Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

The park is free. In Addition to some paths there are beautiful gardens. There are ponds with fish. And one of the best features is a park with ample seating, restrooms and shade which is the most lacking quality of the parks in Dubuque. Also there are concerts during the summer outside in this lovely, natural setting. This is one of the premier destinations for those who want to enjoy the beauty of nature in a quiet, peaceful setting. This is a place where mothers of small children can meet in safe surroundings to let the kids loose in places where they cannot stray too far. The playground is simple but adequate to keep the kids occupied for hours. Moms can sit close by on benches or at tables to commune with nature or visit. Grandparents will appreciate the proximity of things to parking.
5 8 years ago (08-03-2018)

Exquisitely beautiful gardens nestled in a world apart from the busy surrounding area. Once through the gates, you will find yourself surrounded by a park like environment, but once you park and walk through the pagoda gate, you cross into some of the most beautiful spaces anywhere. Meandering paths lead you down through tiers of natural rock, and plants, the sound of water falling fills the air. Suddenly you find yourself in a spectacular Japanese garden of waterfalls, bonsai, and koi. Farther up another path finds a formal English garden. Next over 1200 varieties of hosta, a peony garden, a huge rose garden. So much to see, even an edible garden. Many, if not most specimens are tagged with name and species. This is one of my favorite places in Dubuque. Peaceful, beautiful, a place apart.
5 8 years ago (22-05-2018)

Beautiful Arboretum. So many different sections in the park and koi ponds. Love the two children's story books. Can't wait to go back when the roses are in a bloom.
5 8 years ago (19-05-2018)

Beautiful place run by volunteers. Perennials, annuals, Japanese Gardens, English Garden, Koi Pond, rose gardens, and over 1200 varieties of hostas to just name a few of the many things to see here. All of this is surrounded by Marshall Park.
5 8 years ago (28-05-2018)

The gardens are kept in good shape by volunteers and the little pond is a go to spot for us. I've been here for weddings, picnics or just to enjoy. We love the free music on Sunday evenings in the summer. The playground is a nice little addition for the kids. A good place to spend the day with family and friends.
5 9 years ago (17-01-2018)