Located at the meeting point of the states of Iowa, Wisconsin and Illinois (commonly known as the Tri-State Area) and falling officially within the boundaries of the first of the three, Dubuque is a city that provides the county seat of Dubuque County and serves as the area’s main center for commerce, industry, education and culture. As Iowa’s oldest city, Dubuque was instrumental in the state’s final settlement and is hence commonly referred to as the ‘Key City’.
Given the prestigious tile of an ‘All-American City’ (2007), Dubuque is a historically and culturally-rich destination which attracts large numbers of tourists. A riverside location and a wealth of fascinating architecture are the cornerstones of its tourist appeal. A number of other media accolades including ‘Best Small Places for Business and Careers’ (Forbes Magazine 2007) have added to the city’s positive image and made it a more attractive place for prospective permanent residents.
A stroll around the city center reveals a variety of notable public buildings including the Dubuque County Courthouse and Dubuque City Hall, while religious buildings of interest include St Mary’s Catholic Church, St Patrick’s Catholic Church and St Raphael’s Cathedral.
Highlights
Five Flags Center: this large facility has the space and capability of housing sports events, art exhibitions and convention; check local media for what’s on.
The Grand Harbor Resort: home to features such as the Grand River Center, National Rivers Hall of Fame, National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium and Mississippi Riverwalk.
The Grand Harbor Waterpark: part of the above-mentioned resort, this 25,000 square-foot facility is home to water slides, tube rides, water cannons and a lazy river.
The Diamond Jo Casino: enjoy a little restrained risk or gamble your life away on table games such as Big Raise Hold ‘em, Texas Hold ‘em, Let It Ride, Blackjack, Craps, Four card poker, Three card poker and Roulette or any of the 777 slots and video casino games.
Swiss Valley Park: located just outside of the city, this park offers picnic areas, sports fields, hiking and biking trails and skiing areas (winter only).