Trip Planner:   USA  /  Iowa  /  Dubuque  /  Fenelon Place Elevator Co.

Fenelon Place Elevator Co., Dubuque

4.7
Must see · Landmark · Tourist Spot
Create an itinerary including Fenelon Place Elevator Co.
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.
Improve this listing »
Create a full itinerary - for free!

Fenelon Place Elevator Co. reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
1,187 reviews
Google
4.7
TripAdvisor
  • 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 »
Google
  • 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 trip
    A full day by day itinerary based on your preferences
  • Customize it
    Refine your trip. We'll find the
    best routes and schedules
  • Book it
    Choose from the best hotels and activities. Up to 50% off
  • Manage it
    Everything in one place. Everyone on the same page.