Curator’s statement
Galena is a fantastic destination for friends looking to relax, shop, eat, drink, and reconnect. It offers a wide variety of activity options for any level of adventure. The rolling green hills of the Driftless Area and the quaint downtown provide the perfect environment for hours of talking, laughing, and making new memories.
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Day 1: Explore Downtown Galena
Downtown Galena/Lauren Hoyt
Start your day with breakfast at Otto's Place, and then pop into the Galena Country Visitor Center, which is right across the street.
Take a leisurely stroll down Main Street, stopping into any stores that catch your eye—there are so many unique shops! When you're ready for a little break, refuel at Champagne on Main with a flight and a small bite.
Continue browsing all the way down Main Street (it’s less than half a mile) to Little Tokyo for lunch. I highly recommend sharing the dancing scallops as an appetizer!
After lunch, you can walk back up the other side of the street towards where you're parked, continuing to wander through the charming stores that feature everything from clothing and housewares to toys, books, and much more. Find a memorable souvenir of local art, pottery, or even a wooden spoon.
Enjoy a casual Italian dinner at Vinny Vanucchi's.
A note from Lauren
For getting around, free seasonal transit is available to downtown on weekends from 11 am to 7 pm. I recommend parking near Water Street and Main Street.
Day 2: Enjoy nature in the Galena Territory
Thunder Bay Falls/Lauren Hoyt
Sit outside and enjoy your coffee while watching the birds.
Choose your day based on your desired level of activity, from relaxing at the Stonedrift Spa, to taking a dip at the indoor or outdoor pool at the Owners' Club, to golfing at one of the four courses in the Territory, or walking along the 24 miles of trails and lookouts.
We usually get an easy lunch from the deli at the Country Store and dinner at Woodland's Restaurant.
Day 3: Venture out a bit
Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens/Lauren Hoyt
There are many fabulous ways to spend your day just a short drive away.
You could tour and taste at one of the many local wineries, breweries, and distilleries, such as Blaum Brother's Distilling, Massbach Ridge Winery, Fergedaboudit Vineyard & Winery, or Galena Cellars.
Another option is to cross the Mississippi and visit Dubuque, Iowa. They have a fantastic farmers market and a free arboretum and botanical gardens. For lunch, I recommend Roses & Berries Cafe.
If you're still in the mood for shopping, head towards Elizabeth. Be sure to check out A Bushel & A Peck and Elizabeth's Grand Antique Co.
Need to know
Galena is my home away from home and is never short of new experiences. Be sure to check out VisitGalena.org for a calendar of events during your visit.
Travel Advisor
Lauren Hoyt
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