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Hidden midwestern gem - Galena, Illinois

by Scott Carmichael (RSS feed) on Aug 3rd 2009 at 12:00PM

Galena Illinois is one of those real undiscovered and hidden gems. Nestled in the north west corner of the state, it is right across the Mississippi river from Iowa. The National Trust for Historic Preservation added Galena to its 2004 list of America's Dozen Distinctive Destinations.

The village is conveniently located "in the middle of nowhere" - about 20 miles from Dubuque, IA and 80 miles from Rockford, IL. Getting to Galena from the Chicagoland area takes you through some of the most scenic winding roads in Illinois, and folks from Chicago will probably be amazed to see that their state really does have some hills.

Things to do in Galena

Downtown Galena has a perfect balance between old charm and modern updates. You still get that old main street feeling, without feeling like things haven't been updated in decades. Everything is well preserved. The main street stores offer something for everyone - from old fashioned candy stores to a fantastic variety of eateries and coffee shops.

Staying in Galena

Staying in Galena is the best way to enjoy the area past "daytrip". In fact, given the 3 hour drive from Chicago, staying overnight may be the only way to really enjoy the scenery. Thankfully, Galena is home to some of the best places in the state to spend the night.

Galena has over 100 B&B's, several chain hotels and 2 large resort hotels, including the award winning Eagle Ridge resort, with a 63 hole golf course, spa and 4 different restaurants.

During the winter months, the Chestnut Mountai n resort is where you'll find 19 different ski trails in a hotel overlooking the Upper Mississippi River. Its rooms are fairly basic, but the location can't be beat.

Filed under: North America, United States

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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)

GalenaJo Daviess County CVB Aug 3rd 2009 12:35PM

This is a great story on Galena! Wonderful images too. For those that have never been to Galena or Jo Daviess County, you will truly be amazed by just how different we are from anywhere else in Illinois. To plan your next trip to Galena, visit www.galena.org. From your friendly hosts for visitor information, the Galena/Jo Daviess County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Tom McMahon Aug 3rd 2009 1:01PM

Not too far from Galena is Charles Mound, The Highest Point In Illinois. It's on private property, but it's open for you to climb the first full weekend of June, July, August, and September. At at leisurely 1235 feet above sea level, it's the highest natural point in the State of Illinois. The Sears/Willis Tower in Chicago is taller at 1450 feet.

Photo here

Jaime Aug 3rd 2009 4:47PM

I think you meant Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa...www.eagleridge.com

:)

Marilyn Terrell Aug 4th 2009 12:46AM

For more gems along the Mississippi River Road, try Winona, Lanesboro, Effigy Mounds National Monument and Davenport. Here's a little itinerary from National Geographic Traveler's Drives of a Lifetime: http://traveler.nationalgeographic.com/drives/mississippi-river/1