Durango IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Durango, Iowa.
1. Sunset Ridge Winery
VINEYARD WITH SCENIC VIEWS
Sunset Ridge Winery is a local vineyard and tasting room where visitors can sample a variety of locally produced wines. The winery boasts scenic views of the surrounding Iowa countryside, making it a relaxing spot for both locals and tourists. It also frequently hosts live music and community events, adding to its appeal as a gathering place.
2. The Barn
RUSTIC LOCAL BAR
The Barn serves as a popular local bar known for its friendly atmosphere and rustic charm. Guests can enjoy a range of beverages and take in the laid-back ambiance, often accompanied by live music or karaoke nights. The Barn is a favorite spot for both residents and visitors to unwind in Durango.
3. Heritage Pond
SERENE OUTDOOR SPOT
Heritage Pond provides a peaceful setting for fishing, picnicking, and wildlife observation just outside Durango. The pond and its natural surroundings attract outdoor enthusiasts looking for a serene escape. It's especially popular among families and anglers seeking a quiet day in nature.
4. The Meadows Golf Club
CHALLENGING GOLF COURSE
The Meadows Golf Club, located near Durango, offers an 18-hole championship golf course set against rolling hills. Known for its well-maintained greens and challenging layout, it attracts golfers of all skill levels. The club also features a clubhouse and pro shop, enhancing the overall golfing experience.
5. Sundown Mountain Resort
ALL-SEASON SKI RESORT
Sundown Mountain Resort is a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and winter fun located a short drive from Durango. The resort offers trails for all abilities, equipment rentals, and scenic chairlift rides. In the warmer months, it also hosts special events and weddings.
6. Eagle Point Park
HISTORIC BLUFF PARK
Eagle Point Park sprawls along the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, offering spectacular views and lush picnic areas. The park features historic stone structures, flower gardens, and a variety of walking trails. Its panoramic river vistas make it a highlight of the Dubuque area.
7. National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
RIVER HISTORY & WILDLIFE
The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is an interactive museum that explores the culture, history, and ecology of America's most famous river. Visitors encounter live aquatic animals, historical exhibits, and hands-on activities for all ages. It's a signature attraction for families and anyone interested in river life.
8. Fenelon Place Elevator
HISTORIC FUNICULAR RAILWAY
The Fenelon Place Elevator is a historic cable car that ascends one of the steepest and shortest railways in the world. Passengers enjoy sweeping views of downtown Dubuque and the Mississippi River from the top. This quirky attraction provides both a practical ride and a glimpse into the city's past.
9. Crystal Lake Cave
UNDERGROUND CAVERN TOURS
Crystal Lake Cave offers guided tours through beautifully illuminated natural limestone caverns. Visitors marvel at striking stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal formations dating back millions of years. The cave is open seasonally, providing a cool escape and geological wonder close to Durango.
10. Stone Cliff Winery
WINERY IN HISTORIC BREWERY
Stone Cliff Winery operates within a historic brewery building in Dubuque's riverside district. The winery offers tastings, tours, and a bistro with a menu featuring local ingredients. With regular live music and river views, it's a lively place to sample regional wines.
11. Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
EXPANSIVE GARDEN SHOWCASE
Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is a sprawling public garden featuring themed areas, rose gardens, Japanese gardens, and walking trails. Volunteers maintain the grounds, which also host outdoor concerts and community events. It's a peaceful retreat for plant lovers and families alike.
12. Heritage Trail
SCENIC BIKING AND HIKING
Heritage Trail stretches 26 miles from Dubuque to Dyersville, offering a scenic corridor for biking, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The trail follows a former railroad line through rolling countryside, woodlands, and small towns. It is a favorite route for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
13. Field of Dreams Movie Site
ICONIC FILM LOCATION
The Field of Dreams Movie Site is the actual filming location of the beloved 1989 baseball movie. Visitors can walk the famous field, tour the farmhouse, and even play catch in the outfield. Special events and games are regularly held at this nostalgic Iowa landmark.
14. Hurstville Lime Kilns
HISTORICAL INDUSTRIAL RUINS
The Hurstville Lime Kilns are preserved remains of a once-bustling 19th-century lime production site. Informational panels explain the kilns' role in the region's industrial history. The site is accessible via short trails and provides insight into the area's agricultural past.
15. Stone City Art Colony
HISTORIC ARTISTS' RETREAT
Stone City Art Colony is famous as a 1930s summer art school that attracted renowned American artists like Grant Wood. Today, visitors can explore the quaint Stone City area, its landscape inspiration, and remnants of the historic art community. The site celebrates Iowa's cultural and artistic legacy, appealing to history buffs and art lovers.