Quality of Life

Attractions

Culture

Elements of "quality of life" are very apparent in Maquoketa's cultural community.

The city has been recognized for its outstanding musicians, writers, and artists in each cultural field.

Maquoketa Public Library is a contemporary library and information center housed in the 1904 Carnegie building, completely restored with an extensive addition. The new and restored building was opened in 1998, and is now accessible to all, both in person and online.

Joining a civic club or community organization is just one of the ways residents get to know each other in a fun, relaxed environment. A favorite meeting place for seniors is the Jackson County Senior Citizen Center, located in Maquoketa.

Every year Maquoketa attracts thousands of visitors to the Jackson County Fair held at the Jackson County Fairgrounds, beginning on the last Wednesday in July through the following Sunday. The first fair was in 1854, since then, it has grown widely popular, attracting approximately 20,000 people per year. The Jackson County Fairgrounds also offers Bingo, the stock car races from April through September.

Little Bear Park got its name because "Maquoketa" is an Indian word meaning "Little Bear". Children from Briggs, Cardinal and Scared Heart Schools gave the play ground its name, designed the logo and worked with an architect to design the playground.

The natural beauty of the area known as "simply beautiful Jackson County" has been artistically expressed and shared by people internationally through local artists and art galleries.

Art lovers are sure to enjoy the Old City Hall Gallery, featuring paintings, photography, pottery and giclees.

Maquoketa also offers quality and varied entertainment that exalt creative expression from local and non local talent at the Ohnward Fine Arts Center.