Halloween Fun for the Whole Family at Dubuque’s River Museum & Mathias Ham House

Over the years, I have had so many amazing opportunities to volunteer and partake in local Dubuque events at the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium. I remember handing out candy to tons of area kids when they used to hold the Haunting of the William M. Black on their campus. More recently, exploring the River Museum during their "Mad Scientist Party" has been a must for any family looking for an extra bit of fun during spooky season, and there’s more than just that to enjoy.

This October, the Dubuque County Historical Society is bringing back its lineup of family-friendly Halloween festivities across both the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium and the Mathias Ham Historic Site. Things kick off with A Haunting Around Lincoln Avenue on Friday, October 10th and Friday, October 17th, where guests can hop aboard the Trolleys of Dubuque for a unique, moving ghost tour.

Because of ongoing restoration work at the Mathias Ham House, the hauntings are taking to the streets this year, offering a guided journey through Dubuque’s history and its eerie local legends. The trolley departs from the Ham Historic Site, stops at the River Museum, and returns for refreshments. All along the way, spooky stories will be told. Tickets are $25 per person, with kids under two free, and advanced registration is a must.

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Then, on Sunday, October 26, families can head to the River Museum for the always-popular Mad Scientist Fun Day. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the museum will be packed with hands-on science experiments, live demos, and Halloween-themed activities. Kids can play with dry ice, write messages in invisible ink, and even see a pumpkin-powered keyboard in action! Plus, every youth ticket includes a reusable treat bag and a trip to the “candy bar” for sweet surprises.

Whether you’re hopping on a haunted trolley or mixing potions like a mad scientist, the River Museum and Mathias Ham Historic Site are keeping the Halloween spirit alive and well in Dubuque this October.