Known for its beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, Galena, IL offers a charming trip back in time. This scenic town along the Mississippi River boasts stunning nature, fascinating history, great shopping, and delicious dining. Here are the best things to do in Galena for an unforgettable Midwest getaway.
Nestled amid rolling hills and farmland, a trip to Galena combines small-town hospitality and big adventures. Historic charm blended with natural beauty makes this special town a popular weekend escape.
Why Visit Galena, IL?
What makes Galena a must-visit destination?
- Perfectly preserved downtown showcasing 19th-century brick architecture along Main Street
- Dozens of boutiques, galleries, restaurants housed in historic shophouses
- Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site offering tours and insight into the 18th President’s time living in Galena
- Stunning landscapes along the Mississippi River and throughout Jo Daviess County
- Local wineries set amid rolling hills offering tours, tastings and events
- Engaging nightlife including live music venues, old-world Irish pubs, ghost tours and haunted walks
Galena guarantees a getaway you won’t forget. Let’s uncover the many things that make this river town so special.
Best Things to Do in Galena IL: From Main Street to Galena River Excursions
Galena, Illinois, isn’t just a town; it’s a testament to America’s rich history and vibrant culture. From historic buildings to unique attractions, Galena offers something for everyone.
Nestled amidst rolling hills and overlooking the Mississippi River, Galena promises an unforgettable trip. Intrigued yet? This article guarantees you’ll leave with an extensive to-do list for your next Galena visit!
Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Galena, Illinois
| Attractions | TripAdvisor Rating |
|---|---|
| Ulysses S. Grant Home | 4.5 |
| Galena Cellars Vineyard | 4.5 |
| Chestnut Mountain Resort | 4.5 |
| Washburne House State Historic Site | 4.5 |
| Galena Trolley Tours | 4.5 |
Tour Historic Downtown Galena and Ulysses Grant’s Home
The centerpiece of any visit to Galena is the historic downtown district showcasing brick architecture and Italianate styling from the mid-1800s. Taking a trolley tour or guided walking tour makes for the perfect introduction to soak in the area’s charming history and beautifully preserved buildings. Top sights downtown include:
Old Market House
This imposing 1845 Greek Revival building was originally built to be the center of Galena’s commerce and civic life. Today, it houses shops and restaurants in a still-operating historic public marketplace.
Ulysses S. Grant Home
The former home of 18th President and Civil War general Ulysses S. Grant provides a window into his life as a Galena resident prior to the war. The 1860s era house is immaculately restored and offers self-guided tours.
Dowling House
Built in 1826, this unassuming brick home was constructed by early miner and merchant John Dowling and today stands as Galena’s oldest structure. It now operates as a museum and showcases an intriguing look into the lives of some of the area’s earliest pioneers.
Experience History in Motion on the Galena Trolley
For an entertaining overview taking in Galena’s most famous landmarks and top sights, hop aboard the Galena Trolley for a history tour on wheels. Costumed guides provide narration and details on the historical significance of the homes, churches, businesses and more that you’ll pass on this rolling tour.
Popular stops and photo ops along the trolley route include:
- Dowling House
- 1855 Train Depot
- Old Market House
- Belvedere Mansion
- Italianate Ulysses S. Grant Home
- Helluva Half Mile
Tours run daily throughout picturesque downtown Galena and last roughly an hour with plenty of fascinating stories along the way.
Most Popular Tourist Attractions in Galena
| Attractions | Number of Visitors (2023) |
|---|---|
| Ulysses S. Grant Home | 100,000 |
| Galena Cellars Vineyard & Winery | 75,000 |
| Washburne House State Historic Site | 50,000 |
| Galena Trolley | 25,000 |
| Dowling House | 20,000 |
Go Wine Tasting at Area Wineries and Vineyards
The climate surrounding Galena provides an ideal environment for wineries and vineyards to flourish. Oenophiles will love sampling vintages at wineries including:
Galena Cellars Vineyard & Winery – Galena Cellars lets you taste through their acclaimed wines including Cloyd’s Cosmopolitan, Bert’s Barn Red and more inside a 150-year-old stone barn. Their tasting room provides a cozy, intimate setting.
Galena River Wine Trail – This 25-mile trail winds its way through the rolling hills surrounding Galena and leads visitors to 4 different family-owned and operated wineries. Sip your way along the wine trail.
Massbach Ridge Winery – Set on a scenic ridgetop overlooking the area’s patchwork farmland, Massbach Ridge offers tastings showcasing their wines made from locally grown grapes.
Many local wineries feature live music events, tours highlighting the winemaking process, and dining options like cheese boards or wood-fired pizzas to complement the wine. It’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon soaking in the beauty and relaxed ambiance of the region’s small-town vineyards.
Shop Galena’s Treasure Trove of Downtown Boutiques
From antiques and vintage wares to home décor, fashion, and specialty foods, Galena’s vibrant Main Street is packed with over 125 boutique shops and emporiums tucked into historic storefronts just waiting to be explored. It’s easy to spend hours browsing favorites like:
- Oliver & Olive – A mouthwatering selection of gourmet olive oils, aged balsamic vinegars, mustards, tapenades and other artisanal foods. You can sample before you buy.
- Forgotten Treasures – Part antique mall, part old-world general store, Forgotten Treasures houses inventory from over 50 different antique dealers all under one roof. Expect to uncover hidden gems from vintage jewelry to Midcentury collectibles.
- Blue Moon Gift Shop – Find unique jewelry, new age gifts, accessories and more with spiritual meaning at this eclectic downtown shop. The inventory leans into crystals, horoscopes, runes and aromatherapy.
The variety of locally owned specialty stores makes shopping in Galena a treat. Wander to uncover your own favorites.
Seek Adventure at Chestnut Mountain Resort
Just minutes from Galena’s quaint downtown sits the scenic Chestnut Mountain Resort. This popular getaway hub offers panoramic views of the Mississippi River valley from its perch atop one of the highest points in the region.
In addition to cozy accommodations, Chestnut Mountain provides access to exciting recreational activities like:
Zipline Tour – Get your adrenaline pumping soaring over woodlands and valley terrain while clipped onto lines that span nearly 2 miles combined. Their professionally guided tours provide unrivaled zipline thrills for all experience levels.
Alpine Slide – This thrilling ride lets you control your own speed gliding down a winding 3,000 foot concrete track. With ski lift access, take lap after lap on the gravity-driven switchback turns.
Golf – Chestnut Mountain’s scenic 18-hole championship golf course incorporates dramatic elevation changes for an affordable round with awe-inspiring panoramas.
With amenities from a full-service spa to pools to a game room, Chestnut Mountain Resort makes for an engaging weekend getaway or active daytrip destination just minutes from Main Street.
Catch Live Music and Tap into Galena’s Nightlife
When the sun sets over the Mississippi bluffs, Galena comes alive with vibrant entertainment options to keep the fun going well into the night.
Fried Green Tomatoes – Tap your toes to live rock, blues and jazz bands or take in offbeat comedy acts at this lively dive bar on Main Street. Their menu features Southern-inspired grub like jambalaya, po’ boys and skillet mac & cheese.
Irish Cottage Boutique Hotel – Pull up a barstool for nightly live acoustic music in the historic Irish pub adjoining this hotel. Soak in the old-world charm and vibes reminiscent of rural Ireland over a pint.
Ghost and Cemetery Tours – Learn all about Galena’s haunted history and folklore on guided walking tours of creepy landmarks and graveyards. Sites like the Desoto House hotel, Turner Hall, and St. Michael’s Cemetery host their fair share of ghostly inhabitants.
The live entertainment, spooky tours, speakeasies and pubs ensure the fun lasts long after the shops close for the night.
Grant Park and Its Significance in Galena
Grant Park, named after Ulysses S. Grant, is a place to enjoy scenic beauty and learn about the history of Galena. From its downtown location to the historic trading post, it’s an essential spot for both relaxation and education.
Embrace the Great Outdoors
Beyond downtown, there are gorgeous landscapes begging to be explored in the Galena area. Favorite outdoor recreation activities include:
Mississippi Palisades State Park – One of Illinois’ most unique parks, Mississippi Palisades near Galena provides towering canyon views along 15 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging.
Apple River Fort State Historic Site – Site of an 1840s American frontier fort, Apple River offers history buffs ruins to explore plus trails winding through prairieland and ample picnic spots.
Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa – Find stunning vistas, architectural marvels, and amenities galore at this 445-acre resort complex in the Galena Territory. Play the acclaimed golf course, relax in the spa or lounge by the pool.
From hiking and biking to swimming, ziplining or horseback riding, there are ample ways to take your Galena trip into nature just minutes from Main Street.
Sample Local Fare and Drink from Galena’s Chefs and Brewers
Of course, no trip to the Midwest is complete without digging into delicious local cuisine. Galena’s chefs, distillers and brewers have you covered for tasty fare to fuel up on between adventures.
111 Craft House – Locally sourced American plates and creative craft cocktails meet in a laidback yet chic downtown setting. Their menu stars dishes like chicken & waffles, braised short ribs, seared scallops and bacon jam flatbreads.
Fried Green Tomatoes – In addition to live entertainment, this Main Street eatery dishes up Southern-inspired specialties like jambalaya, Cajun seafood po’ boys, cast iron skillet mac & cheese, and of course their signature fried green tomatoes.
Log Cabin Restaurant – This cozy log cabin-style restaurant has been wowing diners with prime steaks and classic local favorites since 1937. Don’t skip dessert – their apple dumplings shine.
Galena Brewing Company – Pull up a stool at the bar to taste unique craft brews like Grant’s Scotch Ale and Bearded Farmer Farmhouse Ale brewed fresh on-site at Galena’s own brewery and taproom.
The restaurants, cafes, distilleries, winery tasting rooms and breweries of Galena ensure you’ll eat and drink incredibly well between adventures.
Main Street in Downtown Galena: Where History Meets Modernity
The heart of Galena, Main Street is where you’ll find 125 shops, each with a story to tell. From unique handcrafts to top-rated boutiques, it’s a place where past and present collide. Don’t forget to visit the haunted pub and soak in the vibes of this historic locale.
Discover the Best of Galena’s Attractions
Galena River Adventures: A trip to Galena is incomplete without exploring the tranquil Galena River. Whether you fancy a walking tour along the river or are keen to soar the skies in a hot air balloon, there’s an adventure waiting for you.
Galena Goat Yoga: Yes, you read that right! Experience the unique and delightful combination of yoga amidst friendly goats, ensuring an experience you won’t find elsewhere.
Dowling House & Historic Sites: Delve deep into Galena’s history with a visit to the city’s oldest house. Located at 220 Diagonal Street, the Dowling House offers an intriguing glimpse into the past with its original furniture and artifacts.
Wineries, Distilleries, and Tastings – A Gastronomic Tour of Galena
Galena Cellars Vineyard and Winery offers the perfect blend of scenic beauty and delectable wines. Their tastings are a must-try, guaranteeing a unique and delicious experience. Don’t miss a tour of the distillery for a deeper dive into the winemaking process.
Entertainment and Activities Throughout Galena
Zipline Adventures: Glide through the sky with breathtaking views of the town and its natural beauty. It’s a top-rated experience that guarantees thrill and excitement.
Ghost Tours: Dive into the eerie past with Galena’s renowned ghost tours. From the DeSoto Hotel to various historic sites, get ready for some spine-chilling tales.
A Golfer’s Paradise: Tee Off in Style
The Eagle Ridge Resort offers golfing enthusiasts a chance to enjoy a round of golf with panoramic views. Whether you’re a pro or just starting out, the lush green courses promise a day of fun and sport.
Hidden Treasures Around Galena
Beyond the main attractions, Galena is packed with hidden gems. From the Galena Garlic Company to quirky gift shops and trading posts, spend hours exploring the nooks and crannies of this enchanting town.
Diverse Culinary Offerings
Galena offers a rich culinary scene. Whether you’re in the mood for French, German, or traditional American cuisine, there’s a downtown location for every palate. Make sure to visit the Irish pub for a refreshing pint and live music.
Stay in Style – Best Guest Houses and Resorts
From the Belvedere Mansion with its historic charm to modern resorts with indoor pools and hot tubs, Galena provides varied accommodation options. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, you’ll find the perfect place to relax and unwind.
FAQs
Is Galena IL worth visiting?
Absolutely! Galena offers the perfect blend of historical charm, natural beauty, shopping, dining, and adventure. There’s something for everyone, from historians to foodies to outdoor enthusiasts. The preserved 19th-century downtown is unique and makes Galena a must-visit Midwest destination.
What is Galena Illinois known for?
Galena is renowned for its gorgeously preserved downtown showcasing brick buildings, boutiques and restaurants from the mid-1800s. Visitors also come to tour the former home of Ulysses S. Grant and explore the area’s natural beauty along the Mississippi River.
What kind of shops are in Galena?
Downtown Galena packs over 125 locally owned boutique shops into just a few blocks. You’ll find shops specializing in antiques, home décor, clothing & accessories, spiritual items, olive oils & gourmet foods, custom art, and much more.
Why visit Galena?
Galena appeals to many different travelers. History buffs are fascinated by the 19th century architecture. Shoppers adore the boutiques and antique stores. Outdoor lovers come for activities like hiking, ziplining and boating. Foodies visit the restaurants, distilleries and wineries. Nightlife seekers enjoy the live music and ghost tours. Galena offers something for everyone!
What are 2 interesting facts about Galena?
Two fascinating facts are:
1) Galena was once the busiest Mississippi River port between St. Louis and St. Paul.
2) Ulysses S. Grant moved to Galena in 1860 to work in his brothers’ leather shop before going off to fight in the Civil War.
Is Galena IL walkable?
Absolutely! Once you park, Galena’s downtown historic district is very compact and walkable. You can easily explore dozens of shops, restaurants, and attractions on foot.
Conclusion
With its time capsule downtown of brick 19th-century architecture, fascinating history and scenic surroundings, Galena encapsulates that quintessential small-town Midwest charm. And the town backs up its beauty and heritage with no shortage of shops, restaurants, outdoor adventures and entertainment to delight visitors of all interests.
Whether you’re intrigued by Ulysses Grant’s role in Galena’s past, tempted by award-winning wines, or want to soar down ski slope ziplines, this Illinois gem offers a memorable escape. Its natural splendor complements the historic appeal perfectly.
So come experience Galena’s allure for yourself. Wander the boutiques downtown, explore soaring canyon trails, sample vintages at a winery, dig into slow-cooked comfort plates and tap your toes to live folk music. The Midwest hospitality and magic of this river town make it easy to see why Galena seduces all who visit.
