Weekend in Historic Galena

A September 2002 trip to Galena by badger barrister

Galena is one of the homes of U.S. Grant and was a boomtown during the lead and shipping days. Much of the historic downtown and many homes, including Grant's, have been wonderfully restored. The natural backdrop is the rolling hills of the unglaciated corner of Illinois

  • 2 reviews
Touring the Grant home is a must, and it is inexpensive. It is operated by the Illinois Historical Society and contains most of the original furnishings from Grant's period in the home between the end of the Civil War to his presidency.

The DeSoto Hotel in downtown Galena is still an operating hotel and restaurant and was the site of one of the Lincoln-Douglas Debates.

Most of the buildings downtown are restored 19th century buildings with many shops, antique stores and eating establishments.

Quick Tips:

There are many charming bed & breakfasts and guest houses that would be fun to stay at for a couple. We had children with us and this was the weekend of the fall tour of restored homes, so it was difficult to find rooms available suitable for staying with kids.

Best Way To Get Around:

Driving to Galena is probably the only was to travel there, unless by tour bus. Driving aroung Galena and the Jo Daviess County area is a treat. There are many old, restored homes in the city of Galena and many old brick and stone farmhouses in the area. The rugged hills and tourist traffic may make bicyling difficult in the area. However, walking around Galena is the best way to view and appreciate the architecture. There are series of steps up the steep hill from downtown, which are fun to take with children. My boys counted 219 steps on the steps we walked up next to the old church which Grant attended and the old fire station which is in the process of renovation. Parking is difficult downtown and streets are narrow, so it is better to park at the remote lots and walk or take the free trolley to tourist sites.

The rooms were nicely maintained and spacious. We would have preferred Queen Size beds over the Doubles provided. The staff was friendly. The breakfast was quite satisfactory and in a larger than normal breakfast area. My husband thought the decor of the Northwoods was a little overboard, but our children loved it. The pool area was large and fun for the kids with a nicely set-off and decorated whirlpool area.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by badger barrister on September 30, 2002

Stoney Creek Inn
940 GALENA SQUARE DRIVE Galena, Illinois 61036
815-777-2223

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badger barrister
badger barrister
Marshfield, Wisconsin

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