Felicia Carner
Published: March 11, 2009

DUBUQUE - Loras College Junior Regina Weber has a common complaint.

She claims, “There’s not much you can do after any kind of practices or engagements of some sort. If you’re under twenty-one you can’t go to a bar and relax. What can you do?”

She’s not the only student at Loras who feels the Dubuque Community lacks in its opportunities.

Sophomore Daniel Dobson states, “It’s hard to find a place to go and just hang out.”

However, there are some students that feel differently.

“Open your eyes and just venture out. I’m sure you’re bound to find something, Dubuque’s endless,” is the advice Loras Junior and Chamber intern, Meghan Willis gives to those unaware of the opportunities in Dubuque.

Wallis is a life-long Dubuque resident and says she is not disappointed in what Dubuque has to offer, even for minors.

Wallis says that there are some students that say “we don’t experience the college life because we’re not twenty-one and we can’t go out have a couple of drinks, and that’s not true.

And although the law says those under 21 have to be out of an establishment by 9:00pm if 35% of the sales stem from alcohol,

Wallis says the fun doesn’t have to stop then, especially with the recent expansion of the Diamond Jo.

“We have a great new casino and a great new bowling alley upstairs called Cherry Lanes.”

Wallis also mentions the numerous festivals that take place in downtown Dubuque or if you’re looking for a place sit down, socialize, and do some homework there are a variety of coffee shops located downtown.

And with the recent addition of free wireless internet access for all of the downtown, Wallis says you are able to do your work in the park.

So it seems there are things to do in Dubuque even if you’re 21.

Trick is, knowing where to look.

For upcoming events and attractions you can check out Dubuque 365’s website.

Felicia Carner can be reached at Felicia.Carner@loras.edu