Located in the American Midwest, Dubuque is a town in the state of Iowa. Sitting at the junction of Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin, Dubuque thrives as a cultural and educational hub, reflecting the characteristics of all three states. With a rich history, it’s even said to be an essential city when talking about the story of America.
Although Iowa and Dubuque in particular may not be familiar to many tourists, it sits right beside the Mississippi River, offering riverboat cruises along its waters. With so many attractive spots to explore, let’s take a closer look.
1. Fenelon Place Elevator
The most recommended attraction in Dubuque is the Fenelon Place Elevator. Known as the world’s steepest cable car, it was originally built by a wealthy Dubuque resident who lived atop the hill and found it too time-consuming and difficult to commute by horse and carriage down to town. Today, it remains an important means of transport for locals who don’t drive—and a beloved tourist attraction.
When you board the car and pull on the bell rope, it signals the staff at the top, prompting the cable car to begin its climb—an endearing old-fashioned touch.
At the summit, a panoramic view of the Mississippi River and the Tri-State area (as the intersection of Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin is known) unfolds before you. The view is breathtaking—an absolute must-see when visiting Dubuque.
Name: Fenelon Place Elevator
Address: 512 Fenelon Pl, Dubuque
2. Field of Dreams Movie Site
The baseball field used in the 1990 film Field of Dreams still stands among the cornfields west of Dubuque. This attraction is free to enter and has remained open to the public for over 25 years since the movie’s release.
The field is maintained by volunteers who share stories about the film and its history. It’s clear how meaningful this site is to both the town and its people. Watching the movie before visiting Dubuque might make the experience even more touching. In 2014, a 25th-anniversary event was held here, attended by lead actor Kevin Costner and his family.
Name: Field of Dreams Movie Site
Address: 28995 Lansing Rd, Dyersville
3. National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Located along the Mississippi River downtown, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium features exhibits on the river’s wildlife, as well as marine life from the Gulf of Mexico. There are plenty of aquatic displays, and outdoor areas where you can see otters and alligators. A newly added touch pool with stingrays is a favorite among both local children and tourists. In the courtyard, you can also spot birds of prey like red-tailed hawks and bald eagles—truly impressive sights.
Daily activities include sturgeon feeding sessions, so be sure to check the schedule. There are also 3D and 4D theaters showing films about forest insects and storm chasers several times a day.
From the displays on steamboats and river history, you can truly sense how vital the Mississippi River has been to Dubuque.
Name: National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Address: 350 E 3rd St, Port of Dubuque
4. Eagle Point Park
Eagle Point Park sits on cliffs overlooking the Mississippi River, just north of downtown—a favorite spot among locals. With beautiful trees, flowerbeds, and walking paths, it’s ideal for picnics and hikes. There are also playgrounds for kids, plus a pool, volleyball courts, and tennis courts.
You can watch boats gliding on the pond and sometimes even see bald eagles—the national bird of the United States—soaring gracefully overhead. It’s a must-see for anyone touring America. From the park’s viewpoints, you can enjoy stunning views of the Mississippi River stretching across to Illinois and Wisconsin.
It’s a beloved spot for residents but relatively undiscovered by tourists, making it something of a hidden gem. If you visit Dubuque, this is the perfect place to take in magnificent river views.
Name: Eagle Point Park
Address: Shiras Avenue, Dubuque
◎ Summary
We’ve introduced some of Dubuque’s best attractions. Though compact in size, this charming town sits gracefully beside the Mississippi River. Its hilly terrain offers incredible vantage points where you can enjoy sweeping views—one of its greatest highlights. Beyond the views from the hills, a leisurely stroll along the Mississippi River promenade is another delightful way to experience Dubuque’s serene beauty.