Explore Loops

Grant Wood Coffee Lovers Loop

The perfect loop for the midwest coffee lover. The Grant Wood Loop's coffee scene has grown tenfold over the last few years, bringing lots of delicious local options to get your caffeine kick. Travel from the historic Millwork district to get a Honey Lavender Latte from Wayfarer Coffee, grab a quick snack at Habits Coffee & Mini Donuts, drive up to the Jumble Schoolhouse location on Asbury road for an iced Fluffy Bunny, or drive to Cascade's Main St. and stop for breakfast and a cold brew from Cheryl's Flour Garden Bakery & Coffee Bar.

Grant Wood Region Beer Loop

It’s no secret that eastern Iowa’s beer seen is growing. With five breweries opening in 6 years, this region is coming back to the beer capital it once boasted during the heyday of the Dubuque Brewing and Malting Company.

Travel from the riverside gem, River Ridge Brewing, to the crowdfunded start-up, Jubeck’s New World Brewing, to Dimensional Brewing Company, then our largest brewpub, 7 Hills Brewing, to our newest brewery, Textile Brewing Company, and finally to a brewery in a historic Masonic Lodge, Franklin Street Brewing. Each of these unique breweries serve their own handcrafted offerings. Don’t forget your growlers!

Climb the Grant Wood Loop

​Explore the incredible climbing opportunities in the Grant Wood Mississippi River Region! Whether climbing the over 50 foot bluffs at Iowa’s oldest State Park (Backbone State Park), clipping one of the over 60 routes along the Maquoketa River (Pictured Rocks), exploring the rugged crag in the deep forest (Indian Bluffs), conquering some of the newest established sport routes in Iowa (Ozarks Wildlife Area), or bouldering along the Maquoketa River (Joinerville), the region has something for all climbers!

This is certainly not a day trip, but plan a climbing weekend ending your day at one of our many campsites, cabins, or hotels.

During spring through fall there are Climb Club events put on by Climb On (climbondbq.org).

Grant Wood Region Wine Loop

Sip on the tastes of the Grant Wood Loop region by visiting a number of unique wineries. From 100% organic vineyards, to breathtaking views, each winery offers a one of a kind experience.

Port Loop

The Port of Dubuque is an amazing focal point for excitement and energy in downtown Dubuque. Historical preservation meets modern convenience in a diverse array of entertainment venues. From award-winning museum attractions and impressive dining opportunities to a brand-new gaming venue and family-friendly waterpark resort, the Port of Dubuque, along with the host of destinations on nearby historic Main Street, provides a great variety fun activities to augment any event hosted at the Grand River Center.