Dubuque, Iowa, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Dubuque, Iowa, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Dubuque, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Dubuque, Iowa, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Dubuque, Iowa, United States of America, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Dubuque, Iowa, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Dubuque, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Dubuque, Iowa, United States of America by month

January

January in Dubuque can be bitter cold and snowy. The snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C) to high 20s F (single digits below 0 C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dubuque. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the necessary type. Most adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

If you are traveling to Dubuque in February, you will notice that it is very cold and snowy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month and snow regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dubuque. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

If you are traveling to Dubuque in March, you will notice that it can be brisk, snowy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time and snow occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dubuque. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

In April, Dubuque is crisp and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) and about half of the time jump into the low 60s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). During your visit, you can expect a couple of inches of snowfall. This is also a rainy time for Dubuque, with several of the days of the month having rain. In April, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dubuque. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the right kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you go to Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you go to Dubuque in May, you will notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dubuque. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June in Dubuque is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) to high 70s F (mid 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dubuque. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

If you go to Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

In July, Dubuque is hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (high 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Dubuque, with several of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dubuque. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

If you go to Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you vacation in Dubuque during August, you will probably notice that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dubuque. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September for Dubuque is mild. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dubuque. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

If you vacation in Dubuque during October, you will probably see that it is chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dubuque. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in Dubuque is pretty cool. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dubuque. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in Dubuque is frosty, snowy and somewhat rainy. The snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C) to low 30s F (single digits below 0 C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dubuque. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Dubuque, Iowa, United States of America

Dubuque, Iowa, may not be a well-known travel destination for many, but it is an overlooked gem worth considering for your next getaway. Located along the Mississippi River, this charming city has a rich history, natural beauty, and a host of must-see attractions that will keep visitors of all ages entertained. Here are some of the top tourist attractions to explore in Dubuque:

1. National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium

Located on the riverfront, the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium is an excellent place to learn about the Mississippi River's history and ecology. This state-of-the-art complex has interactive exhibits, live animals, and hands-on programs that offer visitors of all ages an immersive experience into the Mississippi River's culture and natural diversity.

2. Eagle Point Park

Eagle Point Park is a natural wonderland that sits atop a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River. This 164-acre park has hiking trails, picnic spots, a playground, and breathtaking panoramic views of the river valley. If you're lucky, you may even spot some wildlife or birds while exploring the park's many attractions, including a stone tower with a winding staircase you can climb for a panoramic view.

3. Fenelon Place Elevator

The Fenelon Place Elevator is a funicular railway that provides a quick ride to the top of a steep hill in Dubuque's historic district. Affectionately called the "world's shortest, steepest scenic railway," this 400-foot funicular offers a spectacular view of the city and the Mississippi River.

4. Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

The Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is a tranquil oasis that features some of the most beautiful and rare flowers, plants, and trees in Iowa. The 56-acre park has trails, waterfalls, a pond, and a greenhouse showcasing exotic plants from around the globe. The gardens also host special events and educational programs throughout the year.

5. Dubuque County Courthouse

The Dubuque County Courthouse is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture that dates back to 1891. This historic building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is still used as a courthouse today. Visitors can admire its ornate dome, marble staircases, and courtroom murals that depict the region's history.

6. Mathias Ham Historic Site

The Mathias Ham Historic Site is a restored Victorian mansion that belonged to one of Dubuque's wealthiest businessmen in the early 20th century. The mansion showcases the lifestyle of an upper-class family in Iowa during that era and includes elaborate decor, original furniture, and period clothing. Guided tours of the house are available by appointment only.

In conclusion, Dubuque, Iowa, is a hidden gem worth a visit for those looking for a unique travel experience. Whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or just a scenic getaway, there's something for everyone to discover in this charming city along the Mississippi River.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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