Dubuque Iowa - The River, Museum and other things
OK...who would have thought that there would be some fun things to do in Dubuque, Iowa? Johnny Carson would refer to Dubuque occasionally to elicit a few laughs, so our visit was a pleasant surprise.
Dubuque is 15-20 minutes from Galena, and we thought it would be interesting to see a museum and aquarium devoted to the Mississippi River...as it turned out, this is something I would recommend highly.
The aquarium is "unusual" in that it doesn't house colorful fish, but you do see odd looking fish and other aquatic life that is unique to the river itself. It would be hard to explain everything it contains, but it has multiple theatres, special exhibits, and there is something for all ages.
We also took a boat ride on the Mississippi and one of its tributaries. One of the things you see are the many eagles that make their nests along the river. We saw quite a few flying and occasionally perched waiting to spot food.
One of the best places in Dubuque was something that didn't cost much - $1 per car. We went to Eagles Point Park which offers a fantastic view of the Mississippi River. The buildings in this large park were influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright (one of his protégés designed and built these structures). While we were there, there was a boat moving multiple barges through one of the locks (top picture on your left). The picture doesn't do justice on this boat's efforts, as it was moving over 15 barges connected together.
We spent most of the day in Dubuque, and while there learned of other things to do in the Dubuque area...like exploring caves.
Who would have guessed?
Click on any photo on your left to enlarge.
View of museum from the riverboat dredging rig (also part of the museum). The showboat is a casino. Click to Enlarge
Exploring one of the log cabins that is on the museum grounds. Click to Enlarge
One of the many American Bald Eagles that live along the Mississippi River. The museum's river tour takes you near some of their nesting areas. However, you also see many of these grand birds at Eagles Point Park as well.
Click to See Pictures taken in Galena.