Everything in the bathroom was modern and roomy. Dubuque is a really cool town to visit, too. The Hotel Julien was built originally in 1839 under the name Waples House, according to the hotel's website. They were helpful and kind, ready to answer any questions. Bathrooms include showers, bathrobes, designer toiletries, and complimentary toiletries. Bissell shared some antique running lights and a large photograph of a steamer. Kim Magaraci graduated Rutgers University with a degree in Geography and has spent the last seven years as a freelance travel writer. Al Capone loved this hotel and would lay low here when things got too hot for him in Chicago, or when he needed a holiday. No shortcuts here, just quality and sophistication.Our Executive Queen room was cozy and very very luxurious. Sandy Hook, WI (4.3 mi.) However; I feel that at such a large price, the hotel has a few things they could improve to be a truly 4-star hotel. What's more, you will hear strange sounds outside around your car, and when you leave the place, you will see Local legend says that in the early 1830s, a young man named Lou Millville became friendly with the Native Americans who lived nearby, especially the chief's daughter White Cloud. I froze and proceeded to walk down the hallway after him and noticed he very quickly turned the corner. Asbury, IA (4.6 mi.) Motto: Exceptional Accommodations / Exceptional Service., The Hotel Julien Dubuque describes itself on its website as being an elegant boutique hotel that marries modern amenities with historic charm.. According to staff and guests at this historic boutique hotel, sightings of the apparition of a man in period clothing on the upper floors of the hotel arent uncommon; and neither are the legends surrounding his appearance. The lobby area is especially nice, with free internet access and computer for the guests. I liked that there was plentiful free parking in front (across the street) and behind (lower level) the hotel. The freight elevator has a mind of its own. Lock in the lowest price from these sites. Riverboat Lounge, open for dinner, serves appetizers and specialty beverages. Took some pics in the room; most showed cool orbs, not much else..but. There's nothing to be scared of at Hotel Julien Dubuque! Standing in a niche at the entrance off Second and Main STREETS was a life-sized statue of Julien DUBUQUE, commissioned by Pfohl from New York sculptor Barry Johnston. General Manager at Hotel Julien Dubuque 1w Report this post Report Report. It was him Im a firm believer in the afterlife and this solidified it for me. It "was furnished extravagantly and was known far and wide for its gourmet cuisine." Unfortunately, a fire burned down much of the building but they took what was left and rebuilt it. One hundred years of service had diminished the property, and the hotel's ownership group enlisted IDM to revive the property to better meet the expectations of today's business traveler and leisure guest. Some people claim to see a glowing "presence" in the library as well. A member of the Pettlon family has shared with us her paranormal experiences there: Hotel Julien Dubuque offers 133 accommodations with minibars and safes. Disaster and destruction happened in 1913, when a fire destroyed the Julien Guest House. Former spectral guests of an establishment like to visit or stay in their favorite places in this world. People claim to see the ghost of a hanged man in the tower at night, allegedly from prisoners who were illegally hanged there. (20), Dubuque ownership of the hotel slipped away in 1928 when Harold Hayes of Chicago purchased the A. The elevator definitely has a mind of its own however. All rights reserved. She hesitantly then begins to tell me about sightings on the 5th floor a lot. A. Cooper controlling interest in the stock of the hotel company. Our specter crew has this haunt in processing and will be updating its information shortly. It was at the time of the Klauer purchase that Rudolph Lorenz, former chef to His Majesty, Edward VII, King and England; His Royal Highness, Frederick Wilhelm, Crown Prince of Germany; German general staff, resorts of aristocracy in continental Europe; and clubs and cafes patronized by social leaders in America joined the staff of the hotel. The eighth floor had a great view of the river, and his mob soldier security detail could see if rivals were coming across the bridge into Dubuque. You would think in such an elegant place you could have someone take your luggage up for you. I said you cant be in here were closed.. the entrance was already locked and the only way someone would have gotten in there was where I was vacuuming. When the Klauers sold the hotel, there was no place locally to display many of the larger pieces. Originally called the Waples House, the hotel was built in 1839 and is situated right along the Mississippi river. You can also see the beautiful old train depot from the hotel and hear trains once in a while.I highly recommend this hotel. William H. Klauer was one of the first patrons of the artist colonies near Taos, New Mexico and bought many paintings for display back in Dubuque. The building was the town library until 1985. Read More Old Jail A dastardly bully met his end where the Old Jail was later built; Uh oh! The Hotel Julien Dubuque is a hotel located in downtown Dubuque, Iowa at Second and Main streets. Folks around these parts will tell of a ghost at the Granger House Museum. More Date of stay: September 2012 See all 2,884 reviews Nearby Hotels Holiday Inn Dubuque/Galena, an IHG hotel View Hotel Are you brave enough to stay in the Capone suite? Needless to say I couldnt fall asleep after that. It "was furnished extravagantly and was known far and wide for its gourmet cuisine." While my grandpa was reminding me that we stayed at this hotel, he also told me that the place is supposedly haunted. The DUBUQUE VISITING NURSE ASSOCIATION Charity Ball was the first to be held at the hotel in years. LinkedIn. It is said that the hauntings here may stem from a man during that century who was hanged from a tree outside by an angry mob after he stole a horse from his neighbor. Last edit to this listing: 1/28/2016 (2547 days ago). Thank you for staying with us. There's nothing to be scared of at Hotel Julien Dubuque! Willing to take the financial risk, they went all the way, building The Hotel Julien Dubuque, using concrete and steel to provide the structure with fire-proof bones. Hotel Julien Dubuque 371 followers 1w . The ownership of the hotel changed again in 1867 when it was purchased by W. W. WOODWORTH and his son-in-law, Dr. Charles A Reed. The Waples House was known for fine dining and extravagant furnishings. Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association. Some believe it is the spirit of Al Capone, who stayed in the hotel frequently and is also rumored to have owned it at some point in time. Student lore says that the apparition belongs to a homeless man A wide assortment of haunted activity is claimed to occur at this former masonic temple. Included in the charges were the Coopers had profited by making loans at high interest to the hotel corporation, received exorbitant salaries, and had keep financial records that were "unintelligible." A collector of antiques, Pfohl brought many one-of-a-kind objects to the building including the famous Ziegfeld mirror to the lobby. Breakfast at the hotel restaurant, Caroline's, was tasty and reasonable at 6 - 10 dollars a dish. According to the hotel's website, those celebrities include Abraham Lincoln, Buffalo Bill, Cody and Mark Twain, and even Al Capone. Legend around town says that if you drive out the the middle of the bridge and shut off the car, an unseen force will push your car across the bridge. The staff was gracious and helpful and apologized profusely that the computer system was having a glitch and didn't properly swipe my credit card and I had to return to the front desk. After the 33 million dollar renovation of the interior and exterior of the building, the hotel now boasts 133 luxury guest rooms and elegant event spaces that host corporate retreats, board meetings and weddings. In Dubuque (Downtown Dubuque)Make yourself at home in one of the 133 guestrooms featuring refrigerators and minibars. Your email address will not be published. The remodeling created a sensation when the Julien Motor Inn was reopened in the fall of 1970. Huge windows to let in the light. It was also the presidential campaign headquarters for Ulysses S. Grant, among others. 9.3 +43 photos A committee of three presented the articles of incorporation. William H. KLAUER, one of the original investors in the Dubuque Hotel Company, returned Dubuque ownership to the hotel in February 1930 though a settlement after court action had been taken by LeRoy Harris and Harry Brooks against company president Harold Hayes for alleged mismanagement. The original Hotel Julien survived a fire and was rebuilt, hosting famous guests such as . It is made of steel and concrete with red bricks on the outside for floors three through eight. Before you visit ANY local real haunt, make sure to acquire the appropriate permits and/or permissions, and be respectful of privately owned properties. Your CommentsHave a photograph taken from this location? It is said that in the late 1800s or early 1900s a man was hung here, but something went awry with the process and he died a slow, painful death. This hotel is the oldest in the entire state of Iowa and it's also a very nice hotel. 1) No bellhop. It has maintained some of the "old hotel" feel while also still feeling upscale. The beds are incredibly comfortable with adequate pillows (important!). Residents who live nearby have reported ghostly moans on the wind at night. Voice your opinion here! Just the two of us, no parents, heck yeah! A few nights later while cleaning the restaurant, a tall lady in a short black dress with black hair walked thru. Have a haunt/halloween related news story or a tip? Hotel Julien Dubuque, Iowa According to staff and guests at this historic boutique hotel, sightings of the apparition of a man in period clothing on the upper floors of the hotel aren't uncommon; and neither are the legends surrounding his appearance. The Julien Inn is currently owned by the Fischer Companies - a company that owns a number of buildings in Dubuque. Orbs and shadowy figures are reported to appear here; the area is said to be an old Native American burial ground. Thank you! Guests praise the overall comfort. The lights operate by themselves, and cameras and tape recorders behave strangely. Did you see Al Capones ghost? The rooms were spacious with Aveda toiletries and a large tiled shower. Although the gala opening was held on September 12, 2015, the hotel hosted a Historic Walking Tour Launch & Reception the following day which unveiled a new, self-guided walking tour showcasing 25 points of interest at the hotel. Problem is no one bothers to tell you about the noise from the "SteamBoat Lounge" We heard from several sources in town that the hotel was haunted but we found out not by spirits it is by the screaming and yelling from the bar adjacent to the hotel .We were on the 3rd floor and even with earplugs the rap music penetrated our hopefully peaceful very expensive night of rest.So if you plan on sleeping here ask for rooms on the backside of the hotel or maybe upper floors may be quieter? Guests at Hotel Julien Dubuque can enjoy the indoor pool and hot tub and work out in the fitness center. Come stay with us! This place oozes historic elegance. We look forward to your return! I called security, they checked it out and nobody was there. Right as we were supposed to head over to the venue I remembered I forgot something that I needed in our room. This page last modified 4 September 2021. The hotel has hosted many famous guests, including the infamous gangster, Al Capone. Hotel Julien Dubuque had its grand reopening in September 2009. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! Hotel Julien Dubuque. (9), In December 23, 1891 the DUBUQUE ELECTRIC RAILWAY, LIGHT AND POWER COMPANY signed a contract with hotel officials to convert the lighting from gas to electric effective January 1, 1892. In 1962, Louis H. Pfohl bought The Hotel Julien Dubuque and sunk a boatload of money into much needed renovations and extensive remodeling, in order to bring the building up to date for current well-to do guests. This 1900s hotel is believed to be haunted by two ghosts, including that of a woman named Lily and of a former merchant. Staff and guests alike have reported sightings of the apparition of a man in period clothing on the upper floors of the hotel. It is conveniently located a few blocks from the Diamond Jo casino and the aquatic museum. Nothing there but a wall. As debris was being hauled away for the creation of the DUBUQUE ATHLETIC FIELD, a group of local businessmen, including William Harrison DAY, Sr., George McLean, and Dorrance Dixon MYERS organized the Dubuque Hotel Company and construction led to the grand reopening of a new hotel, Julien Dubuque. "Visiting my Grandmother in the family home Pearl Shine, a woman who in 1936 conspired with her hired hand to kill her husband, is said to haunt this peaceful area. The Julien was purchased in 1962 by Louis PFOHL who ordered remodeling. during our last night, i woke up around 2:30, freezing and hearing footsteps pacing back and forth, from the foot of bed to the jacuzzi, ( about 14 paces) then back again. In a type of "smell off", the two postmasters met at the Julien on March 8, 1935. Be specific. It is made of steel and concrete with red bricks on the outside for floors three through eight. The vast majority of information provided on this web site is anecdotal, and as such, should be viewed in the same light as local folklore and urban legends. Students have experienced unexplained footsteps in the hall and an uneasy feeling of being watched, and they have seen a shrouded apparition near the chapel. "Waples House and the Old Julien Hotel," Telegraph-Herald and Times-Journal'Italic text, April 30, 1933, p. 5, 13. Unfortunately, a fire burned down much of the building but they took what was left and rebuilt it. His unseen presence inspires hair standing up on the neck, and folks can feel him watching them. Some say he even made an underground garage to hide his cars so he could stay undercover. It then passed to A. The hotel is centrally located and within walking distance of a great farmer's market on Saturdays, the casino, the aquarium, and many restaurants/bars/shopping. Love Iowa? Especially haunted is said to be Warde Hall. Locals say that if you visit this cemetery at night and turn off your headlights, you will see a tree that looks as if it has no trunk. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. What do you think? . Louis Pfohl eventually purchased the hotel, and remodeled the building. Pillowtop beds feature premium bedding. Be sure to enjoy a meal at Carolines Restaurant, the onsite restaurant. An imposing building with a bell tower just begs to have a good ghost story associated with it, and this city hall building is no exception. Construction began after $50,000 was subscribed for the project from local investors. At the time, we were both like, Holy Sh!t but didnt think much of it. The bathroom has granite countertops and a large shower (no tub in my room). It was often chosen as the site for weddings. At first, the hotel was called the Waples House. Workers say the lights flicker, the blenders start up by themselves even when unplugged, and plates fall off their racks. All information on this page was submitted to Iowa Haunted Houses and was believed to be accurate at the time it was posted. Another famous guest of the Julien was Sylvester Stallone. They began with the outside of the building; restoring the stonework, windows and probably point-tucking the bricks as well. The amenities in the room are nice - bathrobes, new Krups coffee maker and even a corkscrew if you have wine. The rear section remained.Intent on keeping ahead of the competition, the Julien management had arrangements made for a branch office of the Western Union Telegraph Company to be opened in the hotel in 1877. I told her what I saw and apparently al Capone stayed at the hotel a lot and at some points was believed to own it. The "duel" was dismissed with Burkhard winning and Miller promising safe passage for cheese from Monroe, Wisconsin anywhere in Iowa. I stayed at the hotel (Dec. 2015) 4th or 5th floor. The nineteenth century inn was built in 1894 by a man who was forced to jump ship in the town and ended up prospering and owning a wagon empire. Online: http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=LOlFAAAAIBAJ&sjid=wPwMAAAAIBAJ&pg=4428,854051&dq=aa+cooper+dubuque&hl=en), 22. Hotel Hotel Julien Dubuque 200 Main Street, Dubuque, IA 52001, United States of America - Excellent location - show map Very Good 438 reviews Always a great place to stay when visiting Dubuque. In 1854, Waples House was sold to a Mr. Burton and his partner Mr. Finaly, who invested funds into a major renovation, remodeling with an added extension to double the occupancy creating 80 rooms for guests. "Reorganized," Dubuque Sunday Herald, February 14, 1889, p. 4, Online: http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=l55FAAAAIBAJ&sjid=_rwMAAAAIBAJ&pg=3517,234458&dq=stout+house+dubuque&hl=en, 9. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the Hotel Julien is an amazing place to visit. People also claim to hear strange noises and occasional whispering. "Hotel Case to Come Up Next Tuesday," Telegraph-Herald and Times-Journal, December 9, 1927, p. 9, 16. According to reports, a gravedigger died in 1920 while digging a grave. Oh my I just woke up to the apparition of a naked man wearing a fedora floating above my bed, Visitors to this page: 3,653 We look forward to your return! I had opted for an "inside" room with no windows. (18) By December 20th, however, the case was dismissed without prejudice. Have you stayed at the Hotel Julien? A male entity that resembles Al Capone dressed in typical clothing of his era has made his presence known on the upper floors. At the city's center stood the timeworn Hotel Julien Dubuque. Hotel Julien Dubuque is an elegant boutique hotel that marries modern amenities with historic charm in the heart of the Old Main District. When my brother and I were kids we would go spend a long weekend at my grandparents' house in Iowa. Hotels Hotels in Dubuque Going to Check-in Check-out Guests Hotels.com makes it easy and rewarding. Indulge in a manicure/pedicure, a body wrap, and a hot stone massage at Potosa Spa, the onsite spa. HotelJulienDubuqueGM, General Manager at Hotel Julien Dubuque, responded to this review. We were in room 625. The apparition of a man wearing period clothing has been seen on the upper floors of the hotel. "Remember Old Julien House, Successor to Waples House?" We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay. It does not. Pearl was caught, tried, and convicted, and she died in prison. The hotel stated the well was over 3,000 feet deep and the water "absolutely pure. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. The magnificent stone hotel and restaurant dates back to the 1800s. This home was built by the Pettlon family back in 1913, and has been in the family all that time. Hotel Julien Dubuque 200 Main Street , Dubuque, Iowa 52001 200 Main Street , Dubuque, Iowa - 52001 855-516-1090 Reserve Outstanding value on upcoming dates. The WAPLES HOUSE, the original building, had a sixty-four foot frontage on Main Street extending to an alley at the rear and was four stories tall. To avoid this, be sure to get in touch with the property owners before visiting a haunt, and respect their hours of operation, local regulations, and rules for visiting at all times. Clicks to Website: 270 A grandfather clock located here is said to have been donated by her parents; it used to be in her dorm. It appears to float in the air. It is likely that Al Capone likes to spend some of his after-life in his favorite earthly hotel. He fell in and broke his neck, which killed him instantly. Other highlights at this historic hotel include 2 bars/lounges, an indoor pool, and a 24-hour . A. Cooper, Jr. (17), In 1916 in a unique chapter in Dubuque history, the hotel offered the people of Dubuque artesian well water from a well in the empty lot at the rear of their building. I did not know anything about the hotels history. (25), 1. (23). "Encyclopedia Dubuque is the online authority for all things Dubuque, written by the people who know the city best.Marshall Cohenresearcher and producer, CNN. I never felt a scratching sensation, only the intense burning. Come stay with us! I tried to ask him what he was talking about and when I got him awake he had no idea what I was talking about. Bathrooms include showers, bathrobes, designer toiletries, and complimentary toiletries. Mayor George Benjamin BURCH informed the group that he, Frank D. STOUT, and Bart B. LINEHAN had purchased the property for $60,000 after the urging of others who believed the city needed a new hotel. There is a main artery that runs behind the hotel but we found that is was not a noise problem whatsoever.Don't get the idea that this hotel overlooks the Mississippi. View full page. Local legend states that hed come to Dubuque and hide out at the Hotel Julien while he waited for things to cool down in Chicago. The first night there, a door at the end of the hall in the spa slammed shut, no windows. Thought Inshould share our experience My husband and I were recently married in Dubuque and stayed at Hotel Julien. The Waples House became Julien Guest House. Kieler, WI (6.7 mi.) Originally built in 1839, the buildings history stretches back over 150 years, and theres plenty of intrigue, with fires, criminals, renovations and even ghosts. "Caught on the Fly," Dubuque Herald, April 29, 1877, p. 4. Coopers Sell Julien Hotel Interests to Chicago Realtor," Telegraph-Herald, May 5, 1928, p. 1, 23. The Hotel Julien Dubuque has remembered this famous guest by giving him a suite named for him, though it is located on the second floor instead of the eighth. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Beginning in September 1891, boys working at the hotel wore uniforms of a dark blue trouser and coat with a gold cord running down the outside seam of the trousers. Her white figure is said to be seen at midnight, sitting in front of a window. His ghost is said to haunt the place at night; it has been seen hanging from a rope. Administrative use only. The hotel gained notoriety thanks to Al Capone and was ultimately purchased by the current ownership in 1962. Unexplained voices have been captured on tape here, and visitors have seen apparitions and felt the touch of something unseen. Took some pics of these. In 1874, he took the leap of faith and began an ambitious plan to build seven new stories in the Romanesque brick and terra cotta style. During the time that Al Capone was the leader of the mob in Chicago, he reportedly owned the Julien. Its most infamous guest was the mobster Al Capone and his crew. Hotel Julien - Dubuque, IA Dubuque 4.9 446 Groupon Ratings What You Get 1-night stay for two with a $30 dining credit Check in Sunday-Thursday Option 1: $109 for a double-queen or king executive room (up to a $259 value) Option 2: $199 for a double-queen or king executive room with two 50-minute massages (up to a $399 value) Waitresses were uniformed. (24), In addition to being a venue for the JULIEN DUBUQUE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL, the background for the television series "The Bachelor" and many weddings, the hotel was once the site of a duel. Caroline's Restaurant, open daily, offers American cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. If you want to learn more about the haunted spots in Iowa, These 10 Hauntings In Iowa Will Send Chills Down Your Spine. Originally built in 1839, the buildings history stretches back over 150 years, and theres plenty of intrigue, with fires, criminals, renovations and even ghosts. 2) The hotel lobby is technically on the second floor,which is street level on the front. Do not use all capital letters. If you want to learn more about the haunted spots in Iowa, This Hidden Resort In Iowa Is The Perfect Place To Get Away From It All, Theres No Hotel In The World Quite Like This One In Iowa, The Iowa Hotel Thats One Of The Most Unique In America, This Is The Most Unique Hotel In Iowa And Youll Definitely Want To Visit, This Little Known Resort In Iowa Will Be Your New Favorite Summer Destination, The Oldest Hotel In Iowa Is Also One Of The Most Haunted Places Youll Ever Sleep, The History Behind This Remote Hotel In Iowa Is Both Eerie And Fascinating, A Trip To This Haunted Manor In Iowa Is Not For The Faint Of Heart, These 10 Hauntings In Iowa Will Send Chills Down Your Spine. There has been a luxury hotel on this strategic location since 1839, when the four story, forty room guest house, called The Waples House was built by its wealthy merchant owner, Peter Waples. "Municipal Molecules," Dubuque Daily Herald, July 22, 1894, p. 8, 14. Some say you can hear the cries of his victims echoing through the apartment halls late at night. Its new refined decor included many interesting and historic artifacts, including lovely stained glass in the restaurant and a huge mirror in the lobby that was from the Ziegfeld Theatre in New York City. East Dubuque, IL (1.1 mi.) In 1854 the hotel was renamed the Julien House. After a $30+ million complete renovation, the Hotel Julien Dubuque is now a true landmark of luxury and sophistication. I particularly liked the shower enclosure. The Hotel Julien was built originally in 1839 under the name Waples House, according to the hotel's website. Home - Hotel Julien Dubuque 800.798.7098 563.556.4200 Accommodations Amenities Packages Elegant Accommodations. A unique place to stay in St. Paul, MN might also lead to some paranormal interactions. During the gangster era of PROHIBITION, it is alleged the HOTEL JULIEN, renamed in 1929, was a get-away for Alphonse CAPONE, the infamous mobster who often found Dubuque and East Dubuque safer territory than Chicago. It is in a great location and walking distance to restaurants and shopping. Please note: It is your responsibility to acquire appropriate permissions before investigating any location listed on this site. Although we do not have designated bellhops, upon request most any staff member will be happy to assist you with any need you may have or desire. Remodeling in 1873 provided a four-story addition along Iowa Street. Sageville, IA (4.5 mi.) "Encyclopedia Dubuque is the online authority for all things Dubuque, written by the people who know the city best., DUBUQUE ELECTRIC RAILWAY, LIGHT AND POWER COMPANY, https://www.facebook.com/groups/992807984136261/search/?query=dubuque&epa=SEARCH_BOX, JULIEN DUBUQUE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL, http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=-OxBAAAAIBAJ&sjid=GaoMAAAAIBAJ&pg=2309,4651556&dq=stout+house+dubuque&hl=en, https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=uh8FjILnQOkC&dat=18770429&printsec=frontpage&hl=en, http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=l55FAAAAIBAJ&sjid=_rwMAAAAIBAJ&pg=3517,234458&dq=stout+house+dubuque&hl=en, http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=LOlFAAAAIBAJ&sjid=wPwMAAAAIBAJ&pg=4428,854051&dq=aa+cooper+dubuque&hl=en, https://www.encyclopediadubuque.org/index.php?title=HOTEL_JULIEN_DUBUQUE&oldid=170172. The site at Second and Main has been the location of an inn or hotel since 1844. Literally right as I orgasmed, the bedside lamp flipped on. Not only is it Iowa's oldest hotel, but it's one of the most haunted buildings in the Midwest.