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Upper Iowa Street Historic District: A Glimpse into Dubuque's Past

Explore Dubuque's Upper Iowa Street Historic District: A captivating blend of 19th-century architecture and rich local heritage.

The Upper Iowa Street Historic District in Dubuque, Iowa, is a nationally recognized district showcasing well-preserved 19th-century architecture. This single-block area, once a residential section, evolved into a mix of commercial and residential buildings, reflecting the city's historical and cultural evolution.

A brief summary to Upper Iowa Street Historic District

  • 1833 N Main St, Dubuque, Iowa, 52001, US

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting to photograph the historic architecture.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the best way to experience the district is by exploring it on foot.
  • Check for local events or guided tours to gain deeper insights into the district's history and significance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Dubuque Museum of Art, walk north on Locust Street toward North Main Street. Turn right onto North Main Street and continue for about 0.5 miles. The Upper Iowa Street Historic District will be on your left at 1833 N Main St.

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Dubuque, locate the nearest bus stop for The Jule, Dubuque's public transit system. Take a bus route that heads toward North Main Street. Disembark at the stop nearest North Main Street and walk north for a few blocks to 1833 N Main St. A single ride on The Jule costs $1.50.

  • Ride Share

    Use a ride-sharing service such as Uber or Lyft and enter '1833 N Main St, Dubuque, IA 52001' as your destination. The driver will take you directly to the Upper Iowa Street Historic District. A short trip from downtown Dubuque typically costs between $8 and $12.

Unlock the Best of Upper Iowa Street Historic District

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Discover more about Upper Iowa Street Historic District

The Upper Iowa Street Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2015, offers a captivating journey into Dubuque's past. Located on a single block of Iowa Street between West 11th and 12th Streets, the district features a collection of eight contributing buildings that narrate the area's transition from a residential neighborhood to a commercial hub. Initially a residential area north of the central business district, Upper Iowa Street began its transformation in the mid-1880s with the construction of substantial Italianate-style commercial buildings. The 1890s saw the addition of larger, more elaborate Queen Anne commercial buildings, further solidifying the street's commercial character. The oldest structure, dating back to 1872, served as a residence and later a doctor's office, showcasing the adaptive reuse of buildings over time. The district's architecture is characterized by brick buildings adorned with stone ornamentation, reflecting the styles prevalent during the late 19th century. While one building's original facade is now covered in Permastone, the remaining structures retain their historical integrity, offering visitors a glimpse into the architectural aesthetics of the era. Today, the Upper Iowa Street Historic District stands as a testament to Dubuque's rich heritage, inviting visitors to explore its well-preserved buildings and imagine life in this bustling commercial and residential area over a century ago.

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