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River Cruises - United StatesRiver Cruises - United States

Dubuque Cruise Port

Dubuque, Iowa
Dubuque, Iowa is a city located in the northeastern corner of the state along the Mississippi River.

Ships in port today
No ships in port today
Safety rank
#7
of 71 ports in the River Cruises - United States
Today · high / low
97° / 33°
September normals
Dubuque, Iowa cruise port
River Cruises - United States
Dubuque, Iowa
// Dubuque cruise port overview

The cruise port in Dubuque,
explained

Lat: 42.5°NLong: 90.7°WINTN code: DBQ

Dubuque, Iowa is a city located in the northeastern corner of the state along the Mississippi River. It is the county seat of Dubuque County and the tenth largest city in Iowa.

Dubuque is known for its unique history, culture, and architecture. The city is home to the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, and the Dubuque County Historical Society.

The city is also home to several universities and colleges, including the University of Dubuque, Clarke University, and Loras College. Dubuque is a great place to visit for its many attractions, including the Fenelon Place Elevator, the Dubuque Star Brewery, and the Dubuque County Fair.

The city also offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and fishing. With its unique history, culture, and attractions, Dubuque is a great place to visit and explore.

// Dubuque Cruise Port location

Where is Dubuque Cruise Port?

The Dubuque, Iowa cruise port is located on the Mississippi River in the city of Dubuque, Iowa. The port is located at the foot of the Julien Dubuque Bridge, which connects the city to East Dubuque, Illinois. The port is also located near the historic downtown district of Dubuque, which is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions.

General location
River Cruises - United States
Coordinates
42.51°N, 90.67°W
Cruise port · 42.51°N, 90.67°W
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// Dubuque cruise port guide

What to do in Dubuque

A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.

Ways to spend the day

3 themes
Theme 1

Hiking and Biking Trails

Hiking and biking trails are a great way for cruise passengers to explore the natural beauty of Dubuque, Iowa. The city is home to a variety of trails, ranging from easy to difficult. Passengers can take in the stunning views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding bluffs while enjoying a leisurely stroll or bike ride. The trails also provide a great opportunity to learn about the local flora and fauna.

Theme 2

Historic Sites and Museums

Dubuque, Iowa is home to a variety of historic sites and museums. Cruise passengers can explore the city's rich history by visiting the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, the Dubuque Museum of Art, and the Dubuque County Historical Society. These sites offer a unique opportunity to learn about the city's past and the people who have shaped it. Passengers can also explore the city's many churches, which offer a glimpse into the city's religious heritage.

Theme 3

Riverboat Cruises

Riverboat cruises are a popular activity for cruise passengers visiting Dubuque, Iowa. These cruises offer stunning views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding bluffs. Passengers can enjoy a relaxing ride while taking in the sights of the river and the city skyline. The cruises also provide a unique opportunity to learn about the history of the area and the river itself.

Dubuque cruise port beaches

3 in our guide
E

Eagle Point Park

Eagle Point Park is a popular beach located near Dubuque, Iowa. It is a great spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. The beach is surrounded by a beautiful park with plenty of trees and grassy areas for relaxing. There are also several trails for hiking and biking, as well as a playground for the kids. The beach is open year-round and is a great place to spend a day in the sun.

C

Catfish Creek Beach

Catfish Creek Beach is a popular beach located near Dubuque, Iowa. It is a great spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. The beach is surrounded by a beautiful park with plenty of trees and grassy areas for relaxing. There are also several trails for hiking and biking, as well as a playground for the kids. The beach is open year-round and is a great place to spend a day in the sun.

D

Dubuque Beach

Dubuque Beach is a popular beach located near Dubuque, Iowa. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. The beach is surrounded by a beautiful park with plenty of trees and grassy areas for relaxing. There are also several trails for hiking and biking, as well as a playground for the kids. The beach is open year-round and is a great place to spend a day in the sun.

// Dubuque fun facts

Cable Car

Dubuque is home to the world's shortest and steepest scenic railway. The Fenelon Place Elevator is a 296-foot long cable car that takes passengers up a steep hillside to the top of the bluff overlooking the Mississippi River. The elevator has been in operation since 1882 and is a popular tourist attraction.

First City

Dubuque, Iowa is the oldest city in the state of Iowa. It was founded in 1833 and was the first city in Iowa to be incorporated. It is located along the Mississippi River and is the county seat of Dubuque County.

Historic District

Dubuque is home to the largest historic district in Iowa. The district includes over 1,000 buildings, many of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The district is home to a variety of architectural styles, including Greek Revival, Italianate, and Queen Anne.

Dubuque cruise port shopping

3 in our guide
T

The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is a great shopping option near the Dubuque cruise port. It offers a wide selection of souvenirs, including apparel, jewelry, and art. The store also has a variety of local products, such as Iowa-made pottery and handcrafted items. The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium also has a great selection of books, toys, and games, making it a great place to find something special for the whole family.

T

The Grand Opera House

The Grand Opera House is a great shopping option near the Dubuque cruise port. It offers a wide selection of souvenirs, including apparel, jewelry, and art. The store also has a variety of local products, such as Iowa-made pottery and handcrafted items. The Grand Opera House also has a great selection of books, toys, and games, making it a great place to find something special for the whole family.

T

Theisen's Home Farm Auto

Theisen's Home Farm Auto is a great shopping option near the Dubuque cruise port. It offers a wide selection of souvenirs, including apparel, home decor, and outdoor items. The store also has a variety of local products, such as Iowa-made jams and jellies, as well as a selection of Iowa-themed gifts. Theisen's also has a great selection of books, toys, and games, making it a great place to find something special for the whole family.

// Dubuque Cruise Port Terminals

Which Dubuque cruise terminal will your ship use?

Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.

3 piers in Dubuque
Pier 1 of 3

Dubuque Boat Tours

200 S Grandview Ave, Dubuque, IA 52001

Dubuque Boat Tours offers a variety of sightseeing cruises and private charters on the Mississippi River. The company offers a variety of cruises, including a two-hour sightseeing cruise, a two-hour dinner cruise, and a two-hour sunset cruise. The company also offers private charters for special occasions.

Pier 2 of 3

Dubuque River Rides

350 E 3rd St, Dubuque, IA 52001

Dubuque River Rides offers a variety of sightseeing cruises and private charters on the Mississippi River. The company offers a variety of cruises, including a two-hour sightseeing cruise, a two-hour dinner cruise, and a two-hour sunset cruise. The company also offers private charters for special occasions.

Pier 3 of 3

Mississippi River Cruises

1400 E 16th St, Dubuque, IA 52001

Mississippi River Cruises offers a variety of sightseeing cruises and private charters on the Mississippi River. The company offers a variety of cruises, including a two-hour sightseeing cruise, a two-hour dinner cruise, and a two-hour sunset cruise. The company also offers private charters for special occasions.

Wi-Fi

The Dubuque Regional Airport offers free wifi access to passengers. Additionally, many of the restaurants and cafes in the area offer free wifi access.

Safety

Dubuque, Iowa is a safe port for cruise ships. The city has a low crime rate and is considered one of the safest cities in the United States. The port is also well-maintained and monitored by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Port address

500 Bell Street, Dubuque, IA 52001

Dubuque cruise port car rental

The closest car rental options near the Dubuque, Iowa cruise port are Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Hertz, and Avis. Enterprise Rent-A-Car is located at 825 Wacker Drive, Dubuque, IA 52002 and offers a variety of vehicles for rent, including economy, luxury, and SUV models. Hertz is located at 825 Wacker Drive, Dubuque, IA 52002 and offers a variety of vehicles for rent, including economy, luxury, and SUV models. Avis is located at 825 Wacker Drive, Dubuque, IA 52002 and offers a variety of vehicles for rent, including economy, luxury, and SUV models. All three car rental companies offer competitive rates and discounts for customers.

Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.

// Weather

Dubuque Cruise Port Weather

River Cruises - United States·30-year historical averages
Sep averages · Dubuque
64°
Avg · °F
Hot, frequent showers
High
97°F
Low
33°F
Rain
3.8 in
Excursions that suit this weather
// Year-round in Dubuque

Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.

Avg temp °FRainfall in
JANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDECMONTHLY NORMALS · °F AND IN
// Dubuque cruise ship schedule

Dubuque Cruise Port Traffic Today

No cruise ships are scheduled in Dubuque today, Tuesday, September 8, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.

// Keep exploring

Popular ports in the River Cruises - United States

Other ports cruisers visit most in the River Cruises - United States.

// Questions

Dubuque cruise port, answered

The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Dubuque.

Where is Dubuque cruise port located?

Dubuque, Iowa cruise port is located in River Cruises - United States. The Dubuque, Iowa cruise port is located on the Mississippi River in the city of Dubuque, Iowa. The port is located at the foot of the Julien Dubuque Bridge, which connects the city to East Dubuque, Illinois. The port is also located near the historic downtown district of Dubuque, which is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Is Dubuque a good cruise port to visit?

No, Dubuque, Iowa is not a good cruise port. There are no cruise lines that offer cruises from Dubuque, Iowa.

How safe is Dubuque cruise port for passengers?

Dubuque cruise port has a safety score of 8.3 out of 10, ranking #7 of 71 ports in River Cruises - United States. Dubuque, Iowa is a safe port for cruise ships. The city has a low crime rate and is considered one of the safest cities in the United States. The port is also well-maintained and monitored by the U.S. Coast Guard.

What is the weather like at Dubuque cruise port in September?

In September, Dubuque cruise port has average high temperatures of 97°F (36°C) and average lows of 33°F (0°C).

What are the top things to do at Dubuque cruise port?

Dubuque cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Hiking and Biking Trails, Historic Sites and Museums, Riverboat Cruises. Dubuque, Iowa is known for its many outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. The city also offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and historic sites. There are also plenty of shopping and dining options, as well as entertainment venues. Dubuque is also home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, making it a great destination for visitors of all ages.

Can I rent a car at Dubuque cruise port?

The closest car rental options near the Dubuque, Iowa cruise port are Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Hertz, and Avis. Enterprise Rent-A-Car is located at 825 Wacker Drive, Dubuque, IA 52002 and offers a variety of vehicles for rent, including economy, luxury, and SUV models. Hertz is located at 825 Wacker Drive, Dubuque, IA 52002 and offers a variety of vehicles for rent, including economy, luxury, and SUV models. Avis is located at 825 Wacker Drive, Dubuque, IA 52002 and offers a variety of vehicles for rent, including economy, luxury, and SUV models. All three car rental companies offer competitive rates and discounts for customers.

What is the WiFi situation at Dubuque cruise port?

The Dubuque Regional Airport offers free wifi access to passengers. Additionally, many of the restaurants and cafes in the area offer free wifi access.

Where is the cruise terminal at Dubuque cruise port?

The address of the Dubuque, Iowa cruise port is 500 Bell Street, Dubuque, IA 52001.

What is the Dubuque Cruise Port cruise schedule?

There are no cruise ships scheduled at Dubuque today. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check Dubuque on any past or future date.

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