A.Y. McDonald Park Playground

Good spot if you’ve got little ones in the 2-to-8 range — the equipment is scaled right for younger kids and there’s enough space to actually burn off some energy. Pack a lunch because the picnic tables get used for a reason, especially when the weather cooperates. A lot of Dubuque families make this a regular after-school stop, and you can see why. The walking path along the water is a nice bonus — do a loop while the kids play, or drag them along for a bit of both.