Those researching a trip to Galena, Illinois, will have a hard time finding reviews that do not mention its historic charm and quaint bed and breakfasts. Some may think that the town has nothing to offer children or even that they are not welcome.
But that notion couldn’t be further from the truth. Skip the wine cellars and dodge the knick-knack shops, and Galena has plenty to show its youngest visitors.
Presidential History and Cool Wheels
Galena is definitely on the American Presidential tour must-stop list. Not only is the home Ulysses S. grant lived in when he began his bid for the presidency found in this Illinois mining town, but both Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas spent time orating from the famous DeSoto House Hotel.
The Grant House is one of three famous homes that can be toured in Galena, each depicting a little slice of yesteryear.
What makes visiting these homes even more exciting is that they can all be part of a trolley tour around the town. Two different companies offer trolley rides led by well-informed tour guides. Either trip will give children background on Galena’s rise as a mining town and subsequent “forgotten city” status, only to rebound a few decades ago as a historical tourism hotspot, especially for Chicagoans looking for a restful break.
Other spots to visit include the working blacksmith shop, located at 245 Commerce St. For a very reasonable donation (the shop survives solely on donations and the wares made and sold by volunteer smithies) children can watch as true blacksmiths create everything from railroad spikes to Grant-shaped banks. Galena also features the Little General's Mini Putt.
Children may also enjoy a carriage ride through town, or skiing or other snow sports in the winter months at Galena's Chestnut Mountain. Information about boating, camping, ballooning and more is available through the Galena Convention and Visitor's Bureau.
Finally, kids may be excited to learn that Galena provided the backdrop for the Chisolm, Minn. scenes in the movie Field of Dreams. Visit all the famous sites, including the "Galena Steps."
Galena Restaurants that Cater to Kids
Many of the restaurants in Galena are upscale, fine-dining steak-houses and the like. But around the corner, there are some smaller establishments that offer child-friendly menus, family-centered service and affordable prices. As a courtesy, many of the restaurants offer posted menus outside or at the hostess desk.
Another option, of course, is to snack at the many shops located on Galena’s Main Street. Follow the wafting smell of homemade popcorn to The Great American Popcorn Company. Also serving ice cream and candy, this shop makes from scratch more than 80 different flavors from “Hellfire and Damnation” to the “Galena Mix."
Other snacking options include various chocolate shops, cafes and plenty of ice cream stores.
Child-Friendly Lodging
As romantic and charming as some of the bed and breakfasts, small inns and historic hotels can be, none of them feature water slides. The local Country Inn and Suites does. Other child (and child noise) friendly locations include Stoney Creek Inn and Allen’s Log Cabin Guest House – five log cabins that are also pet friendly and located in a peaceful wooded area right outside of the busy downtown area.
More to Know About Visiting Galena with Children
Galena really is a child-friendly town. Most shops, hotels and restaurants welcome families traveling with kids.
Many of the shops on Main Street are very small, and therefore strollers are not always encouraged. In fact in some shops, strollers just won’t fit – something to keep in mind while vacation planning. But, parents should also consider that especially during peak months, downtown parking is at a premium.
Finally, most shops do not have public bathrooms, although most restaurants do (for paying customers). Galena does have public bathrooms in several downtown locations and many shop owners will happily point visitors in the right direction.
Taking all that into consideration, Galena is a fun and educational vacation destination for families, and a trip children won’t soon forget.
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