Location: Galena
Top Things to do in Galena
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What to do and see in Galena, Illinois (IL): The Best Free Things to do
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. Great American Popcorn Company
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 169 reviews
Reviewed By 238cliffr
The staff was great and the popcorn was really good. Prices were reasonable. They had a wide variety of flavors.
2. Peace of the Past
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 15 reviews
Reviewed By Peasandquiet2 - Joliet, United States
Prepare to step back in time! I always stop here when in town. Large collection of books to browse thru. Many antiques including some great dresser/cabinets
3. Outside the Lines Art Gallery Galena
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 23 reviews
Located in historic Downtown Galena, IL, and on Upper Main in Dubuque, IA, the galleries features original creations from over 100 US artists, many who are from Galena and the Tri-state area. The mission of our gallery is to offer high quality handmade items at affordable prices. Knowing all of our artists personally enables us to accurately describe their processes and products.
Reviewed By purloins
Wonderful treasure in downtown Galena. Friendly owners and staff. Wonderful selection of artisan created and made itemS. We love the pottery and have picked up several pieces.
4. Galena Center for the Arts
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 17 reviews
The Galena Center for the Arts is an Illinois not-for-profit. Our vision is to elevate and celebrate regional arts and artists by offering high-quality art in an atmosphere and presentation found in leading art institutes and theatres. The Center has art galleries, historic Galena photos, Art studios, music and theatrical performances on specific dates. Check the website for performances and events.
5. Mangelsen - Images of Nature Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 45 reviews
Reviewed By wrigleyrick
My Father in Law and I stopped in for a visit and were stunned to see that the gallery was closing at year end. This place has been a fixture in Galena for many years and my wife and I have purchased many pictures to hang in our house. If you are a fan of world class nature photography this place is a must see. All the prints are 40% off until the end of the year so now is the time to buy. We will miss our visits to this gallery and hope that Tom and the rest of his shops are doing well. As a photographer Tom is the best of the best.
6. River Bend Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 67 reviews
Exclusive home to Geoffrey Mikol's Nature scape photography. His artwork is stunning, catching elusive light that the eye sees but that cameras often miss. He has a talent for capturing moments in nature that still the soul and quiet your senses.
Reviewed By E4039SQjenniferm
Our first trip to Galena and the River Bend Gallery was definitely a highlight! The images Geoffrey captures with his camera are breathtaking and we had a hard time choosing what we wanted to bring home. They have so many options. What we wanted wasn't in stock and they made it for us that night and we were able to pick it up the next morning! We were lucky enough to meet the photographer and tell him how much we loved his work. A must stop!
7. Galena Veterans Memorial Park
8. The Grateful Gourmet Co.
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 13 reviews
The Grateful Gourmet is an eclectic and fun kitchenware, specialty food, gift, coffee and tea shop located in the heart of beautiful Galena, IL
Reviewed By 911RN318 - Waupun, United States
Great place for fun kitchen gadgets. A lot of different items to browse. Staff is friendly and helpful!
9. Old Market House State Historic Site
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 86 reviews
Vendors peddled their wares at this Greek Revival Market House in the 19th century, which now hosts changing exhibits, meetings and special events.
Reviewed By srmorgan516 - Johnston, United States
The historical artifacts were interesting to view and read about. It was a fairly quick stop but we left with a little more knowledge then we arrived with. The staff was very friendly and helpful. Worth a stop.
10. Galena Cellars Winery & Vineyard
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 373 reviews
Over three generations of winemakers, the Lawlor-White Family has produced over 50 unique red, white and fruit wines. Enjoy all Galena Cellars has to offer including wine tasting experiences, tours and live music. Stop in and savor a taste of Illinois!
Reviewed By Lynnieskitchen
Great little winery with awesome wines! Perfect setting to sit back & relax... sip a glass on the porch or check out their new tasting room!????
