A few of the companies we’ve worked with
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
No trip to Dubuque is complete without a visit to the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium. This sprawling campus is part aquarium, part museum, and part science center, dedicated to the history and ecology of the Mississippi River. It is an ideal destination for school field trips and private tour groups alike. Your group can explore interactive exhibits that showcase the life of the river, from giant catfish and sturgeon to river otters and bald eagles. The museum also dives deep into the cultural history of the river, featuring historic boats and exhibits on the steamboat era. It provides a comprehensive look at how the river has shaped the region and the nation.
Traveling here with a large group is seamless when you rent a charter bus in Dubuque. The museum is located in the Port of Dubuque, an area that has been beautifully revitalized but can get busy during peak tourist seasons. Instead of coordinating a caravan of cars or worrying about finding enough parking spots in the public lots, your charter bus driver can drop your group off right at the main entrance. While your group heads inside to touch stingrays or tour the William M. Black dredge boat, your driver will handle the parking logistics. With onboard storage for backpacks and lunches, a bus rental makes managing a large student group or family reunion incredibly easy.
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium 350 E 3rd St Dubuque, IA 52001
Fenelon Place Elevator
For the best view in the city, you have to go up. The Fenelon Place Elevator, described as the world's shortest, steepest scenic railway, is a historic funicular that lifts passengers 189 feet from Fourth Street up to Fenelon Place. From the top, you are treated to a magnificent view of the downtown business district, the Mississippi River, and three states: Iowa, Wisconsin, and Illinois. It is a fantastic photo opportunity and a quick, memorable activity for groups. The history of the elevator dates back to 1882, making it a staple of Dubuque’s heritage.
Logistically, the Fenelon Place Elevator can be tricky for large groups if you don't plan ahead, as the cars only hold a few people at a time. However, with Charter Bus Rental Company Dubuque, we can help you manage the flow. We can drop your group off at the bottom station in Cable Car Square, where you can explore unique shops while waiting for your turn to ride up. Alternatively, if some members of your group prefer not to ride the elevator or have mobility concerns, your charter bus can transport them directly to the top observation deck to meet the rest of the group. This flexibility ensures everyone enjoys the view without the physical strain of hiking the bluff.
Fenelon Place Elevator 512 Fenelon Place Dubuque, IA 52001
Eagle Point Park
If your group loves the outdoors, Eagle Point Park is a must-visit destination. Located on the northeast corner of the city, this 164-acre park overlooks the Mississippi River and Lock and Dam No. 11. It is famous for its stunning views, but also for its unique Prairie School architecture designed by Alfred Caldwell. The pavilions and rock gardens are seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape, making it a beautiful spot for a company picnic, a wedding reception, or a simple afternoon of relaxation. There is a nominal admission fee per car or bus, but the views of the tri-state area are priceless.
Accessing Eagle Point Park is a breeze with a charter bus rental. The park has wide roadways that accommodate larger vehicles, and there are designated areas where a bus can park while your group enjoys the scenery. Whether you are hosting a large family reunion and need to transport relatives from their hotel to the Shiras Pavilion, or you are a tour group looking for the perfect lunch spot, we can get you there comfortably. Your driver will navigate the entrance off Shiras Avenue so you can focus on enjoying the eagles soaring over the river.
Eagle Point Park 2601 Shiras Ave Dubuque, IA 52001
Mines of Spain Recreation Area / Julien Dubuque Monument
For a mix of history and hiking, the Mines of Spain Recreation Area is unparalleled. This state recreation area covers nearly 1,400 acres of wooded hills, limestone bluffs, and prairie. The crown jewel of the park is the Julien Dubuque Monument, a castle-like tower built in 1897 that marks the burial site of the city's founder, Julien Dubuque. It sits high on a bluff, offering panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the city skyline. The park also features the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center, which offers educational displays about the area's lead mining history and natural resources.
When you visit the Mines of Spain with a group, reliable transportation is key. The park is vast, and the various trailheads and monuments are spread out. A minibus or charter bus rental from Charter Bus Rental Company Dubuque allows you to easily move your group from the Interpretive Center to the Monument and then to the Horseshoe Bluff trail without needing to coordinate multiple vehicles on the winding park roads. Your driver stays with the vehicle, ensuring that when your hike or tour is done, a climate-controlled bus is waiting to take you to your next destination or back to your hotel to freshen up.
Mines of Spain Recreation Area 8991 Bellevue Heights Rd Dubuque, IA 52003
Stone Cliff Winery
Located in the historic Star Brewery building along the riverwalk, Stone Cliff Winery is a sophisticated yet welcoming destination for adult groups. Whether you are planning a bachelorette party, a corporate mixer, or just a getaway with friends, Stone Cliff offers a fantastic atmosphere. You can enjoy wine tastings, a full lunch menu, and beautiful views of the Mississippi River. The building itself is a piece of Dubuque history, dating back to the brewery days, and the renovation has preserved its industrial charm while creating a warm, inviting space.
Wine tours are always more fun when you don't have to worry about driving. By booking a minibus or charter bus with Charter Bus Rental Company Dubuque, you ensure that everyone in your party has a designated driver. You can sample Stone Cliff’s award-winning wines without a care in the world. Afterward, your group can take a stroll along the Mississippi Riverwalk right outside the winery doors before hopping back on the bus. We can even coordinate a full wine tour, taking you from Stone Cliff to other vineyards in the Upper Mississippi Valley wine region.
Stone Cliff Winery 600 Star Brewery Dr Dubuque, IA 52001
Crystal Lake Cave
Go underground and explore one of Iowa's natural wonders at Crystal Lake Cave. Located just south of Dubuque, this living cave system was discovered in 1868 and offers guided tours through winding passages filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and rare formations like soda straws and helectites. It is a fantastic educational opportunity for science classes or a cool adventure for scout troops and private groups. The temperature in the cave remains a constant 50 degrees year-round, making it a great escape from the summer heat or the winter cold.
Getting a large group to Crystal Lake Cave is simple with Charter Bus Rental Company Dubuque. The attraction is located off Highway 52, and having a single mode of transportation keeps your group together and on schedule for your reserved tour time. Instead of waiting for stragglers who might miss a turn on the rural roads, everyone arrives simultaneously. Our buses have ample storage for jackets or walking shoes, so your group can be prepared for the cool cave environment and then change back into comfortable attire for the ride back to the city.
Crystal Lake Cave 6684 Crystal Lake Cave Rd Dubuque, IA 52003
Diamond Jo Casino
For groups looking for excitement and nightlife, the Diamond Jo Casino in the Port of Dubuque is the place to be. This entertainment complex features hundreds of slot machines, table games, and a sportsbook. But it isn't just about gambling; the venue also houses the Mississippi Moon Bar, which hosts concerts and comedy acts, as well as Cherry Lanes, a boutique bowling alley. It is a popular destination for bachelor/bachelorette parties, corporate holiday parties, and group outings looking for high-energy fun.
Transportation is a critical component of a responsible night out at the casino. Charter Bus Rental Company Dubuque provides the ultimate designated driver service. We can shuttle your group from your hotel directly to the casino entrance. If your group wants to hop between the Diamond Jo and the Q Casino on the other side of town, your charter bus driver handles the transfers seamlessly. Enjoy the games, the drinks, and the shows knowing that a comfortable ride is waiting to take everyone home at the end of the night.
Diamond Jo Casino 301 Bell St Dubuque, IA 52001
Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark
If you are traveling with a youth sports team, a school group, or multiple families, the Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark is a top-tier destination. Located right on the riverfront, this resort features a massive indoor waterpark with tube slides, a lazy river, and activity pools. It is conveniently connected to the Grand River Center convention facility, making it a hub for events. It is the perfect place to let kids burn off energy while adults relax, all within walking distance of many downtown attractions.
Coordinating travel for a large group of kids and parents can be chaotic, but not with Charter Bus Rental Company Dubuque. We can transport your entire sports team and their luggage from your hometown directly to the resort. Our buses have undercarriage storage bays perfect for sports gear and suitcases, keeping the cabin clutter-free. Once you are checked in, your bus rental can stay on hand to shuttle the team to local tournaments or to dinner at nearby restaurants. We make the logistics of a team trip or family vacation effortless.
Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark 350 Bell St Dubuque, IA 52001
Ready to Explore the Key City? Book Your Ride Today!
Dubuque, Iowa, is a city that demands to be explored, from its limestone bluffs to its rushing river waters. Whether you are planning a wedding, a corporate event, or a school field trip, Charter Bus Rental Company Dubuque has the experience and the fleet to make your trip a success. Our representatives are available 24/7/365 to assist you with finding the best charter bus to meet your needs. If you’d like a free personalized quote for your next group trip to the Key City, we’re ready to help and we’d love to earn your business! You can reach us by calling 319-304-4690. We are here to guide you throughout the process so you find what you need at a price that fits your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dubuque Group Travel Transportation
How much does it cost to rent a charter bus in Dubuque?
The cost of renting a charter bus in Dubuque varies based on several factors, including the size of the bus, the duration of your trip, the time of year, and how far you are traveling. For example, a local wedding shuttle might be priced by the hour, while a multi-day trip out of state would be priced by the day or mile. To get the most accurate price, we recommend calling our reservation specialists at 319-304-4690. We can provide you with a free, no-obligation quote tailored to your specific itinerary in just minutes.
What happens to the driver during our trip?
Your driver's primary responsibility is your comfort and proper operation of the vehicle. For local day trips where the bus stays in Dubuque, the driver will usually wait with the bus or return to the garage if there is a long gap between drop-off and pick-up. If your trip involves an overnight stay, you are responsible for providing a private hotel room for the driver to ensure they are well-rested and compliant with DOT safety regulations regarding sleep and driving hours. Our team can help you factor this into your planning.
How far in advance should I book my bus rental?
To ensure the best availability and pricing, we recommend booking your charter bus as soon as your date and major details are confirmed. For peak seasons, such as spring for school field trips or summer and early fall for weddings, it is best to book at least 3 to 6 months in advance. However, Charter Bus Rental Company Dubuque understands that plans can change or arise quickly. We will always do our best to accommodate last-minute requests whenever possible, so don't hesitate to call us even if your trip is just around the corner.
What sizes of buses do you offer?
We offer a wide variety of bus sizes to accommodate groups of all types. Our fleet includes compact minibuses that seat anywhere from 18 to 25 passengers, perfect for corporate shuttles or small wedding parties. For larger groups, such as school classes, sports teams, or large tour groups, we offer full-size charter buses that can seat up to 56 passengers. These larger motorcoaches come equipped with amenities like onboard restrooms, luggage bays, and reclining seats. When you call, just let us know your passenger count, and we will recommend the efficient vehicle for your group.
Bus types Available in Dubuque
More About Group Travel in Dubuque
We’re available everyday from 7am to midnight!
