Every year, Iowa’s charming towns get decked out for winter to celebrate the season. While many Iowa towns go all out to make the season as fun and festive as it can possibly be, there is one town in particular that really stands out in terms of decorations, activities, and just all-around winter beauty. Dubuque is the one town in Iowa that turns into a winter wonderland each year.
Dubuque is Iowa’s oldest town, and it sits on the banks of the Mississippi River. With its historic architecture and hilly landscape, it becomes truly magical when covered with snow.
Flickr/SD Dirk
To wander the snow dusted streets and browse through the city’s old shops is to enter a lovely winter wonderland that will truly put you in the holiday spirit.
Flickr/SD Dirk
The amazing old architecture in winter is truly charming and postcard worthy.
Flickr/Mike Willis
Flickr/Nicky Story
And you’ll see amazing festive decorations and Christmas lights all through the town, adding to that holiday glow.
Flickr/Nicky Story
And the Christmas lights reflecting from the boats on the waters of the Mississippi will entrance you.
Facebook/City of Dubuque Government
Dubuque even hosts a magical Christmas lights event: Reflections in the Park, at Louis Murphy Park.
Facebook/Hillcrest Family Services > Walk Through Reflections in the Park During this event, the hills literally sparkle as they come alive with lights. The event takes place annually from November 27th through January 3rd, every evening from 5pm to 10pm. 1700 South Grandview Ave.
If you love winter activities, Dubuque offers plenty of fun choices. You can enjoy some ice-skating or hockey at the Mystique Community Ice Center.
Facebook/Mystique Community Ice Center
Or hit the slopes at Sundown Mountain Resort, where you can ski, snowboard and take part in holiday festivities, like Santa’s Pre-Season Rail Jib.
Flickr/SD Dirk The event takes place on Saturday, December 3rd, from noon to 6pm, where you can get a photo with Santa, listen to some live music, and enjoy a warm campfire with food, drinks, hot chocolate and s’mores. 16991 Asbury Rd., Dubuque, IA.
For some snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, check out the trails at Mines of Spain or Swiss Valley Nature Preserve.
Facebook/Mines of Spain
Or just go for a walk and take in the scenery at Eagle Point Park.
Flickr/SD Dirk
Have you visited this town during winter? What did you think? For more seasonal fun, here are 11 Christmas Light Displays In Iowa That Are Pure Magic.
Flickr/SD Dirk
Flickr/Mike Willis
Flickr/Nicky Story
Facebook/City of Dubuque Government
Facebook/Hillcrest Family Services > Walk Through Reflections in the Park
During this event, the hills literally sparkle as they come alive with lights. The event takes place annually from November 27th through January 3rd, every evening from 5pm to 10pm. 1700 South Grandview Ave.
Facebook/Mystique Community Ice Center
The event takes place on Saturday, December 3rd, from noon to 6pm, where you can get a photo with Santa, listen to some live music, and enjoy a warm campfire with food, drinks, hot chocolate and s’mores. 16991 Asbury Rd., Dubuque, IA.
Facebook/Mines of Spain
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