The Iowa Tourism Office presented 26 awards recognizing excellence in the tourism industry at a recent ceremony in Des Moines during the 2022 Iowa Tourism Conference.

Four awards went to efforts central to Dubuque County tourism, including the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium for Outstanding Attraction, Beyond the Game for Outstanding Event, City of Balltown for Outstanding Community, and Travel Dubuque for Outstanding Promotional Material.

The award recognition showcases the diversity of tourist attractions and events in Dubuque County. Dubuque attracts well over 1.5 million tourists annually, and the number continues to increase.

Beyond the Game had major league baseball at the Field of Dreams in Dyersville. The endeavor brings millions of dollars of economic activity and national and international media exposure. 

The City of Balltown, located just 15 miles north of Dubuque along the Great River Road, attracts visitors looking to dine at Breitbach's, Iowa's oldest Restaurant. Additionally, the small town offers one of the state's most picturesque vantage points on the ridge overlooking the Mississippi River.

The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium provides a world-class destination showcasing exhibits and providing top-notch educational experiences for visitors. 

Travel Dubuque is the leading tourism promotional organization for the City and County. The folks at Travel Dubuque are responsible for spreading the positive word on all the fantastic things to see and do in the area.

Industry awards are recognition for a job well done in an incredibly competitive world of tourism. Kudos to those successful organizations and individuals working to keep Dubuque at the forefront of Iowa and midwestern tourism. 

Tourism is vital to the Iowa Economy, generating $1.5 billion in tax revenues in 2020, with more than $860 million supporting state and local governments while employing 60,218 people statewide. For more information on everything, Iowa has to offer tourists, visit traveliowa.com

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