Galena vacation rentals
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Top-rated vacation rentals in Galena
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Popular amenities for Galena vacation rentals
Galena house rentals
Home in Galena
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 109 reviewsNewly Remodeled! Hot tub, views, 6BR/6BA
Home in Galena
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 116 reviewsAwesome Lodge in Galena Territory
Home in Galena
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 188 reviewsGalena Getaway
Home in Galena
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 107 reviewsPicturesque Hillside Home w/Golf Course Views⛳️
Home in Galena
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 254 reviewsComfortable 4 Bed 4 Bath in the Galena Territory!
Home in Galena
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 140 reviewsHistoric Downtown 1852 Home - Newly Renovated
Home in Galena
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 117 reviewsGalena RowHouse - Downtown with parking included!
Home in Galena
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 129 reviewsThe Beauty on Belden: minutes from amenities!
Ski-in/ski-out vacation rentals in Galena
Other great vacation rentals in Galena
Cabin in East Dubuque
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 171 reviewsCustom Floating Suite-HOT TUB!
Serviced apartment in Downtown Dubuque
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 237 reviews1129#2/ Farmers Market Gem: Steps from Ballroom
Rental unit in Downtown Dubuque
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 208 reviewsDrake House: The Loft with Private Hot Tub
Rental unit in Galena
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 186 reviewsStudio Apartment near downtown Galena, with sauna
Guesthouse in Stockton
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 329 reviewsHighview Country Escape - Cozy Cabin with a view
Cabin in Hazel Green
5 out of 5 average rating, 115 reviewsRomantic one bedroom cabin with indoor fireplace
Home in East Galena Township
5 out of 5 average rating, 9 reviewsBluebird Cottage Getaway
Townhouse in Galena
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 56 reviewsGalena Area Retreat
Quick stats about vacation rentals in Galena
Total rentals
140 properties
Nightly prices starting at
$90 before taxes and fees
Total number of reviews
17K reviews
Family-friendly rentals
60 properties are a good fit for families
Pet-friendly rentals
40 properties allow pets
Rentals with a pool
10 properties have a pool
Your guide to Galena
Welcome to Galena
With a history as rich as the mineral deposits for which it’s named, Galena is a charming small-town getaway in the heart of the Midwest and the county seat of Jo Daviess County. Though it seems unimaginable now, Galena once rivaled Chicago in population. Back in the late 1820s, thousands flocked here to mine its namesake ore, which had long been used by Native Americans for burial rituals and trading. Even an American president has called Galena home: Ulysses S. Grant’s mansion, presented to him by the townspeople in the 1860s, is one of the town’s most popular tourist destinations. Many Chicagoans call Galena their second home. Galena’s main street, sometimes called the Helluva Half Mile (riffing on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile), is lined with Victorian-era storefronts and eateries. The rolling hills along the horizon draw visitors for skiing in the winter and hot-air ballooning during the warmer months.
The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Galena
Galena rolls with the Midwestern weather patterns, which is good news for visitors. Perhaps the most beautiful times of year to visit are late spring, when the surrounding hills are in bloom, or autumn, during leaf-peeping season. Summertime in Galena is marked with outdoor bistro seating on Main Street, live music and festivals on the weekends, and strolling families wielding ice cream cones. Though winter is a little quieter (and can be quite cold), it has its own draws. Area resorts tucked into the hills host downhill skiers and snowboarders, and cross-country ski trails criss-cross through nearby nature preserves and Apple River Canyon State Park.
Top things to do in Galena
Great Galena Balloon Race
One of Galena’s best-known tourist attractions is also one of its most magnificent. Every third full weekend in June, weather pending, thousands come to marvel at a series of colorful balloon races across the prairie. The pros race at dusk on Friday night and at dawn on Saturday and Sunday. Meanwhile, amateurs can enjoy leisurely hot-air balloon rides with on-site rental companies.
Galena Grant Park
Toward the south end of bustling Main Street, a pedestrian bridge stretches across Galena River to this stately Victorian-era park. True to the period design, the park’s paths lead under decorative arbors to the town’s Civil War monument and gazebo, and the formal fountain stands out as a landmark.
West Street Sculpture Park
On the funkier side of Galena’s tourist attractions is this 2-acre park featuring metal sculptures of various scales. Ranging from rusted-out can contraptions to impressive postmodern art statements, the dozens of sculptures here are spread all over the park (including some in its trees), exposed to the elements, and open to visitors year round.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the weather in Galena?
Galena experiences a humid continental climate. Summers are warm, averaging around 82°F (28°C), perfect for outdoor activities. Winters are cold, with average lows of 11°F (-12°C), which provides opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.
What are some of the best things to do in Galena?
In Galena, you can explore the historical architecture by walking down Main Street, visit the Ulysses S. Grant Home, or engage with history at the Old Market House. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the scenic views of the Galena River Trail or hike in the Apple River Canyon State Park. For art lovers, the West Street Sculpture Park is a unique experience.
What is the best time of year to visit Galena?
The most popular time to visit Galena is in the fall, between September and October, when the town's foliage turns into a vibrant display of colors. The Galena Country Fair in October is an often recommended local event, featuring handcrafts and homemade cuisine.
What are the best places to stay in Galena?
The Historic District is a frequently suggested area to stay, being close to attractions like the Galena & U.S. Grant Museum. The countryside surrounding Galena is also popular, offering scenic views and a quiet retreat.
What are the best places to visit in Galena?
The Galena & U.S. Grant Museum, Horseshoe Mound Preserve for scenic views, and the historic Main Street with its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, are among the popular places to visit in Galena.
What are some hiking trails in Galena?
Galena is surrounded by nature, offering many hiking trails. The Galena River Trail is a 8-mile (13-km) trail with views of the Galena River, and the Buehler Preserve is a frequently suggested trail for birdwatching.
What are some family activities to do in Galena?
Families can take a step back in time at the Galena & U.S. Grant Museum, enjoy a picnic at Grant Park, or explore the outdoors at Horseshoe Mound Preserve. In winter, Chestnut Mountain Resort offers family-friendly skiing and snowboarding.
What are some of the best day trip ideas in Galena?
Day trips from Galena can include exploring the Mississippi Palisades State Park, about 70 miles (112 km) away, or visiting the town of Dubuque, Iowa, which is just 16 miles (26 km) away and home to the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.
Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Galena?
Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 70 vacation rentals in Galena featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.
Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Galena?
Four-legged friends are welcome in Galena. Choose from more than 40 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.
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