Galena's Boutique Hotel Inside the 1878 County Jail

Jail Hill Inn is a six-suite boutique hotel one block from Galena’s historic Main Street, set inside the four-story brick and limestone building that served as the Jo Daviess County Jail from 1878 to 1977. Galena native Matthew Carroll bought the empty building in 2015 and, after a seven-month renovation, welcomed the first guests on December 26, 2015.

Six King Suites, Each With Its Own Story

Every one of our 6 king suites has a private KOHLER® bathroom, a gas fireplace, a 43-inch Samsung Frame TV and a wet bar with a mini refrigerator, microwave and Keurig®. Most suites are about 800 square feet, and original jail details are part of every room.

• Suite 201 and Suite 202 sit on the second floor, where the sheriff’s family once lived, under a 14-foot curved brick ceiling.
• Suite 301 was the men’s cell block. Today it holds the inn’s only KOHLER® steam shower.
• Suite 302 has seven windows on three sides and a tub that fills from the ceiling.
• Suite 401 and Suite 402 fill the fourth floor, where women prisoners were held, with original beams beneath the red mansard roof.

Boutique Hotel Comfort, Bed and Breakfast Mornings

A small hotel lets us take care of every guest personally. Each morning starts with a three-course gourmet breakfast made with local eggs, meats and produce from the inn’s garden, the way you would expect at the best Galena bed and breakfast. In the afternoon, enjoy our wine and cheese. Guests also share the first-floor lounge, the courtyard and a third-level deck that overlooks the yard.

Recognized for Preservation and Hospitality

Landmarks Illinois honored the restoration with its Adaptive Use Award in 2016. Jail Hill Inn is a member of Select Registry, and in 2019 the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice awards named it the #1 B&B/inn in the United States. Read the full history of the jail.

Steps From Main Street

The historic Jo Daviess County Courthouse is across the street, and Galena’s shops, restaurants and tasting rooms are a short walk away. Plan your days with our walking map of downtown Galena and our list of things to do in Galena.

Good to Know Before You Book

Jail Hill Inn is a quiet retreat for guests 15 and older. There is no elevator, and suites are on the second to fourth floors (19 to 57 steps). You can park right in front of the inn. Read our policies, then check availability and book direct.