Jordan & Alyssa
Things To Do
Fenelon Place Elevator Company
Located downtown, the Fenelon Place elevator, aka the 4th street elevator, is a must see on your list! It has been described as the world’s shortest, steepest scenic railway, 296 feet in length, elevating passengers 189 feet from Fourth Street to Fenelon Place. Once you get to the top, you will have magnificent view of the historic Dubuque business district, the Mississippi River and three states.
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Bringing this kiddos? Actually who cares? Its fun for everyone! Head on over to this aquarium/museum/science center!
Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
This is open daily throughout the year and is the largest volunteer-only staffed arboretum in the United States!
Crystal Lake Cave
Located just on the outskirts, this is a fun experience if you're looking for a little adventure! Be sure to bundle up, it will be chilly down in the caves.
Eagle Point Park
Eagle Point Park is mostly situated on a bluff that overlooks the Mississippi River and the Lock and Dam No. 11. It has some great views and a pretty cool koi pond!
Mines of Spain
Want to get outdoors and sweat a bit? Go check out the Mines of Spain for some great hikes and views. Located other outskirts of Dubuque, the Mines of Spain Recreation Area is a 1,439-acre state park along the Mississippi River.
Downtown Galena, IL
So we really hope you plan to stay in Dubuque, but we also really LOVE Galena. Let's talk wine country! Downtown Galena's main street has more than 125 shops and restaurants, one door after another. From candy and ice cream shops to spas, wine tasting and amazing dining options, this experience is downright surreal because it all happens along a 1800s street with original buildings! Perfect if you have a few hours to kill. It is located about 30 minutes away from Dubuque and en route if you are flying out of O'Hare or Moline.
Port of Dubuque
One of my favorite places in Dubuque! Includes a beautiful riverwalk, Stone Cliff Winery, Tony Roma’s restaurant, the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, and the Diamond Joe Casino!
Barrel House
One of the Hahn family's favorite restaurants. Best sweet potato fries in town!
Betty Jane HomeMade Candies
Betty Jane Candies was featured in the Academy Awards Gift Bag, the Grammy Awards Gift Bag, ABC's Dancing with the Stars and People Magazine -- who named us the top culinary gift in our state and one of the top 50 in the nation! Enough said. Try the gremlins.
Shot Tower Inn
Locally owned since 1967.
Happy Joe's Pizza & Ice Cream (Century Drive)
Check out their specialty taco pizza, and old-fashioned ice cream parlor INSIDE! You can also watch your pizza get made at the viewing window!
Family Home Turned Haunted House
This family owned & operated Haunted House started off with just your regular lawn decorations and has since grown into a large haunted house! Families with small children can walk through during the day, while adventurous adults can try their luck at night! Admission is free, however, they do collect donations for charity. Non-perishable food items will go to the Dubuque Food Pantry while monetary donations will help to support the Dubuque Veterans' Freedom Center.