule.
Washington Park, the first platted park in Dubuque, has water fountains, picnic spots, and benches. This park is a great area for visitors to take a break from downtown shopping.
700 Locust St., Dubuque, Iowa 52001 is the address.
15. Creative Adventure Lab
The Creative Adventure Lab is one of the top places to take kids when visiting Dubuque. The whole family will enjoy engaging in enjoyable, skill-building activities at our adventure lab, which is intended to inspire creativity.
A variety of enjoyable activities are available at Creative Adventure Lab, such as a play lab where you may design, create, build, and explore, a pottery painting station where you can utilize ceramic objects for decorating and design, and a 2-story rock climbing wall where you can have some fun.
Take your family to our adventure lab so they can participate in some of the many entertaining activities the lab offers.
210 Jones St., Suite 100, Dubuque, Iowa 52001 is the address.
16. Clarke University
In search of free activities in Dubuque, Iowa? Go to Clarke University after that. Located in Dubuque, Iowa, Clarke University is a private Roman Catholic university that was founded in 1843. Perched atop a hill with views of downtown Dubuque and the Mississippi River lies the campus.
The institution is home to numerous amazing historical and architectural sites. Among the sites to see on campus is R.C. and Jansen Music Hall, Terence Donaghoe Hall Theatre, Keller Computer Center, Celeste Wahlert Atrium, Burrows Field & A.Y. Among them is McDonald Athletic & Recreation Field.
1550 Clarke Drive, Dubuque, Iowa 52001 is the address.
17. Shot Tower
The Shot Tower is one of Dubuque’s top tourist destinations. It serves as a reminder of Dubuque’s industrial past, when lead shots were produced for the military, and was constructed in 1856. It’s among the last shot towers in the country still in existence.
The Tower is visible from the riverwalk and is situated close to the Mississippi River. The tower, which is 120 feet 5 inches tall, is made up of hollow column forms made of tapering, square-cut masonry.
Between six and eight tons of lead shot were produced by the Shot Tower during the height of its operation for the US military. Extensive renovations are presently underway at the Tower to repair the damage caused by fire and prolonged disuse.
E Commercial St., Dubuque, IA 52001 is the address.
18. The Fun Station Dubuque
Visit the Fun Station Dubuque, formerly known as the Vertical Jump Park, for a fun family outing with the kids these days.
This adventure sports facility, which is housed in Kennedy Mall, has a special obstacle course. The main jump court, warrior course, joust battle beam, foam pit climbing wall, airbag, slam dunk basketball, and arcade are just a few of the entertaining indoor activities available at The Fun Station.
Allow your children to enjoy themselves by discovering the available activities at this indoor entertainment center, one of the fascinating things to do in the city.
Address: Dubuque, Iowa 52002, 555 John F. Kennedy Road, Suite 400
19. Riverboat Twilight
Sailing the Riverboat Twilight for two days on an overnight voyage between Dubuque and LeClaire, Iowa, is one of the most romantic activities to do in Dubuque for couples.
One of the best cruise experiences in the Midwest can be had on the Riverboat Twilight. Admire the magnificent Mississippi River while unwinding in elegance on a magnificently restored Victorian Riverboat.
All three decks of the 140-passenger ship offer plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, and the wraparound windows provide breathtaking vistas. Breakfast, lunch, supper, and snacks are all included in the trip, along with overnight accommodations in both locations and onboard live entertainment.
Front St. Le Claire, IA 52753 is the address.
Looking into other places close to Dubuque that provide attractions? Check out some of the exciting activities available in Le Claire, Iowa.
20. Mathias Ham House
The Mathias Ham House is among the top attractions in Dubuque. This 19th-century home, which was constructed in 1857 for local industrialist and lead miner Mathias Ham, provides a unique look into opulent household life during the Antebellum period.
After being renovated, the Mathias Ham House is now a museum that depicts the way of living in that time period. The mansion is furnished with American and European pieces from that era. It also has the Louis Arriandeaux Log House, which is thought to be Iowa’s oldest structure. It is a double log cabin designed in the dogtrot style.
Enjoy a guided tour of the home and take in the exquisite furnishings and interior design.
Address: Dubuque, Iowa 52001; 2241 Lincoln Ave.
21. Swiss Valley Park
Discovering the Swiss Valley Park is one of the interesting things to do in the Dubuque area. 4.5 miles southwest of Dubuque, this 65-acre park follows the winding path of Catfish Creek, a spring-fed creek.
Numerous amenities are available in the park, such as playgrounds, sports fields, picnic spaces under trees along the rocky stream banks, restrooms, trout fishing, and a nine-hole disc golf course. They also offer a contemporary campground with a pavilion.
A mile from the park is the Swiss Valley Nature Preserve and Center, where you can also go on tours. The preserve is a great place to go cross-country skiing, hiking, and fishing.
Address: Peosta, Iowa 52068, 13069 Swiss Valley Road
22. Bell Tower Theater
See a show at Bell Tower Theater tonight; it’s one of the nicest things to do in Dubuque. The Sisters of the House of the Good Shepherd constructed this theater in 1930, and it is housed in the basement of a renovated chapel.
Every year, this theatrical company with 300 seats puts on a variety of events, which includes five plays and musicals. Additionally, they offer free summer youth musical programs that result in two full-scale musical productions per year, as well as theatrical lessons for young people as part of their youth program.
Address: Dubuque, Iowa, 52001; 2728 Asbury Road, Suite 242.
23. Galena Day Trip
Searching for enjoyable activities close to Dubuque, Iowa? Next, go to Galena, Illinois, for the day. Galena, which is only a short drive away, is well-known for its vintage buildings and upscale stores.
In addition to learning about Ulysses S. Grant, other notable buildings, and Civil War generals, you may also visit some of Galena’s most well-known tourist destinations here. Discover the most enjoyable activities in Galena, Illinois, to make the most of your visit.
24. Storybook Hill Children’s Zoo
A delightful family activity in Dubuque is a trip to the Storybook Hill Children’s Zoo. With a vast array of animals that a visitor to this era might encounter on an actual farm, the zoo is a recreation of an American farm from the 1940s.
This farm has a variety of animals, including goats, horses, pigs, rabbits, cows, chickens, and other birds. Permit your children to examine, handle, and discover more about these creatures.
Children particularly love the brief tractor-towed wagon trip that the zoo offers. You can also use the picnic shelter there for any special occasions you have.
12201 N Cascade Road, Dubuque, Iowa 52003 is the address.
25. Massey Marina Park
Complete boat access to Mississippi River Pool No. 12 is provided by the Massey Marina Park, which is five miles south of Dubuque and can be found via Highway 52 South and the Great River Road.
The marina provides short-term courtesy docks, a marine fuel dock, and seasonal and daily slip rentals. A concession facility in the park provides access to additional amenities as well as food and beverages. This place is used as an ice fishing river access point in the winter.
9526 Massey Station Road, Dubuque, Iowa 52003 is the address.
26. St. Luke’s United Methodist Church
St. Luke’s United Methodist Church is among the top attractions in Dubuque. Constructed in 1896, the Richardsonian Romanesque architecture was unique for Dubuque, particularly at the period when the town was primarily recognized as a miner’s camp and trading center.
The church is well-known for both its Tiffany glass and its architecture. Another noteworthy historical feature of St. Luke’s is the pipe organ, which was the biggest organ in the region when it was installed. There are 2,200 ranks or pipes in all. The National Register of Historic Places now lists St. Luke’s.
1199 Main St., Dubuque, IA 52001 is the address.
27. Sky Tours At YMCA Union Park Camp
Without going on an adventure with Sky Tours at YMCA Union Park Camp, your trip to Dubuque isn’t complete. Families will love the two-hour guided ziplining experience offered by Sky Tours.
They have nine ziplines with altitudes between 300 and 1,000 feet. The first ziplines are shorter and closer to the ground to help you become comfortable, but each one offers a different experience.
You can ascend above the ridges lined with trees by stepping from the 45-foot tower. The lines get longer, faster, and higher as you move between courses. The Dual, The Air Strike, and The Hawks Nest are a few well-known zip lines.
The address is 11764 John F. Kennedy Road, Iowa 52001, Dubuque.
28. Grand Harbor Resort And Waterpark
Popular resort Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark is well situated among some of Dubuque’s top attractions along the Mississippi Riverfront. Families adore the resort’s winning mix of amenities, entertainment, and service.
The Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark features a 25,000-square-foot indoor water park, restaurant, business center, gym, and arcade in addition to hotel rooms and suites. With its water slides, tube rides, lazy river, water spouts, squirt guns, and two whirlpools, the water park is a huge hit and ideal for visitors of all ages.
Therefore, the Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark is a great option if you’re seeking for lodging in Dubuque, Iowa.
350 Bell St., Dubuque, IA 52001 is the address.