Explore Downtown Dubuque
Whether it is the architecture, an event, gaming, or the river, there is something for everyone to explore in downtown Dubuque.
As a part of the rare Driftless Area, the northern area of our downtown was untouched by the glaciers that flatted the rest of the region. Take in the bluffs while taking a boat bruise down the mighty Mississippi River. Ride on the shortest and oldest railroad in the world. Shop the Cable Car Square boutiques and enjoy the Lower Main nightlife. Dine our restaurants and enjoy our breweries and winery.
For family activities, view our Family Fun page.
Explore our partners:
Fenlon Place Elevator Company
Historic cable car, also known as the Fourth Street Elevator, this funicular railway has been called “the world’s steepest, shortest scenic railway.” 296 feet in length, elevating passengers 189 feed from Fourth Street up to Fenelon Place. Magnificent view of downtown Dubuque business district, the Mississippi River and three states.
Barrel House Dubuque
This delicious restaurant is located at 299 Main Street. Their menu features local favorites & Barrel House originals. From gourmet burgers to sandwiches and specialty salads. They also have a great selection of tap beer. Use the website link about for hours, events, and entertainment.
Gotta Have It Dubuque
Gotta Have It is a delightful boutique in our Cable Car Square District. Located at 315 Bluff Street, they carry some of the best clothing, jewelry, and accessory lines in the industry with a focus on quality and price.
Hotel Julien
The rebirth of a hotel. Inspired by the renaissance of downtown Dubuque (especially the Old Main District) and the ongoing development at the Port of Dubuque, descendants of Louis Pfohl began a second extensive renovation in late 2007 of this historic hotel. Now, after a $33 million complete renovation, guests from all over the world can experience this remarkable boutique hotel, offering the area’s most elegant accommodations and impeccable service.
Gary Dolphin's
Iron Bar
Gary Dolphin’s Iron Bar is a casual yet upscale adult gathering place that pays homage to one of Iowa’s sportscasting legends. Gary Dolphin has been broadcasting sports for 50 years and is known as ‘The Voice of the Hawkeyes’, performing play-by-play for the University of Iowa football and basketball teams. Gary Dolphin is also known, perhaps on the same broad level as his sportscasting, as being very generous with his time as an emcee and host for countless fundraisers throughout Iowa and the Midwest.
River Lights Bookstore
Locally owned, independent bookstore in downtown Dubuque, Iowa. We carry greeting cards, gifts and toys as well as local, regional, and nationally published books. Culture, community, and connectedness is our motto. See our events by clicking the globe under our picture.
Dubuque Museum
of Art
The Dubuque Museum of Art is Iowa’s oldest cultural institution, established in 1874, and located in the heart of downtown Dubuque.
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Our vision is to We create engaging art experiences that excite, inspire, and connect our community.
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​Our community will be a thriving cultural hub where people of diverse backgrounds and perspectives together achieve a deep understanding of the past, an empathetic view of the present, and an inspired outlook for the future.
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Oolong Asian
Cuisine
While our main inspiration comes from Thai and Vietnamese flavors, we integrate recipes from all of Eastern Asia. Over a period of 12 hours, we simmer our bone broth, allowing time for every healing compound, nutrient, and mineral to be released.
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We pride ourselves in presenting you our very best. From our handcrafted meals to our relaxed atmosphere and fantastic service, we strive to provide you with nothing less than an incredible experience.
The Spot
Nutrition
Eating healthy can be hard, especially when you're trying to find the nutrients you need in the flavors and foods that you want. You'll have no trouble finding nutritious food at The Spot Nutrition. You can think of us as a local vitamin store - but we serve drinks and desserts rather than vitamin capsules. We also offer free delivery services with no order minimum in Dubuque, IA. To schedule a delivery, call 224-566-3934.