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Fall + Winter EDITION
WASHINGTON PARK IS DUBUQUE’S OLDEST PARK AND WAS THE LOCATION OF THE FIRST CHURCH AND JAIL IN DUBUQUE.
MINES OF SPAIN
hEy ThErE.
MY NaME IS DUBUQUE, aND I’M a MIDWESt tOWN LOcatED RIGH ON tHE MISSISSIPPI RIVER.
I’ve been around since 1833, so I have a lot of history to show you, including my architecture, brick-lined streets, and nostalgic charm. During the fall, you can see my vibrant limestone bluffs, decorated with every color of autumn. I get a little colder in the winter months, but the vibe here is cozy.
SINc E 1845
DUBUQUE’S FARMERS MARKET IS THE LONGESTRUNNING MARKET IN IOWA, DATING BACK TO 1845.
B R az EN OPEN k I tc HEN
This from-scratch kitchen is home to Chef Kevin Scharpf, featured on Bravo’s ‘Top Chef: Season 16’ and named Iowa’s Chef of the Year.
c OLOR BLIND VIEW f INDER
D O ckD OGS W ORLDS
Taking place October 21-27 at Five Flags Center, this is a perfect family fun event.
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Things get cozy when my limestone bluffs turn every shade of autumn imaginable. Peak weekend for foliage is predicted to be October 12-13*.
*ACCORDING TO THE IOWA DNR
Czipar’s Apple Orchard and its donuts (a local favorite) are a must for everyone visiting me this fall. One bite of these sugary treats, and you’ll know why.
The views atop the Fenelon Place Elevator are truly a sight to see and during the fall, they put on quite a show of autumn color.
Is it really fall if you don’t go pumpkin picking? Make plans to visit Schuster’s Pumpkin Patch, take the wagon out to the fields, and find the perfect specimen.
When all the fall fun has been had, warm up inside a local brewery with a tasty brew. Backpocket Brewing has a retro arcade that will also warm up your competitive side.
Whether you’ve been to a supper club or not, there’s no better time to visit these time-honored stops than fall. Add one to your trip, and I’ll get the relish tray ready.
My history of Iowa’s oldest community means Halloween hauntings can be found in many nooks and crannies.
Discover spooky fun on a Ghost Tour from Trolleys of Dubuque each Friday night in October.
wINTEr wONDEr
Colder temperatures don’t stop me from having a good time. There is so much to explore in winter, from holiday lights and festivals to days out in the snow.
Merry Millwork Market is a great way to get to know my local makers and shop small for the holidays. (You may even spot the big guy from the North Pole.)
Another way to celebrate the holiday season is with a drive through Reflections in the Park. Taking place nightly when the sun goes down, this light show benefits a local non-profit. (Typically, they kick off the season and offer a walk through the park.)
Fresh snowfall is best enjoyed with stunning views. Check out Mines of Spain this winter for aweinspiring vistas.
Shopping local this season isn’t hard in my neck of the woods. From quaint boutiques to vintage thrift stores, there is something for everyone here.
Winter is the perfect time for bald eagle watching, and one of the best places to see these majestic birds is at Lock & Dam No. 11
It’s not possible to talk about winter without mentioning Sundown Mountain Resort. They take full advantage of my rolling hills with 21 ski trails and over 80 acres of scenic beauty.
Don’t let the snow stop you from getting outside this winter. Free snowshoe rentals (and stunning views) are available at Swiss Valley Nature Preserve.
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Lessons and rentals are available for all ages and tailored to the skier’s needs.