Midwest Monday: Galena, Illinois

If you are looking for a romantic getaway this winter, look no further than Galena, Illinois!  There is so much to do while you are there!  The area is absolutely beautiful with rolling hills, and the town has a unique historic charm.  Stay in one of the historic homes at one of the bed and breakfasts, or in a local hotel.  Also check out this beautiful Luxury 1800's log cabin through VRBO that I found.  It is definitely on the list for an anniversary getaway for Ryan and I. 

HISTORY

1. Tour the Ulysses S. Grant's museum or tour President Grants home which is open all year wedn-sun 9-4:45.

2. Tour Apple River Fort State in Elizabeth, Il.  The fort that President Lincoln camped outside of in 1832.  Come visit as they reinact the lives/jobs in the fort at that time.

3. The Dowling House- First house built in Galena in 1826 right downtown.  Tours are available.

4.  Galena Trolley- take a trolley tour of historic galena sites, winery tour, haunted night tour, or tour of homes.

5. Ryans Mansion- Tour Ryans Mansion with champagne and by candlelight as the butler takes you throughout the home.  This was a really neat experience to see all the maids and butlers dressed up like old times and to hear about the history of the home.





OUTDOOR RECREATION

1. Chesnut Mountain- Ski hill and alpine slide available in summer.

2. House on the Rock- Take a tour of this amazing architecture.  Alex Jordan built his home into and around the chimney of a rock.  See his unique collections, displays and galleries throughout the home.  Starting in November, the home is transformed for the holidays with Christmas decorations.  It has expanded to also offer lodging, golfing, and a spa. 

3. Crystal Lake Cave- open for tours May-October. 30-45 minutes.

4. River Boat Twilight- River boat cruises along the Mississippi river.

5. Tri State Market Pumpkin Barn- Open in the fall.  Fresh produce market including pumpkins, apples, hayrides, corn maze, and small animal farm.

6. Galena Carriage- Take a romantic carriage ride through the historic main streets of Galena or down Park Avenue by the historic homes.  They even offer 'carriage ride and dinner' packages where they are your transportation to a restaurant of choice. 

WINERIES

1. Massbach Ridge Winery- taste testing and tours available.

2. Galena Cellars- taste testing and tours available.

As you can see there is so much to do in Galena!  Shop downtown Main Street and visit all the boutiques and antique stores.  There are many options for restaurants.  Tours of mansions.  Art galleries.  You can easily fill up a weekend with the events they have going on, or even spend an afternoon driving around the rolling countryside. 

Hope you get a chance to check it out! 

Has anyone ever been to Galena?  Did you enjoy your stay?