The City of Dubuque has received some recognition for being one of the best small cities in the U.S.
According to a list from Alot Travel, Dubuque ranked number 12 on the list and is the only city in the Midwest in the top 20.
Some Dubuquers believe it has to do with all of the changes and additions that have been made to the city in recent years.
The city has seen some distinct differences over the years, especially since the late 1990s. To some, seeing the landmarks and activities being recognized by the city is encouraging.
Keith Rahe, President & CEO of Travel Dubuque said to see this kind of recognition is satisfying, but it also provides reassurance to all of the work that has been done to Dubuque.
"It's kind of amazing," Rahe said. "It's something that just reinforces what we know. We all know that Dubuque is a wonderful place to live, great place to work and an awesome place to come and visit. So this just kind of reinforces everything that everyone's been doing for some time now."
Alot Travel refers to spots like the Fenelon Place Elevator and the brick architecture in the city for what made Dubuque standout.
Rahe said in addition to a boost in the city's economy, it's been the revitalization of places like the Millwork District, as well as the development of the river port and museum, that have provided a definitive centerpiece for Dubuque.
A new TownePlace Suites by Marriott hotel is currently scheduled to be completed in the Millwork District by spring of next year.
Rahe added the development of the port of Dubuque as well as in the Millwork District, it's been making a big difference in putting Dubuque on the map.
"Right around the late nineties, the community said: 'Hey, we're gonna take that area and we're gonna put significant resources in it and we're gonna make that our centerpiece,'" Rahe said. "And it worked out extremely well."
Residents of Cedar Falls also have a reason to be proud. They came in at 25 on the list.
Click here to look at the full list of "30 Best Small Cities in the United States."