The historic town of Galena is known for its scenic hiking trails, restored 19th-century buildings and notable attractions like the DeSoto home, Ulysses S. Grant’s home and the Belvidere Mansion. Modern Luxury’s editors have compiled our picks for the best Galena destinations for shopping, dining and entertainment.
Where To Eat
Bread and Vine Galena
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217 S. Main St., Galena / Website
From gruyere-topped croque-monsieurs to sliced Hudson Valley foie gras, this downtown Galena dining destination is known for its Roman-style pizza, fresh seafood and tasty sides. Pair your meal with Bread and Vine’s lineup of craft cocktails like the Godiva chocolate-infused raspberry martini and the coconut margarita.
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213 N. Main St., Galena / Website
Located in Galena’s historic Dowling House, dining destination Fried Green Tomatoes has remained a mainstay for over thirty years. It boasts a Wine Spectator Award-winning wine program and a selection of comfort food favorites like mashed potato-topped steak martinis, espresso-encrusted steak and free-range chicken piccata.
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215 Diagonal St., Galena / Website
With a dog-friendly patio, an array of craft brews, locally sourced wines and seasonal menu offerings, this neighborhood taphouse is one to visit for menu items like oysters on the half-shell, duck risotto and Picanah steak stroganoff. Finish off your dinner with Galena Taphouse’s tempting dessert offerings, including blackberry cheesecake, French vanilla ice cream and deep-fried Thai doughnuts.
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201 N. Main St., Galena / Website
Open since 1937, this family-run Greek steakhouse is known as one of the area’s longest-running establishments, boasting a culinary program with beloved signature dishes like tomahawk pork chops, Alaskan king crab legs and au jus-topped prime ribs. Elevate your dining experience with Log Cabin Steakhouse’s global selection of white and red wines, plus popular cocktails like the sweet vermouth and Angel’s Envy Bourbon-infused “Angel’s” Manhattan.
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227 N. Main St., Galena / Website
Visit buzzy brewpub Galena Brewing Company to sample the spot’s roster of craft beers, coupled with tasty small bites and flatbread pizza. Don’t miss out on Anna Belle’s smooth and malted West Coast IPA and Uly Dark’s chocolate oatmeal stout. Pair the eatery’s libations with offerings like tzatziki-topped gyros, shredded chicken street tacos and bison burgers on brioche.
See also: The Ultimate Guide To Harbor Country, Michigan
Where To Shop
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303 S. Main St., Galena / Website
Located along the town’s charming Main Street, this artisan shop sells jewelry, accessories and apothecary goods for the lips, face and body. Choose from offerings like Caswell and Massey body cream, Vetiver candles, Icelandic herbal soap and C.O. Bigelow Mentha lip shine treatment.
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420 S. Main St., Galena / Website
Located in the Peck Building, one of Galena’s oldest commercial buildings, this family-owned and operated wine and cheese shop showcases independent, small-batch producers from around the globe with its inventory of over 90-point wines and European, raw milk and fermented cheeses. The shop also carries a section of olive oils, balsamic vinegars, dips and cheese trays—perfect for a picnic in Gateway Park.
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408 S. Main St., Galena; 217 N. Main St., Galena / Website
Transport yourself to another era at this cozy antique shop featuring a methodically organized inventory of more than 50,000 vintage books. Visitors can also browse the shop’s selection of antique albums, signs, collectible vinyl, used typewriters, art pieces, pottery items, statement jewelry pieces and more.
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130 S. Main St., Galena / Website
This charming boutique is a must-visit spot for all your style needs, from home furnishings to women’s apparel and accessories. Peruse Simply Elegant Boutique’s selection of gold, diamond, genuine gemstone and fine-plated jewelry or shop for apparel like tops, dresses, pants and jackets.
What To See & Do
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129 S. Main St., Galena / Website
Enjoy a delicious three-course dinner along Galena’s historic Main Street as professional entertainers perform comedic and musical shows in a supper club atmosphere. Check out the spot’s calendar for a complete list of upcoming performances and themed dinner theater events.
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11557 U.S. Hwy. 20 W., Galena / Website
With an 8-hole, par 71 layout, a pro shop and an ever-changing lineup of upcoming events (from couples’ nights to GGC Club championships), this expansive golf course is truly a hidden gem, located just outside of the area’s historic downtown.
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1679 N. Blackjack Road, Galena / Website
Nestled along the town’s eastern gateway, this nearly 200-acre preserve is home to scenic hiking trails, viewing areas and its iconic Council Ring, a Stonehenge-esque seating area built to align with the summer and winter solstices.
See also: The Ultimate Chicago Neighborhood Guide
Where To Stay
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444 Eagle Ridge Drive, Galena / Website
Situated on nearly 6,800 acres of scenic Northern Illinois countryside, this luxurious resort and spa features 80 guest rooms at the inn and over 150 homes and villas throughout the property, coupled with the destination’s Stonedrift Spa, three on-site restaurants and a 63-hole championship golf course. During their stay, guests can explore over 22 miles of nearby hiking and biking trails, visit the pool and kayak, canoe or paddleboat on Lake Galena.
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2800 S. Irish Hollow Road, Galena / Website
Located on a 500-acre farm, this charming bed and breakfast offers gourmet breakfast and massage packages with proximity to local trails and the area’s lush surrounding gardens. Lodge at any one of The Inn at Irish Hollow’s cozy, fireplace-clad cottages and embark on outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking and biking.
See also: The Ultimate Chicago Neighborhood Guide
Photography by: PickStock/Getty
