11 Things to do over Summer Break

By Maddi Holerud

Summer break is a time where most of the stress of school is removed from our shoulders for a few months. Typically, people take this time to relax and enjoy a more open schedule. Although it may be ideal to stay at home or go to the pool, there might be some things most people are missing out on because they don't know they are happening. So here are some suggestions of things to do in the Dubuque area this summer:

1. Visit the farmers market. This presents itself as an opportunity to grab some food, support the community, and explore downtown Dubuque. The market is held every Saturday morning beginning in May. While you grab some fresh produce, make sure to take a look at the murals hidden throughout town and stop into other small shops tucked into the downtown area.

2. Visit the Mississippi Riverwalk. Personally, this is my favorite place in the whole city. The view is absolutely breathtaking. This is also a perfect spot to get settled and do homework or collect your thoughts when the weather is in your favor.

3. Visit the Millwork District. An updated portion of downtown Dubuque, this place holds some newer places to eat. Made from old factory buildings, there are new apartments buildings, sports bars, and other shops. Who knows? Maybe you'll find your new favorite place to eat!

4. Riddle yourself out of an Escape Room. Sitting in one of the many buildings along John F Kennedy Road, this place offers a few options of rooms to solve. Groups can be up to ten people in size, but remember: the more people you have, the more brain power you can use. Solve the room before time runs out!

5. Go see a drive-in movie. Though this is actually in Maquoketa, it is still a great place to visit if you are able. It is an outdoor theater that plays two movies back-to-back Friday through Sunday nights. All you have to do is pay the admission price and tune into the specified station for a good night with friends or that special someone.

6. Hike through the Mines of Spain. Rich with history, this hiking destination offers scenic views and a great workout to those willing to journey through the trails.

7. Journey to the Julien Dubuque Monument. One of the many stops along the Mines of Spain trails, this particular area is devoted to the man who founded our city. If you are interested in history, this is a great place to stop at.

8. Grab ice cream to cool you down at Beecher's. This is a small shop not far from campus that many must have heard of. Their homemade ice cream is a perfect end to those warm summer evenings.

9. Immerse yourself in nature at the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. This is another way to immerse yourself in the beauty that Dubuque holds. Giving you the chance to take a stroll through a flower-filled garden, this gem of the city will surely take your breath away.

10. Drive out to Balltown. Another one of my personal favorites, this little stop outside of Dubuque offers the view of the countryside and is a perfect place to take a short road trip to if you need to get away from the city life for a little bit.

11. See aquatic creatures at the Mississippi River Museum. One of the more well-known places in Dubuque, this place is located by the Mississippi River and holds a wide variety of aquatic animals. They are also known to have some changing exhibits in the past such as small areas dedicated to the Titanic or seasonal otter exhibits.