Flash Sale Ends in   12:00:00

Top Outdoor Activities In Dubuque, Iowa

Step into the heart of Dubuque, Iowa's Oldest City, where riverfront breezes and historic streets set the stage for unforgettable outdoor activities. Whether you are a local or just visiting Dubuque, our experiences offer the ultimate way to view Dubuque from a fresh perspective. Explore must-see landmarks and hidden corners with friends or family while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. These outdoor activities promise excitement around every cobblestone turn.

Outdoor Experiences in Dubuque, Iowa

Welcome to our expertly curated collection of outdoor activities in Dubuque—each one designed to ignite your sense of adventure! From lively city quests at Loras College to immersive journeys through University of Dubuque's scenic surroundings, there is something unique for everyone. Discover new sides of this Midwest gem as you tackle challenges, laugh with friends, and create lasting memories. Dive into these recommended outdoor activities and let each experience surprise you with it's own twist on classic sightseeing.

Top Rated
Dubuque scavenger hunt card image
green star 5.0 (14 reviews)

Dubuque scavenger hunt

Downtown, Dubuque

Discover the hidden gems of Dubuque on a two-mile scavenger hunt! From the iconic Fenelon...

Learn More
Loras Lore Hunt card image
green star 5.0 (18 reviews)

Loras Lore Hunt

Loras College, Dubuque

Experience a self-guided Loras College tour with an app-led scavenger hunt featuring...

Learn More
The Dubuque Dash card image
green star 5.0 (22 reviews)

The Dubuque Dash

University of Dubuque, Dubuque

Experience a self-guided University of Dubuque tour with an app-led scavenger hunt packed...

Learn More
about outdoor activities

An epic Dubuque, Iowa experience

Feel the thrill as you explore Dubuque Scavenger Hunt,Loras College Scavenger Hunt,University of Dubuque Scavenger Hunt among iconic landmarks and secret nooks—think colorful murals, bustling plazas, and riverside vistas.
Gather your team for trivia quests, bold photo dares, and wild challenges—all scored in our sleek app so you can compare results, celebrate wins together, and uncover more reasons why Outdoor Activities in Dubuque stand out.
Get Tickets

How Our Dubuque, Iowa Outdoor Activities Work

Our expert team researches 3,050+ cities worldwide—including over 50 Midwest destinations—to design each Outdoor Activity around must-sees and secret spots alike. Every adventure includes clear instructions plus customized quizzes that highlight what makes each location special.

On foot throughout each activity route, teams answer trivia questions at landmarks like murals or historical markers—and snap creative photos at public art installations too! Points rack up through our award-winning app so you can compare scores across all Outdoor Activities in town.

Man on a scavenger hunt walking tour

Top Outdoor Attractions In Dubuque

Dubuque boasts a lineup of top attractions perfect for anyone seeking memorable outdoor activities. Stroll through the Historic Millwork District, where art galleries and craft beer spots bring local flavor alive. Marvel at panoramic views from Fenelon Place Elevator or wander along Heritage Trail Gateway for a true taste of Midwest beauty. The Port of Dubuque offers riverfront charm and lively events, making it ideal for day trips packed with live music and fun things to do. Click on each location to see related activities.

Fenelon Place Elevator

Experience the Fenelon Place Elevator, a must-see in Dubuque. This historic funicular offers panoramic views of the Mississippi River City. Ride up and enjoy the breeze at Iowa's Oldest City's bluff.

Statue of Liberty Replica

Visit Dubuque's Statue of Liberty Replica, a unique attraction in Iowa's Oldest City. This tribute to America's spirit is perfect for history enthusiasts exploring Dubuque County Hub.

Grand Opera House

Admire the Grand Opera House from outside, an architectural gem in Dubuque County Hub. It's Richardsonian Romanesque design makes it a must-see for architecture lovers visiting Iowa's First City.

1948: Main Street Dubuque

Stroll along Main Street Dubuque and step back into history. Discover vibrant storefronts and cobblestone streets that tell tales of Iowa's First City's past—a true Heritage Trail Gateway.

Five Flags Theater

Marvel at Five Flags Theater's Renaissance Revival style from outside. A jewel in Dubuque County Hub with French & Italian influences—a must-see for theater enthusiasts visiting Iowa's Oldest City.

Carnegie-Stout Public Library

Visit Carnegie-Stout Library and admire it's Roman Corinthian portico—a nod to classical architecture in Iowa's Oldest City. Perfect for those exploring Dubuque County Hub's cultural gems.

Dubuque City Hall

Uncover history at Dubuque City Hall with it's Faneuil Hall-inspired design—a key landmark in Mississippi River City perfect for those exploring civic pride sites.

Heitkamp Planetarium

Step outside and discover Dubuque's charm as Iowa's Oldest City. Enjoy the Heritage Trail Gateway or spot the Fenelon Place Elevator. Locals say sunrise here is pure magic for explorers.

Loras College Athletic And Wellness Center

Wander through outdoor gems in this Mississippi River City hub. The Mines of Spain Park offers fresh air and local wildlife. You might even catch a glimpse of rare birds along the trail.

Loras College Dewey's Perch

Enjoy a breath of fresh air at one of Dubuque County's favorite outdoor spots. Heritage Trail Gateway is perfect for walkers and cyclists alike—locals know wildflowers bloom here every spring.

Academic Resource Center

Take in river breezes at this Port of Dubuque location, where you can watch boats drift by and feel connected to Iowa's oldest city roots. Local trivia: steamboat whistles echo on quiet mornings.

Hoffmann Hall

Discover outdoor activities at the Fenelon Place Elevator overlook, where you can spot landmarks across Dubuque County Hub. Insiders love catching sunset colors from this vantage point.

Rock Bowl Stadium

Experience Dubuque's lively spirit outdoors—try spotting public art or tracing historic footsteps along Heritage Trail Gateway. Locals whisper about hidden mosaics tucked into brick walls.

University Bookstore

Step outside and explore Dubuque's vibrant riverfront, where the Mississippi River City meets Iowa's oldest city charm. Discover murals, river breezes, and a taste of the Heritage Trail Gateway.

Severance Hall

Wander through the Historic Millwork District for unique things to do in Dubuque. Admire brick facades, creative sculptures, and hidden alleyway art that locals love to point out on sunny afternoons.

Charles C. Myers Library

Take in panoramic views from Fenelon Place Elevator, a quirky outdoor gem in Dubuque County Hub. Feel the breeze as you spot landmarks like Mines of Spain Park and the National Mississippi Museum.

Heritage Center

Stroll along Heritage Trail Gateway for outdoor things to do in Iowa's oldest city. Listen for birdsong, follow winding paths, and find secret benches where locals pause to watch passing trains.

Chalmers Field

Marvel at Julien Dubuque Landmarks nestled by the Mississippi River City. Outdoor explorers enjoy tracing history along scenic bluffs—locals say sunset here paints the water gold every evening.

See our Top Outdoor Activities By Neighborhood

From downtown buzz to university neighborhoods filled with energy, Dubuque offers diverse backdrops for your next adventure outdoors. Each area brings it's own character—click on these neighborhoods to see the related activity.

Top Rated
Downtown card image
green star 5.0 (1 reviews)

Downtown

Downtown, Dubuque

Downtown Dubuque is a must-visit for anyone seeking unique experiences. With landmarks like Iowa's First Church and the Five Flags Theater, it is perfect for sightseeing...

Learn More
Loras College card image
green star 5.0 (1 reviews)

Loras College

Loras College, Dubuque

Discover why Loras College is one of Dubuque's top attractions. From Hoffmann Hall to Dewey's Perch, this neighborhood blends academic charm with scenic views, making it...

Learn More
University of Dubuque card image
green star 5.0 (1 reviews)

University of Dubuque

University of Dubuque, Dubuque

The University of Dubuque neighborhood stands out among Dubuque attractions. Stroll past Severance Hall or browse the Charles C. Myers Library as you explore this...

Learn More

See what people say about our outdoor activities in Dubuque

Our outdoor activities in Dubuque have earned rave reviews from happy adventurers who love discovering new sides of their city! With five-star ratings and glowing feedback like 'The best day trip we have had in ages,' you can trust that every experience is crafted for maximum fun and connection.

5 star reviews

This experience is perfect for anyone wanting to explore downtown Dubuque. We stumbled upon some amazing places we never knew existed!

Chris T.

5 star reviews

We had so much fun on this self-guided tour. Learning about the history of Main Street Dubuque made our day even more special!

Amanda T.

5 star reviews

A great way to spend time with friends while discovering unique things to do in Dubuque. The murals were truly captivating!

Daniel A.

5 star reviews

I really enjoyed this scavenger hunt experience! It made exploring downtown feel fresh and exciting, uncovering local treasures along the way.

Jessica W.

5 star reviews

The walking tour around Dubuque City Hall was an eye-opener. A great way for tourists to see iconic points of interest in the area.

James M.

5 star reviews

Exploring Carnegie-Stout Public Library was such a cool thing to do. I loved discovering unique spots throughout the city.

Laura G.

5 star reviews

This outdoor experience in downtown Dubuque was amazing. The Fenelon Place Elevator offered stunning views we won't forget.

David L.

5 star reviews

What a fantastic date idea! We wandered around the Grand Opera House and enjoyed each other's company while learning about local history.

Sarah B.

5 star reviews

Our family loved the Statue of Liberty Replica hunt. It was a great family activity in Dubuque that kept everyone engaged and excited.

Michael S.

5 star reviews

I had a blast exploring the Five Flags Theater on this walking tour. It was a fun way to learn about Dubuque's history and hidden gems.

Emily J.

5 star reviews

This walking tour around downtown was truly unforgettable. I can't wait to share this experience with my friends next time!

Ryan T.

5 star reviews

A fun thing to do in Dubuque! We learned so much about the Statue of Liberty Replica while enjoying our time outdoors.

Megan A.

5 star reviews

Exploring Dubuque City Hall on this self-guided tour was such a cool experience. Highly recommend for anyone visiting!

Chris W.

5 star reviews

We loved using the ScavengerHunt.com app to explore downtown. It made our adventure engaging and interactive!

Laura M.

5 star reviews

The Grand Opera House was one of the highlights of our tour. A fantastic way to experience Dubuque's rich culture!

Daniel G.

5 star reviews

What an amazing outdoor activity! Walking through downtown while discovering local history made for a memorable day.

Jessica D.

5 star reviews

A perfect date night experience! We explored Main Street together and enjoyed the charming atmosphere of the city.

David B.

5 star reviews

This was a great family activity in Dubuque. The kids loved finding clues and learning about the Carnegie-Stout Public Library.

Sarah W.

5 star reviews

Our walking tour around downtown was so much fun. We discovered hidden gems and iconic spots we never knew existed.

Michael S.

5 star reviews

I had a blast exploring the Fenelon Place Elevator. Such a unique way to see Dubuque and learn about its history.

Emily J.

FAQs.

LOCAL INSIGHTS

Fun Dubuque Facts and Hidden Gems

Dubuque was founded along the mighty Mississippi River by Julien Dubuque himself—making it Iowa's oldest city! It's roots stretch back centuries as a hub for explorers drawn by lead mines and river trade.

Today, locals cherish sites like Mines of Spain Park while visitors marvel at how history blends seamlessly with modern art scenes downtown
Unlock An Extra 10% OFF Your First Order
You're Halfway To An Extra 10% OFF
Sign up for emails & texts to get your code
Woohoo! An Extra 10% OFF discount has been applied...
By submitting this form, you agree to receive recurring automated promotional and personalized marketing text messages (e.g. cart reminders) at the cell number used when signing up. Consent is not a condition of any purchase. Msg frequency varies. Msg and data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help and STOP to cancel. First time users only. Does not apply to custom events. By submitting, you agree to receive recurring automated promotional/personalized marketing text messages (e.g. cart reminders). Msg/data rates may apply. Reply STOP to cancel.