Top 5 best museums in Dubuque

The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is a maritime museum situated in Dubuque, Iowa. It is owned and managed by the Dubuque County Historical Society. The museum is a significant cultural and educational institution that provides insights into the maritime history and ecology of the Mississippi River and other American rivers.

The Dubuque County Jail, located at 36 East 8th Street in Dubuque, Iowa, is a historic building that holds significant architectural and historical value. It is a unique example of the Egyptian Revival style and was designed by John F. Rague, a renowned architect who also designed the 1837 Old Capitol of Illinois and the 1840 Territorial Capitol of Iowa. The building was completed in 1858 and served as a jail for over a century before being converted into a museum in 1975 and later into county offices in 2016.

The Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, also known as Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens at Marshall Park, is a significant green space in Dubuque, Iowa. Spanning 21 hectares, this arboretum and botanical garden offers a diverse range of plant life and natural beauty for visitors to explore.

The Mathias Ham House, located in Dubuque, Iowa, is a significant 19th-century house that has been recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. This historic site offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural style and living conditions of the era. It was built for Mathias Ham, a local businessman and lead miner, and has since been restored and transformed into a museum.