Things to do in Galena

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A historic downtown street with vintage buildings, a church steeple, and a prominent clock tower.
A church with a clock tower and a green roof, surrounded by trees.
A river reflecting trees and a grassy field with buildings in the background.
A street lined with brick buildings and parked cars, with autumn trees in the background.
A trolley on a city street with vintage buildings and parked cars.

Things to do

Cocktail Adventure Tour 21+

Cocktail Adventure Tour 21+

$71
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Cocktail Adventure Tour 21+
Downtown Galena Food and Drink Tour

Downtown Galena Food and Drink Tour

$87
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Downtown Galena Food and Drink Tour
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Galena must see attractions

1. Grant Home

Visit Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site, the historic abode of Civil War hero and 18th President of the United States Ulysses S. Grant. It remains largely unchanged since he lived here more than 100 years ago and gives visitors a unique glimpse into this famous figure’s daily life.
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A two-story brick building with green shutters and a flagpole with an American flag.

2. Belvedere Mansion

The Belvedere is a spectacular 19th-century redbrick mansion and gardens in Galena that can be toured in the warmer months. Totally air-conditioned, the majestic halls and corridors make for a welcome respite from the afternoon heat as well as offering a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era of affluence. On a visit to Belvedere Mansion, ring the doorbell without a reservation to ask for a guided tour of the building and its 22 rooms.
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A large, ornate Victorian-style mansion with a prominent tower, surrounded by a well-maintained garden and a decorative iron fence.

3. Dowling House

Scenic Galena is a place filled with historic buildings, but none is of greater significance than the Dowling House, the oldest house in the town. Come here to see a house and store carefully laid out as they would have been in the early 19th century, when this was the home of the Dowling family.
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4. Grant Park

Grant Park is a compact and well-maintained community green space in the heart of the scenic town of Galena. As in the rest of the town, history is important here in the park. You won’t walk far without finding some reminder of the past. Join local residents who come here each day for a run before work or a quiet evening stroll amid the flowers.
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A military cannon in a park with autumn trees and a statue in the background.

5. Old Market House

Visit Old Market House for a warm welcome to Galena, Illinois. This converted market offers practical information, historical facts and souvenirs.
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A brick building with a green roof, a white door, and a sign that reads "Glenna Welcome Center".

What to do in Galena

 

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Stay near popular Galena attractions

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Grant Home

9.2/10 (514 reviews)
This stately Italianate residence was gifted to General Grant after his Civil War victory. Inside, original furnishings and personal artifacts offer an intimate glimpse into the life of America's 18th president.
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Where to stay in Galena

Find the best Galena areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Galena
Learn more about Galena
A hot air balloon over a calm lake with a forested shoreline.
Photo by Richard Remington
Open Photo by Richard Remington

The Galena Territory

Though The Galena Territory might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Eagle Ridge Resort Golf and Horseshoe Mound.

A trolley on a city street with vintage buildings and parked cars.
Photo by Illinois Office of Tourism
Open Photo by Illinois Office of Tourism

Galena Historic District

Travelers come to Galena Historic District for its stunning river views, and you can see top attractions like Dowling House and Galena-Jo Daviess County History Museum while you're in town.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Galena

A cityscape with a prominent clock tower, a large red building with a dome, and a river in the background.

Dubuque

A park with picnic tables, a stone retaining wall, and a grassy hill with trees.

Bellevue

A soccer field with a goalpost, surrounded by trees and a clear blue sky.

Elizabeth

A large suspension bridge over a river, surrounded by greenery and industrial areas.

East Dubuque

A sunset over a field of crops.

Hazel Green

A hot air balloon over a rural landscape at sunset.

Scales Mound

A group of birds on a snowy field.

Hanover

Frequently asked questions

Is Galena worth visiting?
From retail therapy to history and outdoor adventures, there are loads of fun things to do in Galena. Be sure to experience the area's blend of unmissable sights, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Galena?
Start your day with a visit to Galena Historic District and Belvedere Mansion. Then, explore other areas of Galena for local dining and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Galena?
Galena Historic District is one of the top tourist attractions in Galena and should be high on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Galena?
You can easily tour leading sights like Galena Historic District, Belvedere Mansion and Grant Park with a three-day break in Galena. On average, most travelers book two days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so stay a while longer and head to Dubuque.
Is Galena a walkable city?
It comes down to what you'd like to see and do in Galena. Several key attractions, including Galena Historic District, are reachable on foot. If you feel like a wander through one of Galena's neighborhoods, Galena Historic District is 0.1 miles away from downtown.
What are some activities to do in Galena with kids?
Deciding what to do in Galena with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're taking a trip with teenagers or little ones, there are lots of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained here.

What to do in Galena for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or thrill seeker, there's a range of things to do in Galena for adults.
Are there free things to do in Galena?
From enjoying parks to strolling around exciting neighborhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Galena. If you're looking for inspiration, ask a local tour guide for recommendations. Galena Historic District is a top spot for anyone wanting to save on their sightseeing adventures.

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