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- National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium
Where are we going?
Address: 350 East 3rd Street, Port of Dubuque, Iowa 52001, USA How do we get there? Number: 563.557.9545
About this activity
The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium gives you a unique opportunity to learn all about their historical collections, as well as their living collections - why? Because it's both a museum AND an aquarium of course!
This family-friendly day out along the grand Mississippi River has two very different types of collections, both of which will fascinate and educate!
The historical collections feature items of the Dubuque County Historical Society, which record the people of the county, as well as the Mississippi River Valley. Kids might be amazed at how much interesting history there is right under their feet!
These collections also explore the rivers of the USA, and their connection to the people and the environment. Kids can explore Native American life, as well as early settlement, commerce, river art, conservation, and even music!
Then of course, there is the aquarium within the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium! Kids can come face to face with sweet creatures such as otters, creatures from the flooded forest regions, the bayou, and even catfish and gar within their largest freshwater habitat - the Main Channel.
These exhibits really let kids learn about the different environments there are within the area, and how different the creatures are within each one.
Learning is made even more fun with various animal programs, including creature features, and fish feeding, and there is a super fun 3D and 4d theater experience - complete with sound, mist and wind to make the experience that much more real!
Great historic and ecological fun at this Mississippi museum and aquarium - what will you discover today!?
Activity location
Directions
GPS: Latitude N42°29'47" (42.496°) Longitude W90°39'40" (-90.661°)
FROM HIGHWAY 20 EAST BOUND: Follow Hwy 20 East toward the Illinois Bridge. At the intersection before the Illinois Bridge, turn left to, "Downtown/Civic Center" then follow Locust St for 3 blocks to Third Street. Turn right on Third St, until you come to T intersection. Turn right at the intersection, turn right again into museum parking lot.The museum is to the left Get directions
How much does it cost?
Adults
$20.95 admission only. $25.90 for admission & film
Children
$14.95 (ages 3-17) admission only. $20.90 admission + film
Discount
Senior (65+) $18.95 admission only. $23.90 admission & film
Free Under
3 years
Last Updates
2023
National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium FAQ’s
They have many dynamic exhibits that help teach the public, especially kids and families, what they can do to help conserve and preserve our rivers, oceans and wildlife.
Special family bathroom with diaper changing board are available at both centers. All bathroom facilities are very large and accommodating to strollers and wheelchairs.
"River’s Edge Café" in the National River Center.
"Mississippi Grounds" coffee/snack counter in the Mississippi River Center.
Refreshments are also available at both Gift Shop locations.
Admission tickets are good for two consecutive days (valid only with receipt of purchase).
Don’t forget to explore the entire Museum & Aquarium, which includes two buildings, a National Landmark vessel and outdoor spaces.
Tickets to the 3D/4D Theater are separate from Admission; save money with the "Total Experience" packages… ask the box office upon your arrival for details.
Add a “Combo Ticket” to each admission for just $3 and visit our historical sites too!
Bring that pocket money, because there is plenty to take home! Logo merchandise, educational toys, books, music, local artisan items, snacks/beverages, memorabilia, and more!
There are several learning opportunities at the Museum & Aquarium including water conservation, environmental education, river history and culture.
It's a great way for students to really learn all about something really special!
Special family bathroom with diaper changing board are available at both centers. All bathroom facilities are very large and accommodating to strollers and wheelchairs.
Healthy snack options and vegetarian meal choices are available at the River’s Edge Café and the Mississippi Grounds snack counter.
They have extra wheelchairs and strollers on site available for guest use.
The William M. Black National Landmark vessel has limited access for wheelchairs and strollers. All other areas of the Museum & Aquarium are accessible.
Keep an eye on changing exhibits so you don't miss out!
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