Dubuque, Iowa’s oldest city and the birthplace of the state, is set to host the triumphant conclusion of RAGBRAI LIII on Saturday, July 25, 2026. After a week-long journey spanning roughly 391 miles from Onawa on the Missouri River, thousands of cyclists will pedal their final miles into Dubuque, dipping their tires in the mighty Mississippi River at A.Y. McDonald Park in a time-honored tradition. 

This marks the first time RAGBRAI has ended in Dubuque in 16 years, promising an unforgettable day of community celebration, economic boost, and scenic riding through the city’s streets. 

The Route Through Dubuque

Riders will enter the city limits from the west via Seippel Road near the county fairgrounds. The route then proceeds east on Chavenelle Road, through areas like the Dubuque Industrial Center West and Bergfeld Recreation Area, before turning north on Radford Road and east onto Pennsylvania Avenue. 

Continuing along Pennsylvania Avenue to University Avenue, the path shifts onto Loras Boulevard, guiding riders into the vibrant downtown area. From there, it follows East 14th Street to Jackson Street, Rhomberg Avenue, and finally Hawthorne Street, leading directly to the “dip site” at A.Y. McDonald Park. 

The bulk of bicycle traffic is expected between approximately 9 a.m. and noon, though riders may begin arriving as early as before 6 a.m. and continue throughout the day. The official route in the city is scheduled to close around 4 p.m. 

Street Closures and Traffic Impacts

To ensure rider safety, most streets along the route will be fully closed to vehicle traffic on Saturday, July 25. Pennsylvania Avenue is a key exception, where westbound traffic will be maintained. Designated crossing points controlled by police and city staff will allow some vehicle movement at intersections including:

•  Pennsylvania Ave. at the Northwest Arterial

•  Pennsylvania Ave. at John F. Kennedy Rd.

•  Loras Blvd. at N. Grandview Ave. and Central Ave.

•  E. 14th St. at White St.

•  Rhomberg Ave. at Fengler St. 

Additional impacts include restrictions on Kerper Boulevard for exiting riders and support vehicles. Parking along the route must be cleared by 6 a.m., with vehicles subject to ticketing and towing. A.Y. McDonald Park closes to the public starting Friday morning for preparations and has restricted parking on Saturday. 

Public pools will see changes: Sutton Pool will be closed, while Flora Pool remains accessible via alternate entrances. The Jule transit system will operate with reduced routes, and the local landfill will also close for the day. 

Pro Tip for Locals and Visitors: Plan ahead, use designated parking lots (such as the Former Georgia Pacific Lot, ImOn Arena, or Q Casino areas), and take advantage of free shuttles to the dip site from the Port of Dubuque grass lot (running 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.). 

Vendors, Information, and Entertainment at the Dip Site

A.Y. McDonald Park will buzz with activity as the official endpoint. Over 20 food and non-food vendors will be on hand to fuel celebrations:

Food Vendors include Proper Pub Nosh (hot dogs, loaded fries, etc.), Inspire Health & Wellness (wraps, salads, breakfast options), Moski’s BBQ, Magoo’s Pizza, Hungry Boys Taqueria, Americana Concessions, and The Outside Scoop for ice cream, among others. 

Non-food options feature local merchandise from Rally House, Clarke University gear, and various information booths. A beverage garden hosted in partnership with the Dubuque Jaycees will provide shaded seating and refreshments. 

Entertainment highlights include DJ performances throughout the day, fun photo opportunities, and a big screen with a live feed from Loras College (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) for rider shout-outs and viewing the downtown approach. 

Riders are encouraged to wear their official 2026 RAGBRAI jersey for the final leg and tire dip. The event is expected to generate significant economic impact, showcasing Dubuque’s historic downtown, riverfront attractions, and hospitality. 

For the latest maps, updates, volunteer opportunities, merchandise, and full details, visit DubuqueRAGBRAI.com or TravelDubuque.com/ragbrai. Whether you’re riding, cheering, vending, or spectating, Saturday in Dubuque promises to be a highlight of Iowa’s beloved cycling tradition. 

Safe riding, Dubuque—let’s make this finale one for the books!