Nestled on dramatic limestone bluffs overlooking the Galena River near its confluence with the Mississippi, the town of Galena prospered in bygone eras from lead mining and river traffic. Today's Galena remains a picturesque vacation spot flanked by resorts, surrounded by nature and filled with galleries and shops. Although agricultural erosion over the years has reduced the depth of the river, closing the once-flourishing port to river boats, trips from nearby ports reveal sights inaccessible by car and hearken back to a nostalgic era when the river was the “superhighway” of civilization.
Travel through the peaceful backwaters of the Upper Mississippi National Wildlife and Fish Refuge while exploring its diverse environment and abundant wildlife. Limestone palisades tower above maple forests while lotus and wildflowers bloom at the base. River cruises depart from Chestnut Mountain Resort eight miles west of Galena and include a complimentary ride on the resort’s scenic chair lift and Alpine Slide. Breathtaking views of the area at the top of the lift are paralleled by the thrill of riding a sled 2,050 foot down a custom track to the banks of the Mississippi. Overnight cruise packages are available with accommodations at the resort, which has its own restaurants, along with miniature golf, pools, hot tubs and acres of serene outdoor trails.
Mississippi Explorer Cruises
1913 Old Mill Drive
Lansing, IA 52151
877.647.7397
mississippiexplorer.com
Relax aboard an authentic paddle-wheeler as your guide points out the historic and natural sights of the Mississippi. The Spirit of Dubuque accommodates up to 377 passengers and features an open-air upper viewing deck as well as enclosed air-conditioned seating. An overnight package with accommodations at the Timmerman Hotel and Resort includes a 1.5 hour afternoon sightseeing cruise. Murder mystery dinner theater sets sail twice monthly and serves up delicious prime rib and baked chicken breast. Just 16 miles from Galena, daily lunch and dinner cruises are available as well as special holiday meal excursions.
Dubuque River Rides
7787 Timmerman Dr.,
East Dubuque, IL 61025
Phone: (563) 583-8093
spiritofdubuque.com
Enjoy 161 miles of the scenic Mississippi on this two-day cruise departing from LeClaire, Iowa. Recapture the days of Mark Twain while listening to folk musicians as the Twilight chugs up the Mississippi, passing towering limestone palisades, historic sites and two of the river’s 27 locks. Overnight at the Grand Harbor Resort in Dubuque at water’s edge and enjoy a leisurely morning to peruse the local sights before re-boarding for the return trip. Three meals per day, as well as morning and afternoon snacks, will keep hunger at bay while delighting your taste buds with such delicacies as prime rib, chicken or fish, served with plenty of trimmings.
River Cruises on the Twilight
301 South Commerce Street
Galena, IL 61036
845-777-1660
riverboattwilight.com
