LTPD Travels from home to a Galena Getaway
- Katie White, Trip Supervisor, LTPD Travel
- Nov 24, 2020
- 4 min read
Welcome to charming Galena Country! When I first read about Galena I saw the phrase, "frozen in time", once I visited I understood why. In fact, eighty-five percent of the buildings are part of the National Register of Historic Places.
The drive to Galena was just as breathtaking as the town. Known as the "driftless area", Galena is part of the region left untouched by the last glacier causing hilly and rugged landscaped throughout northwestern Illinois, into Iowa, Wisconsin and Minnesota.
History on Galena
Founded in 1826 and named after a natural form of lead sulfide, there is over 330 years of history that encompasses the small town of Galena. Once having a population larger than Chicago, Galena was said to become the largest city in Illinois - that was of course when the town was booming in the 1850's when Galena produced around 80% of the nation's lead.
While Galena's political history is as great and as widely known as the lead mining industry, the decline in mining and the rise of the California Gold Rush caused population to decrease. Currently, Galena has a population around 3,200 and is referred to
as a town that time forgot due to all the history still intact.
Things To See & Activities
Shopping
Galena is unique in that its a small town with tons to do! The half-mile stretch of downtown will immerse you in history and shopping with over 125 shops and restaurants. You'll be sure to find things to bring home for friends and family as well as goodies for yourself too!
Outdoor Fun
Located right along the Mississippi River, Galena is also perfect for outdoor enthusiasts! From hiking, golfing, kayaking and even zip lining you'll be sure to find something for your adventurous side!
Wine, Beer, Spirits
Brewery or wine tours more up your alley? Galena has plenty of options. From winery tours where you can take in the sights and sips without worrying about driving to brewery tours - Galena has the idealistic pre-prohibition roots for you to check out! Learn more here.
Activities From Home
While Galena is just a 3 hour drive from Lockport you can still enjoy activities from home that make you feel like you're in wine country!
Lockport Township Park District and the surrounding area have a ton to do to get you into the holiday season without having to travel too far!
Looking for wine tasting?
Go to your local grocery store or wine store and pick out some wine you've never tried before. Host a zoom call with some friends and encourage them to join in on the fun!
Sable Creek Winery - Oder online, curbside pick-up and local delivery
The Wine Cellar Group - Oder online, curbside pick-up, shop in store
Wine & Cheese Co. - Curbside pick-up, local delivery
Cooper's Hawk - Curbside pick-up, tasting room is open for wine purchases
And so many more!
Bummed you can't shop at your favorite German market this holiday season?
You can shop the Christkindlmarket virtually! Click here
What to eat
Galena is a foodie's paradise! From sweet treats to local fare, upscale dining and quick bites to eat - you're mouth will be watering!
Council Hill
A unique and historic restaurant dating back to the 1850's was formerly a train station/general store for local patrons. Featuring live music year-round, food, barn dances in the summer and historic tours this place is a must!
Fried Green Tomatoes
Known for their pasta, steak, seafood and award winning wine menu; Fried Green Tomatoes gives an upscale flare to your dining experience while in Galena.
A locals and visitors favorite, as the "go-to" place for a great steak. This steakhouse has been in operation since 1937 and was purchased by a Greek Family in 1975. They know how to keep their customers happy and coming back for more!
For more places to eat and drink click here!
Where to Stay
From historic hotels and hillside resorts to quaint bed and breakfasts - Galena has just what you need for a memorable stay.
My personal favorites include:
Featuring 55 Victorian-style guest rooms, 3 restaurants, several local boutiques and a four-story atrium this hotel holds a lot of history for small town Galena. The oldest operating hotel in Illinois has hosted guests since 1855, view the video below for more history on the DeSoto House.
Since 1867, Farmers Guest House has been welcoming travelers from near and far for romantic getaways, girls/guys trips and simply overnight stays with being steps away from the hustle and bustle of downtown.
View more places to stay here!
Have you ever been to Galena?
Let's hear some of your favorite spots & things to do!
For more information on Galena, IL visit https://www.visitgalena.org/
Hopefully you enjoyed your visit to Galena, IL from the comfort of your home! Keep a look out for more travels from home with LTPD Travel by subscribing to our blog!
LTPD Travel is a travel program through Lockport Township Park District offering day and overnight trips from Lockport, IL.
Check out our website at Lockportpark.org!
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