The Ultimate Guide to the Best Places to Stay in Galena, IL
Nestled in the rolling hills of northwest Illinois, Galena is a charming town known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, rich history, and vibrant arts scene. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, Galena offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best places to stay in Galena, IL, from luxury hotels and cozy bed and breakfasts to charming inns and vacation rentals.
1. The Goldmoor Inn
Luxury Meets Comfort
Perched on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, The Goldmoor Inn is a luxurious retreat that offers a blend of elegance and comfort. The inn features 18 spacious suites, each uniquely decorated with a mix of classic and contemporary styles. Guests can enjoy amenities such as whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, and private balconies with stunning views of the river.
The Goldmoor Inn also offers gourmet dining at its on-site restaurant, where you can savor farm-to-table cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. For a truly indulgent experience, book a spa treatment or take a cooking class with the inn’s executive chef.
Why Stay Here?
- Luxurious suites with top-notch amenities
- Stunning views of the Mississippi River
- On-site gourmet dining and spa services
- Ideal for romantic getaways
2. Jail Hill Inn
Historic Charm with Modern Amenities
Once a 19th-century jailhouse, the Jail Hill Inn has been transformed into a luxurious bed and breakfast that offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. The inn features six spacious suites, each with a king-sized bed, a two-person whirlpool tub, and a gas fireplace. The rooms are tastefully decorated with a mix of antique furnishings and contemporary touches.
Guests at Jail Hill Inn can enjoy a gourmet breakfast each morning, featuring homemade pastries, fresh fruit, and a rotating selection of hot dishes. The inn also offers complimentary wine and cheese receptions in the evening, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring Galena.
Why Stay Here?
- Unique, historic setting in a former jailhouse
- Luxurious suites with modern amenities
- Complimentary gourmet breakfast and evening receptions
- Central location, close to downtown Galena
3. The Steamboat House Bed & Breakfast
Victorian Elegance in the Heart of Galena
If you’re a fan of Victorian architecture, The Steamboat House Bed & Breakfast is the perfect place to stay. This beautifully restored mansion, built in 1855, features five elegant guest rooms, each decorated with period furnishings and luxurious linens. The rooms are named after famous steamboats, adding to the inn’s historic charm.
Guests can relax in the inn’s spacious parlor, which features a grand piano and a collection of vintage books. The Steamboat House also offers a delicious breakfast each morning, with a menu that includes homemade quiches, fresh fruit, and locally roasted coffee.
Why Stay Here?
- Beautifully restored Victorian mansion
- Elegant guest rooms with period furnishings
- Close to Galena’s main attractions
- Perfect for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts
4. The Irish Cottage Inn & Suites
A Touch of Ireland in Galena
For a unique cultural experience, consider staying at The Irish Cottage Inn & Suites. This charming hotel combines the warmth of Irish hospitality with the charm of Galena. The inn features 75 guest rooms and suites, each decorated with Irish-inspired décor and equipped with modern amenities.
The Irish Cottage Inn & Suites also offers a range of on-site amenities, including an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a spa. The hotel’s restaurant, Frank O’Dowd’s Irish Pub & Grill, serves traditional Irish fare and offers live music on weekends. Don’t miss the complimentary breakfast, which includes a selection of Irish pastries, fresh fruit, and hot dishes.
Why Stay Here?
- Irish-inspired décor and hospitality
- On-site restaurant and pub with live music
- Indoor pool, fitness center, and spa
- Great for families and groups
5. Farmers Guest House
A Cozy and Inviting Bed & Breakfast
Located in the heart of Galena, Farmers Guest House is a cozy bed and breakfast that offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. The inn features nine guest rooms, each uniquely decorated with a mix of antique and contemporary furnishings. Some rooms also include whirlpool tubs and fireplaces, making them perfect for a romantic getaway.
Each morning, guests can enjoy a homemade breakfast, featuring dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The inn also offers a complimentary WineTime™ each evening, where guests can sample a selection of local wines and cheeses.
Why Stay Here?
- Cozy and inviting atmosphere
- Unique, individually decorated guest rooms
- Complimentary homemade breakfast and evening wine tasting
- Central location, within walking distance of downtown Galena
6. Aldrich Guest House
Historic Elegance with Modern Comfort
The Aldrich Guest House is a historic bed and breakfast that offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern comfort. The inn features five elegantly appointed guest rooms, each with a private bathroom, luxurious linens, and modern amenities. The house itself dates back to 1845 and has been meticulously restored to preserve its historic character.
Guests at Aldrich Guest House can enjoy a gourmet breakfast each morning, with a menu that includes homemade pastries, fresh fruit, and locally sourced ingredients. The inn also offers complimentary wine and cocktails each evening, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring Galena.
Why Stay Here?
- Historic bed and breakfast with elegant décor
- Luxurious guest rooms with modern amenities
- Complimentary gourmet breakfast and evening cocktails
- Ideal for a romantic getaway or a relaxing retreat
7. Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa
A Full-Service Resort in a Scenic Setting
For those looking for a full-service resort experience, Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa is an excellent choice. Located just a short drive from downtown Galena, this sprawling resort offers a range of accommodations, including guest rooms, suites, and vacation villas. The resort is set on 6,800 acres of rolling hills and woodlands, providing a scenic backdrop for your stay.
Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa offers a wide range of amenities, including four championship golf courses, a full-service spa, an indoor pool, and multiple dining options. The resort also offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Why Stay Here?
- Full-service resort with a range of accommodations
- Scenic setting with plenty of outdoor activities
- On-site golf courses, spa, and dining options
- Great for families, couples, and groups
8. Chestnut Mountain Resort
An Adventure Lover’s Paradise
If you’re an adventure enthusiast, Chestnut Mountain Resort is the perfect place to stay. Located on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, this resort offers a variety of outdoor activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and zip-lining in the winter, and hiking, mountain biking, and river cruises in the summer.
The resort features 100 guest rooms, each with modern amenities and scenic views of the river or the surrounding hills. After a day of adventure, relax in the resort’s indoor pool and hot tub, or enjoy a meal at one of the on-site restaurants.
Why Stay Here?
- Ideal for adventure enthusiasts
- Year-round outdoor activities
- Scenic views of the Mississippi River
- Family-friendly accommodations and amenities
9. Riverview Bed & Breakfast
A Riverside Retreat
For a peaceful retreat by the river, consider staying at Riverview Bed & Breakfast. This charming inn is located on the banks of the Galena River and offers stunning views of the water and the surrounding countryside. The inn features four guest rooms, each with a private bathroom and cozy décor.
Guests can enjoy a homemade breakfast each morning, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The inn also offers a peaceful outdoor patio, where you can relax and take in the views of the river.
Why Stay Here?
- Riverside location with beautiful views
- Cozy and comfortable guest rooms
- Homemade breakfast with local ingredients
- Perfect for a relaxing and peaceful getaway
10. The Victorian Mansion
A Grand Historic Home
For a truly grand experience, consider staying at The Victorian Mansion, a stunning historic home that offers luxurious accommodations in the heart of Galena. The mansion features six beautifully appointed guest rooms, each with elegant Victorian décor and modern amenities. Some rooms also include whirlpool tubs and fireplaces, adding to the luxurious atmosphere.
Guests at The Victorian Mansion can enjoy a gourmet breakfast each morning, served in the mansion’s elegant dining room. The inn also offers a spacious parlor and outdoor garden, perfect for relaxing and socializing with other guests.
Why Stay Here?
- Grand historic home with luxurious accommodations
- Elegant Victorian décor and modern amenities
- Gourmet breakfast served in an elegant dining room
- Ideal for a romantic and upscale getaway
11. Hawk Valley Retreat & Cottages
A Secluded Countryside Escape
For a secluded escape in the countryside, Hawk Valley Retreat & Cottages is the perfect choice. Located just a few miles from downtown Galena, this charming retreat offers a variety of accommodations, including guest rooms in the main house and private cottages nestled in the woods.
The retreat is set on 10 acres of scenic countryside, providing a peaceful and tranquil setting for your stay. Guests can enjoy a homemade breakfast each morning, as well as a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing.
Why Stay Here?
- Secluded location in the countryside
- Variety of accommodations, including private cottages
- Peaceful and tranquil
