Voted one of the 100 best Midwest small-town getaways by "Midwest Living Magazine," Galena, Illinois is a very popular tourist destination. Eighty-five percent of the structures in this old lead-mining town are located within the Galena Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. That includes the business district's century-old buildings which now house more than 90 specialty shops, art galleries and restaurants. Beyond that, there are plenty of attractions in Galena to keep people busy.
Individuals on this tour tie on some sturdy shoes and grab their flashlight before heading out with their costumed guide to tour historic Galena. Along the way they will see the city's sites and cemeteries and hear some ghostly tales. Those on the tour may or may not feel a little frightened, but they will definitely be entertained.
Annie Wiggins Ghost Tour
1004 Park Ave.
Galena, IL 61036
815-777-0336
anniewiggins.com
Touring this mansion will make visitors feel like they have stepped into the period of American history before, during and after the Civil War. The Italianate style of architecture was very popular during the nineteenth century, and resembles a rambling Italian farmhouse. Inside visitors will find Victorian furnishings, the green drapes from "Gone With the Wind" and items from Liberace's estate. The surrounding country garden is beautiful.
The Belvedere Mansion
1008 Park Ave.
Galena, IL 61036
815-777-0747
galenabelvederemansion.com
For more than 30 years, this family-owned winery has been offering distinct, award-winning wines. It grows 22 different specialty grapes and produces 60,000 gallons of wine a year. Oenophiles can tour the vineyard and then sample several varieties in one of their three tasting rooms. Those who want the total package can book a room at one of the vineyard suites.
Galena Cellars Vineyard & Winery
515 South Main Street
Galena, IL 61036
815-777-3330
galenacellars.com
This beautiful park, set on eight and a half acres, has a large, zero-depth (you walk down a slope leading into the pool instead of using steps or ladders) main pool with two slides a and diving board. There is also a zero-depth kid's pool, picnic shelters, volleyball/basketball/bocce courts, softball fields and the largest skate/BMX bike park and playground in area.
Alice T. Virtue Water Park
1811 Field Street
Galena, IL 61036
815-777-0802
Visitors can spend a peaceful afternoon exploring this secluded garden situated in the hills overlooking Galena. Along the paths they will encounter a large collection of plants and annual and perennial flowers and two gazebos. There also is a replica of a small mine cut into the side of a limestone wall, a sunken garden and a 20-foot waterfall cascading from a natural bluff.
Linmar Gardens
504 S. Prospect
Galena, IL 61036
815-777-1177
linmargardens.com
