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Top Outdoor Activities In Dubuque, Iowa

Step into the heart of Dubuque, where the mighty Mississippi River sparkles alongside historic streets and lively neighborhoods like Port of Dubuque. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a local explorer, Outdoor Activities in Dubuque offer an unbeatable way to view Dubuque’s charm and hidden stories. From must-see landmarks to vibrant art scenes, each adventure brings the city’s spirit alive. Discover why Outdoor Activities here are perfect for unforgettable sightseeing and day trips.

Adventurers exploring in Dubuque!

Outdoor Experiences in Dubuque, Iowa

Get ready for an unforgettable journey with our expertly curated list of Outdoor Activities in Dubuque! Each experience is designed to showcase the city’s unique blend of history, culture, and fun. Dive into thrilling quests that take you through scenic campuses, bustling downtowns, and lively bar districts—every stop holds surprises around every corner. There is something new to discover with every step, making these activities ideal for families, friends, or anyone seeking excitement while visiting Dubuque.

Top Rated
Dubuque scavenger hunt card image
green star 5.0 (579 reviews)

Dubuque scavenger hunt

Downtown, Dubuque, Iowa

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

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Loras Lore Hunt card image
green star 5.0 (64 reviews)

Loras Lore Hunt

Loras College, Dubuque, Iowa

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

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The Dubuque Dash card image
green star 5.0 (68 reviews)

The Dubuque Dash

University of Dubuque, Dubuque, Iowa

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

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Dubuque Bar Crawl card image
green star 5.0 (69 reviews)

Dubuque Bar Crawl

Downtown, Dubuque, Iowa

Discover Dubuque's nightlife with a self-guided, gamified bar crawl featuring trivia,...

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More Hunts Nearby

Can't find what you're looking for in Dubuque? Check out these great scavenger hunts within 30 miles.

13.4 mi away
Galena Illinois Bar Hunt card image
green star 5.0 (60 reviews)

Galena Illinois Bar Hunt

Downtown, Galena, Illinois

Discover Galena's nightlife with a self-guided, gamified bar crawl featuring trivia, photo...

See Top Rated Dubuque Hunt
13.4 mi away
The Galena Séance Hunt card image
green star 5.0 (71 reviews)

The Galena Séance Hunt

downtown ghost hunt, Galena, Illinois

Experience a downtown ghost hunt tour in Galena Illinois with a self-guided app-led...

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13.6 mi away
Historical District Hysteria Hunt Scavenger Hunt card image
green star 5.0 (530 reviews)

Historical District Hysteria Hunt Scavenger Hunt

Historical District, Galena, Illinois

Uncover hidden gems in Galena's Historical District on our two-mile scavenger hunt...

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18.7 mi away
Platteville‘s Punderful Pursuit Scavenger Hunt card image
green star 5.0 (270 reviews)

Platteville‘s Punderful Pursuit Scavenger Hunt

Downtown, Platteville, Wisconsin

Platte‘vile hidden gems await! Join our scavenger hunt for a delightful downtown dash...

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about outdoor activities

An Epic Dubuque, Iowa experience

Experience pure excitement as you explore iconic landmarks and hidden treasures across Dubuque Scavenger Hunt,Loras College Scavenger Hunt,University of Dubuque Scavenger Hunt,Dubuque Bar Crawl—from colorful murals to legendary plazas.
Gather your crew for trivia quests, daring photo ops, and wild challenges that rack up points in our sleek app—compare your scores instantly and celebrate victory together!
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How Our Dubuque, Iowa Outdoor Activities Work

Our expert team researches over 3,050 cities—including more than 50 Midwest locations—to design every detail of each activity from route maps to quizzes based on real sights in town. You will receive clear instructions tailored specifically for each tour type so nothing gets missed.

During your adventure on foot, answer trivia questions at historical spots, snap photos beside public art installations, solve clever puzzles—all tracked by our award-winning app that let's teams earn points and unlock achievements as they go.

Man on a scavenger hunt walking tour
Hunt Map Dubuque
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Top Outdoor Attractions In Dubuque

Dubuque’s top attractions come alive when explored through engaging Outdoor Activities. Stroll past the iconic Fenelon Place Elevator for panoramic views or wander through the Historic Millwork District buzzing with creativity and live music. Marvel at art galleries near the National Mississippi Museum or sample craft beer on a lively bar crawl in downtown hotspots. Each site offers it's own flavor of adventure—perfect for those wondering what to do in Dubuque or planning their next day trip. Click on each location to see related activities.

1

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.
2

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.
3

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.
4

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.
5

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.
6

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.
7

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.
8

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.
9

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.
10

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.
11

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.
12

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.
13

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.
14

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.
15

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.
16

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.
17

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.
18

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.
19

Odd Fellows

Ride the Fenelon Place Elevator for a unique view of Dubuque. This historic funicular offers a glimpse into the past while providing stunning vistas of the Mississippi River City.
20

7 Hills Brewing Company

Explore the Mines of Spain Park, an outdoor haven in Dubuque County Hub. Hike scenic trails and discover wildlife in this natural gem, ideal for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
21

Backpocket Dubuque

Dive into adventure at the National Mississippi Museum. Perfect for families, this Dubuque attraction offers interactive exhibits and live animal displays along the Port of Dubuque.
22

Monks

Stroll through the Historic Millwork District, where past meets present. This vibrant area features art galleries and craft beer spots, making it a lively part of Dubuque's cultural scene.
23

Dimensional Brewing Company

Visit Julien Dubuque Monument for panoramic views over Iowa's Oldest City. This landmark honors the city's founder and offers a peaceful spot for reflection amidst nature.
24

The Other Side

Explore outdoor activities at Port of Dubuque, from riverfront walks to public art displays. A lively hub perfect for day trips with family or friends.
1

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.
2

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.
3

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.

See our Top Outdoor Activities By Neighborhood

Discover how each neighborhood in Dubuque transforms into an interactive playground with our unique Outdoor Activities. Whether you want family friendly fun or top experiences with friends, click on these neighborhoods to see the related activity.

18.7 mi away
Downtown card image
green star 5.0 (1 reviews)

Downtown

Downtown, Dubuque, Iowa

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...

See Top Rated Dubuque Hunt
18.7 mi away
Loras College card image
green star 5.0 (1 reviews)

Loras College

Loras College, Dubuque, Iowa

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...

See Top Rated Dubuque Hunt
18.7 mi away
University of Dubuque card image
green star 5.0 (1 reviews)

University of Dubuque

University of Dubuque, Dubuque, Iowa

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...

See Top Rated Dubuque Hunt
star star star star star
12,000+ Reviews For our Hunts

See what people say about our outdoor activities in Dubuque

Trust what happy explorers say about our Outdoor Activities in Dubuque! Five-star reviews rave about exciting challenges and memorable moments—one guest called it 'the best way to view Dubuque.' Join locals and visitors who love discovering new sides of Iowa's oldest city while earning brag-worthy scores.

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This experience is perfect for anyone wanting to explore downtown Dubuque. We stumbled upon some amazing places we never knew existed!
Chris T.
star star star star star
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.
star star star star star
A great way to spend time with friends while discovering unique things to do in Dubuque. The murals were truly captivating!
Daniel A.
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I really enjoyed this scavenger hunt experience! It made exploring downtown feel fresh and exciting, uncovering local treasures along the way.
Jessica W.
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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.
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Exploring Carnegie-Stout Public Library was such a cool thing to do. I loved discovering unique spots throughout the city.
Laura G.
star star star star star
This outdoor experience in downtown Dubuque was amazing. The Fenelon Place Elevator offered stunning views we won't forget.
David L.
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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.
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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.
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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.
star star star star star
This walking tour around downtown was truly unforgettable. I can't wait to share this experience with my friends next time!
Ryan T.
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A fun thing to do in Dubuque! We learned so much about the Statue of Liberty Replica while enjoying our time outdoors.
Megan A.
star star star star star
Exploring Dubuque City Hall on this self-guided tour was such a cool experience. Highly recommend for anyone visiting!
Chris W.
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We loved using the ScavengerHunt.com app to explore downtown. It made our adventure engaging and interactive!
Laura M.
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The Grand Opera House was one of the highlights of our tour. A fantastic way to experience Dubuque's rich culture!
Daniel G.
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What an amazing outdoor activity! Walking through downtown while discovering local history made for a memorable day.
Jessica D.
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A perfect date night experience! We explored Main Street together and enjoyed the charming atmosphere of the city.
David B.
star star star star star
This was a great family activity in Dubuque. The kids loved finding clues and learning about the Carnegie-Stout Public Library.
Sarah W.
star star star star star
Our walking tour around downtown was so much fun. We discovered hidden gems and iconic spots we never knew existed.
Michael S.
star star star star star
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 is Iowa's oldest city, founded by French-Canadian Julien Dubuque who established a mining settlement along the Mississippi River centuries ago. It's legacy as Heritage Trail Gateway lives on through preserved architecture and vibrant riverfront life.

Locals call it Mississippi River City thanks to it's bustling port history—and few Mid
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