Tucked into the corner of Northwest Illinois is a hidden gem called Galena Country. This captivating location is lush with rolling hills, rich in history, and loaded with incredible outdoor adventure, shopping, and dining.
Only a few hours’ drive from Chicago, this traveler’s favorite is the second most-visited leisure destination in the state. Explore the 11 unique locations that makeup Galena Country with this adventure-filled, 4-day itinerary!
Day 1
Stockton is full of surprises. Fill up on a juicy burger at JJ & Freddies, shop at Savvy Scavengers, and bag your candy at Sweet Alice’s. Stroll the town to find memory-making opportunities with the artistic Stockton Adventures murals! Learn something new at the Stockton Heritage Museum, featuring N-scale model trains and Kraft Foods’ history (Fun fact: Kraft started in Stockton)
Take in magnificent views while heading to Apple River for an outdoor adventure! Fuel up at Thriving Thistle Market with fresh-made smoothies and take a journey to Apple River Canyon State Park. Unplug, relax, and enjoy nature!
Cruise the historic Stagecoach Trail towards Scales Mound. Stop into the Country House Grocery for last-minute essentials and follow the scenic route to Galena. Explore Galena’s Historic Main Street, ending with a delicious dinner and live music performed by local musicians.
Day 2
On your way to Elizabeth, stop at the Long Hollow Scenic Overlook to soak in stunning views. Enjoy breakfast at E-town or Lola’s Deli and treasure hunting at Common Cents Resale, Elizabeth Grand Antique Co., and Three Sisters Sweet Shoppe. Pick your own pumpkins at Dittmar Farms and check out the Apple River Fort State Historic Site to experience Black Hawk War history.
Indulge in a tasty lunch at Cajun Jack’s and delicious local brews at the Highway 20 Brewing Company before heading to Hanover. Enjoy a scenic hike along the Apple River at the beautiful Wapello Land & Water Reserve. For the drive back to
Galena, consider following Blackjack Road for a scenic pit stop at Chestnut Mountain Resort, an all-season resort with zip-lining, an alpine slide, Segway tours, boat rides, and Skiing!
Menominee and East Dubuque are calling! Delight in dinner at Timmerman’s Supper Club, nestled among the bluffs of the Mississippi River, or tour Berning Acres Dairy Farm. Millennium Bar & Marina and Frentress Lake Marina are great spots to watch beautiful sunsets! Head back to Galena for an epic magic show with P.T. Murphy!
Day 3
Some local breakfast favorites include Otto’s Place, Charlie’s Place, Paradise Grill, and Galena Bakehouse. Hit up Galena’s Main Street for an incredible shopping experience with more than 125 independently owned stores. Get your history fix on a tour of U.S Grant’s Home, The Dowling House, and The Old Blacksmith Shop. Hop on a tour with Galena Trolley Company to further discover the beautiful homes and views that are often raved about.
Day 4
Take a self-guided tour of the Historical DeSoto House Hotel before continuing to Warren for a beer tasting at Pecatonica Beer Company. Enjoy a delicious burger at a small community with a hoppin’ bar called Nora Bar in Nora and venture back onto the beautiful Stagecoach Trail to Galena.
The last stop to complete the tour of Galena Country is Woodbine. Search for specialty gifts at Nature’s Treasure or stop for a round of golf at Woodbine Bend. Speaking of golf, golf enthusiasts won’t want to miss Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa.
Galena Country transports people to one-of-a-kind experiences and adventures. Some historic, some timeless, and some brand-new, but always original! Start planning a trip today by browsing VisitGalena.org
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