Travel blogs, photos and features from Galena, Illinois
Just minutes away from both Iowa and Wisconsin, the small town of Galena has established itself as a tourist destination for much of the midwest. And despite having a population just over 3,000, it may be one of the best weekend getaways I’ve experienced in rural America. Start here with my basic Galena travel tips, or jump down below to read my latest Galena travel blogs.
The weather in Galena can be extreme, like the rest of Illinois. In summers, it gets very hot while winters can be bitterly cold with heavy snowfall, which is great if you enjoy skiing and other winter sports! In summer, things definitely get busier and prices rise slightly, so early fall can be a good alternative time to come to Galena.
Main Street – Galena’s Main Street has been consistently ranked among the most picturesque in America. There are ghost tours and other walking tours around the street, but really it’s good for a bit of shopping.
Ulysses S. Grant Home – Given to the former U.S. President as a gift from residents of Galena on his return after his presidency. The historical house is good for American history buffs. Most notable trivia is the fact that there’s a sculpture out front of his wife, Julia Grant—it’s one of only a handful of sculptures of First Ladies.
Galena Canning Company – The Galena Canning Company offers up hot sauces and other speciality salsas. I couldn’t resist buying a bottle of the Sweet Bourbon Glaze!
Although it’s a very small town, taking a tour around Galena will get you insight into some of the areas you might otherwise overlook, so it’s definitely worth you time to consider one. Take a look at this selection of Galena tours.
Since Galena is such a small town, there isn’t any gay nightlife specifically to speak of, though it is certainly a very gay-friendly place to visit. If you have a more desperate need to be surrounded by queers, head back east towards Rockford or even Chicago, perhaps the gayest city in America!
More gay travel resources here.
Despite being so small, Galena has a good range of accommodation options. I’ve always found that using Booking.com, Agoda.com or Hotels Combined can be really useful for finding last-minute deals.
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A road trip from Chicago through Northern Illinois to Starved Rock State Park in Utica, picturesque Galena and historic Rockford with specific travel tips!
