Things to do in Dubuque

Activities, attractions and tours

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

Explore thousands of activities with free cancellation and no added fees.

Design your experience with airport transfers, excursions, day tours & more.

Get an insider's look in what to book before you travel.

What to do in Dubuque

Popular places to visit

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 showing 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 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
Eagle Point Park which includes a garden

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 featuring a pond and a park 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
Fourth Street Elevator showing 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

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
Default Image

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
Galena which includes a city

Galena

Photo by Richard Remington

East Dubuque

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 Theater and Dubuque Museum of Art with a three-day getaway in Dubuque. On average, most travelers 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 Theater nearby, Dubuque is very much a place to see on foot. Want to visit some vibrant neighborhoods a walkable distance from the city center? Downtown Dubuque is about 0.32 kilometers 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 neighborhoods, 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.