PLAY
Located five hours north of St. Louis, Galena, Illinois, is celebrated for its preserved architecture and rich history. Visit Ulysses S. Grant’s home, a state historic site with roots in the summer of 1865, when the Civil War hero returned to a furnished house gifted by locals on Bouthillier Street. The Italianate-style residence is open to visitors from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. For those seeking outdoor activities, Chestnut Mountain Resort features skiing and snowboarding with slopes catering to all skill levels as well as freestyle terrain. Art enthusiasts should not miss West Street Sculpture Park, designed by John Martinson, a Minnesota native who moved to Galena in 1979 to manage the Galena Blacksmith Shop and Gallery. He later established his own studio, showcasing vibrant artworks, including 40-foot towers and distinctive signs.
EAT
If you’re in the mood for breakfast, brunch, or lunch, Otto’s is an excellent choice. Named after Otto Sallman, who lived above the café in the 1900s with dreams of opening a restaurant, Otto’s honors his legacy since its establishment in 2011. The café serves a variety of breakfast and sandwich options alongside coffee and cocktails. For a refreshing drink, Galena Brewery is perfect for trying local beers with twelve taps of flagship and seasonal brews, plus a delightful range of snacks, soups, and sandwiches. For dinner, Fried Green Tomatoes offers an array of dishes including soups, salads, steaks, and seafood. Interestingly, part of the building was owned by Grant’s father, Jesse R. Grant.
STAY
The Desoto House is a historic hotel featuring 55 Victorian-style guest rooms and is noted for hosting President Abraham Lincoln, who addressed a crowd from its balcony on July 23, 1856, supporting presidential candidate John Fremont. For a taste of the past, The Inn at Felt Manor showcases 1850s architecture and is located just blocks from Galena’s historic Main Street, comprising the Coach House, Stable Studio, and the Manor. Meanwhile, The Lamberson Guest House dates back to 1870, featuring four guest rooms named after the original owner David Harvey Lamberson and his family, positioned on Quality Hill with views of Main Street.
