10 Things To Do In Dubuque, Iowa

Based on education level, household income, commute time and the quality of life, Forbes named Dubuque, Iowa as one of the best small city to raise a family in 2010. In addition to its residents, guests to Dubuque enjoy a plethora of attractions. From enjoying the quaint Victorian charm, exploring the Mississippi River walk to riding on the Fenelon Place Elevator, Dubuque has something to meet varied interests.

The newly renovated Mississippi Riverfront remains the pioneer tourist attraction beckoning guests with year round activities, yacht rides, cruises and sightseeing.

Visiting the National Mississippi River and Museum should top your things to do in Dubuque, Iowa list. Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums in 2009, the National Mississippi River and Museum offers a range of exhibits for the young and the old explorers. Bring your little ones to enjoy schools of fish and let them explore the freshwater mussels, snails, crawfish, catfish, ducks and turtles. Participate in a dramatic theatrical experience at the new immersion theatre. Mesmerize your senses with the awesome 3D and 4D special effects.

American Lady Yachtcruises offer opportunities for sightseeing, waterfront dining and sunset cruises. Guests who prefer to explore the river on their own may rent pontoons, available in various capacities.

From enjoying the gorgeous outdoors in the summer to iceskating in the winters, Dubuque has something in all seasons. Enjoy tours to the natural Crystal Lake Cave, opened May through October. Enjoy a free admission pass to the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Garden, "the largest all volunteer arboretum." While work is still underway at the Japanese Garden, guests can enjoy the shaded bliss at the English Garden. Home to weddings and pictorial locales, Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Garden must be on your must-see places list.

Dubuque offers the 26-mile long Heritage Trail perfect for the amateur hikers. The neighboring area around the Heritage Trail is a destination for many bikers, joggers and runners.

Even on days that are not sunny, not everything is lost at Dubuque, Iowa. Head to the Sundown Mountain Resort, granted the NSAA Award of Excellence. Along with excellent ski conditions, avid skiers enjoy the beautiful slopes, 21 trails and 2 terrain parks. Sundown Mountain is a family-friendly ski destination with kids parks, ski schools and kids clubs.

Dubuque has plenty of options for couples seeking for an intimate nightlife. Bars, comedy clubs, coffee houses and nightclubs dot the "revitalized downtown." Moreover, for those hoping to raise the ante, visit the Mystique Casino, located just off Highway 151/61 at the Dubuque/Wisconsin Bridge. The French-inspired casino has big jackpot slots, table games and poker room.

Complete your Dubuque rendezvous with a trip to the Fenelon Place Elevator, described as the "world's shortest, steepest scenic railway, 296 feet in length, elevating passengers 189 feet from Fourth Street to Fenelon Place," according to its website. Guests enjoy a breathtaking panorama of Dubuque business district, the Mississippi River and three states.

Make Dubuque, Iowa a part of your travel plans today and enjoy the confluence of the modern and the historic!

Source(s)
http://www.traveldubuque.com/index.cfm