8 Hidden Gems Things to do in Galena That You Shouldn't Miss

July 16, 2021 Roseanne Arnett

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. Galena On The Fly

Excellent
95%
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5.0 based on 96 reviews

Galena On The Fly

Prepare to lift off in one of the most massive hot air balloons in the country. Drift above the rolling landscapes of Jo Daviess County and the historic Galena countryside while taking in views of Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin from your 3,000-foot-high perch. Most passengers don't realize how peaceful and majestic a hot air balloon flight can be. Because the balloon travels with the wind, gliding through the air at various elevations, the only time you feel the breeze is when changing altitude or wind speeds. ​ At times, you may skirt through the trees, soar to several thousand feet, and even skim the gondola in Lake Galena. All of these are common occurrences and part of the full ballooning experience.

2. P.T. Murphy Magic Theatre

204 Hill St, Galena, IL 61036-2220 +1 779-214-0035 [email protected] http://www.ptmurphy.com
Excellent
93%
Good
6%
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5.0 based on 657 reviews

P.T. Murphy Magic Theatre

"One of America's Best Magic Shows!" Enjoy the mysteries of an ancient art as presented by Galena's master magician, P.T. Murphy. The setting is Murphy's private theatre located in the heart of historic downtown Galena, IL. Murphy is known for his personable style, mischievous sense of humor and sophisticated sleight of hand that the Chicago Reader called "An evening that shows magic to its best advantage, up close and personal." Advanced purchase is suggested. Run Time: 65 minutes. No intermission. Theatre rentals are available for your tour group, or private parties. Schedule is subject to change. Please call for current schedule of performances. *Masks are required.*

Reviewed By toastedcaramel - Galena, United States

My cheeks literally hurt from smiling so much! It was my husbands birthday and he made a point to make it a special show. I forgot how great magic is, especially when it is paired with a great magician! The show left me with so many questions on how he did his tricks! It was also great to have conversation with such an open minded individual. Thank you for the memories, hope to visit again! We really appreciated your time that you gave us! -Cougar & Toasted Caramel

3. The Haunted Galena Tour Company

Excellent
98%
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2%
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5.0 based on 382 reviews

The Haunted Galena Tour Company

Join Master Storyteller, Ted Williams, who helped create Galena's original ghost tour, for an incomparable walk through the streets of Galena telling ghostly tales from the darker side of history. Learn about Galena's most haunted sites, eerie legends, and frightening ghosts, during this 90 minute walking tour. Performed in a true storytelling format, costumed guides lead you by candlelight.

4. Healing Touch of Galena

270 Thunder Bay Rd, Galena, IL 61036-8532 +1 815-777-4128 [email protected] http://www.healingtouchgalena.com
Excellent
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5.0 based on 173 reviews

Healing Touch of Galena

I fix neck, shoulders and low back. Have table, will travel to you. Girls' getaway weekends and bachelorette parties are a large part of my business followed by couple's massage. I am very proud and humbled with these 120+ five star reviews. I feel privileged to have done massage work at every Spa in Galena as well as the local Hospital. I will travel to you anywhere in the Galena, Jo Daviess County area or come to my office/home in the Galena Territory.Schedule an appointment ANYTIME of day or ANY DAY or HOUR of the week. Whether you are looking for a great relaxing massage,deep tissue,sports or prenatal massage, it's the same reasonable price.Visit my website for testimonials and pricing. I have performed thousands of getaway weekend massages for couples as well as group re-unions.

Reviewed By 488katharinaw

My husband and I traveled to Galena for a long weekend. Gerald was flexible in scheduling a couples massage with us and worked with Craig Krebs (Thunder Bay Oasis) to get us taken care of. We both enjoyed our massages and had a very relaxing experience! We will definitely call them the next time we visit Galena.

5. Long Hollow Canopy Tours

Excellent
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5.0 based on 168 reviews

Long Hollow Canopy Tours

Approximately 2.5 hours of thrilling fun! A completely guided tour on 6 ziplines, 2 ladders, Skybridge, Rappel, Quickjump, UTV Ride and Hike. Located near the Galena Territory. Reach speeds up to 45 mph and heights of 75 feet. Ziplines range from 190' - 1,250' with amazing views. Fun for families, friends and corporations. Participants must weigh between 70-250 pounds and be at least 10 years of age or older.

6. Psychic Medium Chris McBrien

303 1/2 S Main St #2, Galena, IL 61036-2228 +1 630-945-2911 [email protected] http://www.christophermcbrien.com
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5.0 based on 201 reviews

Psychic Medium Chris McBrien

Fully trained shaman, psychic and medium offering individual and group readings, privately or for special events. The readings are much more than tarot card readings and can be customized to suit your needs by including multiple art forms. Chris has been trained in the shamanic arts, mediumship, tarot, aura readings, palmistry, handwriting analysis and energy work. Home readings, blessings and c

Reviewed By jordynm1992 - Chicago, United States

Chris was amazing during our reading! My mother and I went in as skeptics and left total believers... Chris knew things about my mother and I that we didn’t even know about each other! We will definitely return year after year to visit Chris and get an up to date reading!!!

7. Galena Cellars Vineyard

4746 N Ford Rd, Galena, IL 61036-9505 +1 815-777-3330 [email protected] http://galenacellars.com
Excellent
52%
Good
36%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
2%
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4.5 based on 124 reviews

Galena Cellars Vineyard

Over three generations of winemakers, the Lawlor-White Family has produced over 50 unique red, white and fruit wines. Enjoy all Galena Cellars has to offer including wine tasting experiences, tours and live music. Stop in and savor a taste of Illinois!

Reviewed By 486amyi - Coralville, United States

We enjoyed wine flights and music on the outside deck with propane heaters - wonderful ambiance and wine! We will definitely be back again.

8. Horseshoe Mound

1679 N Blackjack Rd, Galena, IL 61036-9412 http://jdcf.org/properties/horseshoe-mound/
Excellent
70%
Good
23%
Satisfactory
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Poor
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4.5 based on 122 reviews

Horseshoe Mound

Reviewed By whitesox18

Must see! This was a short drive from downtown Galena and absolutely beautiful. It is a very high elevation offering great views.very peaceful nice picnic spot. Be aware down a dirt road— you turn near a farm- we missed it first time we drive by.

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