Start your plant and flower explorations #WhereIowaStarted. Learn all about our local nurseries, plant shops, farmers' market, arboretum, and more.
for the wanderer
Located on the Dubuque’s northwest side, the Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Garden is a site to see in the spring and summer months. Walk the grounds (open daily from 7am to dusk) and see 60 different types of gardens including Rose, Hosta, English, Japanese, Herb, and more. Run by volunteers there is no cost for entry, but donations are welcome.
Pro Tip:
Purchase Koi food at the Gift Shop to feed the fish in the Japanese Garden.
for the plant parent
Located just off of historic Main, this quaint shop has goods for the plant newbie or expert. From rare specimens to low maintenance lovers, you’ll find something to add to your collection. Have too many plants but still want to check it out? Support the local artists who have art, pottery, stickers, and more available for sale at Planted.
Pro Tip:
Check out their website for upcoming classes.
for the gardener
The Dubuque Farmers’ Market has been around since 1845, making it Iowa's oldest open-air market. Today, you can find farm raised meats, organic produce, tasty treats, handmade goods, and of course, gorgeous local flowers & plants. Market kicks off the first Saturday in May.
Pro Tip:
Come Early, some vendors sell out of their best items by mid-morning.
Love to look at flowers? How about blossoms that span the width of your outstretched arms? Visit the iconic ‘Ada Hayden’ mural painted by Gaia, located at 233 Main Street. This work of art interprets the work of Ada Hayden, a pioneering Iowa botanist who became the first woman to earn a PhD from Iowa State University.
Named Iowa’s ‘Very Best Street Art’ by Parade Magazine
For those who want to grow their outdoor collection of plants, check out Dubuque’s local nurseries. From perennials to annual plants Steve’s Ace Hardware, Cornerstone Nursery, and Wagner Nursery are just a few of the local shops for people who consider themselves to have a green thumb.
This restaurant and coffee shop is more than meets the eye. Convivium Urban Farmstead is a non-profit, urban farm, and education center located in Dubuque’s north end—an area with limited access to fresh food. With neighborhood-based gardens and even chickens for fresh eggs, it brings the community together to grow, learn, and share healthy food.
Pro Tip:
Take the self-guided garden tour after your meal.
Receive a print or digital version of the annual travel guide featuring, maps, events and all the best places to explore in the Dubuque area.
