Girls Trip to Galena

There’s no better place to kick off a girlfriends’ getaway to the charming small town of Galena than with a stroll down Historic Main Street. Lined with more than 125 independent stores, eateries, boutiques and galleries - there’s plenty of one-of-a-kind small businesses to support. Stop for brunch at Otto’s Place known for their made-from-scratch, locally sourced menu options like omelets, French toast and egg tacos and for a fun start to the day, order one of their signature Bloody Marys. Next, snap some pics along a Galena Trolley Tour that will shed some light on the town’s notable historic past and intricate architecture. 

The outdoor adventures continue by renting a tandem kayak or canoe and glide along the scenic Galena River. From there, you can also rent E-bikes and take a fun-filled ride to Galena Cellars Vineyard to sip on some delicious Galena-grown vino or to Blaum Bros. Distilling Co. to sample high-quality, handcrafted spirits like their whiskey, rye and vodka. You can’t forget about the bubbly, though! Stop by Champagne on Main to discover vintage champagnes, sparkling wines and a vast assortment of bourbons and other fine spirits.  

While Galena is known for some incredible watering holes - it’s no secret that the town’s dining options are not to be missed either. Lunch options include Embe Eatery & Lounge on Main Street that features a deli-style menu and a drink list of craft beers, cocktails, martinis and more. Nearby Green Street Tavern & Restaurant in the DeSoto House Hotel offers hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood to be enjoyed on their sunny outdoor patio with a drink in hand. Dinner options include Log Cabin Steakhouse, the oldest and longest running eating establishment in Galena, Fritz and Frites - a quaint European-style bistro offering both French and German flavors and flair. For something easily shareable, stop by Little Tokyo - a Japanese sushi bar featuring signature or specialty rolls made with fresh yellowtail, salmon and tuna. 

Galena is also home to several chic and rustic lodging options as well. The new Ulysses Suites - situated in the top floors of the J.G. Schmohl Building - was originally known as the Hotel Grant in 1859 and has since been completely renovated and reimagined for the ultimate comfort of their guests. For another super photo-worthy stay, Elle & Becks Loft offers impeccable design and decor details along Historic Main Street. The Coach House at the Felt Manor Guest House offers a completely private experience for you and your girlfriends while still being able to enjoy Felt Manor’s lavish common areas and historic parlors within its main house. For a more off-the-grid stay, Arrowhead Treehouse - located at family-owned Dittmar Farms and Orchard - offers an onsite bonfire pit, nearby hiking trails and the farm’s apple orchard and pumpkin farm to discover in the fall.

Start day two off with a delicious breakfast at Galena Backhouse followed by horseback riding at Shenandoah Riding Center that caters to horseback riders of all levels and wagon rides along Galena’s picturesque trails. For more tranquil views, take in the sights of the Belvedere Mansion & Garden Tour - a massive 22-room mansion that’s one of the most visited locations in all of Galena. Next, grab a bite to eat at Vinny Vanucchi’s Little Italy, an elegant bistro located along a historic cobblestone street that features an outdoor cappuccino garden.

Next, work off that lunch with the help of some friendly goats. You read that right - goats! Hoof It Goat Trekking allows you to schedule a hike with goats throughout some of Galena’s most beautiful trails. For an even more unforgettable experience, you and your girlfriends can enjoy an early evening walk and a BYOB bonfire under the stars with smores. The sunset fun doesn’t stop there though. Take your girlfriend getaway to new heights with a sunset ride across the rolling landscapes of Galena’s countryside in a massive hot air balloon with Galena on the Fly. Afterward, stop by Fried Green Tomatoes to gnosh on some mouthwatering comfort food and rustic Italian dishes or Timmerman’s Supper Club that’s perched on a bluff overlooking the mighty Mississippi River and its surrounding valley.

Take in Galena’s nightlife with a visit to Miss Kitty’s Grape Escape, located in the heart of downtown Galena to enjoy one of their signature martinis and live music. Take your girls night out up a notch at Gobbie’s Sports Pub & Eatery - known for fun-filled karaoke nights on the weekend.

After a jam-packed weekend of outdoor adventures and nightlife, it’s time for some R&R. Eagle Ridge Resort’s Stonedrift Spa is known as a haven from the outside world and is designed to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul. At the Irish Cottage Inn & Suites, the Galena Day Spa is a full-service spa that offers exceptional services and products to leave you feeling both relaxed and pampered. Whether it’s a massage, facial, or even spa combinations - there’s a spa in Galena that has just what your girlfriends’ getaway needs. Next, toast to an amazing girls’ weekend with a margarita in hand at Campeche Restaurant featuring famous homemade margaritas and family recipes that have been passed down for three generations.