The town of Galena, Illinois is located in an area of the state known as the Driftless Zone. This region managed to escape glaciations during the recent Ice Age. Because of this, the area is covered by a significant amount of exposed rock. This is a sharp contrast to the rest of the state.
Galena Illinois is named after galena, which is an ore of lead that the early Native American cultures used as body paint. Because of these lead deposits, Galena, Illinois was settled early on by Americans. In fact, in the 1840s, Galena's population was larger than Chicago's. Unfortunately, as the use of lead declined, so did Galena's wealth. However, the beautiful architecture and ornate mansions remained. Today, these buildings, which are located in the Galena Historic District, are a major destination for Galena, Illinois tourism.
Downtown Main Street also attracts a good deal of Galena Illinois tourism. The area's varieties of specialty shops, which include the famous Galena Cellars Winery, make the downtown area an excellent Illinois shopping venue. Saint Michael's Church is also a popular destination for Galena Illinois tourism. Father Samuel Charles Mazzuchelli, who was an Italian missionary, founded it in the 1800s. Another exciting Galena attraction is the home of civil war general Ulysses S. Grant, who lived in Galena while working in his father's leather shop.
Galena Illinois Dining
An infinite variety of intimate bistros, world class steak houses and eclectic cafes makes the Galena, Illinois dining experience and event that will be savored in your memory. In fact, if you enjoy the fresh vegetables you find at many of Galena's restaurants, be sure to stop by some of the U-Pick farms and bring some home for friends and family.
Benjamin's Pub is just one example of a great Galena restaurant. Here, you can explore history while enjoying a wonderful Galena Illinois dining venue. The restaurant's 1857 Colonial/Victorian style building was also home to the leather shop owned by Ulysses S. Grant's father
Golf Packages in Galena Illinois
If you are looking for golf packages, Galena, Illinois is an excellent destination. The Eagle Ridge Inn is probably the most popular golf course in the area. The 18-hole "North" course at the Eagle Ridge Inn and Resort features 6,836 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 72. The course rating is 73.4 and it has a slope rating of 134 on Blue grass. Roger B. Packard designed the course. The 18-hole "South" course at the Eagle Ridge Inn and Resort features 6,762 yards of golf from the longest tees. Its course rating is 72.9 and its slope rating is 133 on Blue grass. Golf packages at the Eagle Ridge can include accommodations, horse back riding, a world-class spa and other exciting activities.
Whether you are considering a visit to Galena to explore Illinois history, shopping dining or golf, you will not be disappointed.
