The Most Haunted Places in Illinois with Galena Ghost Tours
Tis’ the season for scares and spooky stories, and some of the most haunted places in Illinois are in our small, historic riverfront town of Galena. In fact, many statewide publications, including Midwest Living magazine, often profile Galena for its haunted history and whispered stories of sightings and unexplained events. After all, the historical architecture here has been meticulously preserved—the downtown brick buildings look the same as when they were first erected all those years ago.
In fact, Galena’s otherworldly sightings date back to the 1800s, when ghost stories were first printed in the local newspapers and quickly became popular lore. There are several ways to explore the most haunted places in Illinois near and in Galena—either self-guided or with local touring groups. It’s an exciting activity to add to your itinerary, especially in the days leading up to Halloween. The locals love to decorate. so keep your eye out for jack-o-lanterns and spider webs.
Thankfully, the only spirits at Jail Hill Inn are those of the happy guests relaxing in their spacious guest suites. According to Innkeeper and owner Matthew Carroll—who tirelessly renovated and restored the four-story brick building into a luxurious B&B—he’s never seen or heard anything that couldn’t be explained. While you’ll find small remnants tastefully displayed and preserved (like pockets of original flooring or a window sill with prisoner’s names etched years ago) from the old jail days, the energy is nothing but peaceful and serene at this Galena Bed and Breakfast.
Come explore the most haunted places in Illinois, and book your next getaway to Galena today!
Haunted Places in Illinois: Tour the Galena Hotspots
One of the best ways to hear the ghost stories and learn a bit of history is on a spooky tour with the Galena experts. While fall might be the most timely season to listen to these spooky tales, most of these local tours are offered year-round. Here are four touring options to check out in town:
- Amelia’s Galena Ghost Tours: You’ll hop on a luxury climate-controlled bus for this ghost tour in Galena that takes you by a few of the most haunted places in Illinois. Each tour is narrated by a knowledgeable guide, relaying historically accurate and documented stories and sightings at these local haunts.
- The Haunted Galena Tour Company: Learn more about this riverfront town’s riveting and dark history on walking tours with these local experts. The “Spirits & Spirits Tour” is an adults-only tour that stops by a few local late-night stops, including the notoriously haunted DeSoto House Hotel, Galena Cellars Winery, and the Galena Brewing Company.
- Matthew’s Haunted Pub Crawl: Ghost stories pair perfectly with a freshly poured pint or a glass of good wine, and on this haunted pub crawl, you’ll hear all the spookiest tales over an adult beverage.
If you have more questions about touring the haunted places in Illinois or would like help with reservations—we’re always more than happy to assist you!
Raise Your Spirits at Jail Hill Inn
After your ghost-hunting excursion to the haunted places in Illinois, you can rest easy knowing that our Galena Bed and Breakfast is not a hotbed of restless energy. In fact, we specialize in creating the most restful space with every comfort measure and offer spectacular hospitality to fit your needs. No detail goes overlooked! From your gourmet, scratch-made breakfast each morning, a bed dressed in fine linens, and luxurious bath products to the complimentary bottle of bubbly and chocolates on arrival and our afternoon snack and wine board delivered right to your spacious guest suite—you’ll want for nothing during your stay.
Head over to our availability calendar and book your next fantastic getaway today!
