Historic Galena, Illinois

Galena’s History

In the 1820’s and 30’s the town of Galena was a major steamboat port and mining boomtown that overshadowed little Chicago about 160 miles to the East.  Named after the mineral galena, from which lead is derived, the city built numerous mansions and commercial buildings to showcase its wealth.  When the once plentiful mineral was mined out in the mid-nineteenth century a long period of decline followed.  But this period of decline saved these historic buildings which no one had the money to tear down and replace with malls.  Now almost the entire downtown of this little city of about 3,00 people is part of a National Historic District.  The charm of its Victorian architecture, beautiful bluffs overlooking the Mississippi and Galena Rivers, and small-town friendliness are draws that attract visitors from throughout the Midwest.

Galena Has One of the Prettiest Streets in the U.S.

Main Street in Galena is often mentioned as one of the prettiest main streets in America.  With over 125 shops and plentiful restaurants there is more than enough to keep a traveler occupied.  There is something special about this place with its charming brick buildings that line winding, hilly streets.  (Remember that not all the Midwest is flat).  Just strolling for an afternoon is a popular way to kill time.  The street has several art galleries, pottery shops, and stores selling local woodworking crafts that are a nice change from the national brands.

It Offers Delightful Options for Drinking and Eating

The area also has several delightful options for food and drink.  As a Midwestern town, of course there are several small Mom and Pop style places.  But you can also enjoy cuisine from Italy, France, Mexico, Japan, and from several creative new American chefs.  Many of them are in the center of town.  Others are in the bluffs overlooking the rivers and one can be reached by chair lift.  The views and ride up make for a memorable experience.  The area surrounding Galena is home to four vineyards if you enjoy a more refined drinking experience.  There is also a lively brewing scene in town.  Throw in several small local bars and there is no shortage of places to entertain yourself.

It Has Historic Sites Including Presidential Homes

As far as Presidents go, Illinois is the most famous for Abraham Lincoln down in Springfield.  But Galena is proud of its own President Ulysses S. Grant.  He returned to Galena in 1865 after the Civil War.  His home is now a museum and contains its original furnishings.  Galena was also the home to eight other Civil War Generals and is full of history from this period.  There are several historic homes, forts, haunted mansions, a haunted pub, and other historic sites that you can visit.  Galena is also home to a satellite branch of the Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design.  Its exhibits focus on contemporary art, photography, and of course architecture; all housed in an old brewery building.

The Area Provides Great Outdoor Activity Options

The area around Galena is beautiful and offers several options for outdoor activities.  Hiking, biking, and canoeing are especially popular.  The Galena River Trail is an excellent option that runs for about nine miles from town along the Galena River.  Its path follows abandoned Burlington Northern rail lines.  In June you can observe the Great Galena Balloon Race.  The races themselves can be fun to watch, but the beauty of the glow extravaganza is a highlight for many.

Galena Is LGBTQ+ Friendly

Galena is small, but it is also LGBTQ+ friendly.  Its many B&Bs are popular with gay couples on romantic weekend getaways from Chicago.  Galena even has its own small Pride Celebration.  This June the event starts with a Kick-Off drag show and formally ends with a Pride Picnic in Grant Park.

How To Get to Galena

Although there are small airports nearby, we suggest flying into Chicago.  Enjoy a few days of big city excitement and culture.  Then drive about three hours West to Galena and enjoy the small-town charm of a bygone era.  This is the perfect combination of excitement and relaxation.  If you would like more information about Galena or help in planning a trip to this or any other fabulous destination, contact Purple Light Vacations.  We are always here to help you plan the perfect getaway.

Purple Light Vacations provides you with the knowledge, insight and personalized service to make your vacation all you want it to be at no additional cost. We help you travel in the know wherever you go. To get started, fill out this quick form or call 619.324.1444 (ext. 3).