Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, Dubuque

This is a beautiful arboretum. We had visited once before in September and most recently in mid-June. June is better, for obvious reasons (early June might be better yet next time we come). The volunteer staff are friendly and informative. The gardens are well maintained and contain a large variety of well-manicured plants and flowers. There are some trails to hike/walk. It is definitely worth a visit (and even a drive—we live 2 hours away).

A wonderful garden that is meticulously maintained by a veritable volunteer army, whose love of the place shows. It could be the best Botanical Garden in America, the only one that comes close is the International Peace Garden in North Dakota. Free parking, free admittance. A nice little gift shop and a free little library. This place is awesome and worth checking out. Excellent work by the volunteers, the place is immaculate. Do yourself a favor and spend the afternoon strolling around the place. There are picnic tables, a playground and trails to walk or bike just outside of the garden proper.