Editor’s Note: During this period of social distancing, Group Tour magazine will continue to provide group travel inspiration. Many attractions and destinations are closed at this time; please contact them directly for updated information.
Located on the Mississippi River, Dubuque was founded in 1833, 13 years before the state of Iowa. The area’s first permanent non-native settler was a French-Canadian fur trader named Julien Dubuque.
“Here in Dubuque, we know group travel is all about diverse tours, live culture, modern amenities, tranquility and most importantly, quality time with family and friends,” said Whitney Sanger, sales manager at Travel Dubuque. “Travel Dubuque is here to make this happen by creating a stress-free group tour experience.
“From progressive tours, casket manufacturers, candy shops, Smithsonian-affiliated museums and more, use these itinerary suggestions when visiting ‘Where Iowa Started.’”
Travel Dubuque
563-845-7698
traveldubuque.com
TOUR
Credit: Travel Dubuque
From past to present, the Mississippi River has been a source of commerce. Visit the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, a Smithsonian affiliate, and discover the importance of the riverway through hands-on experiences, 3D/4D theaters, a stingray touch tank and friendly otters who love to play and say hello.
TASTE
Credit: Travel Dubuque
Visit Convivium Urban Farmstead, which is dedicated to the philosophy of creating a community around food. Take a walking tour of the café, chef’s kitchen, workshop, green houses and surrounding gardens. Pick a berry or sample a product. Meals are available for groups and served with fresh produce straight from the garden.
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Visit St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, a historic Richardsonian Romanesque-style church, and view over 105 stained-glass Tiffany windows. This collection has been called “one of the five finest religious Tiffany collections in the world.” Groups can schedule a guided tour of the windows to experience their beauty.
RIDE
Credit: Travel Dubuque
Take a ride on the Fenelon Place Elevator. This historic elevator, which also is known as the shortest, steepest, scenic railway, spans 296 feet in length. The must-see attraction offers an astonishing view at the top: the historic Dubuque business district, the Mississippi River and three states (Iowa, Wisconsin and Illinois).
