Location: Galena
Top Things to do in Galena
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What to do and see in Galena, Illinois (IL): The Best Shopping
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. Gateway to History Museum Store
2. Ink and Stamp with Sue
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
3. 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.
4. 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
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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!
9. Galena Clay Works
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
Reviewed By beachliker - Nashville, United States
If you want to experience a unique shop continue down main street to 704 Dewey Ave ( Main St. becomes Dewey Ave) where you will find an interesting pottery shop nestled among homes. The shop is worth a quick stop and a look around. The artist will be happy to explain his work and you will find many pottery pieces very reasonably priced. The experience alone is worth your time. This shop was open in the evening when I visited Galena. I am not sure of the daily hours.
10. Towne Rebel Clothing & Home Decor
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By Websterdictionary - Chicago, United States
This store is a must-visit! The owner has amazing taste, and a shop full of wonderful things❤️ Every gift is unique, classy, and just gorgeous. From the wine themed serving pieces made of wood imported from Europe, to the huge stunning wall art photo prints, to the cheerful rubber doormats with bright and cozy images, I kept seeing more I had to buy! In fact, after buying several items on one day, I thought better of it...and came back to buy additional things the next day too. Don’t miss Towne Rebel!
