Marquette Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Marquette, Iowa with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Marquette

Marquette is a picturesque town located in Northeast Iowa, in the heart of the Midwest region of the United States. Known for its natural beauty, historic sites, and outdoor recreation opportunities, Marquette is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a peaceful and relaxing getaway.

List of Places to Visit in Marquette

If you’re planning a trip to Marquette, here are some of the must-visit places in the area.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Driftless Area Education and Visitors Center: This educational center offers interactive exhibits, displays, and programs that showcase the unique geology and natural history of the Driftless Area region.
  • The Lady Luck Casino Marquette: This riverboat casino offers a wide range of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, and bingo.
  • Effigy Mounds National Monument: This monument features more than 200 mounds constructed by Native Americans more than 1,000 years ago. It’s an important cultural and historical site, and visitors can take guided tours to learn more about its significance.

Natural Attractions of Marquette: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pikes Peak State Park: This beautiful park is home to towering bluffs, cascading waterfalls, and scenic overlooks that offer breathtaking views of the Mississippi River.
  • Yellow River State Forest: This forest is a nature lover’s paradise, with hiking and biking trails, fishing streams, and peaceful camping sites.
  • The Mississippi River: This mighty river is a major attraction in the Marquette area, and visitors can take boat tours or simply soak up the stunning views from the riverfront.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Marquette

If you’re an outdoors enthusiast, Marquette has plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • The Great River Road: This scenic route runs along the Mississippi River and offers stunning views of the river as well as the surrounding bluffs and valleys.
  • The Trout Run Trail: This paved trail follows the picturesque Trout Run Creek and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • The Effigy Mounds National Monument Trail System: This trail system offers a variety of hiking options, ranging from short walks to longer treks through the forest.

Best Things to Do in Marquette: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for some fun activities and tours in Marquette, check out:

  • Fishing: The Mississippi River and surrounding streams are home to a wide variety of fish species, and fishing is a popular pastime in the area.
  • Boat Tours: The Mississippi River is a major attraction in Marquette, and there are plenty of boat tours available that offer scenic views of the river and surrounding areas.
  • Wine Tasting: Marquette is known for its wineries, and visitors can take tours and tastings at several local vineyards.

Week-Long Itinerary for Marquette

If you’re planning a longer trip to Marquette, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time in the area.

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Driftless Area Education and Visitors Center, and take a guided tour of Effigy Mounds National Monument.
Day 2 Explore Pikes Peak State Park, and take a boat tour of the Mississippi River.
Day 3 Hike the Trout Run Trail, and visit local wineries for tastings.
Day 4 Go fishing on the Mississippi River, and take a scenic drive along the Great River Road.
Day 5 Visit the Lady Luck Casino Marquette, and explore the local arts and crafts scene.
Day 6 Explore Yellow River State Forest, and take a hot air balloon ride for stunning aerial views.
Day 7 Spend a relaxing day at the riverfront, and enjoy the local food and drink scene.

Food and Drink Scene of Marquette

Marquette is known for its delicious food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to enjoy on your trip.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Iowa Pork Tenderloin: This classic Iowa dish features breaded and fried pork tenderloin served on a bun with toppings like mustard, pickles, or onions.
  • Corn-on-the-Cob: Iowa is known for its sweet corn, and you can find it everywhere in Marquette during the summer months.
  • Dubuque-style Pizza: This unique style of pizza is made with a thin, crispy crust and topped with sausage, onion, and sauerkraut.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Marquette has several local breweries that offer a variety of craft beers, including the Pulpit Rock Brewing Company and the Alluvial Brewing Company.
  • Wine: Marquette is home to several wineries, including the Eagles Landing Winery and the Park Farm Winery.
  • Kolaches: This traditional pastry is a local favorite in Marquette and is often served with coffee or tea.

Where to Stay in Marquette: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Marquette, here are some options to consider:

  • The Cobblestone Inn and Suites: This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as amenities like a fitness center and complimentary breakfast.
  • The Riverfront Guesthouse: This charming guesthouse is located right on the Mississippi River and offers beautiful views and cozy accommodations.
  • The McGregor-Marquette Center for the Arts: This hostel offers affordable accommodations and is a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

What to Buy in Marquette: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home from your trip to Marquette, check out:

  • Arts and Crafts: Marquette has a thriving arts and crafts scene, and you can find beautiful handmade items like pottery, jewelry, and paintings at local galleries and shops.
  • Local Wine and Beer: Marquette is known for its wine and beer, and you can bring home bottles from your favorite local wineries and breweries.
  • Antiques and Collectibles: Marquette has several antique shops and flea markets where you can find one-of-a-kind treasures to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Marquette

Marquette is a friendly and welcoming community with a strong sense of pride in its history and traditions. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, and should take the time to learn about the area’s rich cultural heritage.

Best Time to Visit Marquette

The best time to visit Marquette depends on your interests and preferences. The summer months are the most popular for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating, while the fall is a great time to enjoy the colorful foliage and local festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Marquette

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Take the time to explore the area’s natural beauty and historical sites.
  • Try local cuisine and beverages.
  • Attend local festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Litter or harm the natural environment.
  • Disrespect local traditions or customs.
  • Be loud or disruptive in residential areas.
  • Engage in illegal or dangerous activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Marquette

Marquette is a safe and welcoming destination, but visitors should take the usual precautions to ensure their safety. Always lock your car and hotel room, and don’t leave valuables unattended.

Health in Marquette

Marquette has several medical facilities and pharmacies for any health needs. Be sure to bring any necessary medication with you, and check in with your doctor before traveling.

Getting to Marquette: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Marquette

The nearest airport to Marquette is the Dubuque Regional Airport, which is about 25 miles away. The Cedar Rapids Airport and the La Crosse Airport are also within driving distance.

Bus Stations Near Marquette

There are several bus stations located near Marquette, including the Cedar Rapids Bus Station and the La Crosse Bus Station.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Marquette, as it’s located near several major highways in the Midwest region.

How to Get Around in Marquette

The best way to get around Marquette is by car or on foot. There are several rental car options available in the area, and many of the top attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Where to Go Next from Marquette: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to continue your travels after visiting Marquette, consider these nearby destinations:

  • Dubuque, Iowa: This historic city is known for its charming architecture, scenic riverfront, and lively arts and culture scene.
  • La Crosse, Wisconsin: This picturesque town is located on the Mississippi River and offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities, as well as attractions like the Dahl Auto Museum and Riverside Park.
  • Galena, Illinois: This charming town is known for its historic buildings, boutique stores, and scenic wineries.

Conclusion

Marquette is a hidden gem in the Midwest region, offering visitors a wide range of attractions and activities to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, history and culture, or simply relaxing in a beautiful natural setting, Marquette has something for everyone.