Galena Getaway

Even during the winter months, we found many enjoyable things in Galena. Works of local artists were on display in museums and the information center. The Galena Cellars shop on Main offered wine tasting and a wide variety of products. The specialty shops were open and the number of guests low which made it enjoyable to browse the vast array of products in these varied shops. Good food was available at local restaurants. A trip to Dubuque, about 15 minutes away, was very enjoyable. We took in the marvelous Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium which was well worth the trip. We viewed bald eagles along the river and enjoyed lunch in a local brew pub. Winter sports enthusiasts were enjoying the slopes at Chestnut Mountain. We were pleasantly surprised to be able to observe the opening ceremonies and parade for the Special Olympic Winter Games. Each day ended very nicely in the relaxing and well kept Worldmark Galena Resort.

Quick Tips:

The Visitor Center in the old train depot provided valuable information about events and attractions including hours of operation. Chestnut Mountain is a full service ski resort. The shopping district is very quaint and compact which made even a non-shopper like me enjoy it.

Best Way To Get Around:

A car is necessary if staying at the Galena Territory 5 miles from town. Park and walk in town to shops, restaurants, museums, and attractions. A historical tour on a trolley car is available. In peak season, the small streets and compact nature of the area would make it more important to use the ample public lots and walk. In winter, we were always able to find parking close to our destination.

Best Things Nearby:
Eagle Ridge Resort - 4 golf course in a beautiful setting, spa, lake, etc. The town of Galena with its history (85% is on National Historic Register), specialty shopping, wineries, museums, restaurants, etc. The City of Dubuque, IA and the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, eagle watching, dining, and night life. Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort.

Best Things About the Resort:
The bathtub! Large, jetted, with a fireplace next to it. We also enjoyed the indoor pool, whirlpool, and sauna. Very well stocked unit for cooking. The laundry facilities are free and they even provided detergent. Clean towels were readily available. The staff was very helpful and friendly. A nice view from our room of some very unlike Illinois countryside - high, rolling hills, bluffs, and trees.

Resort Experience:
Galena is the 2nd most visited city in Illinois (behind Chicago) and I can see why. The main streets include fully restored buildings from 1822 on. President Grant had a home in Galena that is one of the historic sights in town. To me, the history of the area was quite engaging and I learned much at their history museum. The specialty shops were well maintained and staffed with very friendly people. There are local artists and wineries and the products are readily available. I wish I had been there in May to enjoy golf on the gorgeous courses of the Eagle Ridge Resort! Chestnut Mountain Ski resort was an active and busy place. We took the short 15 minute drive to Dubuque, IA for a very enjoyable tour of the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium - very much worth it. After the museum, we did some bald eagle watching on the river. I can't wait to go back!

• Unit Type: Studio
• Activities: Good
• Amenities: Very Good
• Unit Satisfaction: Excellent
• Family Friendliness: Excellent
• Service: Excellent