Dubuque

 and the Surrounding Area:

Attractions and Features of the

“Key City” of Iowa

 

Dubuque is an historic community situated on seven bluffs above the Mississippi River. One of Iowa’s oldest cities, Dubuque serves as a principal entry point to the state, hence the “Key City” moniker. This city is a vibrant spot with many indoor and outdoor attractions for all travelers.

  • Accessibility: The city is served by an airport (DBQ) that connects through Chicago O’Hare for those who travel long distances. Many hotels offer complimentary shuttle for the fifteen minute ride to and from the airport, as does the suggested Hotel Julien . This hotel offers luxurious rooms at a truly affordable conference rate.  Be sure to mention the conference when making your reservations. 

By car Dubuque is three and half hours from Chicago, one and a half hours from both Madison, WI, and Iowa City, IA; five hours from Minneapolis-St. Paul and  five and a half hours from St. Louis. 

  • Attractions: The following list, by no means exhaustive, provides some suggestions for local attractions to make your trip enjoyable and fruitful.

The National Mississippi River Museum, affiliated with the Smithsonian offers unique view of the Big Muddy. The conference opening reception will be held here and will include your admission for the evening. Very family friendly for those who wish to explore this venue more. http://www.mississippirivermuseum.com/#images/hm_features_attraction.jpg

The America’s River Festival is taking place the weekend before our conference. It could provide a nice bridge to the conference for those of you hoping to make the most of your stay in this area.

The local wineries offer tours, tasting sessions and entertainment. Some offer food. http://www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Dubuque&state=IA&cat=Wineries

The Mathias Ham House: an historic mansion. http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/368120/the_haunting_of_the_mathias_ham_house.html
 

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin is located about one and a half hours from Dubuque in Spring Green, WI. Children under 12 are not admitted. In addition to this monument, Cedar Rock is only about one hour West of Dubuque by car. There are eleven Frank Lloyd Wright buildings in Iowa.

  • Theater:

The Grand Opera House: The first regional High School Musical will be running during the conference. http://www.thegrandoperahouse.com/Events/2010/Events10_complete.htm

The American Players Theatre is also in Spring Green, WI. This open air theater offers Shakespeare plays along with a variety of other plays and activities. Check their website for the various offerings, some of which coincide with our conference at special, reduced “educator nights” rates.

  • Classical Music: The weekend after our conference the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra will present the Independence Day Pops concert, a popular local event.

The Northeast Iowa School of Music is presenting “Juilliard in Dubuque” on June 15 featuring two Dubuquers who are currently studying in Juilliard School of Music in New York City. Tickets will go fast.

  • Watersports on the river and other outdoors activities:   There are many different activities for the “river rats,” as they are known locally, from boating, jet-skiing and water skiing, to fishing and leisurely cruises. Those who prefer dry land will find hiking, biking, rock climbing and more in our area parks and along our trails. See the Dubuque Chamber of Commerce site at http://www.dubuquechamber.com/play/recreation.cfm for more information.