National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium — Attraction in Dubuque

I had my wedding at the River Museum on 10/10/2020. We chose the museum in 1/2019. We were actually between the River Museum and the Grand River Center and had actually booked the Grand River Center initially but they had rules that contracts couldn’t be signed that early at that time. During a wedding vendor show, Grand River Center coordinator didn’t show much of an interest in us. As we rounded to Teri’s table, she remembered our names and was genuinely happy to see us. It may not seem like a lot to some people but that was what sealed the deal. The River Museum it was! From the first moment Teri was always there and willing to help with any question or concerns we had along the way. We booked the Train Depot for our ceremony which was a beautiful space even without decorations! We were a little worried about 2 things; the loud noises if trains pass and that in October the air conditioner may still be in the window. A train didn’t pass and the air conditioner was out! Even if the air conditioner was not out if you have 3-4 bridesmaids, I don’t think it would even be an issue and if your photographer is good enough, I don’t think they would even have it in the shot if you didn’t have any wedding party. Our wedding reception actually took place upstairs. I love the layout upstairs and it left plenty of room for COVID-19 social distance guidelines. The dance floor and supper happened upstairs then the photobooth from my DJ and the aquarium was downstairs. It is such a unique venue! The head table is served by staff which posed a slight problem due to me not eating beef and pork, but the beef and gravy ended up on my plate despite passing on the information beforehand. It wasn’t a huge deal because it was rectified immediately. Teri was at the venue for the whole wedding and tailored to all needs perfectly! At one point she was running because we decided to do our sparkler send off early so that she could get it set up. We are so appreciative of the assist that Teri and the River Museum provided us trying to make our wedding day as great as possible despite and ongoing pandemic. I felt safe every step of the way. If you are going back and forth on booking the River Museum let me just tell you to DO IT! You will...

The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium in Dubuque, Iowa, is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting the area. This remarkable institution beautifully bridges the gap between education, conservation, and hands-on exploration. Beyond being an engaging attraction for all ages, the museum is deeply committed to environmental stewardship and the preservation of aquatic life across the Mississippi River watershed and beyond.

The staff and conservation teams dedicate immense effort to protecting endangered species, rehabilitating wildlife, and promoting sustainable practices that safeguard the river ecosystem for future generations. Exhibits are not only visually stunning but also profoundly educational—each display offers insight into the delicate balance of river and ocean life, the importance of clean waterways, and humanity’s role in protecting them.

Whether you’re fascinated by history, aquatic life, or the interconnectedness of natural systems, the River Museum provides an inspiring and thought-provoking experience. Supporting their work by visiting is more than just a day of learning and wonder—it’s a contribution to vital conservation efforts that have a lasting impact...

Very nice museum with a lot to see and enjoy. I couldn't believe how uncrowded it was, especially since we visited on Columbus Day. We spent 6 hours there very easily.

The interpretive signs are sorely lacking and outdated. At some exhibits, there are no signs at all. At others, not all of the species are listed. The place was clean and the staff was friendly. There are two kids' areas, though not listed on the campus map. There is some sort of animal encounter, but I didn't see it mentioned online, it wasn't mentioned at the place where you purchase tickets, and it was at the same time as the movie we were in. The 4D movie is fun, but the glasses are big on even an adult, so we're very difficult to keep on my five-year-old. As soon as he would sit back in the seats the glasses would push forward because the arms of the glasses stuck out so far behind his head. There's a nice outdoor area and there's a big area where you can purchase fish food to feed, what I believe, are koi. There was no signs about that we just stumbled across it and we had a good time feeding the fish. The stingray petting and feeding was...