User:(WT-en) Dyersvillechamber

Dyersville is a city in Eastern Iowa A few settlers, mostly English, were scattered about this vicinity in 1837. The first deed for land in the community was recorded by Joseph Hewitt on August 8, 1839.

A group of Bavarians settled in the area in 1846. Covered wagons brought ten families comprised of 42 souls. They homesteaded and were the nucleus of our farming community.

James Dyer arrived in the area in 1847, at the age of 26, and selected this site for his settlement. His family and friends followed from Somersetshire, England in 1848 and a community was established. Dyer was a man of means and good judgment and great progress was made under his leadership. An intensive building program was initiated that included grist and saw mills, shops, hotels, fine homes and many churches. The town was known as Dyersville as early as February 13, 1849.

The panics and depressions of 1857 and 1873 caused many of the English to leave for places promising better fortunes in finance, commerce and trade, for which they had been trained. The English began to relinquish their leadership to the Germans in about 1857 with the arrival of the Bulingers, Forkenbrocks, Goerdts, Holschers and Schultzes. Their children, having inherited the pioneer spirit, struck out on their own and soon induced their elders to sell out and join them.

The influx of Germans began when Bernard and Henry Holscher opened a General Merchandise Store on West Main, near the bridge, in January of 1858. It was the first German speaking place of business opened. They started a trade center where farmers could buy their needs and sell their products.

James Dyer died on November 2, 1864 at the age of 44 leaving behind him many accomplishments after only 17 years in a new state.

As the migration of the English continued, they sold farms, homes and stores to the Germans, who by 1910 had taken an almost exclusive possession of Dyersville and the surrounding area.

Many of the homes built by the early English still exist today. There are many descendants of the English living here also, some having married into German families. There is also a sprinkling of Irish, some of whose ancestors came with the building of the railroads and stayed.

Get in
Dyersville is only 25 minutes West of Dubuque right on U.S. Highway 20 and Highway 136.

From the NORTH (Twin Cities/Minneapolis): Take U.S. Highway 52 (2-lane) From the NORTHEAST (Madison/Milwaukee): Take U.S. Highway 151 (4-lane), then U.S. Highway 20 (4-lane) EAST (Rockford/Chicago): Take U.S. Highway 20 (mostly 4-lane, some 2-lane) SOUTH (Quad Cities/Davenport): Take U.S. Highway 61 (4-lane), then U.S. Highway 20 (4-lane) SOUTHWEST (Cedar Rapids/Iowa City): Take U.S. Highway 151 (4-lane), then Highway 136 North (2-lane) WEST (Waterloo): Take U.S. Highway 20 (4-lane)

See
While in the Dyersville area, be sure to take in a few of these attractions:

DYERSVILLE

Field of Dreams Movie Site Come visit this family farm with a baseball diamond carved into its heart. This is the original setting where the movie was filmed. There are no organized activities on the field so bring your favorite baseball equipment and play on this world renowned field. Free admission. Open daily April through November, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Souvenirs available. Call 1-888-875-8404.  E-mail: info@fodmoviesite.com

Basilica of St. Francis Xavier Only one of 52 Basilicas in the United States and is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the Midwest. In the fall of 2001, a 21-month restoration of the interior of the Basilica was completed. Open daily from sunup to sundown. Tours available by appointment. Call the rectory at (563) 875-7325. Located downtown, 104 3rd St. S.W..

National Farm Toy Museum This museum offers an array of 30,000 farm toys, trucks, banks and other toys of interest to both the serious collector and casual visitor. Farm scenes illustrate the importance of agriculture throughout history to present day. Visit our 45-seat theater and enjoy the “Toys to Treasures” 10-minute movie. Located at Highways 20 and 136, open daily 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., 1110 16th Ave. Ct. S.E., (563) 875-2727.  E-mail: farmtoys@dyersville.com

Dyer-Botsford Doll Museum Home of Dyersville’s founder, this restored Victorian features a rare revolving German Feather Christmas tree and German ornaments and includes a collection of over 1,200 dolls. Open May through November, weekdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. 331 1st Ave. E.  For more information, call (563) 875-2414. 

Plaza Antique Mall Home to over 200+ dealers offering a wide variety of antiques, collectibles and farm toys. Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Located across from the National Farm Toy Museum. (563) 875-8945.
 * Named the Top Antique Mall in Eastern Iowa by KCRG TV9, Spring 2008!

Becker Woodcarving Museum One of Iowa’s most unique carving museums. Located four miles northeast of Dyersville. Open May through October. Call (563) 875-2087

All American Homes Watch the process of homes being built in their factory and take a walk through five model homes. Tours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 1:30 p.m., must be 15 or older to go on tour. Located at 1551 15th Ave. S.E. (563) 875-2421. 

Heritage Trail 26-mile all season trail from Dyersville to Dubuque. Reveals a unique cross-section of geological, natural, archaeological and human history. Walking, biking, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Daily fees $2.10 or $10.50 per year. Passes available at Chamber of Commerce. For information call (563) 556-6745.

Dyersville Family Aquatic Center Located adjacent to the Dyersville Commercial Club Park. 150’ body slide, drop slide, child’s play area, zero depth swimming, sand volleyball and park area. Open daily 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. (563) 875-8675.

Evers Toy Store PO Box 241 204 1st Ave E Dyersville, IA 52040 (563) 875-2438 1-800-962-9481 Carrying over 5000 products from over 20 different manufacturers and distributing them worldwide to over 25,000 individuals and businesses.
 * Named the Top Store for Childrens Toy Shopping in Eastern Iowa by KCRG TV9, Spring 2008!

Learning Curve Brands, Inc. Outlet Located one block south of HWY 20 on HWY 136 Dyersville, IA 52040 (563) 875-2000

Toy Collector Club of America / SpecCast Outlet 1235 16th Ave Ct SE (next door to Plaza Antique Mall) Dyersville, IA 52040 (563) 875-9263

EARLVILLE

Tri-State Raceway The newest NHRA Division V raceway. Drag racing every Sunday April through October. RV camping with full hook-ups, (563) 923-2267. For racing information, please call (563) 923-DRAG. 

NEW VIENNA

Heritage House Museum 7396 Columbus St. New Vienna. A former convent, converted to a German Museum featuring 23 rooms of antiques, artifacts, and hand-crafted quilts. Open daily 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. May through November. Handicap accessible. For tour call (563) 921-2620 or 921-3775 or write New Vienna Historical Society, Box 187, New Vienna, IA 52065.

Willenborg Ag and Statuary Located on Highway 136 south of New Vienna, features the largest selection of lawn ornaments in Northeast Iowa. Open 7 days a week from April 1 through December 24, Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sundays by appointment. (563) 921-4275.

DUBUQUE

Dubuque County Fair Association We are more than Fair! The Fairgrounds hosts nearly 300 events each year besides the annual 6-day fair, including weekly dances, receptions, banquets, flea markets, auctions, gun shows and so much more. Visit our website for a list of upcoming events at www.dbqfair.com

Dubuque Greyhound Park and Casino Enjoy a newly updated facility with slots, games and more! 

Diamond Jo Casino Come see the brand new Diamond Jo. Table games, slots and fun all in one place! 

Park Farm Winery A family owned Chateau styled winery located in the rolling hills of Northeast Iowa. Authentic wine experience with unassuming Midwest feel and service. On nice days, enjoy a glass of wine on the deck or bring a picnic to enjoy by the vineyards. 

National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium Enjoy dynamic aquariums, historical exhibits and a stroll through the wetlands and boatyard. Tour the steamboat William M. Black and watch as a boat is launched into the Mississippi River. For more information or call 563-557-9545. 

Do
Tri-State Raceway The newest NHRA Division V raceway. Drag racing every Sunday April through October. RV camping with full hook-ups, (563) 923-2267. For racing information, please call (563) 923-DRAG. 

Heritage Trail 26-mile all season trail from Dyersville to Dubuque. Reveals a unique cross-section of geological, natural, archaeological and human history. Walking, biking, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Daily fees $2.10 or $10.50 per year. Passes available at Chamber of Commerce. For information call (563) 556-6745.

Dyersville Family Aquatic Center Located adjacent to the Dyersville Commercial Club Park. 150’ body slide, drop slide, child’s play area, zero depth swimming, sand volleyball and park area. Open daily 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. (563) 875-8675.

Buy
Willenborg Ag and Statuary Located on Highway 136 south of New Vienna, features the largest selection of lawn ornaments in Northeast Iowa. Open 7 days a week from April 1 through December 24, Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sundays by appointment. (563) 921-4275.

Evers Toy Store PO Box 241 204 1st Ave E Dyersville, IA 52040 (563) 875-2438 1-800-962-9481 Carrying over 5000 products from over 20 different manufacturers and distributing them worldwide to over 25,000 individuals and businesses.
 * Named the Top Store for Childrens Toy Shopping in Eastern Iowa by KCRG TV9, Spring 2008!

Learning Curve Brands, Inc. Outlet Located one block south of HWY 20 on HWY 136 Dyersville, IA 52040 (563) 875-2000

Toy Collector Club of America / SpecCast Outlet 1235 16th Ave Ct SE (next door to Plaza Antique Mall) Dyersville, IA 52040 (563) 875-9263

Eat
Breitbach’s Country Dining, Balltown 563 Balltown Road, Balltown Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. (563) 552-2220 Enjoy a visit to Iowa’s Oldest Bar and Restaurant. You will enjoy homemade goodness and homespun hospitality! Re-opening summer 2009.
 * Groups Welcome

Chad’s Pizza & Restaurant 108 1st Ave. W., Dyersville. Open 11 a.m. Tuesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner. (563) 875-2483 Offering a full menu family dining experience! Our lunch and weekend buffet includes our signature pizza and famous broasted chicken! Also offering delivery service and full catering service.
 * Groups Welcome

Country Junction Restaurant 913 15th Ave. SE, Dyersville Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Banquet facilities available. Where food is fixed the old-fashioned way. (563) 875-7055 or (800) 598-9466. 
 * Groups Welcome

DQ Grill-n-Chill 640 16th Ave. SE, Dyersville Open daily 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. (563) 875-7117
 * Groups Welcome

English Pub 210 1st Ave. E., Dyersville Open 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily (563) 875-8832

First Avenue Bakery 135 2nd Street NE, Dyersville Open Tuesday through Friday 5:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Saturday 6 a.m. to noon, Sunday 6 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., closed Monday. (563) 875-6198

Golden Wok 639 16th Ave. SE, Dyersville Chinese lunch and dinner buffets. Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (563) 875-8160
 * Groups Welcome

Groovy Grounds 211 1st Ave. E, Dyersville Unique coffee house in the heart of downtown Dyersville. Serving fine gourmet coffee, specialty drinks, pastries, sandwiches and fruit smoothies. (563) 875-6251

Happy Joes Pizza & Ice Cream Parlor 1213 12th Ave SE, Dyersville. Serving lunch & dinner. Open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. (563) 875-7263
 * Groups Welcome

Home Plate 217 1st Avenue East, Dyersville. (563) 875-2050 Offering home cooked meals prepared to your liking. Also offering crock pot catering for small gatherings, office meetings and more! Daily lunch specials available for dine in or carryout. Open Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

J & D Mart Highway 136 North, New Vienna Sandwiches, subs, chicken, catering. Monday through Saturday 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (563) 921-2935

Kwik Stop 740 18th Ave. SW, Dyersville Featuring Godfathers Pizza and Chesterfried Chicken. Open daily. (563) 875-8490

McDonald’s of Dyersville 1510 9th St. SE, Dyersville (563) 875-7600 Open Sunday 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., Monday through Thursday 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday and Saturday 6 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
 * Groups Welcome

The Palace 149 1st Ave. E., Dyersville (563) 875-2284 Open Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Featuring antique back bar which is over 100 years old.
 * Groups Welcome

Pizza Hut 1845 8th St. SE, Dyersville. Open Sunday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (563) 875-2788
 * Groups Welcome

Quizno’s 1426 9th Street SE, Dyersville Open daily 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Toasted subs, hot soups and fresh salads (563) 875-2434
 * Groups Welcome

Simon's Family Restaurant & Catering 202 2nd Street SW Worthington, IA 52078 (563) 855-2055 Open every day at 7:30 a.m., Sundays closed at noon, Mondays closed at 2 p.m. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Noon specials Monday through Friday. We cater all events.

Subway 605 16th Ave. SE, Dyersville Open 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (563) 875-6060

Drink
Park Farm Winery A family owned Chateau styled winery located in the rolling hills of Northeast Iowa. Authentic wine experience with unassuming Midwest feel and service. On nice days, enjoy a glass of wine on the deck or bring a picnic to enjoy by the vineyards. 

Sleep
Dyersville

Colonial Inn Located on Highway 136 in Dyersville. Clean, comfortable, reasonable. Features 31 units, cable TV and Cinemax. MC/V/DS/AX/DC accepted. Call (563) 875-7194.

Comfort Inn Located off Highway 20, 527 16th Ave. S. E. Indoor pool and whirlpool, meeting/banquet room, free High Speed Internet access and free enhanced continental breakfast. All room include iron & ironing board, hairdryers, coffee maker, full length mirror. Bus Groups Welcome! Call (563) 875-7700 or (800) 424-6423 

Super 8 Located east of Highway 136 on 15th Ave. S. E. in Dyersville. Featuring 45 rooms, Super Start Breakfast, whirlpool suites, suites, wireless high speed internet, fitness room, bus & truck parking, 27” TV, coffee makers and hair dryers in all rooms. MC/V/DS/AX/DC accepted. Call (563) 875-8885 or (800) 800-8000. 

Uptown B&B 208 3rd St. SE, Dyersville Early 1900’s home built by a prominent Dyersville businessman to accommodate his large family. Featuring 3 bedrooms, one full kitchen, bath and living room. (563) 875-2730

DUBUQUE

Best Western Midway 3100 Dodge Street Dubuque, IA 52003 (563) 557-8000 1-800-336-4392 149 spacious guest rooms, domed tropical recreation area with indoor pool and whirlpool, fitness room, restaurant, lounge, meeting and banquet facilities for 300 people.

Grand Harbor Resort 350 Bell Street Dubuque, IA 52001 (563) 690-4000

Holiday Inn Dubuque/Galena 450 Main Street Dubuque, IA 52001 (563) 556-2000 1-800-HOLIDAY  Located in the heart of downtown, three blocks from America’s River. 193 newly renovated rooms, full service restaurant, lounge, over 9000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space and high speed wireless internet.

MainStay Suites 1275 Associates Drive Dubuque, IA 52002 (563) 557-7829 1-800-660-6246 mssdbq@mchsi.com Every room is a "suite." They consist of fully equipped kitchens, casual sitting area with sofa sleeper and a queen bed.

EARLVILLE

US 20 Lodging 2182 165th Ave. Earlville, IA 52041 (563) 923-2415 Newly renovated rooms feature microwaves, refrigerators and satellite TV.

Tri-State Raceway RV Park & Campgrounds HWY 20 Exit 285. RV Camping with full hook-up service availalbe (563) 923-CAMP 

MANCHESTER

Day's Inn 1220 W. Marion St. Manchester, IA 52057 (563)-927-1011

Lake’s Inn Cabin Resort 20105 247th Street Lake Delhi, IA 52057 (563) 922-2649

New Vienna

New Wine Park Campground Located 3 miles north of Dyersville off of HWY 136 on Vaske Road. Camping with electrical outlets, hiking trails, picnic, playgrounds, shelters and fishing all on 184 acres. Full Hookup Service Available. Open May through October. (563) 921-3475

Contact
Dyersville Area Chamber of Commerce 1100 16th Ave. Ct. SE Dyersville, IA 52040 USA

Phone: (563)875-2311 Fax: (563)875-8391

DyersvilleChamber@Dyersville.org