Claiming to be the shortest and steepest scenic railway in the world Fenelon Place Elevator Co. climbs 57.6 m (189 ft) in elevation during its mere 90.2 m (296 ft) long ascent. At the top, you can spend time on two observation decks overlooking downtown Dubuque and the Mississippi River. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978, the funicular is also known as the Fourth Street Elevator for its location at the end of Fourth Street. The lift was originally built for J.K. Graves, a politician and banker who lived at the top of the hill and wanted a faster way to reach the city. He opened it to the public in 1884. For Fenelon Place Elevator Co. and beyond, use our Dubuque trip itinerary planning app to get the most from your Dubuque vacation.
Fenelon Place Elevator Co. reviews
-
Stopped as random thing to do and went up the elevator not anticipating much. My vertigo was in full effect going up the elevator but the views once on top of the hill were stunning. The view of the..... more
Stopped as random thing to do and went up the elevator not anticipating much. My vertigo was in full effect going up the elevator but the views once on top of the hill were stunning. The view of the..... more »
-
This was a very pleasant experience while on our visit with our niece who lives in Dubuque. Very easy to get to and fun to ride. Met people from several different states while riding up and coming...
This was a very pleasant experience while on our visit with our niece who lives in Dubuque. Very easy to get to and fun to ride. Met people from several different states while riding up and coming... more »
-
This was a pretty cool spot while in the area. I am not sure I would say that you can't miss this while in town but, if you have time, I highly recommend stopping in. The views were cool and the...
This was a pretty cool spot while in the area. I am not sure I would say that you can't miss this while in town but, if you have time, I highly recommend stopping in. The views were cool and the... more »
-
Had a wonderful time! We were traveling through Dubuque, and discovered the Funicular on a painting. A quick Google search helped us find it's location. The trip takes 3 minutes up and another 3 minutes down the hill. Slow, pleasant, no stress, and the views from the top are fantastic! There is a wonderful shopping area surrounding the lower end of the Funicular. Unfortunately, we were on a time schedule, so did not have time to enjoy that area. There is an interesting story about its history, and past owners. Be sure to ask for info!
-
The funicular is a fun way to get from top to bottom of the hill. The ice cream shop at the bottom of the hill is also worth the stop for good treats and cute decorations. Scenic view from the top and the old time feel of the elevator make this a notable stop while visiting Dubuque
-
Great views! We parked at the bottom of the hill and took a round trip. It's cash only. The little cabins are very cute. It was a nice, slow ride.
-
This is a must if you are in Dubuque! It doesn't take long to ride to the top or back down. You get in the car and pull a cord to let the operator at the top know you are ready and he will send the car to the top. Spend as much time at the top as you like. Make sure you have cash on hand to ride the elevator.
-
Awesome!! Don't miss this! Super affordable at only $4 down & up again! Meander the beautiful downtown while you are there! Read the history of this elevator online because I didn't find it anywhere on site.
Plan your trip to Dubuque
-
Get a personalized tripA full day by day itinerary based on your preferences
-
Customize itRefine your trip. We'll find the
best routes and schedules -
Book itChoose from the best hotels and activities. Up to 50% off
-
Manage itEverything in one place. Everyone on the same page.
Know more
Hidden gems in Dubuque
Side trips from Dubuque
Wineries in Dubuque
Nearby attractions in Dubuque
Trips in Fenelon Place Elevator Co. by other users
39 days in Midwest
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Toledo
Frankenmuth
Mackinac Island
10 days in Iowa
BY A USER FROM MEXICO
Dubuque
Davenport
Cedar Rapids
22 days in Indiana, Iowa & Michigan
BY A USER FROM UNITED KINGDOM
Indianapolis
South Bend
Dubuque
61 days in Midwest
BY A USER FROM SWITZERLAND
Duluth
Badlands National Park
Custer
10 days in Galena
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Ghost & Vampire Tours
Ulysses S. Grant Home
Blaum Bros. Distilling Co.
3 days in Iowa
SEE PLAN
Dubuque
Des Moines
Urbandale
8 days in Moline
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Julien Dubuque Monument
8 days in Dearborn & Dubuque
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Dearborn
Dubuque
12 days in Minneapolis & Iowa
BY A USER FROM CANADA
Minneapolis
Council Bluffs
Des Moines
10 days in Dubuque & Flagstaff
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Dubuque
Flagstaff
8 days in Beloit
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Discovery Center Museum
Frank Lloyd Wright's Laurent House
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
4 days in Cedar Falls
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Big Woods Lake Recreation Area
Cedar Falls Main Street
Room Escape Games
Are you the owner of this business?
Click here for promotion tips.