Things to do in Dubuque in February

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Overview

February is a less popular time to visit Dubuque. The weather is usually freezing cold and breezy, with temperatures ranging from 13—31°F (-10—-0°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Dubuque during this time. Some of our top recommendations: visit the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, take a scenic drive along the Great River Road, attend the Dubuque Winter Carnival, and more!

Dubuque has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your February trip to Dubuque. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to February. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Dubuque in February. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout February, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Don't take our word for it
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Best events and things to do in Dubuque in February

Top experiences in February
Visit the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is a fascinating and educational attraction in Dubuque, offering a unique look at the history, culture, and wildlife of the Mississippi River. In February, you can explore the museum's interactive exhibits, learn about the river's ecology, and get up close and personal with a variety of aquatic creatures. The aquarium's diverse collection of fish, reptiles, and amphibians provides a captivating and immersive experience for visitors of all ages. It's a great way to spend a chilly winter day indoors while gaining a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Take a scenic drive along the Great River Road
The Great River Road is a designated National Scenic Byway that stretches along the Mississippi River, offering breathtaking views and picturesque landscapes. In February, the road is often dusted with a light layer of snow, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere. You can take a leisurely drive, stopping at scenic overlooks and charming riverside towns along the way. The Great River Road provides a peaceful and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the winter season at your own pace.
Attend the Dubuque Winter Carnival
The Dubuque Winter Carnival is a fun and festive event that takes place in February, featuring a variety of winter-themed activities and entertainment. You can watch ice sculptors create stunning works of art, participate in snowman-building contests, and enjoy live music and performances. There are also plenty of delicious food and drink options to keep you warm and satisfied as you wander through the winter wonderland. The carnival is a great way to embrace the season and have some lighthearted fun with friends and family.
Go ice skating at the Mystique Community Ice Center
For a classic winter activity, head to the Mystique Community Ice Center and go ice skating. Whether you're a seasoned skater or a complete beginner, the ice rink offers a fun and exhilarating experience for all ages. You can glide across the ice, practice your spins and jumps, or simply enjoy the feeling of the crisp winter air against your face. The center also offers skate rentals and lessons, making it a great place to learn a new skill or just enjoy a leisurely afternoon on the ice.
Go snowshoeing at Mines of Spain Recreation Area
Mines of Spain Recreation Area is a beautiful natural area just outside of Dubuque, offering scenic trails and stunning views of the Mississippi River. In February, the area is covered in a blanket of snow, making it the perfect time to go snowshoeing. You can rent snowshoes from the Dubuque Audubon Society and explore the peaceful winter wonderland at your own pace. It's a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the serene beauty of the snowy landscape.
Attend a wine tasting at a local winery
Dubuque is home to several excellent wineries, and February is a great time to visit and sample some of their finest offerings. You can take a tour of the winemaking facilities, learn about the production process, and of course, taste a
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Holidays in Dubuque in February
February
  • Valentine's Day (February 14)
Other notable holidays

Weather in Dubuque in February

Temperatures on an average day in Dubuque in February

The average temperature in Dubuque in February for a typical day ranges from a high of 31°F (-0°C) to a low of 13°F (-10°C). Some would describe it as freezing cold and breezy.

For comparison, the hottest month in Dubuque, July, has days with highs of 83°F (28°C) and lows of 65°F (18°C). The coldest month, January has days with highs of 27°F (-3°C) and lows of 11°F (-12°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Dubuque in February based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in February
31°F
highs
13°F
lows

General weather summary

Freezing cold and breezy
Feels like
21%
Chance of rain
0.076 in
Amount
17.1 mph
Wind speed
91%
Humidity
10.5 hrs
Daylight length
7:00 AM
Sunrise
5:32 PM
Sunset
41%
Cloud cover
Thick winter coat with gloves
What to wear
What to wear in February
With an average high of 31°F (-0°C) and a low of 13°F (-10°C), it generally feels freezing cold and breezy. With that in mind, most people would dress in something toasty like a thick winter coat with gloves
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Best attractions for Dubuque in February

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Dubuque has to offer for travelers in February, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Dubuque that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Dubuque for February.
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
1. National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
4.7
(4247)
Museum
Zoos & Aquariums
Cafe, aquarium, boatyard, cinema & exhibits exploring life in & around America's riverways.
Fenelon Place Elevator Company
2. Fenelon Place Elevator Company
4.7
(1109)
Elevator service
Sights & Landmarks
Steep, short funicular railway connecting 4th Street & Fenelon Place, with downtown Dubuque views.
Eagle Point Park
3. Eagle Point Park
4.7
(1000)
Park
Nature & Parks
This 164-acre park features tri-state & Mississippi River views, plus playgrounds & a band shell.
Diamond Jo Casino Dubuque
4. Diamond Jo Casino Dubuque
3.9
(3101)
Casino
Casinos & Gambling
Sprawling casino with buffet & upscale dining, plus bowling alley, live music & comedy shows.
Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
5. Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
4.8
(1176)
Arboretum
Nature & Parks
Scenic 56-acre community space with 60+ types of gardens, plus a playground, trails, tours & events.
South Entrance, Mines of Spain Recreation Area
6. South Entrance, Mines of Spain Recreation Area
4.7
(52)
Park
Nature & Parks
Q Casino
7. Q Casino
3.8
(2538)
Casino
Casinos & Gambling
Casino with a seasonal racetrack, restaurants, live music, comedy shows & an adjacent hotel.
Stone Cliff Winery
8. Stone Cliff Winery
4.4
(366)
Winery
Food & Drink
Set in a historic beer brewery, this winemaker offers a tasting room, lunch & live music.
Crystal Lake Cave
9. Crystal Lake Cave
4.5
(734)
Nature & Parks
Caverns & Caves
Guided tours of a well-lit cave complex, with a gem- & fossil-mining area for kids & a gift shop.
Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark
10. Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark
3.8
(2364)
Hotel
Water & Amusement Parks
Casual riverfront hotel offering dining & water park access, plus free Wi-Fi & parking.
Park Farm Winery
11. Park Farm Winery
4.7
(159)
Winery
Food & Drink
St Luke's United Methodist Church
12. St Luke's United Methodist Church
4.7
(51)
Church
Sights & Landmarks
Julien Dubuque Monument
13. Julien Dubuque Monument
4.7
(460)
Monument
Sights & Landmarks
Turret-like monument honoring the city's founder with striking river & city panoramas.
Shot Tower Inn
14. Shot Tower Inn
4.2
(1086)
Pizza restaurant
Bar
This longtime pub with simple, old-school decor draws lively locals for pizza, beer & grinders.
Mississippi Riverwalk
15. Mississippi Riverwalk
4.8
(69)
Scenic spot
Sights & Landmarks
Travel Dubuque (Iowa Welcome Center)
16. Travel Dubuque (Iowa Welcome Center)
4.7
(39)
Tourist information center
Visitor Centers

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