Hotel Julien Dubuque: A Luxurious Stay in the Heart of Dubuque

Are you planning a trip to Dubuque, Iowa and looking for an excellent place to stay? Look no further than the Hotel Julien Dubuque, a luxurious and historic hotel that offers unparalleled comfort and convenience.With its prime location in the heart of downtown Dubuque, the hotel is just steps away from top attractions and entertainment venues, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers.

History And Architecture Of Hotel Julien Dubuque

Origins Of The Hotel

The Hotel Julien Dubuque is a historic hotel located in Dubuque, Iowa. The hotel has a rich history that dates back to the early 1830s when Dubuque was a bustling river town on the Mississippi River.

The original building that housed the hotel was constructed in 1839 and was known as the Waples House. The Waples House was a three-story brick building that was considered one of the finest hotels west of Chicago at the time.

Over the years, the hotel changed hands several times and underwent numerous renovations and expansions. In 1915, a fire destroyed the original building, and it was replaced with the current structure.

The new building was designed by the architectural firm of Fridolin J. Heer and Julius A. Schweinfurth. The building’s design incorporated elements of the Italian Renaissance Revival style and the Beaux-Arts style, which were popular at the time.

Today, the Hotel Julien Dubuque stands as a testament to Dubuque’s rich history and architectural heritage. The hotel has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974 and continues to be a popular destination for visitors to the area.

Architectural Features And Design

Hotel Julien Dubuque is an architectural masterpiece that showcases the rich history of Dubuque. The hotel’s architecture is a blend of French Renaissance and Art Deco styles, which gives it a unique and elegant look. The hotel has undergone several renovations to preserve its historical significance while incorporating modern amenities.

One of the most prominent features of Hotel Julien Dubuque is its stunning façade. The building’s exterior is made of limestone, and the entrance is adorned with a grand archway that leads into the lobby. The lobby features a beautiful terrazzo floor and a grand staircase that leads up to the second floor.

The hotel’s interior is just as impressive as its exterior. The guest rooms are designed with comfort and luxury in mind, and each room features high ceilings, large windows, and plush bedding. The bathrooms are spacious and feature marble countertops and walk-in showers.

Hotel Julien Dubuque also boasts several unique design elements, such as the rooftop garden. The garden offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and downtown Dubuque, making it the perfect spot for a romantic evening or a relaxing afternoon.

In addition to its architectural features, Hotel Julien Dubuque is also home to several rare and valuable antiques. These items are on display throughout the hotel and include vintage furniture, artwork, and rare books. Some of these items have even been sold at auction for exorbitant prices.

Historic Significance

The Hotel Julien Dubuque is a historic landmark in the city of Dubuque, Iowa. It was first built in 1839 by a French Canadian fur trader named Julien Dubuque, who settled in the area in the late 1700s. The hotel has played an important role in the history of Dubuque, serving as a gathering place for locals and travelers alike.

Throughout its history, the Hotel Julien Dubuque has hosted many notable guests, including President Abraham Lincoln and his family. During the Civil War, the hotel served as a recruiting center for Union soldiers. In addition, it was also used as a hospital for wounded soldiers during the war.

The hotel’s historic significance extends beyond its role in American history. It is also a prime example of early 19th-century architecture. The original building was constructed in the Greek Revival style, with a symmetrical facade and columns supporting a pedimented roof. Over the years, the hotel has undergone several renovations and expansions, but its historic character has been carefully preserved.

Today, the Hotel Julien Dubuque is recognized as one of the finest examples of historic architecture in the Midwest. Its elegant design and rich history continue to attract visitors from all over the world.

Accommodations And Amenities

Luxurious Guest Rooms And Suites

Hotel Julien Dubuque offers luxurious guest rooms and suites that are designed to provide guests with the ultimate comfort and relaxation. Each room is beautifully decorated with modern furnishings, high-quality linens, and plush bedding to ensure a good night’s sleep.

The hotel features 133 guest rooms, including 14 spacious suites, each with its unique design and layout. The suites offer a separate living area, wet bar, and Jacuzzi tubs, making them perfect for couples or families who want to indulge in a little luxury during their stay.

All of the rooms come equipped with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a mini-fridge. Guests can also enjoy the convenience of room service, which is available 24/7.

For those looking for an extra special experience, the Penthouse Suite is the epitome of luxury. This two-story suite features a private outdoor terrace with stunning views of the Mississippi River, a fireplace, and a Jacuzzi tub. It’s no surprise that this suite is a popular choice for weddings, anniversaries, and other special occasions.

Hotel Julien Dubuque’s luxurious guest rooms and suites offer the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, making it the ideal place to stay for anyone looking to indulge in a little pampering.

On-Site Dining And Bar Options

Hotel Julien Dubuque offers its guests a range of on-site dining and bar options to suit their tastes and preferences. These dining options include Caroline’s Restaurant, Riverboat Lounge, and Potosa Spa.

Caroline’s Restaurant is Hotel Julien Dubuque’s signature restaurant that serves contemporary American cuisine with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has received numerous awards for its food and service, including the AAA Four Diamond Award and the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. Guests can enjoy their meals in the elegant dining room or on the outdoor terrace overlooking the Mississippi River.

Riverboat Lounge is a lively bar located in the lobby of the hotel. It offers a wide selection of wines, beers, and cocktails, as well as a small bites menu. Guests can relax in the comfortable seating area while enjoying their drinks and watching the hustle and bustle of the lobby.

Potosa Spa is not just a spa but also a café that serves healthy snacks and beverages. Guests can enjoy a light meal or a refreshing drink before or after their spa treatments. The café’s menu features organic and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.

Spa And Fitness Center

Hotel Julien Dubuque offers a luxurious Spa and Fitness Center for its guests. The Potosa Spa is a full-service spa that provides relaxation and rejuvenation to the body, mind, and soul. It offers a wide range of services including massages, facials, body treatments, and salon services. Guests can indulge in a variety of treatments such as hot stone massage, deep tissue massage, Swedish massage, and aromatherapy massage. The Potosa Spa uses only high-quality products and employs professional therapists who are trained to provide personalized services to meet individual needs.

The Fitness Center at Hotel Julien Dubuque is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to cater to the fitness needs of its guests. It has treadmills, elliptical machines, stationary bikes, free weights, and other cardio and strength training equipment. The Fitness Center is open 24/7, allowing guests to work out at their convenience. The hotel also offers yoga classes for those who prefer a more holistic approach to fitness.

For those who are interested in rare and unique items, the hotel occasionally hosts auctions for antique and collectible items. Some of the items sold in these auctions include vintage jewelry, rare coins, and antique furniture. These items can fetch high prices, and collectors from all over the world participate in these auctions.

Meeting And Event Spaces

Hotel Julien Dubuque offers a variety of meeting and event spaces to accommodate any occasion. The hotel boasts over 14,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, including the elegant Grand Ballroom, which can accommodate up to 400 guests for a seated banquet or up to 600 guests for a reception.

In addition to the Grand Ballroom, there are several other smaller meeting rooms available, such as the River Room, which offers stunning views of the Mississippi River, and the Potosi Room, which is perfect for more intimate gatherings.

All meeting and event spaces at Hotel Julien Dubuque come equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, complimentary Wi-Fi, and on-site catering services provided by Caroline’s Restaurant. The hotel’s experienced event staff is also available to assist with planning and execution, ensuring that every event is a success.

For those looking for a unique event space, Hotel Julien Dubuque also offers the Riverboat Twilight, a replica 19th-century steamboat that can be chartered for private events. The Riverboat Twilight can accommodate up to 150 guests and offers a one-of-a-kind setting for weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions.

Hotel Julien Dubuque’s meeting and event spaces have been recognized with numerous awards, including the prestigious Meetings & Conventions Magazine’s Gold Key Award and the Successful Meetings Pinnacle Award. With its beautiful setting, state-of-the-art facilities, and experienced staff, Hotel Julien Dubuque is the perfect choice for any meeting or event.

Attractions And Activities Near Hotel Julien Dubuque

National Mississippi River Museum And Aquarium

The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium is a must-visit attraction for anyone staying at the Hotel Julien Dubuque. Located just a short distance from the hotel, this museum offers visitors a chance to learn about the history and ecology of the Mississippi River.

The museum features a variety of exhibits that showcase the river’s past and present. Visitors can explore replicas of historic steamboats and see how they were used to transport goods up and down the river. They can also learn about the river’s ecosystem and the many different species of plants and animals that call it home.

One of the highlights of the museum is the aquarium, which features a variety of freshwater fish and other aquatic creatures. Visitors can watch as these animals swim in their natural habitats and learn about the importance of preserving the river’s ecosystem.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Mississippi River and its impact on American history and culture, be sure to visit the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium during your stay at the Hotel Julien Dubuque.

For more information about the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, visit their official website at https://www.rivermuseum.com/.

Eagle Point Park

Eagle Point Park is one of the most popular attractions near Hotel Julien Dubuque. Located just a few miles north of the hotel, this park offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding bluffs. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, picnicking, and fishing.

The park covers over 200 acres and features several scenic overlooks with panoramic views of the river. There are also several hiking trails that wind through the woods and along the bluffs, offering visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area. For those who prefer to relax and take in the scenery, there are plenty of picnic areas and benches scattered throughout the park.

Fishing is another popular activity at Eagle Point Park. The park has several fishing piers and access points along the river, making it a great spot for anglers of all skill levels. The Mississippi River is home to a wide variety of fish species, including catfish, bass, and walleye.

For those who want to learn more about the history and ecology of the area, there are several interpretive displays and educational exhibits located throughout the park. These displays provide information on the local flora and fauna, as well as the cultural and historical significance of the Mississippi River.

Eagle Point Park is open year-round, although some facilities may be closed during the winter months. Admission to the park is free, although there is a small fee for parking. Visitors can also purchase daily fishing permits for $10.

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Dubuque Arboretum And Botanical Gardens

The Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is one of the most beautiful attractions near Hotel Julien Dubuque. The gardens are spread over 52 acres and have a wide variety of flora and fauna for visitors to explore. The arboretum has several themed gardens such as the English Garden, Japanese Garden, Rose Garden, Hosta Glade, and Herb Garden.

Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the walking trails and enjoy the beauty of nature. The gardens also have several water features such as fountains, ponds, and streams that add to the serenity of the place. The Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is a popular destination for nature lovers, photographers, and families looking for a fun day out.

The Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is open year-round and admission is free. However, donations are always welcome to help maintain the gardens. The gardens also offer several educational programs and events throughout the year.

If you are visiting Hotel Julien Dubuque, make sure to add the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens to your list of must-visit attractions. It is a perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.

Website: https://dubuquearboretum.net/

Cable Car Square

Cable Car Square is a historic district located in downtown Dubuque, Iowa, just a short walk from Hotel Julien Dubuque. The area gets its name from the cable car system that used to run through it, transporting people up and down the steep bluffs that surround the city.

Today, Cable Car Square is a charming neighborhood filled with unique shops, restaurants, and attractions. Visitors can take a stroll through the area’s tree-lined streets, admiring the beautiful architecture of the historic buildings that date back to the mid-1800s.

One of the most popular attractions in Cable Car Square is the Fenelon Place Elevator, also known as the Fourth Street Elevator. This funicular railway takes passengers on a scenic ride up the hillside, offering stunning views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding countryside.

Another must-see destination in Cable Car Square is the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium. This fascinating museum features interactive exhibits that explore the history and ecology of the Mississippi River, as well as a variety of live animals and fish.

For those who love shopping, Cable Car Square is home to several unique boutiques and specialty stores. Visitors can browse for handmade jewelry at Mulberry Street, pick up a new outfit at Charlotte’s, or find the perfect gift at River Lights Bookstore.

Cable Car Square is a delightful destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, shopping, or just enjoying the scenery, this charming neighborhood is definitely worth a visit during your stay at Hotel Julien Dubuque.

Reviews And Ratings Of Hotel Julien Dubuque

Positive Reviews From Guests

Hotel Julien Dubuque has received numerous positive reviews from guests who have stayed at the hotel. Many of the guests have praised the hotel’s excellent service, luxurious amenities, and comfortable accommodations.

One guest wrote on TripAdvisor, “The staff was amazing! Everyone was so friendly and accommodating. The room was spacious and clean, and the bed was incredibly comfortable. I loved the spa and the pool area too.”

Another guest shared their experience on Booking.com, stating, “The hotel was beautiful and very clean. The staff was extremely friendly and helpful. We enjoyed the spa and the restaurant on-site. Overall, it was a wonderful stay.”

As seen from the above reviews, many guests have enjoyed their stay at Hotel Julien Dubuque and highly recommend it to others. The hotel’s exceptional service, luxurious amenities, and comfortable accommodations have made it a popular choice among travelers.

Overall Ratings And Rankings

Hotel Julien Dubuque has consistently received high ratings and rankings from various travel websites and publications. It has been recognized as one of the top hotels in Iowa by U.S. News & World Report, TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards, and Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.

According to U.S. News & World Report, Hotel Julien Dubuque is ranked #1 in Best Hotels in Iowa and #3 in Best Hotels in the Midwest. TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards named it as the #2 Top Hotel in Iowa in 2020. Additionally, Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards recognized the hotel as the #4 Top Hotel in the Midwest in 2019.

The hotel’s excellent service, luxurious amenities, and prime location are some of the factors that contribute to its high ratings and rankings. Guests have praised the hotel for its spacious rooms, comfortable beds, and beautiful views of the Mississippi River. The hotel’s spa, Potosa Spa, has also received high ratings for its relaxing treatments and exceptional service.

Conclusion

Experience the ultimate in luxury and comfort during your stay in Dubuque by choosing the Hotel Julien Dubuque. With its rich history, prime location, and top-notch amenities, this hotel is sure to exceed your expectations.Book your stay today and see for yourself why the Hotel Julien Dubuque is the premier choice for travelers visiting Dubuque, Iowa.

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