Things To Do

Here are the best Things to Do in Galena, Il

Discover the Best Things to Do in Galena, IL

Just a one-tank trip from many Midwest cities; make Galena, Illinois your destination this season. Visit historic sites and savor locally-grown award-winning wines, brews, and spirits, or shop for one-of-a-kind gifts. Galena is the second most popular tourist destination in the state of Illinois, and we have a guide to all the best Things To Do in Galena, IL.

Pack your clubs for one of the 10 scenic golf courses or pack your skis or snowboard and hit the slopes at the nearby Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort. Soothe your body at one of the spas or enjoy an in-suite massage at our top-rated Galena Bed and Breakfast, and fly the horizon at dawn or dusk from a hot air balloon. There are innumerable things to do in Galena, IL, and we’d love to share them all with you!

Galena is the perfect place to connect with those who are special in your life. Our rolling hills, scenic roads and historic charm revitalize the spirit. Inspired by nature and overlooking the banks of the Galena River, our welcoming Main Street embraces a simpler time. You’ll create cherished memories of spending time together relaxing and unwinding, especially when you base your stay at our Bed and Breakfast, one of the best places to stay in Galena, IL. 

Use our guide of Things To Do in Galena, IL to plan your trip, then view our six luxury guest suites and make a booking with us.

Get our Vacation Guide

Things To Do in Galena Il, A Complete Vacation Guide

Four Day Itinerary To Galena

Our Full List of Things To Do in Galena, IL

Arts & Entertainment

Galena/Jo Daviess County is home to some of the finest art and entertainment in Illinois. From shopping and classes to galleries and entertainment, Jo Daviess County offers something for everyone. Discover art shops, make your own one-of-kind gifts including hand-made pottery and jewelry or browse through collections of local art. Make sure you stop in and experience some of the amazing art!

Art Galleries & Studios

Galena provides a large assortment of fine art galleries! Browse through paintings, sculptures, hand-crafted jewelry, photography, studios and watch pottery demonstrations. There is so much art and things to do, you can stop by Hello Galena! or Pinder Pottery where there is always something fun going on! From classes and events to demonstrations, there is something for your artistic style. The art galleries of Galena/Jo Daviess County also provide artwork and hand-crafted items for purchase that make for the perfect gift or accent to your home. Make sure you stop in and check out the work of some of the finest artists in Illinois.

Entertainment

There is no shortage of entertainment and fun in Jo Daviess County. For the casino lover, Diamond Jo Casino offers more than 975 slot machines and table games. Also, check out bowling, live performances, fortune telling and more! If you’re looking for fun in Galena/Jo Daviess County, the entertainment starts here!

Hands-On Experiences

Stop in for a pottery demonstration at the Artists’ Annex or tingle your tastebuds by cooking up creative recipes at the Galena Culinary Institute.

History & Architecture

The rich history of Galena allows a look back into the 19th century. During this time period, Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S. Grant walked the streets, and the coal industry was booming.  Here you can walk the historic main streets filled with 19th century storefronts, homes, churches, hotels, train depots, town halls and more. Named on the National Register of Historic Places, Jo Daviess County is a definite place to see!

Attractions & Tours

From mansion tours to a look into the Old Mine District, the historic attractions and tours of Galena/Jo Daviess County offer something for everyone’s interest. Discover the Linmar Gardens where you can take a guided tour through 3.5 acres of gardens.

Museums & Sites

Discover outstanding history of Galena/Jo Daviess County with the finest historic sites and museums in Illinois. Take in amazing 19th century architecture, go back in time with historic sites, travel through attractions and enjoy guided tours. When it comes to this small town in Illinois, Galena offers an exceptional historic experience. From the Old Blacksmith Shop to the Ulysses S. Grant Home historic site, there is so much to see!

Shopping

Nothing is quite like shopping in Galena/Jo Daviess County. Whether you’re looking for an upscale boutique, antiques and collectibles, specialty foods, clothing or gifts, we have what you’re looking for no matter where you’re at in Galena or Jo Daviess County.

Antiques

Discover why Fodor’s Travel named us at one the the “Top 10 Best Antiquing Towns in the U.S.” Shop Galena/Jo Daviess County to find the perfect one-of-a-kind gift for someone special. Antiques and collectibles stores line Galena’s historic district and are scattered throughout the county’s countryside in quaint, off-the-beaten-path shops and barns.

Fashion

Classic or outrageous, designer or trendy, shoppers find apparel and accessories to complement every mood at Galena/Jo Daviess County area boutiques. Local shopkeepers pride themselves on distinctive offerings and personalized service. Experience shopping in a setting far from the ordinary!

Gifts & Specialties

Forget cookie-cutter shopping malls! Shop Galena’s historic downtown, voted “Best Main Street” by Midwest Living Magazine readers. Don’t overlook the many charming shops scattered through the nearby villages and scenic countryside of Jo Daviess County. Turn a shopping excursion into an unforgettable experience.

Home & Garden

Browse a wide selection of decorative and functional items, such as furniture, art, accessories, housewares, yard art and more, designed to enhance your “palace” both inside and out.

Locally Made

Whether it’s pickles and wine or custom jewelry and gifts, discover Jo Daviess County at its best with these locally made products.

Unique Foods & Goods

Delight in locally-made jams, jellies, salsas, sauces, baked goods and other gourmet fare, including cheese, sausage, spices, hard-to-find ingredients and unique kitchenware. These treats are all “tastefully” displayed in historic storefronts.

Salons & Spas

Visit a highly-skilled, full-service spa for a calming aromatherapy treatment or a tension-melting, hot-stone massage. Area spas offer state-of-the-art treatments designed to pamper from head to toe. Rest and relax during a getaway to Galena and Jo Daviess County. It’s an ideal way to refresh the mind, body and soul.

Show Full List

Articles All About the BEST Things To Do in Galena Il!

Scroll to Top

Give The Gift of Jail Hill Inn This Christmas

Give your loved one a very special gift of a stay at Jail Hill Inn .  We offer gift certificates in many amounts.