Things to do in Dubuque

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

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

Dubuque Attractions

Whether your goal is to shop up a storm or familiarize yourself with the local cuisine, there are loads of things to see and do in Dubuque. This city boasts many thrilling attractions that'll keep your travel schedule full and you on the move. Whatever you're into, this place has something special in store for you.

Explore the best sights in Dubuque with some unique tours & day trips, or get through our list of {2 fun activities in Dubuque fun activities in Dubuque}. We have no booking fees and free cancellation, so you can relax and channel all your energy into planning your perfect vacation.

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Recommended things to do in Dubuque

Number of things to do
2
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Cocktail Adventure Tour 21+: $83
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Dubuque

Free Things to Do in Dubuque

A break in Dubuque need not cost a fortune. You can leave your wallet behind if you check out:

Loras College - Swing by this landmark and marvel at its impressive design.

University of Dubuque - Get to grips with some of the historical events of the area through this attraction.

Port of Dubuque Marina - Wander the streets and get lost in the ambiance of this bustling location.

Carnegie-Stout Public Library - Stop here and discover the importance of this place to the community.

St. Luke's United Methodist Church - No matter what you believe in, this place will inspire a sense of reverence.

Eagle Point Park - Arrange a picnic date and enjoy a relaxing stroll around the trees and shrubs.

Things to Do in Dubuque with Kids

Dubuque boasts loads of nearby fun experiences for you and the kids. Our family friendly experiences will keep the crew happy for hours.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Dubuque? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Dubuque

National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium featuring 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 which includes 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 which includes a garden

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
Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens featuring a park and a pond as well as an individual femail

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
Eagle Point Park featuring 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
Fourth Street Elevator which includes landscape views and a small town or village

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

Though Mercy Medical Center might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Dubuque while you are here.

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

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Dubuque

Downtown Dubuque which includes a river or creek and modern architecture 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 isn't home to many top sights, Five Flags Center and National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium are some notable places to visit nearby.

Historic Millwork District
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Dubuque

Galena which includes a city

Galena

Bellevue

Bellevue

Photo by Richard Remington

East Dubuque

Photo by Michael Hughes

Potosi

Photo by Dean Brehm

Durango

Frequently asked questions

Is Dubuque worth visiting?
Famous for its bars and pubs and watersports, discovering fun things to do in Dubuque is easy. Be sure to add Sundown Mountain to your itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Dubuque?
Crystal Lake Cave and Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens are two great places to start your getaway adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and retail options in Dubuque while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Dubuque?
The top tourist attraction in Dubuque is Sundown Mountain, so make sure to add it to your itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Dubuque?
Three days in Dubuque is plenty of time to visit the city's main attractions. Many travelers book for two days on average. Crystal Lake Cave, Dubuque Museum of Art and Bell Tower Theater are top-rated sights. Want to discover more? Stick around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Galena.
Is Dubuque a walkable city?
If touring on foot sounds like your type of getaway, Dubuque is a perfect destination. Find leading attractions, including Dubuque Museum of Art, within walking distance of downtown. You can also enjoy a stroll through Downtown Dubuque, a vibrant neighborhood located about 0.2 miles from the city center.
What are some activities to do in Dubuque with kids?
If you're searching for sights and activities for all the family, we've got some excellent ideas for what to do in Dubuque with kids.

What to do in Dubuque for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or fan of nature, there are plenty of things to do in Dubuque for adults including Mines of Spain Cemetery and National Rivers Hall of Fame.
Are there free things to do in Dubuque?
One of the easiest ways to learn about free things to do in Dubuque is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on interesting neighborhoods, parks and other attractions you can visit without getting your cash out. Five Flags Center is one sight that doesn't charge an entrance fee.