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While
the Iowa Farm Bureau touts the fact that farms in that state
grow more soybeans and corn than any other state in the U.S., the state
offers a lot more than farmland. Dubuque is one example of an Iowa town
with a multitude of things to do for year round getaways.
1. Sundown Mountain
Skiing in Iowa? Yes! Sundown Mountain in Dubuque is one of the most popular ski resorts in the Midwest with 21 runs and two terrain parks. Their state-of-the-art snowmaking abilities provide skiing and snowboarding as early as November and as late as March.
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Sundown Mountain is open to winter sports for all levels and offers lessons for all ages. For more information, visit their website.
2. Waterpark at Grand Harbor Resort
Whether you are looking for a family vacation or a day trip, Grand Harbor Resort in Dubuque, Iowa, can keep everyone splashing regardless of what the temperature is outside. The waterpark has activities for children of all ages, as well as slides even adults will enjoy.
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You do not have to be a guest of the resort to get passes to the waterpark. Click here for more information about Grand Harbor, which offers specials throughout the year.
3. National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Dubuque’s National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium offers a number of experiences under one roof. You can learn about this Great River that runs through Iowa, its plant and marine life, as well as the history behind it. The museum also has a large hands-on area that will keep the kids busy for hours.
Learn more about the National Mississippi River Museum on this webpage.
4. Diamond Jo Casino
While Diamond Jo Casino in Dubuque is obviously a place for grownups to game in, the complex has areas open to all ages. Upstairs you’ll find the Cherry Lanes, a 30 lane bowling alley, Mojos Sports Bar, and Joe’s Delicatessen. If you are kid-free, enjoy the dueling pianos at the Mississippi Moon Bar between slot machines and table games.
5. Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens[post_ads_2]
This free attraction in Dubuque is the largest public host garden in the nation. Among the exhibits you will see are a Formal Rose Garden, English Knot Garden, Herb Garden, Japanese Garden, Vegetable Garden, and a Children’s Garden. Free concerts and other events also take place at the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.
6. Fenelon Place Elevator
The world’s shortest, yet steepest, scenic railway is located in Iowa, according to the creators of the Fenelon Place Elevator, which climbs 189 feet from Fourth Street in Dubuque to Fenelon Place. Once on top, you can not only see the Mississippi River, but you can view three states at once – Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. When you head back down, you can enjoy strolling through the charming area of Cathedral Castle District, which offers horse drawn carriage rides between the shops and St. Raphael’s Cathedral.
7. America’s River Festival
The Dubuque Riverfront is home to one of the best music festivals in the U.S., America’s River Festival. This two day event has featured such performers in recent years as Joan Jett, Brett Eldridge, Lynrd Skynrd, and even actor/producer/director/musician Kevin Costner.
8. Crystal Lake Cave
The mineral formations of Crystal Lake Cave have been growing and shaping for two million years and you can experience their wonders in Dubuque, Iowa. Tour this Midwest attraction with expert guides and see how it’s still growing. Then you can take the opportunity to discover minerals here on your own in the Gem Mining Sluice.
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