Iowa is quite the historic place, and when you visit the first area settled by Europeans, you’ll see why they fell in love with the cliffs, bluffs, and landscapes of the Hawkeye State. Take a quick and scenic hike to the Julien Dubuque Monument where you’ll find the resting place and memorial of two of Iowa’s most significant figures.

Most Iowans know that Dubuque was the first city settled by Europeans in the Hawkeye State, but how many have actually made the trek to the Mines of Spain that made history?
Tripadvisor / Eric G.
Make the short trek up a steep set of stairs to the Julien Dubuque Monument to see a sacred memorial site dedicated to the founder of the city.
AllTrails / Molly K. Kelchen
The stone tower is less than half a mile from the parking area, but it can be steep. This unique memorial is one of Iowa's most recognizable landmarks.
AllTrails / Roger Pavey
The tower sits at the top of a bluff overlooking the Mines of Spain. This was the first area settled by Dubuque for trapping, trading, and mining.
Tripadvisor / Lisa E.

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Julien Dubuque himself is buried here, and his grave is protected and preserved for all to see.
Google Local / Amanda Gil
Dubuque is not the only man buried at the top of this scenic bluff - Native American chielf Peosta rests here as well.
Tripadvisor / Timmer304
Peosta was a Mesquaki Chief who befriended Dubuque. Julien eventually married his daughter, Potosa, and maintained a friendly relationship with the Iowa natives in his settled area.
Tripadvisor / Illinois Kate
The vast panoramic views offered by this riverside cliff show off the landscape that gave Iowa a reputation for being a scenic, peaceful state. Visiting should be on every Iowan's bucket list.
Tripadvisor / Lisa E.

Address: 1810 Monument Drive, Dubuque, IA, 52003

Visit and enjoy the hike, the views, and the history of one of Iowa’s most significant landmarks.

For more fun in Iowa’s first city, read about how There Are More Than 350 Historic Buildings In This Special Iowa Town.

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