Location: Galena
Top Things to do in Galena
The 10 Best Things to do Good for Kids in Galena, Illinois (IL)
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. The Haunted Galena Tour Company
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 382 reviews
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.
2. P.T. Murphy Magic Theatre
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 657 reviews
"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. Great American Popcorn Company
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 169 reviews
Reviewed By 238cliffr
The staff was great and the popcorn was really good. Prices were reasonable. They had a wide variety of flavors.
4. Long Hollow Canopy Tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 168 reviews
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.
5. Hoof It - Goat Treks
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 91 reviews
We offer peaceful treks through native forests and prairies with goats by your side. Goats on a leash, why yes. Interact, play, and feed these peaceful, social animals while we take in the natural beauty of the Driftless area of Illinois, while the goats graze and play. Spend time after your walk by relaxing in the yard, taking goat selfies and trying to catch the chicken.
6. Old Market House State Historic Site
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 86 reviews
Vendors peddled their wares at this Greek Revival Market House in the 19th century, which now hosts changing exhibits, meetings and special events.
Reviewed By srmorgan516 - Johnston, United States
The historical artifacts were interesting to view and read about. It was a fairly quick stop but we left with a little more knowledge then we arrived with. The staff was very friendly and helpful. Worth a stop.
7. Ulysses S. Grant Home
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,318 reviews
This Italianate-style brick house, with original furnishings, looks very much as it did in 1865 when a group of townspeople presented it as a gift to Ulysses S. Grant on his victorious return from the Civil War.
Reviewed By H1131RZkarenm
The Grant home is filled with original furniture, artifacts, woodwork, and other items that belonged to a real American war hero and U.S. president, Ulysses S. Grant. Our guide was generally knowledgeable about the home and Grant and his family. Admission is a donation, suggested for adults is $5. Definitely worth seeing. There are several steep stairs.
8. Galena Trolley Tours
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 534 reviews
Galena Trolley Tours - One Hour Non-Stop Tour of the City, 2 1/2 Hour Tour of Homes(3 Home Tours). We have quality and affordability with 30+ years behind us. All kids under 5 ride free with paying adult. We have the cute little cherry apple red trolleys just in the flood gates on the right. Come check out our snack & gift shop and restrooms and relax while you wait for your tour. We care about our customers and want them to enjoy their time in Galena.
9. Shenandoah Riding Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 230 reviews
The Shenandoah Riding Center is a first-rate equine facility with a top-caliber staff. Its location in The Galena Territory makes it unrivaled for scenic trails and tranquil beauty. From seasoned equestrians to beginning horse enthusiasts of all ages, we have something to offer for everyone!
Reviewed By withoutsound
Pricing was about expected for a trail ride. Booking and paying online was easy. Printed the waiver and brought it in. We arrived 15 min early as requested, but no one was in the office. Had to ask someone to get a worker, and someone finally came in 5 min after or scheduled time. A little annoying, but the rest of the trail ride was great, so water under the bridge. Brandi and Bethany helped us on our horses (Pengo and Spartan) and gave us a quick run down of how to guide the horses. The horses were very easy to ride, each with their own amusing personalities. Our trail guide was friendly, answered any questions we had (we were the only riders), and pointed out a few of the other resident horses and little tid bits about them. Also gave us some space to really just enjoy the ride, which was perfect. The trail itself was a basic trail that traversed the Galena territory, went by some houses, up and down some gentle hills. We got back after an hour and they took some photos for us. All in all, it was a great ride and we wouldn't hesitate to come back in the future.
10. Grant Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 253 reviews
Reviewed By 178randyr - Rochester, United States
Grant Park, located across the Galena River from the city's downtown, is an outstanding place to relax, enjoy a picnic, and survey the landscape. The park offers something for everyone and includes a view of the city, benches, picnic tables, a gazebo, several cannons, a statue of General and President U.S. Grant, a fountain, a playground, and a basketball court. For those who wish to see Galena on foot, the park is an ideal place to start. Free all-day parking in a large lot is located two blocks south across the tracks from the Galena Depot. The Grant House is a short uphill walk. Also, a pedestrian bridge leads directly to downtown, which is filled with old buildings, shops, restaurants, and bars.
