Explore Hotel Galena: Top Things To Do
Discover the charm of Galena, Illinois with our guide to the best antique stores in town, including Petals and Primitives, Peace of the Past, and more. Plus, explore the surrounding area with activities like skiing at Chestnut Mountain Resort, zip lining at Long Hollow Canopy Tours, and visiting the Field of Dreams Movie Site. Don’t miss out on Galena’s art galleries, wineries, and historic sites too. Start planning your trip today!
Hotel Galena: Your Gateway to Galena's Charms and Adventures
Welcome to Galena, Illinois – a charming town nestled in the heart of the Midwest! Whether you’re a history buff, a shopaholic, or just looking for a fun getaway, Galena has something for everyone. Read on to discover the top things to do in downtown Galena and its surrounding area.
Top things to do downtown
- Take a ghost tour: Experience the spooky side of Galena with a ghost tour throughout downtown. Call 815-777-9252 to book your tour.
- Enjoy dinner and a show: Visit Amelia’s Dinner Theatre for an evening of great food and entertainment on their Galena Ghost & Wine Tour.
- Hop aboard the trolley: Take a tour of downtown Galena on the Galena Trolley Depot Tours and enjoy a leisurely ride while learning about the town’s history.
- Take a walking tour with General Grant: Join a walking tour with General Grant and discover the town’s rich history.
- Be mesmerized by magic: Catch a show at PT. Murphy Magic Theater and experience an unforgettable night of illusions and entertainment.
- Get a massage: Relax and unwind at Knots A Problem Massage Therapy and treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage.
Cool shopping in Galena
- Poopsies: Browse the eclectic collection of gifts and home decor at Poopsies.
- Celebrity Hats: Find the perfect hat to top off your outfit at Celebrity Hats.
- Galena Candle & Bath: Treat yourself to luxurious bath products and candles at Galena Candle & Bath.
- Galena Canning Co.: Sample delicious jams, jellies, and other gourmet goodies at Galena Canning Co.
- Outside the Lines Art Gallery: Admire the beautiful and unique pieces of art at Outside the Lines Art Gallery.
- Strawberry Lane Clothing: Update your wardrobe with the latest styles at Strawberry Lane Clothing.
- River Bend Gallery Photography: Admire stunning photographs of the local area at River Bend Gallery Photography.
Great food
- Galena Kandy Kitchen: Indulge your sweet tooth with delicious homemade candies and fudge at Galena Kandy Kitchen.
- Great American Popcorn Co.: Snack on gourmet popcorn in a variety of flavors at Great American Popcorn Co.
- Spice and Tea Merchants: Discover a world of flavors with the wide selection of spices and teas at Spice and Tea Merchants.
- Galena Roasters: Sip on delicious coffee at Galena Roasters, where the beans are roasted on site.
- Galena Brewing Company: Sample craft beers and enjoy a bite to eat at Galena Brewing Company.
- Blaum Brothers Distilling Co.: Take a short drive to Blaum Brothers Distilling Co. and sample their award-winning spirits.
Historical sites
- The Dowling House: Visit the oldest house in Galena, established in 1826, and learn about the town’s early settlers.
- Grant Park: Enjoy a picnic or take a stroll through the park, which overlooks the Galena River.
- Apple River Fort State Historic Site: Step back in time and explore a replica of a fort that played a role in the Black Hawk War of 1832.
- Council Hill Station: Learn about the town’s railroad history at Council Hill Station, a former train depot turned museum.
- Elihu B. Washburne House State Historic Site: Visit the home of a prominent political figure in the 19th century and learn about his contributions to American history.
- Galena Historical Museum: Discover the town’s rich history through exhibits and artifacts at the Galena Historical Museum.
Antique Shops galore
Antique lovers will find Galena, Illinois a treasure trove of unique and one-of-a-kind finds. With several antique stores located in and around the downtown area, visitors can easily spend a day browsing through vintage treasures and rare collectibles.
Petals and Primitives is a charming shop located in downtown Galena, known for its selection of vintage linens, antique furniture, and home decor. Peace of the Past is another must-visit antique store, specializing in rare and unusual items such as antique medical equipment, vintage toys, and old postcards.
For a more extensive selection, head to Tin-Pan Alley Antique Mall, which boasts over 50 antique dealers under one roof. Gustafson & Gray is another great option, with its selection of antique and vintage jewelry, art, and home decor. Rustic River Finds and Something Special offer a mix of vintage and handmade items, perfect for those looking for unique souvenirs.
If you’re willing to venture a bit outside of Galena, The Trip Vintage Gifts in nearby Stockton is worth the drive. This unique shop features an eclectic mix of vintage clothing, accessories, and housewares.
Fun for Everyone
Beyond the antique stores, there are plenty of other activities to keep visitors entertained in the Galena area. Outdoor enthusiasts can head to Chestnut Mountain Resort for skiing in the winter, or to enjoy activities like mountain biking, zip-lining, and alpine slides during the warmer months.
History buffs will want to explore the Galena Territory Trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and a glimpse into the area’s mining past. And don’t miss out on the chance to visit the Field of Dreams movie site, located just a 50-minute drive away in Dyersville, Iowa.
For those looking for more cultural activities, the Galena Center for the Arts and Eagle Ridge Ballroom Gallery offer a variety of art exhibits and performances throughout the year. And no trip to Galena would be complete without a visit to one of the area’s wineries, such as Massbach Ridge Winery or Galena Cellars Vineyard.
With so much to see and do in Galena and the surrounding area, it’s no wonder this charming town has become a favorite destination for antique lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.