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.
While Historic Millwork District isn't home to many top sights, Five Flags Center and National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium are some notable places to visit nearby.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Dubuque
Q Casino
8.0/10 (220 reviews)
Q Casino offers nearly 1,000 slot machines and diverse table games in a vibrant entertainment setting. Enjoy live music performances while savoring upscale dining options at this Dubuque gaming destination.
Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark
7.8/10 (159 reviews)
Iowa's first themed indoor waterpark offers 25,000 square feet of aquatic attractions along the Mississippi River. Enjoy water slides and a lazy river, then explore the nearby National River Museum & Aquarium.
National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium
9.2/10 (385 reviews)
Explore America's mighty river through interactive exhibits and live aquariums at this Dubuque institution. Touch stingrays, meet river otters, and enjoy two full days of admission with each ticket.
Grand River Center
8.4/10 (105 reviews)
This modern riverfront venue features a striking all-glass River Room with panoramic Mississippi views. Explore nearby attractions like the National Mississippi River Museum after attending an event.
Crystal Lake Cave
9.0/10 (6 reviews)
Descend into a subterranean wonderland of delicate stalactites and stalagmites at this historic limestone cave. The guided tour reveals crystal formations while maintaining a constant, refreshing 52°F temperature.
Diamond Jo Casino
8.2/10 (479 reviews)
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.
University of Dubuque
8.8/10 (153 reviews)
This historic Presbyterian university blends tradition with modern facilities across its 77-acre urban campus. Visit the Heritage Center or schedule a guided tour to experience UD's welcoming interfaith community.
Five Flags Center
8.4/10 (152 reviews)
This historic Renaissance Revival theater and modern arena in downtown Dubuque hosts diverse entertainment year-round. Enjoy performances of all sizes, then explore the vibrant dining scene nearby.
"I have stayed at this hotel multiple times, and every visit has been perfect—clean, comfortable, with attentive staff, a delicious breakfast, and convenient parking. I'll come back again."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Offering great value package deals on Expedia, you'll be pleasantly surprised at how much a vacation to Dubuque costs! Our packages make travel planning easier and save you more.
What are the cheapest months to go to Dubuque?
You can typically find lower prices and better availability in April, June and December. Check out our cheap Dubuque vacation packages and you could score some great off-season discounts.
How many days is enough for Dubuque?
Generally, a handful of days is enough for a Dubuque vacation. With a detailed itinerary, you can check out all the top sights including Riverboat Museum, as well as explore some hidden treasures along the way.
Is it worth booking a vacation package to Dubuque?
Dubuque has all the ingredients you need for the perfect trip — views, hiking and nature are just the start. Whether you'd like to check out sights such as National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium and Port of Dubuque Marina, or take the road less traveled, you'll have plenty to experience on your Dubuque vacation.
How to find the best Dubuque package deals?
Start your search for a Dubuque package deal by entering your destination and travel dates under our "Packages" tab. Then add some filters, like "Property type" and "Popular locations," to tailor the results to your exact needs. You can also sort by "Package discount" and browse offers that come with huge savings. If you don't find the perfect Dubuque package deal straight away, just tweak your dates and search again. Bear in mind that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Dubuque getaway off to a flying start.
Is it cheaper to book a Dubuque vacation as a package?
Expedia vacation packages are designed to help you keep more money in your pocket. Bundle your car rental, flight and hotel into one great-value price and you could save hundreds of dollars. You'll generally score a better deal than booking each component individually. And you'll still enjoy the flexibility to create a customized Dubuque vacation by choosing your preferred type of stay, airline and car class.
When to book a vacation package to Dubuque?
Land incredible discounts by booking your flights in advance with Expedia. If being spontaneous is more your thing, snap up one of our last-minute deals for an impromptu Dubuque vacation.
How to plan a trip to Dubuque?
Choose when to get away: Check your calendar and get packing. Your favorite time of year and the activities available will also help you decide when to visit Dubuque.
Set a budget: Consider expenses like flights, transportation and food when calculating how much to set aside for your trip to Dubuque. Then, choose a hotel that fits your budget, whether that's a wallet-friendly stay or a lavish retreat.
Organize your Dubuque getaway with Expedia's trip planning tool: Search for and book accommodations and experiences all in one place. You can also collaborate with family and friends to plan an unforgettable trip to Dubuque together.
Work out your trip length: Think about how long you'd like to spend exploring Dubuque. Plan your days so you can get to all the attractions and experiences you're interested in without rushing.
Combine your flights and hotel: Awesome destination, check. Length of stay, check. All that's left now is to find a Dubuque vacation package that brings all your bookings together.
Add on excursions and experiences: Have a look at our dedicated travel guide to find some awesome things to do in Dubuque. Book tickets or make reservations in advance to save time and avoid the stress of looking for activities when you arrive.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Dubuque vacation packages?
Jet off on your perfect escape to Dubuque with Expedia's Book Now, Pay Later vacations. No need to scrimp and save or wait until your next payday — we've joined forces with online lender Affirm to give you flexibility and choice. Our vacation packages with payment plans allow you to split the cost across 3, 6 or 12 months. With no hidden charges or late payment fees, it's a breeze to stick to your budget and snag great deals while they last.
Dubuque, Iowa, is a fantastic destination for outdoor and family adventures, offering a variety of activities such as recreational areas, resorts, and a water park. Visitors can enjoy beach vacations, group events, and rejuvenating body treatments while exploring nearby attractions and engaging in extra activities that enhance their experience. Whether you're seeking relaxation or excitement, Dubuque has something for everyone.
Shopping
Dubuque offers a great shopping experience at Kennedy Mall, featuring a variety of stores and entertainment options. If you're up for a drive, visit the Old Blacksmith Shop 13 miles away for unique gifts or the Gile Cheese Store, 14 miles away, for delicious local products.
Recreation
Explore the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area for scenic hiking trails and tranquil nature experiences, perfect for relaxation. Enjoy a family-friendly show at the Bell Tower Theater, where culture and entertainment blend beautifully. For a fun adventure, skate at the ImOn Ice Arena, offering excitement and sports vibes.
Adventure
At Sundown Mountain, experience thrilling skiing and snowboarding against picturesque backdrops in Dubuque. For motorsport enthusiasts, 300 Raceway offers exhilarating races 19 miles from the city. Explore the Horseshoe Bluff Nature Trailhead for a scenic hiking adventure amidst nature's beauty right in Dubuque.
Nightlife
Dubuque's nightlife offers a vibrant mix of bars and entertainment. For a lively atmosphere, visit the Stone Cliff Winery or the Mississippi Moon Bar for live music and drinks. If you prefer a relaxed vibe, check out the local pubs like the Lift and 7 Hills Brewing Company.
Find the best attractions in Dubuque
Dubuque, Iowa, offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. Visitors can explore urban parks, modern colleges, and intriguing caves while enjoying attractions like the Dubuque Arboretum, the Dubuque Museum, and the historic Julien Dubuque site. This charming city is perfect for those seeking a memorable vacation experience, whether it's a family resort or exciting outdoor fun.
Crystal Lake Cave: Explore the enchanting Crystal Lake Cave, a natural wonder showcasing stunning rock formations and unique mineral deposits. With its outdoor adventure vibes, this cave offers guided tours that reveal the fascinating geology and history of the area, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Five Flags Center: Enjoy a variety of entertainment options at the Five Flags Center, a vibrant arena hosting concerts, sporting events, and shows. With its family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a great place to experience local culture and enjoy exciting performances in a lively setting.
Loras College: Visit Loras College, a modern institution that blends education with city vibes. The campus features beautiful architecture and a welcoming community, offering a glimpse into student life and opportunities to attend various events and activities throughout the year.
Best time to go to Dubuque
The best time to visit Dubuque can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Dubuque falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Dubuque falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Dubuque
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Dubuque.
Consider traveling to Dubuque during the low season (January, March and November) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.