Anniversary Trip Day 1--East Dubuque

We crossed back over to Illinois on the Julien Dubuque Bridge which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. I believe I heard someone say it was the longest continuous steelwork truss bridge in the world. Beautiful bridge and you go way high above the Mississippi.

We crossed into East Dubuque, past the beautiful Timmerman's Steakhouse sitting high above US-20 with the magnificent neon huge signs facing both directions. You get quite a view when you eat here. They also have a motel, but we usually get a room at the Swiss Inn, a great little mom and pop motel about 500 yards east of Timmerman's.

Rooms are clean and come with coffeemakers, minifridge, and microwaves; all for about $55 including tax. We especially like the place because there is a bar right on grounds, actually, it also serves as the motel office as this is where you get your room.

They have good food, but the kitchen was down. The bartender, the owner's son, suggested George and Dale's in downtown East Dubuque, so we checked it out. They are located on Sinsinawa Avenue along with a multitude of bars. East Dubuque is well-known for its large number of bars. They always get crowded on the weekends thanks to their 3:30 AM closing time and proximity to Dubuque, where the bars close much earlier. The downtown businesses say that they make most of their money after midnight.

This is even historical, dating back to when Iowa (and Dubuque) were dry. Folks just crossed the river to do their drinking.

The owner's son was right, the food, especially their famous hereabouts roast beef sandwich was one of the best I've ever had. Liz got a huge basket of chicken fingers which came with an enormous side of fries. I suggest it.

Went back to the Swiss Inn and watched the Cubs come from behind for an important win. Always a lot of friendly people in the bar and lots of interesting stories.

FINALLY Finished Day 1!!!!! --RoadDog