Everyone I know has moments when they absolutely need to get away from the campus for a little while — or at least break the monotony of school work. Part of the problem is that we’re on a tight budget.

And besides, do what … go where? Especially if you’re new to the area, there’s a lot you might not know about.

So, I’m going to try to help. First, let’s talk about Dubuque. As we get closer to “spring break,” I’ll talk about other regional destinations.

Many students seem to be under the impression that watching paint dry is more fun than living in Dubuque. Whether or not you are sold on Dubuque’s self-promotion as the “Masterpiece on the Mississippi,” it’s got more to offer than most of you might realize.

So, here’s a little taste of what the area offers:

Where can I eat like a king?

The Shot Tower — at the corner Fourth and Locust — is a great place to go with family or a group of friends. Locals will tell you it’s got the best pizza in town … and a number of interesting sandwiches.

For more exotic food, try the HuHot Mongolian Grill, at 2660 Dodge St., for some delicious Asian-style cuisine.

For more upscale (although more expensive) — check out the Dubuque Star Brewery (on the riverfront). The restaurant is rich with history, great food and a beautiful view of the Mississippi River. Details: dbqstar.com.

It’s a chain, but did you know there is a Buffalo Wild Wings at 2805 Northwest Arterial.

Suffering from ‘cabin fever’?

The Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, which costs just $10.50, offers an interesting look at the river.

Grand Harbor Resort & Waterpark (next to the museum) is an affordable option for good, clean fun when the cost is split between a few people.

There are two ski resorts in the area: Sundown Mountain (a few miles west of Dubuque) and Chestnut Mountain Resort (outside Galena). Chestnut has a variety of slopes and discounted lift tickets after 4 p.m. Details: sundownmtn.com
and chestnutmtn.com.

There are several bowling alleys in town, each with its own distinctive flavor. Cherry Lanes (in the new Diamond Jo Casino), is one of the nicer one, and Fischer Lanes is within walking distance (fifth floor at 880 Locust St.).

When it ever warms up

It costs just $1 per carload to enter the expansive Eagle Point Park (it’s free from
7-9 a.m., and viewing the sunrise from here is priceless). No matter what time of day, the view of the river and Lock and Dam No. 11 is breathtaking.

Another area that provides spectacular scenery above Mississippi River is the Mines of Spain. The monument located here was built to honor the city’s namesake, Julien Dubuque. Details: minesofspain.org.

The Fenelon Place or Fourth Street Elevator is a cable car that travels to the top a bluff for (you guessed it!) more amazing views of Dubuque. It’s $2 for a round trip.

Baseball fans can visit the Field of Dreams in Dyersville, IA (20 minutes west of Dubuque). It’s the site of the movie “Field of Dreams” (starring Kevin Costner). There’s no cost. Details: fieldofdreamsmoviesite.com.

Shop ’til u drop

Kennedy Mall is the main shopping attraction in Dubuque because it houses most of the major department stores (Sears, JCPenney, Younkers, Borders, etc.; while Best Buy is across the parking lot).

When you’re done chowing down at Buffalo Wild Wings, check out all of the surrounding stores at Asbury Plaza, places like Kohl’s, Old Navy, Maurices, etc.

If you’re looking for some quaint boutiques, Cable Car Square — several shops between Third and Fifth streets along Bluff and Locust streets — has a little bit of everything. Details: cablecarsquare.com

Then there’s Galena, IL (15 miles east of Dubuque), which is nothing short of a shopper’s paradise. The main drag is loaded with charming boutiques and shops.

For an affordable beauty fix, check out Capri College. This beauty school provides full salon services at discounted prices.