Living in Dubuque sometimes leaves me feeling like I am destined to stay in my bed all day. It is tough to think of things to do around Dubuque that aren’t too costly; especially when winter comes around.

Personally, if I don’t get out of the house enough, (even it is just to run down to Target) I begin to feel like I’m in prison. To keep you from going down that same hole, here’s a list of plans and activities to do around Dubuque or right from home! The activities are split up depending on costs and prep time so you can find an option that’s perfect for you!

Czipars Apple Orchard is located on 8160 US 52 S, Dubuque, IA 52003 and is open during the Autumn season from 8 am till 5:30 pm daily until Thanksgiving Day. The Orchard offers apple butter, jellies, local honey, apple cider donuts, pies, cashew crunch and of course their fresh apple cider!

You can make this a half-day trip and spend a few hours of your day travelling and being outside – all while enjoying some apple cider. Make sure to bring money to enjoy all that Czipars has to offer.

Going to a pumpkin patch is an easy and fun way to spend the day during the fall season! Around the Dubuque area there are a few pumpkin patches to choose from. A local favorite, Schuster’s Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze is on 7541 Schueller Heights Road Dubuque, IA. The pumpkin patch is open from 10 am – 5 pm on the weekends until the end of October. Make sure to bring money (cash only!) to enjoy all that is offered!

Admission Costs: Corn Maze:
Adults – $4.00
Kids age 6 to 12 – $2.00

Wagon Ride to the Pumpkin Patch:
Adults – $2.00
Kids age 6 to 12 – $1.00
Age 5 and under – free

With Halloween quickly approaching, what better way to celebrate than ghost stories and tours at the Mathias Ham House? Tours will begin at 11 am and take place hourly with the last tour at 4 pm. Activities, including candle making and mask making are offered. Galena also offers a variety of Ghost Walks and Tours. One option is through the Haunted Galena Tour Company.