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Dubuque, Iowa

Dubuque, IA

Avg. Home Price: $318K

Dubuque, Iowa is the ninth-largest city in Iowa and has been recognized as one of the best places in the country to raise a family.

A quickly growing hub, Dubuque is #WhereIowaStarted! Brimming with history around every corner, the city still embraces its small-town roots. The residents here radiate warmth and friendliness as the city still continues to expand its city center. How big is Dubuque, Iowa you might wonder, then? Well, one of its mottos is “Big Life, Small City,” so we’d say a mix of both! With plenty of activities and attractions, there is always something to enjoy at pretty much any time of the year. Connect with Ruhl&Ruhl realtors in Dubuque, IA to learn more about the area and the best way to explore it.

What is Dubuque, Iowa Known For?

Like much of Iowa and Illinois, Dubuque is known for its historic buildings and cultural centers. It has a plethora of well-preserved buildings and homes, a revitalized main street, and because of its location near the Mississippi, its abundant land and resources were popular among immigrants and travelers (especially Irish and Germans), making Dubuque not only rich in history but largely diverse!

While a ton of progress has been made in the very recent past, Dubuque is on track to continue in the tradition of the first immigrants who settled among its bluffs. Recent recognitions include being named one of the 100 Best Communities for Young People, the Most Livable Small City, and an Iowa Great Place, and not to mention, was named a five-time All-America City! Let Ruhl&Ruhl be your guide to moving to this wonderful city, get in touch with one of our Dubuque real estate agents today!

What to Do in Dubuque, Iowa

Just because Dubuque is Iowa’s oldest city doesn’t mean it’s lacking in things to do! Did you know Field of Dreams was filmed here? Yep! AND you can visit the site. Ride up the world’s shortest, steepest scenic railway for a tristate view, and make sure to check out Mines of Spain State Recreation Area. Once you set off on one of the many hiking trails following Catfish Creek through the breathtaking limestone cliffs and bluffs, you’ll know why so many settlers called this place home.

As you continue to explore the city of Dubuque, give the kids and kids at heart a chance to visit the National Farm Toy Museum and the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium for a fully immersive experience of what Dubuque, Iowa is all about.

Where to Stay, Eat, & Play in Dubuque

Stay

The Hotel Julien Dubuque is a must if you’re looking for somewhere to rest your head for the night. An ornate lobby opens visitors up to 180 years of history—wood-paneled columns and golden elevators included (with modern amenities, of course). Other historic stays include the Black Horse Inn as well as the Richards House Bed & Breakfast Inn. If you’re looking to find something that suits a longer stay, Lorelei Cabins, Drake House, and the Cabin at Finley’s Landing is great for vacation rentals.

Eat

Eating and drinking your way through the city of Dubuque is the best way to experience this perfect little paradise! Enjoy soups, sandwiches, brisket, and some of the best brown ale this side of the Mississippi at 7 Hills Brewing Company. If comfort food is your game, Copper Kettle’s house smoked pork ribs have made this place a local favorite, and L.May Eatery also takes comfort food to the next level with gourmet farm-fresh ingredients and fan favorites like the stuffed chicken and pork shanks.

Play

With the rich culture tied to the waterway, it’s no surprise that locals and visitors alike see riverboats making their way up and down the Mississippi daily! It’s honestly fun just counting. Schedule a boat ride and explore the fourth largest river in the U.S. Waiting patiently for your boat? Kill time at the Star Brewery Historic Landmark or make your way to the Diamond Jo Casino.

Explore the city of Dubuque even further by making your way to Crystal Lake Cave (untouched and two million years old!) or hit one of the many bike paths along the river to connect with nature.

Dubuque, Iowa Weather, Population, & More

June, September, and August are the best times to visit Dubuque (since January and December get pretty chilly!) The weather is comfortable for the majority of the year and is yet another reason why the Dubuque population is still growing. Not only is it a great place to raise a family, but all three districts—Historic Upper Main, Historic Millwork District, and the Historic Old Main—offer residents just about any option for where they’d like to live with an average commute time of just 15 minutes!

Explore Listings & Realtors in Dubuque, IA

Discover why so many people are choosing to move to the city of Dubuque and learn more about the Dubuque properties. Explore homes, attractions, history, and more.

Careers at Ruhl&Ruhl

If you’re looking for new career opportunities in the Iowa area, we’re always looking for folks to join our Ruhl&Ruhl team. Check out our careers page for more information.

Interested in seeing a property in person? Stop by and pay us a visit at:

Nearest Ruhl&Ruhl Office
600 Star Brewery Drive Suite 300
Dubuque, IA 52001
Phone Number: (563) 441-1776

Dubuque History

The Dubuque, Iowa area was part of the region explored by Father Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet in 1673. France initially laid claim to the area but ceded control to Spain in 1763. The first European-American settler of Dubuque was Julien Dubuque, who arrived here in 1785. In 1788, Dubuque began mining the area’s deposits of lead.

In 1803, the Dubuque area was acquired by the United States as part of the Louisiana Purchase. It was chartered in 1833 and incorporated in 1857 – and is the old city in Iowa. It became a center of the timber industry although mill working, boat building, brewing, and the railroad industry all made major contributions to the economy. Industrial activity dominated the city until late in the 20th century. Since then tourism and high-technology businesses have taken the lead. Lock and Dam 11 is located just north of Dubuque on the Mississippi River.

Dubuque Community

Dubuque is a very active river community with lots of events and activities going on along the river during the warmer seasons. The community is proud of the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium and the many historic buildings, they have to offer. The community supports sports teams from four colleges in Dubuque, along with the minor league hockey team – the Dubuque Fighting Saints. It is also a major tourist destination where visitors can enjoy an indoor water park, riverboat gambling and a museum associated with the Smithsonian – all at the Port of Dubuque.

From bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River and historic homes to renovated downtown condos and new construction homes, the Dubuque area has many different housing options. Click here to search homes for sale in the Dubuque area or contact us to talk to a Dubuque Realtor who can provide Dubuque real estate information and knowledge of the local market.

Attractions and Entertainment

From endless activities along the river, learning about Dubuque’s heritage, casinos, river cruises and outdoor activities to sports and rec, arts, shopping and night life – there is never a shortage of things to do in Dubuque. The city’s Fourth of July celebration attracts many visitors from the surrounding areas every year. Sundown Mountain, west of town, and Chestnut Mountain, located in nearby Galena, Illinois, are great places to visit for skiing enthusiasts. The Diamond Jo Casino and Mystique Casino are perfect options for those looking to try their luck at a poker game or slot machine. The city of Dyersville, 20 miles west of Dubuque is home to the National Farm Toy Museum and the world famous Field Of Dreams Movie Site.

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