riverboat gambling in dubuque iowa

A Guide to the Casinos in Dubuque Iowa | USA

There are 2 large casinos in Dubuque Iowa, the Diamond Jo and the Q Casino (formally the Mystique). They are more than just places to gamble though and have other facilities on offer. In this guide you can find out the main differences between the two along with some handy tips for visiting.

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Casinos in Dubuque are 21+. Gamble responsibly.

Dubuque Casinos

Diamond Jo | Q Casino

The history of the Dubuque casinos is actually quite interesting. In 1988 casinos and gambling was legalised only on Indian reservations. However Iowa was the first state in the USA to legalise riverboat casinos in 1991 .

The first riverboat casino docked in Dubuque was the Casino Belle at the Ice Harbor (close to where the National Mississippi River Museum is located). Similar riverboat casinos operated along the Mississippi River, including the Bettendorf Capri located further south in the Quad Cities (image below).

Diamond Jo Casino Dubuque Iowa

🗺 301 Bell St, Dubuque, IA 52001, United States

Mississippi Moon Bar 🎤| Cherry Lanes Bowling 🎳| Food & Drink 🍔

In 1994 the Diamond Jo riverboat moved into the previous location of the Casino Belle. 2007 saw the legalisation of land-based casinos in Iowa. So in 2008 the Diamond Jo moved onto the land alongside the Ice Harbor into a giant multi-purpose venue .

(Like the Diamond Jo, the Bettendorf Capri casino moved on land in 2016 and was renamed the Isle Casino Bettendorf.)

The Diamond Jo is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week . There are over 750 slot machines, with many that have a $0.01 bet. Along with the slot machines are 20 table games which are open between 10am – 3am. These include games such as Blackjack and Roulette.

A non smoking policy is in operation around the table games. On the game floor are stations with free coffee and soft drinks .

Mississippi Moon Bar

I don’t really understand slot machines and gambling but I liked the Mississippi Moon Bar . It’s located within the gaming area, so is only accessible to those over 21 . The Mississippi Moon Bar holds a variety of free and paid events, from bands to comedy nights .

It’s split over several levels and has different configurations depending on the event (both standing and seated areas). Tables and booth seating often has an additional surcharge and usually sell out in advance.

Cherry Lanes Bowling

Cherry Lanes bowling is located on the upper level of the casino complex. It has separate entrance so it’s accessible for all ages . There are 30 lanes altogether along with 4 VIP Lanes which are separate from the regular lanes and can hold up to 25 guests.

Shoe rental is $3 and games start from $2 (depending on time and day). Fridays and Saturdays also have ‘Cosmic Bowling’ in the evenings.

Food & Drink

There are several different food and drink options. Be aware that some are located within the gaming area.

• Woodfire Grille (closed Sunday and Monday) – open from 5pm (fine dining $$$)
• The Game sports bar (temporarily closed)
• The Filament – open from noon
• Subway – open from 11am
• Tree Bar – drinks only, open from 9am

Upstairs and outside of the gaming area is a large conference room which can be rented for weddings, parties and more. It’s a nice space that looks out towards the Mississippi River.

A great plus with the Diamond Jo is the free parking . As well as an outside parking lot, they have a large undercover multi-storey parking garage. Each parking level has access to various casino floors. Park on the upper levels for Cherry Lanes bowling.

It’s great during the winter when it might snow, as you won’t need to scrape the snow off your car and it’s slightly protected from the bitter winds!

nearest hotel

The nearest hotel to the Diamond Jo is the Grand Harbor Resort . It’s located just across the road from the casino. It’s main feature is a large water park and children’s arcade. Many of the rooms also overlook the Mississippi River. Complimentary breakfast is available in the standard room rate.

Alternatively the historic Hotel Julien in the Downtown area is a 10 minute walk away.

Q Casino Dubuque Iowa

🗺 1855 Greyhound Park Rd, Dubuque, IA 52001, United States

Q Showroom 🎤| Food & Drink 🍔

I personally prefer the Diamond Jo, however the Q Casino is the largest of the Dubuque casinos . It’s located slightly further from Downtown Dubuque on Schmitt Island. It was previously called the Dubuque Greyhound Park and Casino until 2009 when it became the Mystique Casino.

In 2017 it rebranded again to the Q Casino. Originally it was part of the Dubuque Greyhound Park which opened in 1985. However it is said that 2022 will be the last season that the greyhound track will be in operation.

There are 1000 different slot machines ranging from $0.01 minimum bets, to machines with a $1 minimum. The ‘High Limit’ slots go right up to maximum bets of $25. Along with the slot machines are 23 table games, open between 9am – 2am, dedicated poker rooms and Sportsbook betting shop with TVs showing various live sporting events.

Unlike the Diamond Jo, the Q Casino is open between 7am – 3am on weekdays and then 24 hours Friday – Sunday . Free soft drinks and coffee is available .

Just like the Dimond Jo, the Q Showroom is located within the gaming area, so is an over 21s music venue . They have a variety of bands and singers with mostly general admission standing only tickets available. There are often free shows on, as well as the paid events .

During the summer months, the outside Back Waters Stage sees larger music events with up to a 10,000 person capacity . Past artists include: Brantley Gilbert, Nelly and Staind to name a few. It’s also the new location for the Dubuque Oktoberfest which takes place every September.

There are a couple of food and drink options at the Q Casino. The nearest is the Q Sports Bar which is open from 9am, with food served from 11am. Houlihan’s is a short walk away and is open Wednesday – Saturday from 4pm.

Wow Bao is next to Houlihan’s and offers Asian street food. It’s open Wednesday – Saturday from 11am and can be ordered through Grubhub, Uber Eats or over the phone.

The Q Casino has a large free outdoor parking lot . It shares the parking area with Houlihan’s and the Hilton Garden Inn. During busy times you may need to park further away from the entrance and walk. Beware that in the summer the disgusting fish flies (also known as mayflies) are about and cover the cars when parked during the evenings.

The Hilton Garden Inn Dubuque Downtown is connected to the Q Casino via an internal walkway. There are 116 guest rooms with have amenities such as: mini fridges, microwaves, coffee makers and bath products. Plus use of an indoor swimming pool and fitness centre.

However, if you don’t want to go to the ‘communal’ fitness room, the Hilton Garden Inn offer ‘Stay Fit Kits’ available to borrow from the reception desk. These include items for yoga and pilates (blocks, mats, straps) and small weights, for in-room exercising.

For other things to do in the area, check out: 40 Top Things To Do in Dubuque Iowa, Recommended By A Local!

• 🛏️ 7 Best Hotels In Dubuque Iowa USA | Recommended by a Local
• 🍺 4 Dubuque Iowa Breweries You Need To Visit (& 1 In Dyersville!)
• 🍔 10 Best Restaurants in Dubuque Iowa USA (Recommended By A Local)!
• 🏨 A Stay at the Historic Hotel Julien Dubuque Review | Iowa, USA
• 🐟 The Port of Dubuque: Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium in Dubuque, Iowa | USA

My travels have taken me to over 40 countries worldwide (& I lived in USA for 4yrs). I hold a BTEC National Diploma in Travel & Tourism (triple distinction) and have been writing on Between England & Everywhere since 2015.

Expert in : Adventure travel 🎢 , beach destinations 🏖️ , and packing light (mid-budget backpacker) 🎒

Last Updated on January 30, 2024

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My Friend and I went on the Riverboat Twilight and it was the most perfect/awesome adventure! From reserving our trip to our final walk to our car after the two day cruise, all was perfect! Staff are amazing, from the Captain to the servers, to the musical entertainers. The food is suburb and generous! Everything is very well organized, from our luggage/hotel in Dubuque/seating for meals, free shuttles in Dubuque, etc! The scenery and info along the way from the captain was wonderful! This was an absolutely perfect two day cruise, and we are going again in Mid October as we loved it so much!!.

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We were very impressed by the personal service we received by the staff and everyone involved. The trip was very nice from a sightseeing perspective, interesting from a historical perspective and very relaxing overall. Plus the food was plentiful and excellent. We highly recommend this cruise to everyone!

Wonderful relaxing two days....

Extremely enjoyable trip. The cruise itself was delightful as you slowly moved up and down the river enjoying the wildlife and listening to the Captain explain the view and history. Unless you are a very big eater you have to be selective as they feed you FIVE times a day. Not only is the food plentiful but it is also very good. The Grand Resort in Dubuque was a nice stay as we had a view of the river. There was adequate time to explore some of the sights In Dubuque. I think we will do this trip again in the future…….

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If you are not vaccinated, we strongly encourage you to do so, however, at this time the Riverboat Twilight does not ask for proof of vaccination. Mask wearing is the choice of the individual. The Twilight offers ample indoor and outdoor seating on all three decks and plenty of fresh air.

We will continue to maintain our increased sanitization efforts of the TWILIGHT and our boarding facilities, and we continue to provide hand sanitizer aboard the boat and employ a strong air purifier that uses UVC lighting that has been proven to destroy viruses and other bacteria.

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We continue to monitor the franchise, local, state and federal safety guidelines to insure our guest and staff safety. For example, we anticipate a few changes in the near future which will include the following: a plastic shield / barrier at the front desk check,  revised breakfast offerings without a buffet setting, hand sanitizer located in the lobby and all floors at the elevator landings, continued use of hospital grade products to clean and sanitize the guest rooms, individual sanitizer wipes as an in-room amenity, removal of all products in the rooms that are reusable for example, pens, pads, laundry bags, and throw pillows, these items will be available upon request. We hope to see you soon. Stay safe and healthy!

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Remember the Riverboats

The launch of riverboats in Iowa started a wave that swept through the South and the Midwest and brought gaming to the heart of America.

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Twenty years ago on April 1, the real expansion of gaming in America began. Some trace it back to the debut of gaming in Atlantic City in 1978, but it was more than a dozen years before another state got on the gaming bandwagon. But on April 1, 1991, the Diamond Lady, built by scrap metal magnate Bernie Goldstein, set sail from Bettendorf, Iowa, on the first legal riverboat gaming cruise since the 19th century. On the same day, the Casino Belle left its dock in Dubuque’s Ice Harbor, packed with community leaders, supporters and tourists.

The boats were rather small in comparison to some of the “riverboat” gaming properties today—riverboat is a misnomer since there are no longer any boats that actually sail—but it was immediately popular, and encouraged the growth of the riverboat industry in Iowa and later across the Midwest.

In a statement issued by the American Gaming Association, President and CEO Frank J. Fahrenkopf on April 1 said that event changed gaming forever.

“Not only is today the 20th anniversary of modern riverboat casinos in America, but it also marks a major step in gaming becoming one the nation’s favorite leisure pastimes,” he said. “Further, the advent of riverboat casinos sparked the growth of an industry that has meant hundreds of thousands of American jobs and tens of billions of dollars in much-needed tax revenues.”

In Iowa, the industry grew quickly, and today features seven riverboats, seven land-based casinos and three racinos. More than 22 million people visit these facilities and they generate $300 million in tax revenues annually.

But it was the impact beyond Iowa that marks the sailing of the Diamond Lady so strongly, says Fahrenkopf.

“The state of Iowa legalized riverboat gaming in July 1989,” he says. “Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Missouri and Mississippi all eventually followed suit. Today, commercial casinos—including land-based, riverboat and racetrack casinos—operate in 22 states. Nationwide, commercial and racetrack casinos employ about 350,000 employees, and paid $7.2 billion in gaming tax revenue and distributions to state and local governments in 2009.”

Isle of Capri, the company that traces its roots to Goldstein’s first casino, employs an executive who has traveled the full circle of riverboats over the last 20 years. Bill Gustafson embarked on that first cruise as a security supervisor. Four gaming properties and three states later, he is back where it all began in Bettendorf as the senior director of operations at Isle Casino Hotel.

“When the Diamond Lady left the dock in Bettendorf 20 years ago, I thought I had a good job,” Gustafson recalled. “Instead, I found a rewarding career in an industry that has made a major economic contribution in the United States.”

Wes Ehrecke, president of the Iowa Gaming Association, says gaming has undoubtedly succeeded in the state.

“I think the future is bright for the gaming industry,” Ehrecke told the Des Moines Register. “If the economy turns, and I am optimistic that it will, we want to be positioned to have great entertainment attractions for people so they have choices to make.”

Todd Moyer, the general manager of the Diamond Jo Casino—which succeeded the Casino Belle—notes the difference between the old and the new boats. Peninsula Gaming now owns the Diamond Jo.

“Diamond Jo was built to attract visitors,” says Moyer. “When we moved off of the riverboat, we had the luxury of room to spread out, and to offer more amenities. Our team goal is to offer unforgettable experiences to our customers, every time.”

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Spirit of Dubuque

Dubuque, Iowa

The Spirit of Dubuque is an authentic dual paddlewheeler designed by Robert Kehl and built in 1976-1977 by Scully Brothers Company of Morgan City, LA. The construction began on July 1, 1976. The boat was christened on May 14, 1977 by Iowa Gov. Robert Ray. She is powered by two Detroit diesel 6-71 engines (200 horsepower apiece). She has a capacity for 377 passengers and 4 crew members. The Spirit of Dubuque is 93 feet long and 28 feet wide. She has two decks, an air-conditioned dining deck and an open upper deck for sightseeing. The Spirit of Dubuque was originally owned by Bob and Ruth Kehl. In May 1994 she was purchased by Captain Walt and Nancy Webster. She has been offering Lunch, Dinner, theme and Murder Mystery cruises.

After 40 seasons (1977-2016) in Dubuque, IA, the boat has been sold to a new operator at Cincinnati, OH, and will probably be renamed.

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37 Must Visit Places In Dubuque

Published: August 22, 2024

by Patsy Bagwell

Looking for a unique travel destination in the Midwest? Dubuque, Iowa might be just what you need. This charming city along the Mississippi River offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor fun. Whether you’re into exploring museums, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying riverboat cruises, Dubuque has something for everyone. You can visit the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, take a ride on the Fenelon Place Elevator, or stroll through the beautiful Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. With so many must-see spots, Dubuque promises an unforgettable adventure for all ages. Ready to pack your bags? Let’s dive into the 37 must-visit places in Dubuque!

Discover Dubuque's Rich History

Dubuque, Iowa, is a city steeped in history, offering a blend of cultural landmarks and historical sites. Here are some must-visit places that showcase its rich past.

National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium Dive into the history of the mighty Mississippi River. This museum features interactive exhibits, live animals, and a 4D theater. It's a fun and educational experience for all ages.

Dubuque County Courthouse This stunning building, with its golden dome, is an architectural marvel. Built in 1891, it stands as a testament to Dubuque's historical significance and offers guided tours.

Mathias Ham House Step back in time at this 19th-century mansion. The Ham House offers a glimpse into the life of a prosperous riverboat captain and features period furnishings and artifacts.

Shot Tower One of the few remaining structures of its kind, the Shot Tower was used to make lead shot for firearms. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city and river.

Embrace the Great Outdoors

Dubuque is not just about history; it also offers breathtaking natural beauty. Here are some outdoor spots you shouldn't miss.

Eagle Point Park Overlooking the Mississippi River, this park offers stunning views, picnic areas, and hiking trails. It's a perfect spot for a family outing or a peaceful retreat.

Mines of Spain Recreation Area Explore over 1,400 acres of forests, prairies, and wetlands. This area is ideal for hiking, bird-watching, and learning about the region's natural history.

Heritage Trail This 26-mile trail is perfect for biking, hiking, and even cross-country skiing in winter. It runs from Dubuque to Dyersville, offering scenic views along the way.

Crystal Lake Cave Discover the underground beauty of Crystal Lake Cave. Guided tours take you through stunning formations and crystal-clear pools.

Family Fun and Entertainment

Dubuque offers plenty of activities that are perfect for families. Here are some spots that guarantee fun for all ages.

Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark This indoor waterpark features slides, a lazy river, and a huge arcade. It's a great place for kids to burn off energy while parents relax.

Fenelon Place Elevator Known as the world's shortest, steepest scenic railway, this elevator offers a quick ride to a lookout with spectacular views of the city and river.

Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, including a Japanese garden and a rose garden. It's a peaceful place to enjoy nature and learn about different plant species.

Bunker Hill Golf Course For golf enthusiasts, this 18-hole course offers a challenging game with beautiful views. It's a great way to spend a sunny afternoon.

Arts and Culture

Dubuque has a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and cultural events that cater to all tastes.

Dubuque Museum of Art This museum features a diverse collection of American art, including works by Grant Wood. It's a must-visit for art lovers.

Five Flags Center Catch a concert, play, or sporting event at this historic venue. The Five Flags Center hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.

Bell Tower Theater Enjoy a live performance at this intimate theater. The Bell Tower Theater offers a range of shows, from comedies to dramas.

Voices Gallery Located in a historic warehouse, this gallery showcases contemporary art by local and regional artists. It's a great place to see cutting-edge art in a unique setting.

Unique Shopping and Dining Experiences

Dubuque offers a variety of unique shopping and dining experiences that reflect the city's character and charm.

Cable Car Square This historic district is home to boutique shops, antique stores, and cozy cafes. It's a great place to find unique gifts and enjoy a leisurely afternoon.

Millwork District Once the heart of Dubuque's lumber industry, this revitalized area now features trendy shops, restaurants, and loft apartments. It's a vibrant part of the city worth exploring.

L. May Eatery Enjoy a delicious meal at this popular restaurant, known for its farm-to-table cuisine. The menu features fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Pepper Sprout This upscale restaurant offers a creative menu with a focus on Midwestern flavors. It's a great place for a special night out.

Festivals and Events

Dubuque hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music to food .

DubuqueFest Fine Arts Festival This annual event showcases the work of local and regional artists. It includes live music, food vendors, and activities for kids.

America's River Festival Held along the riverfront, this festival features live music, food, and family-friendly activities. It's a great way to experience the city's vibrant community spirit.

Julien Dubuque International Film Festival Film buffs will love this event, which screens independent films from around the world. It also includes panel discussions and workshops.

Dubuque Oktoberfest Celebrate German culture with traditional food, music, and beer. This family-friendly event also includes games and activities for kids.

Hidden Gems

Dubuque has its share of hidden gems that offer unique experiences off the beaten path.

Sundown Mountain Resort Enjoy skiing and snowboarding at this local resort. It offers a variety of runs for all skill levels and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Swiss Valley Nature Center Learn about the local flora and fauna at this educational center. It features interactive exhibits and nature trails.

Julien Dubuque Monument Visit the monument dedicated to the city's founder. It offers a beautiful view of the Mississippi River and is a great spot for a picnic.

Catfish Creek This lesser-known spot is perfect for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Educational and Interactive Experiences

For those who love to learn while having fun, Dubuque offers several educational and interactive experiences.

Carnegie-Stout Public Library This historic library offers more than just books. It hosts events, workshops, and has a beautiful reading room.

University of Dubuque Heritage Center Attend a lecture, concert, or theater performance at this cultural hub. The center offers a variety of events throughout the year.

Dubuque County Historical Society Learn about the region's history through exhibits and programs. The society also operates several historic sites in the area.

Riverwalk Stroll along the Mississippi River on this scenic walkway. It features informational plaques about the river's history and ecology.

Relaxation and Wellness

Sometimes, you just need to relax and recharge. Dubuque offers several spots perfect for unwinding.

Potosa Spa Treat yourself to a massage or facial at this luxurious spa. It's a great way to relax and rejuvenate.

Yoga in the Park Join a yoga class in one of Dubuque's beautiful parks. It's a peaceful way to start your day and connect with nature.

Mindframe Theaters Catch a movie at this independent theater. It offers a cozy atmosphere and a selection of indie films.

Stone Cliff Winery Enjoy a wine tasting at this local winery. It offers a variety of wines and a beautiful setting along the river.

Q Casino Try your luck at this casino, which offers slots, table games, and live entertainment. It's a fun way to spend an evening.

Dubuque's Hidden Gems Await

Dubuque offers a mix of history, nature, and fun. From the National Mississippi River Museum to the Fenelon Place Elevator , there's something for everyone. The Mines of Spain Recreation Area provides outdoor adventures, while the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens offer a peaceful retreat. Don't miss the Field of Dreams Movie Site for a bit of nostalgia.

Foodies will love the local cuisine, especially at L.May Eatery and Brazen Open Kitchen + Bar . For a sweet treat, Betty Jane Candies is a must-visit. Shopping enthusiasts can explore unique finds at Cable Car Square .

Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a new place to explore, Dubuque has it all. Pack your bags and experience the charm of this Midwestern gem. Dubuque's hidden gems are waiting for you.

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Two people injured after early Saturday morning shooting near Ped Mall

Two people were shot early Saturday morning in the heart of downtown Iowa City.

Iowa City police responded to the 100 Block of S. Dubuque Street, near the Pedestrian Mall, shortly before 1 a.m. on July 20 for reports of shots fired.

On scene, police found evidence of gunfire and two individuals suffering from "non-life threatening gunshot wounds." Officers determined that the two people knew each other.

No arrests were made on Saturday.

More: Iowa City man allegedly posed as a University of Iowa officer on social media

HawkAlert system activated early Saturday morning

The University of Iowa sent out a HawkAlert at 1 a.m. warning of "confirmed" gunshots near Dubuque Street and Burlington Street. The school cautioned people to "stay aware of your surroundings."

An all-clear message was then sent at 2:08 a.m.

Saturday morning's shooting remains under investigation. No arrests had been made as of Monday, July 22.

Police are asking for any information the public may have about this case.

Iowa City Crime Stoppers is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. Tips may be submitted through the iccrimestoppers.org website or by calling 319-358-TIPS.

More: An Iowa City officer discharged their weapon Monday, injuring one along Wylde Green Road

More: Waggle Golf tees up creative new storefront in Iowa River Landing, opens in late August

Ryan Hansen covers local government and crime for the Press-Citizen. He can be reached at [email protected]  or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @ryanhansen01.