Location: Galena
Top Things to do in Galena
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Things to do in Galena, Illinois (IL): The Best Outdoor Activities
If not for the modern-day goods sold in the retail establishments, you might think Galena was frozen in time. The six-block Main Street boasts striking examples of various architectural styles, ranging from French Colonial to Greek Revival, and a whopping 85% of the town is a national historic district. General Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th U.S. President, lived here briefly before leaving to head the Union troops in the Civil War. Upon his triumphant return, the town presented him with an elegant mansion. That house and other restored historic homes are open to the public. There's much more here to fascinate the history enthusiast: the Old Market House and the Historical Society and Museum, housed in a stunning Italianate home. Before its Civil War glory days, Galena was a booming lead-mining town. Today, you can descend underground into the Vinegar Hill Lead Mine. But don't stay down there too long, or you won't get to enjoy the rolling hills and lush valleys of this charming getaway, which also offers fine dining, numerous bed and breakfasts, golfing and antiquing.
Restaurants in Galena
1. Long Hollow Canopy Tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 168 reviews
Approximately 2.5 hours of thrilling fun! A completely guided tour on 6 ziplines, 2 ladders, Skybridge, Rappel, Quickjump, UTV Ride and Hike. Located near the Galena Territory. Reach speeds up to 45 mph and heights of 75 feet. Ziplines range from 190' - 1,250' with amazing views. Fun for families, friends and corporations. Participants must weigh between 70-250 pounds and be at least 10 years of age or older.
2. Ehrler Ranch Wedding and Special Event Barn
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
This charming indoor/outdoor venue is located near beautiful downtown Galena, Illinois. Ehrler Ranch is rustic and elegant wedding/event venue designed to spot highlight weddings, reunions, showers, proms, meetings & retreats, while offering a creative & unique setting for all types of events. At the Ehrler Ranch there is a sense of family and hard work, as well, because of it's location. The venue is particularly special because of its farm and family legacy. The Oldenburg/Ehrler family for six generations have lived on this beautiful piece of land.
3. Riverview Ranch and Resort
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
Horseback Riding and Vacation Rentals. Cozy 3 bedroom 2 bath apt (1,300 sqft) full kitchen, large living room with views of indoor horse arena, pastures and river. Large lobby w/ sat TV, bar, equuarium, pool, ping-pong. 6 mi. to Galena. Spectacular sunsets, amazing star gazing. Fire pit. Wildlife. Nearby skiing, hiking, Kayaking, bicycling, bird watching, restaurants. 7 horses, 3 dogs, 3 chickens.
4. Hoof It - Goat Treks
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 91 reviews
We offer peaceful treks through native forests and prairies with goats by your side. Goats on a leash, why yes. Interact, play, and feed these peaceful, social animals while we take in the natural beauty of the Driftless area of Illinois, while the goats graze and play. Spend time after your walk by relaxing in the yard, taking goat selfies and trying to catch the chicken.
5. Shenandoah Riding Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 230 reviews
The Shenandoah Riding Center is a first-rate equine facility with a top-caliber staff. Its location in The Galena Territory makes it unrivaled for scenic trails and tranquil beauty. From seasoned equestrians to beginning horse enthusiasts of all ages, we have something to offer for everyone!
Reviewed By withoutsound
Pricing was about expected for a trail ride. Booking and paying online was easy. Printed the waiver and brought it in. We arrived 15 min early as requested, but no one was in the office. Had to ask someone to get a worker, and someone finally came in 5 min after or scheduled time. A little annoying, but the rest of the trail ride was great, so water under the bridge. Brandi and Bethany helped us on our horses (Pengo and Spartan) and gave us a quick run down of how to guide the horses. The horses were very easy to ride, each with their own amusing personalities. Our trail guide was friendly, answered any questions we had (we were the only riders), and pointed out a few of the other resident horses and little tid bits about them. Also gave us some space to really just enjoy the ride, which was perfect. The trail itself was a basic trail that traversed the Galena territory, went by some houses, up and down some gentle hills. We got back after an hour and they took some photos for us. All in all, it was a great ride and we wouldn't hesitate to come back in the future.
6. The General at Eagle Ridge
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 31 reviews
Roger Packard and Andy North designed this course, using the dramatic terrain to full advantage. The view from the signature hole offers a striking view of three states - Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin.
7. Chestnut Mountain Resort
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 381 reviews
Reviewed By HexFun
Despite the brisk fall breeze, we absolutely enjoyed our alpine ride and ski lift. The autumn trees were gorgeous!
8. Eagle Ridge Resort
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 86 reviews
Reviewed By chitowngirl330 - Oswego, United States
Had a very relaxing time here. Went on a stroll, had an app at the low key bar and then off on a hot air balloon ride. Came back to the resort and enjoyed an amazing prime rib buffet at the supper club. Relaxed after at the sports bar where they had a guy playing a guitar who takes any requests from Willie Nelson to Fleetwood Mack to Bob Dylan. Very cool guy. You can only tip him in cash however as the resort won’t let him drink a beer while he plays? Woke up feeling refreshed on the super comfy bed and went to the general store for some Starbucks. Came back down the walking path and drank my coffee on the balcony looking out into The majestic forest. Great staff, very friendly and kind and always making sure you are having a great time here.
9. Fever River Outfitters
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 74 reviews
We offer sales and rentals of canoes, kayaks, fishing kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, e-bikes and bikes. We also sell gear and equipment for outdoor recreation.
10. Galena Jeep Rentals
Take the top off of one of our 4 door jeep wranglers and drive around Galena and its beautiful surrounding area. Maps of must see roads available.
