The Best Spots to Visit in Dubuque, Iowa

Updated 2/6/2024

Dubuque is the oldest city in Iowa, giving it the motto “Where Iowa started.” It’s full of history, happenings, and art. There’s more to see, do, and enjoy in Dubuque than I anticipated! I had originally planned to visit the area with the intent to visit the Field of Dreams movie site in Dyersville, Iowa. But after researching (aka stalking the Travel Dubuque Instagram page), I knew I had to add Dubuque to my list! And I’m glad I did.

Thank you, Travel Dubuque, for hosting a portion of my trip. As always on Cornfields & High Heels, all opinions are my own.

In this guide, you’ll find iconic Dubuque spots and the best hidden and local spots. As a travel writer, I’m interested in what the locals have to share about their city. After all, they are the experts and always have the best recommendations! Chatting with residents, business owners, and frequent visitors is what I love most about traveling. I could spend all day talking and losing track of time with them – this has happened a time or two!

National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

The River Museum is an aquarium, science center, and museum all in one! Several unique exhibits are here; you can climb aboard the William M. Black or pet the stingrays in the Diamond Jo River Center (East Entrance). These were just two of my favorite museum exhibits. The exhibits are located between two buildings: a plaza, a boatyard, a boat shop, wetlands, and a train depot. The museum and aquarium are great for all ages, from little ones to seniors.

Fenelon Place Elevator Company

Also known as the Fourth Street Elevator, the Fenelon Place Elevator is the world’s shortest and steepest scenic railway, and you can ride it! At first, I hesitated to ride the elevator (because I’m scared of heights), but I’m here to tell you – it’s not scary! I successfully rode the elevator up and down round-trip without a problem.

The elevator offers a view of Dubuque, the Mississippi River, and all three states (Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin). You can ride the elevator from the top to the bottom or vice versa. We found it easiest to park on the bottom and ride to the top. Once you are at the top, you can pay and take pictures at their scenic overlook before riding the elevator to the bottom again.

Mines of Spain State Park

One of the most scenic spots in Dubuque is the Julien Dubuque Monument, overlooking the Mississippi River in the Mines of Spine State Park. In 1788, Julien Dubuque came to the area as a miner and founded the first Euro-American settlement in Iowa. Dubuque, the city, was named after him. The monument was built in 1897, and Julien Dubuque’s remains are buried at the site, overlooking the city that bears his name.

The Mines of Spain State Park has 15 trails, a chapel, bluffs, and canoe access. It is open year-round from 4 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

The Mississippi Riverwalk

Dubuque offers a beautiful riverwalk along the Mississippi. Along the Riverwalk, you can see sculptures, the historic Shot Tower, the Port of Dubuque Marina, cruises, historic buildings, and the Stone Cliff Winery. A stroll at dusk made for a lovely summer evening walk after the sun had set.

Where to Stay

Hotel Julien is the oldest and most luxurious hotel in Dubuque It is located downtown and within walking distance of restaurants, museums, murals, a casino, and breweries. You can also take a self-guided history tour of the hotel and the downtown area. Learn more about our stay and Hotel Julien here.

Where to eat in Dubuque

Foodie Garage Eatery – When I saw the word “foodie” in the name, I knew it was a place I had to try. Their burger list is huge, and so is the size of their burgers! You’ll want to go with an appetite. They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

7 Hill Brewing Co. – Located in the Millwork District, the 7 Hill Brewing Co. offers a unique menu with hand-crafted sauces and barbeques, brisket burgers, and pizzas.

Wayfarer Coffee—Social media inspired me to check out this cool cafe, also located inside the historic Millwork District. I sipped espresso and coffee and enjoyed a late-morning breakfast. They have vegan and vegetarian options.

Devour Cafe – Tucked from downtown Dubuque , this is the perfect local coffee shop. Why is it perfect? It’s locally owned and operated by Ryan – in a historic building he restored himself. He’s the barista, chef, and coffee roaster. I witnessed him prepare orders for three customers who walked in without asking for their orders. It was like sitting amid a Cheers episode but in a coffee shop. It’s small business and entrepreneurship at its finest, and you can’t find that just anywhere. Follow the smell of coffee and delicious chef-prepared food. Oh, and order the coffee flight.

What’s Nearby

Other articles you might enjoy:

• Uncovering the Hidden Gems of Fairfield, Iowa
• Ottumwa, Iowa: All The Experiences In One Place
• Hotel Grinnell: One of Iowa’s BEST hotels!
• Visit the Field of Dreams in Dyersville
• A Luxury Stay at Historic Hotel Julien Dubuque

Pin It For Later!