We made our way to Dubuque, Iowa to check out the Fenelon Place Elevator. Also known as the Fourth Street Elevator. Originally built in 1882, this historic cable car is a funicular railway elevating passengers 189 feet from Fouth St to Fenelon Place. They are open 8 AM to 10 PM daily April 1 though November 30. Closed Thanksgiving. If you’re interested in reading more about its history…
When we arrived we found parking on Fourth Street. I really loved the small town charm feeling I got from the street lined with a mix of homes and small businesses.
When starting out from the bottom, once the car is loaded, you pull the bell to signal to the top that you’re ready to go. Kaliko was enthused to pull the chain not only once but three times and scream “we’re ready!” Moments later the two, eight seater cars made their way up and down the track by pully system. Kaliko and Kalani hollered “faster, faster” as we climbed 296 feet up the hill. When you arrive at the top is where you pay for either a one way or round trip ticket. Children under 5 are free, 5-12 $2 round trip, and adults are $4 round trip. You can start out from either the top or bottom. If you start out at the top, you pay before you load.
After paying you pass through the turnstile and you are greeted with breathtaking views of downtown Dubuque business district, the Mississippi River, Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa and a line of people waiting to go down. As we made our way to the back of the line Kaliko sits down on the bench in front of him and says “Im bored!” I respond “how can you be bored with a view like this?”
Kids these days. They act like they can only find enjoyment out of having a screen in front of their face. On the way back down we had the car to ourselves.
Once we arrived at the bottom, we decided to head to Sweet Memories for a little ice cream treat. Dad and Kaliko shared cookies and cream and Kalani and I shared black cherry truffle. We are big ice cream fans in this family and this cold treat really hit the spot. As we made our way outside of the shop a beautiful horse and carriage came trotting up the street and parked directly in front of us. Kalani was over the moon excited to pet the magnificent black beauty as we talked to the woman who does private 30 minute rides through Dubuque.
This inexpensive day trip was one for the books! We will definitely be returning to the area again for a Christmas carriage ride in the snow this December.
TravelMoore 