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.

Galena vacation rentals

Book unique homes, vacation rentals, and more on Airbnb

Top-rated vacation rentals in Galena

Guests agree: these vacation rentals are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

0 of 0 items showing

1 of 3 pages

Guest favorite

Home in Galena

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 156 reviews

Adorable Settlement home, views of lake/waterfall

Views of the waterfall and lake Galena in the fall, winter and spring. This home was just fully remodeled. All new furniture, flooring,cabinets and bathrooms. You will have access to 6 proxy cards to enter into the Owners Club. Parking is on site, WI-FI, all smart TV's to login into your NetFlix acct. Each of the bedrooms has their own private bathroom. The kitchen is stocked with mostly everything you need. Towels, linens, throw blankets, coffee, creamer provided. Toilet paper, paper towels too

Townhouse in Galena

4.87 out of 5 average rating, 160 reviews

Galena Territories 3 level Townhome Sleeps nine

Beautiful vacation home in Galena Territories. Located in central resort core, close to all 4 golf courses, owners club, hiking trails and main lodge. Only 15 minutes drive from historic Galena IL. Three level townhome, large screen TV in living room and family room all bedrooms have HDTV. Upper level BR w/en-suite bathroom. Two BR’s are full sized showers/tubs. All linens/toiletries/coffee/condiments provided. Wood burning fireplace with wood provided. Free access to all owners club facilities.

Guest favorite

Home in Galena

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 133 reviews

Galena Territory Sun-Drenched TreeHouse w/ Views

Enjoy your respite in this 4000 sq ft, 3 bed/3 bath, sun-filled home. Perched on a hill in the Territory, the home is nestled among Oak trees w/ expansive views. Perfect for families, couples, friends, bird watchers and nature lovers alike. The private location is mere minutes from the Owners Club, Eagle Ridge, Stonedrift Spa, Golf, Shenandoah Riding Ctr, Marina, walking trails and only 15 minutes to Downtown Galena and Chestnut Mountain Ski Slopes. 3 levels of living and room to spread out!

Guest favorite

Townhouse in Dubuque

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 113 reviews

The Fenelon Place

Introducing "The Fenelon Place" an elite Airbnb perched bluff top in historic Dubuque, Iowa. With stunning views of downtown, the Mississippi River and situated at the top of the Fenelon Street Elevator, this Airbnb is the place to stay in Dubuque. 4 spacious bedrooms & 3.5 bathrooms allow for groups or families to stay in comfort and style! All can congregate in the shared spaces to enjoy the fully stocked kitchen, cozy living room with a fireplace and the deck area with it's beautiful views.

Guest favorite

Home in Galena

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 100 reviews

Fall Foilage/holidays open/hot tub/dog friendly

Step into Rolling Hills Retreat, a sanctuary from the everyday bustle! Our dog-friendly rental offers breathtaking views and numerous amenities for your pleasure and relaxation. Enjoy a swim in the indoor or outdoor pool, and discover a variety of amenities that promise an unforgettable stay. *Pickle Ball *Basketball *Pool Tables *Hiking Trails *Workout Room *Tennis Courts *Brand new (June 2024) Marina with boat rental (additional charge) *Ping Pong tables *Arcade *Scenic Waterfall *Kayaking

Guest favorite

Townhouse in Galena

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 110 reviews

Pickleball & Game Room! Close to all amenities

Many amenities just steps from our home! Including pickleball, a spa and golf. Escape to our bright modern townhome in Galena. Enjoy 3 levels of space for the whole family. Experience outdoor fun at local attractions, enjoy the pools at The Owners Club. Unwind with movies in the game room or relax to records in the living room. This retreat offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Book your stay and create cherished memories. Pet friendly if you would like to bring your fur baby.

Guest favorite

Cabin in Durango

5 out of 5 average rating, 270 reviews

Cozy Cabin by the Pond

Quiet, private country location to relax and unwind. 9 miles west of Dubuque, close to Wineries, Heritage Trail, Sundown Mountain Resort. Cozy cabin and quarter acre pond. Sun yourself on the patio, or nap in the shade of the covered porch. We're sure you will love this space as much as we do. Not suitable for children under 12, we strictly enforce no children and no pets. Outdoor relaxing space, gas grill. Fully stocked cabin, with the essentials such as coffee, tea, spices and condiments.

Guest favorite

Home in Galena

4.83 out of 5 average rating, 288 reviews

Galena Retreat - Eagle Ridge Territories

The perfect place to relax and unwind in a wooded setting far away from the hustle of daily life. Short drive to downtown Galena for shopping and dining. Short drive to skiing and you can walk to the resort for dining and adult beverages. Indoor and outdoor swimming pool at the owners club along with other activities. 1 bedroom w/one queen, 1 bedroom w/two single beds, 2 full bathrooms, Kitchen, Living Room Dinning area, Screened Summer room, Fully equipped Kitchen, Cable TV and wifi.

Superhost

Cabin in Galena

4.88 out of 5 average rating, 124 reviews

Serenity Cabins - A rustic, yet upscale cabin!

Welcome to Serenity Cabins. Whether your stay here is for a vacation, anniversary, family get together, romantic get away, or spiritual retreat, you'll find your stay to be welcoming, relaxing, memorable, full of charm and you'll love the luxurious modern amenities while feeling the rustic atmosphere. You can fall asleep with the sounds of nature and the whispers of the winds. Go for quiet walks as you surround yourself by nature's natural beauty or unwind in front of the fireplace.

Superhost

Home in Galena

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviews

Modern Home w/Amazing Views, Hot Tub, Game Room

Modern home on the hill with great views overlooking the valley. Main level features a dining room, living room w/fireplace & sitting area for reading time. Nice size deck off the main w/gas grill & seating. Good size kitchen! ML also has King bedroom/full bath. Upper Level has 2 bdrms/full bath. Lower level has bar area, foosball, air hockey, bdrm/bath, walkout to deck & HOT TUB! Outside features a firepit and play area for the kids. Great place for families to enjoy!!

Guest favorite

Home in Galena

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 149 reviews

DunPuttin Place

Nestled on a secluded hillside that overlooks miles of Galena Territory's wildlife preserve, DunPuttin Place offers its guests total privacy, yet the convenience of being only minutes from the area's many popular amenities. DunPuttin Place is not just another carbon copy resort rental. It is a unique private home that has many features seldom found in vacation rentals. It has been tastefully designed and decorated to comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests of all ages.

Guest favorite

Townhouse in Galena

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 130 reviews

Vista View Golf Villa in lovely Galena

Relax and enjoy the countryside of the galena territory in this cozy golf view townhouse with all the comforts of home. Located within a resort community with 4 highly rated golf courses , a beautiful lake, indoor/ outdoor pool, horseback riding , and a short 15 minute drive to the quaint historic town of Galena for strolling along Main St. for unique shopping , delicious dining choices and spirits , art, kayaking along the river , and beautiful architecture .

Vacation rentals for every style

Get the amount of space that is right for you

Popular amenities for Galena vacation rentals

Self check-in

Gym

BBQ grill

Laptop-friendly workspace

Wifi

Stay near Galena's top sights

Grant Park11 locals recommend

Blaum Bros. Distilling Co.28 locals recommend

Vinny Vanucchi's20 locals recommend

DeSoto House Hotel7 locals recommend

Durty Gurt's13 locals recommend

4.9 out of 5 average rating, 158 reviews

Renovated historic home near Millwork District.

Show all

Condo rentals in Galena

Guest favorite

5 out of 5 average rating, 10 reviews

#Dog Friendly# Fireplace, King Bed, Access to GTA

Condo in Galena

Galena, IL, 2 Bedroom Q #1

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 35 reviews

Sweet Retreat- new updates,dog friendly,hot tub,

Townhouse in Galena

4.78 out of 5 average rating, 45 reviews

Getaway - Indoor Pool, Gym, Arcade - YoutubeTV

Show all

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.

Galena vacation rentals

Top-rated vacation rentals in Galena

Vacation rentals for every style

Villas

Houses

Cabins

Popular amenities for Galena vacation rentals

Stay near Galena's top sights

Galena house rentals

Home in Dubuque

Home in Bellevue

Home in Galena

Home in Asbury

Home in Galena

Home in Dubuque

Home in Dubuque

Home in Dubuque

Condo rentals in Galena

Condo in Downtown Dubuque

Condo in Galena

Condo in Galena

Condo in Galena

Condo in Hanover

Condo in Bellevue

Condo in Galena

Condo in Galena

Other great vacation rentals in Galena

Home in Galena

Chalet in Elizabeth

Home in Galena

Home in Galena

Home in Galena

Home in Galena

Home in Galena

Townhouse in Galena

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Galena

Total rentals

Nightly prices starting at

Total number of reviews

Family-friendly rentals

Pet-friendly rentals

Rentals with a pool

Your guide to Galena

Welcome to Galena

The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Galena

Top things to do in Galena

Great Galena Balloon Race

Galena Grant Park

West Street Sculpture Park

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the weather in Galena?

What are some of the best things to do in Galena?

What is the best time of year to visit Galena?

What are the best places to stay in Galena?

What are the best places to visit in Galena?

What are some hiking trails in Galena?

What are some family activities to do in Galena?

What are some of the best day trip ideas in Galena?

Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Galena?

Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Galena?

Destinations to explore