Galena is a great place to visit. A large portion of the city is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and there are many historical sights to explore, as well as excellent restaurants. Visit the Ulysses S. Grant Home, take a tour of the Elihu B. Washburne House, Dowling House and the Old Market House.
Ulysses S. Grant Home
The Ulysses S. Grant Home is the former home of Civil War General and 18th President of the United States, Ulysses S. Grant. Designated as a National Historic Landmark and listed on the National Register of Places, the Ulysses S. Grant Home (video) is managed by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency.
500 Bouthillier St, Galena, IL 61036, 815-777-3310, Map
Galena - Jo Daviess County Historical Society
Founded in 1938, the Galena - Jo Daviess County Historical Society was founded to educate and enrich the public about the history and material culture of Galena and Jo Daviess County. Group tours of the History Museum and The Old Blacksmith Shop are offered and can be booked in advance.
211 S Bench St, Galena, IL 61036, 815-777-9129, Map
Chestnut Mountain Resort
Chestnut Mountain Resort is popular mountain and ski resort spanning 220 acres and featuring a variety of snow-based activities.
8700 West Chestnut Road, Galena, IL 61036, 800-798-0098, Map, Chestnut Mountain Resort Video
The Elihu B. Washburne House
Located at 908 Third Street in Galena, The Elihu B. Washburne House was built in 1845 for local politician Elihu Benjamin Washburne, and it stands today as an outstanding example of the architectural Greek-Revival style.Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the house is managed by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency and is open to the public to explore on self-guided or organized tours.
The Elihu B. Washburne House, 908 Third Street, Galena IL 61036, 815-777-9406
Old Market House
Built in 1845 in the Greek Revival style, the Old Market House was constructed by the city to serve as a town hall and enclosed farmer’s market, forming a community hub during Galena’s “Golden Era.” The Old Market House was restored to its former glory in 1955 and currently operates as the Galena Welcome Center, managed by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency as an Illinois State Historic Site.
Old Market House, 123 N. Commerce Street, Galena IL 61036, 815-777-3310
P.T. Murphy Magic Theater
Located in the heart of historic downtown Galena, P.T. Murphy Magic Theater is a private 24-seat theater that presents a variety of intimate magic shows.
Casper Bluff Land and Water Reserve
Casper Bluff Land and Water Reserve is an archeologically significant site that boasts breathtaking views of the Mississippi River bluffs and presents an array of outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, bird watching, and sightseeing.
Linmar Gardens
Nestled on a hillside overlooking Galena, Linmar Gardens is a privately owned three-and-a-half-acre garden that has been beautifully landscaped and curated to provide a secluded and tranquil space in which to relax in nature.
West Street Sculpture Park
The West Street Sculpture Park is an outdoor space that features more than a dozen large, welded steel sculptures by John Martinson that are scattered around two acres of beautiful parklands.
Galena Center for the Arts
The Galena Center for the Arts was established to celebrate regional arts and artists, as well as to inspire the public and educate them on the importance of art in society today by showcasing high-quality art in an inviting atmosphere.
Miss Kitty's Grape Escape
Miss Kitty's Grape Escape is a retro bar serving wine, beer, and signature martinis along with classic bar fare such as sandwiches, nachos, and burgers in a convivial setting.
Galena Cellars Winery & Vineyard
Galena Cellars Winery & Vineyard is a family-owned and operated vineyard and winery that has been producing wine for over 40 years.
Blaum Bros. Distilling Co.
Blaum Bros. Distilling Co.. is a family-owned and operated craft distillery in the heart of Galena that produces a range of premium spirits, including whiskey, vodka, and gin.
The Great American Popcorn Company
The Great American Popcorn Company is a quaint shop in the heart of Galena that sells delicious gourmet popcorn treats, including the famous Old Fashioned Caramel Corn.The famous store not only sells freshly made popcorn and popcorn products but also offers a wide variety of other mouthwatering treats such as homemade fudge, candies, handmade chocolates, and ice cream.
The Great American Popcorn Company, 115 N Main St, Galena, IL 61036, 815-777-4116
Galena Brewing Company
The Galena Brewing Company is the first brewery in Galena since the days of Prohibition, and it produces and serves 12 delicious brews and features a fantastic pub menu with dishes made from local ingredients.
Horseshoe Mound Preserve
Horseshoe Mound Preserve is located at the eastern gateway to Galena, where it provides a pleasant outdoor recreational facility.
Belvedere Mansion, Galena
As stately and impressive today as when it was built in 1857, the Belvedere Mansion is one of the finest buildings in historic Galena.
River Bend Gallery and Gifts
A must-see attraction for everyone who loves art and décor, the River Bend Gallery and Gifts is owned and run by professional artist Geoffrey Mikol.
Galena Goat Yoga
Located at Silver Linings Farm, Galena Goat Yoga offers all visitors an unforgettable yoga experience.
Long Hollow Canopy Tours
Long Hollow Canopy Tours offers hours of thrilling outdoor fun for individuals, couples, families or groups.
Fried Green Tomatoes
Situated in a historic building which was built back in 1854, the Fried Green Tomatoes Restaurant is full of charm and character.
Vinny Vanucchi’s Little Italy
Reminiscent of the charm-filled local trattorias of Italy, Vinny Vanucchi’s Little Italy brings authentic Italian cuisine to Galena.
Goldmoor Dining
Proud recipients of a 2021 TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice award, the Goldmoor Inn is one of the most outstanding B&B’s in the Galena area. Whether or not you choose to stay at the Inn during your visit to Galena you can certainly visit the inn for a sumptuous fine-dining experience.
