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About Galena

Tucked towards Illinois’ north-west corner is the charming historic town of Galena, close to the mighty Mississippi River. Known for its rich heritage, art galleries, craft beers and wine tasting rooms, this hip little community has become a magnet for travellers, with accommodation options including everything from simple B&Bs to beautiful mansions on verdant estates. Fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets, the best places to stay in Galena are never far from brilliant food, wonderful cultural events and gorgeous landscapes.

Begin your explorations at Galena History Museum, or with a guided walking tour of the old town centre. The evening ghost tours come highly recommended! Explore on foot or by bicycle during the day to spot heritage buildings, quirky art galleries, independent boutiques and lively eateries. Don’t miss Ulysses S Grant’s Home, Belvedere Mansion or Dowling House for a memorable insight into Galena’s past. Market House State Historic Site and West Street Sculpture Park are also excellent.

Beyond the town centre, you’ll find myriad opportunities to go cycling, hiking, kayaking and fishing. The Casper Bluff Land & Water Reserve is particularly striking, as are the Thunder Bay Falls. Take the little ones for a wander in Grant Park, or to a marvellous show at PT Murphy Magic Theatre.

Round off your evenings with distillery tours and wine tastings before kicking back at one of the best places to stay in Galena. Small and intimate, the town’s inns are the perfect way to experience the area’s history and famously friendly charm.

The Best Places to Stay in Galena

For a Central B&B

  • Aldrich Guest House dates back to 1845, and has a rich history of its own. Reserve a lovely room, enjoy delicious breakfasts and chat to the friendly innkeepers about what you might like to do during your stay. The leafy grounds, library and lounge are idyllic. Relaxed and friendly, moments from Galena's key attractions.
  • Lamberson Guest House is a spacious 19th-century mansion, which has been transformed into an owner-run B&B in the heart of the historic district. Expect original period features in cosy rooms and public spaces. For couples, friends or families who appreciate heritage charm. Big breakfasts, homemade cookies and wine & cheese receptions are superb.

For Families

  • Cloran Mansion is a great family choice, with suites and cottages offering space for those travelling with little ones. Home-cooked country breakfasts are excellent, and the kids will love the popcorn & cookies. Comfortable and inviting.
  • Inn at Felt Manor is an impressive Second Empire mansion, within walking distance of downtown Galena. Book the two-bedroom, two-bathroom Coach House if travelling as a family or with friends. There's a library and a games room, as well as yummy breakfasts and evening wine receptions. Fab for the whole family.

For Adult-Only Luxury

  • Jail Hill Inn is an award-winning inn, with spacious, romantic rooms in a striking red brick building. Expect champagne and chocolates on arrival — perfect for an indulgent weekend for two. Luxurious & within walking distance of Galena town centre. Adults only.

For a Rural Escape

  • Goldmoor Inn overlooks the Mississippi River. Set within expansive gardens, the inn has cabins, suites and cottages with waterfront views and grand interiors; the very best have big tubs. Immerse yourself in nature at this tranquil riverside escape! For couples, friends or wedding parties.
  • Inn at Irish Hollow sits on a rambling 500-acre estate. Suites are scattered within charming cottages and the main historic inn, with sumptuous textiles, four poster beds and antique pieces. The organic food is a delight, and the estate is ideal for walks, hikes and bike rides. Rural bliss.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR COTTAGE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Dubuque Regional Airport, 30 minutes' drive from Galena by car or bus. Chicago O'Hare International Airport is 2.5 hours away.
  • Illinois is a wonderful state to explore by road. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel between June and September, for temperatures averaging between 21°C and 25°C, or come during the winter for snowy days and cosy evenings.

STILL NOT SURE?

Best Hotels in Galena

  • Inn at Felt Manor Galena 7 rooms from $150

    Families  -  Located at the back of the plot, Coach House comes with two bedrooms and two bathrooms yet access to main house's facilities
    Local exploring  -  Situated two blocks from award-winning Main Street. All of Galena's main historic sites are walking distance
    Sights nearby  -  Galena vintage trolley tours offer 2.5 hour circuits visiting US Grant Home, Belvedere Mansion and Dowling House
    Views  -  Enjoy views over the Galena River Valley from the front porch; this is also a great spot for sunrise
    Air conditioningGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    Impressive Second Empire mansion and Coach House walking distance from downtown. A range of homely public areas include a library, games room and multiple parlours; delicious breakfast and wine receptions are included. Period wallpaper and original fireplaces add charm. Heritage home-away-from-home. See More

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  • Aldrich Guest House Galena 5 rooms from $161

    Local exploring  -  Walk easily into Galena, explore vineyards and distilleries or hike, bike and kayak in nature - there's lots to do in the area
    Total relaxation  -  Adult-only policy makes for a tranquil stay, perfect for those looking to rest and relax in child-free environment
    Sights nearby  -  Walk easily to Galena Historic District, Ulysses S Grant Home, Belvedere Mansion and Linmar Gardens
    Great walks  -  For something different, try goat trekking; a hike in the local forest accompanied by goats
    Air conditioningGardenParkingNo pets

    Charming owner-run B&B with simple but tasteful interiors and a relaxed grown-up feel. Elegant 19th-century mansion houses compact but cosy rooms, designed for couples. Make use of the grounds, screened porch, library and lounge after days exploring. A laid-back and authentic home away from home. See More

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  • Cloran Mansion Galena 7 rooms from $167

    Romantic Break  -  Tower Suite was designed for romance with a grand fireplace, alcove with fireside two-person tub, soft lighting and fluffy robes
    Local exploring  -  Enjoy range of activities and sites including historic Galena, skiing, kayaking, wine-tasting and exploring Mississippi River
    Total relaxation  -  After a day of sightseeing enjoy the property's large gardens with gazebo, fire pit, koi pond and swing for two
    Sights nearby  -  History-lovers must visit Ulysses S Grant Home, Dowling House, Belvedere Mansion, Linmar Gardens and Galena Historic District
    Air conditioningGardenPet friendlyParking

    Award-winning owner-run B&B in a historic building with modern amenities and comforts. Range of elegant rooms, suites and a cottage with period-inspired decor provide options for different guest types; most boast fireplaces and tubs. Homely feel with gourmet food, cosy library and spacious grounds. See More

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  • Lamberson Guest House Galena 4 rooms from $275

    Luxury  -  Handcrafted mattresses, lavender-rinsed linens, microfibre bathrobes, Turkish towels & luxe bath products ensure a spoiling stay
    Romantic Break  -  Plush amenities and roomy fireside living room make Elizabeth Grand Suite ideal for a quiet weekend away a deux
    Local exploring  -  Located in Galena's Historic District, with views over the downtown and sites within walking distance
    Sights nearby  -  In addition to Galena Historic District, sites include Linmar Gardens, Belvedere Mansion and J Dubuque Monument
    Air conditioningGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    Spacious 19th-century mansion converted into elegant owner-run B&B in the heart of the historic district. Original architectural features, antique furnishings and tasteful traditional decor across cosy rooms and public areas creates an authentic homely feel. A charming base for leisurely exploring. See More

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  • Inn at Irish Hollow Galena 8 rooms from $347

    Back to Nature  -  Enjoy the bucolic location; surrounded by fields, wetland and forests spend days exploring the estate and getting back to nature
    Romantic Break  -  There's plenty to do in the area but ideally just stay indoors by the fire, dig into delicious food & spoiling treatments
    Foodies  -  Food is taken seriously here. Enjoy warming and lovingly made multi-course breakfasts and dinners
    Great walks  -  There are endless walking trails through the rolling wooded hills of the scenic estate. Look out for wildflowers in the spring
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    Award-winning B&B on a rambling 500-acre estate. Suites are located in the historic inn and romantic English-style cottages with screened porches. Expect sumptuous four-poster beds, tasteful antiques and roaring fires. Organic food is divine. Perfect for a classy but rustic country weekend away. See More

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  • Goldmoor Inn Galena 18 rooms from $350

    Weddings  -  The picturesque and spacious grounds, scenic riverside location and romantic suites make this perfect for a destination wedding
    Romantic Break  -  Enjoy strolls around the grounds, soaks in gigantic bathtubs, spoiling massages, delicious dinners & fireside relaxation
    Back to Nature  -  It's easy to feel completely off grid with only forest, the river and wildlife surrounding you for miles
    Sights nearby  -  Galena's historic 19th century homes and mansions are less than 10km drive from the estate
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    Romantic inn is situated within an expansive garden estate on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River. Spacious rooms are spread over cabins, suites or cottages; almost all look out over the water. Sumptuous decor blends grand four-poster beds, fluffy carpets & spa baths. Luxury in the wilderness. See More

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  • Jail Hill Inn Galena 6 rooms from $425

    Local exploring  -  The property is one block from Main Street & Galena's historic centre. Explore galleries, independent boutiques & restaurants
    Romantic Break  -  With champagne and chocolates on arrival, roaring fires and an adult-only policy, check-in for a romantic weekend for two
    Sights nearby  -  Galena is known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings from the time of Abraham Lincoln. Visit historic homes aplenty
    Great walks  -  Head out of town to Casper Bluff Land and Water Reserve for scenic hiking trails
    Air conditioningGarden

    Impressive award-winning 19th-century inn situated in a former jail. Romantic and spacious rooms have antiques, fireplaces, kitchenettes and large bathrooms. Decor blends classic contemporary furniture, fluffy oriental rugs and homely art with historic touches. Warm hospitality is at the core. See More

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