Things to do in Dubuque

Activities, attractions and tours

Fourth Street Elevator which includes a small town or village and landscape views
Dubuque which includes a river or creek, a sunset and a bridge
National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium showing marine life
Dubuque
Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens featuring wild flowers and a garden

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What to do in Dubuque

Popular places to visit

National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium showing interior views

National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium

Learn about the region’s history and its aquatic life in one location. The role of this important river becomes apparent through the many interactive exhibits.

National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium
Crystal Lake Cave featuring caves

Crystal Lake Cave

The subterranean world can be an exotic and spellbinding environment. Visit this exquisite cave that has been carved by nature over millions of years.

Crystal Lake Cave
Mines of Spain Recreation Area showing a park

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area

Walk through this protected area of historical and natural interest. One trail has state trees from the entire 50 states along with lookouts over a major river.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area
Eagle Point Park showing a park

Eagle Point Park

Have a picnic while overlooking one of America’s great rivers and three states on a visit to this park that is popular among residents and travelers.

Eagle Point Park
Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens showing a pond and a park as well as an individual female

Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

While nature puts on a show all year, this spot capitalizes on its natural beauty. Spend some time going through the serene and immaculately maintained grounds.

Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
Fourth Street Elevator featuring a small town or village and landscape views

Fourth Street Elevator

It’s a quick and short ride, but the exhilaration you’ll experience is considerable. See why this attraction has remained so popular over many years.

Fourth Street Elevator
Mercy Medical Center

Mercy Medical Center

If Mercy Medical Center is what brings you to town, hopefully you'll have a chance to explore more of Dubuque.

Mercy Medical Center

Diamond Jo Casino

Why not try your luck with a visit to Diamond Jo Casino during your time in Dubuque? Wander the area's riverfront or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

Diamond Jo Casino

Q Casino

Why not roll the dice with a visit to Q Casino during your visit to Dubuque? Make time to visit the area's casinos or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Q Casino

Areas of Dubuque

Downtown Dubuque featuring modern architecture and a river or creek as well as a large group of people

Downtown Dubuque

Take a trip through time as you stroll down the historic streets of this eastern Iowa city. Visit cafés, shops and galleries in revitalized heritage buildings.

Downtown Dubuque
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Historic Millwork District

While Historic Millwork District may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Five Flags Center and National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium.

Historic Millwork District

 

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Frequently asked questions

Is Dubuque worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Dubuque is explore Sundown Mountain. Check this leading sight off your to-do list, then discover more of this area's bars and pubs and watersports.
How do I spend a day in Dubuque?
Once you've visited leading attractions like Crystal Lake Cave and Mines of Spain State Recreation Area, spend the rest of your day exploring the retail and food options in Dubuque.
What is the top tourist attraction in Dubuque?
Don't leave without checking out Sundown Mountain, ranked the top tourist attraction in Dubuque.
Is three days enough to stay in Dubuque?
You can easily visit top attractions like Crystal Lake Cave, Bell Tower Theatre and Dubuque Museum of Art with a three-day getaway in Dubuque. On average, most travellers book two days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so stay a while longer and head to Galena.
Is Dubuque a walkable city?
With leading attractions like Bell Tower Theatre nearby, Dubuque is very much a place to see on foot. Want to visit some vibrant neighbourhoods a walkable distance from the city centre? Downtown Dubuque is about 0.32 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Dubuque with kids?
If you're looking for attractions and activities for all of your group, we've got some excellent ideas for what to do in Dubuque with kids.

What to do in Dubuque for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Dubuque, with activities for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Mines of Spain Cemetery or National Rivers Hall of Fame.
Are there free things to do in Dubuque?
One of the simplest ways to learn about free things to do in Dubuque is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on exciting neighbourhoods, parks and other top attractions you can enjoy without reaching for your wallet. Mines of Spain State Recreation Area is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.