Posted on July 2, 2020 by Kirsten Bell
It's cheesy, gooey, hot and saucy! Whether you crave a traditional or exotic slice of Italian pie, Galena Country eateries offer an all-encompassing array of flavors, toppings, crusts and preparations! Ready for those photo-op worthy cheese pulls? Let's dig in... 
This quaint, family-friendly store in Stockton offers homemade thin-crust pizza, daily specials, and delicious appetizers such as mac & cheese bites and jalapeno poppers. Choose from 15 toppings to create your perfect pizza, just the way you like it.
Delivering their slices of heaven for many years, Cannova's specializes in homemade fine Italian cuisine. Give their signature “Typo” pizza a try and they have the option of a delicious Gluten Free crust too!
Choose from thin crust, stuffed Chicago style, or pan pizza! Try the specialty Reuben pizza for a unique twist on the classic sandwich, and enjoy your meal in the outdoor pavilion!
This local's favorite is a short drive from Galena’s Main Street and serves specialty pizza, burgers, and beer. Don’t miss out on their chicken alfredo or BBQ chicken pizza!
Delicious pizza, spacious outdoor seating, and irresistible beer nuggets make Gobbie's a fun place to enjoy a slice while catching the game. Try something new like the Gyro pizza featuring fresh basil, Kalamata olives, gyro meat, and feta cheese.
Add your favorite toppings to a specialty “rustic” style crust for a unique and delicious pizza. A cozy atmosphere and friendly service adds to the great experience.
Off the beaten path, J.M.’s Tap offers a fun small-town ambiance and awesome thin crust pizza. Enjoy their popular specialty BLT pizza!
Featuring outdoor seating and live entertainment, Jug’s serves delicious specialty pizza in a fun atmosphere. The crab meat rangoon pizza is a unique must-try for any adventurous pizza fanatic.
Located on Galena’s Main Street, Paradise is famous for their signature Bloody Mary’s and hand tossed pizza crust. Enjoy a delicious specialty taco pizza, and be sure to check out daily lunch and dinner specials!
Relax with a specialty martini, glass of wine or craft beer over a tasty pizza while enjoying live music at Miss Kitty's Grape Escape!
Enjoying a pizza while watching a gorgeous sunset over the Mississippi River is a one-of-a-kind experience! Dig into a specialty gluten-free cauliflower pizza and the spicy “Inferno” pizza is a must try!
Fresh, locally sourced ingredients with the option of a gluten free crust make a gourmet pizza from this bistro a delicious choice. For a unique flavor, experience the “Deep Roots” pizza. It’s drizzled with local honey and features Italian sausage, arugula, garlic olive oil sauce, and feta and mozzarella cheese. Yum!
No matter how you slice it, Galena Country has the triangle of cheesy goodness that you're looking for! Explore more of Galena Country’s amazing dining options in the latest Visitors Guide and while you're there, check out the awesome lodging choices!
Posted on June 22, 2020 by Kirsten Bell
Credit: @kfurlongphotography Teens have developed their own sense of style, whether it be eco-chic, retro hip or modern casual, they know what they want! We understand that finding a winner outfit or a "not-so-boring" gift for hard-to-please teens can be tricky... don't panic, we've put together a list of places to shop for "cool stuff"!
Clothing means everything when you're a teenager. Keep your mini-me ahead of the style curve!
Discover a wide selection of cool, quirky and unique items that are perfect for teen gifts!
You can't go wrong here... what teenager doesn't love to snack? Pick up something crispy, glazed, crunchy and sweet!
We may be old but we're never the same old thing! With these options, even the trendiest of teens will be impressed with your gift-giving skills... you're welcome! Plan a one-of-a-kind getaway today, by booking your stay and browsing the digital visitors guide.
Posted on June 16, 2020 by Fallon Oldenburg
Photo Credit: Internet Movie Cars Database 
Green Street Stairs, Bench St., Ray Kinsella and Moonlight Graham are spotted walking together in the evening hours to Graham’s office.
Embe Eatery & Lounge, 233 S. Main St., Where Ray parks his VW Van while looking for Moonlight Graham in Chisholm, MN. Another scene where the Chisholm banner can be spotted hanging over Main Street. Klein's Market Bakery, 118 S. Main St., This building is predominately spotted in the background as Ray strolls the streets of Chisholm looking for Moonlight Graham. In the movie, you can recognize the building by the old vehicle parked in front of it.
Dreams Boutique, 116 S Main St., This scene features the third symbol of Ray’s apparent time-travel back to 1972. He spots an old car and rubs the dirt off of the license plate to reveal the 1972 sticker confirming the travel back in time.
Country Crafts & Sports, 113 S Main St., This location is the movie theater where Ray smirks at the marquee advertising The Godfather movie title, stating “One of this year’s ten best”. It's the second moment of Ray’s realization that he has travelled back in time. Great American Popcorn Co., 110 S. Main St., Ray spots the Re-Elect Nixon presidential campaign poster. The first sign of Ray’s apparent time-travel back to 1972.
Petals and Primitives, 111 S. Main St., The first quick glimpse the viewers receive of Moonlight Graham, as he passes by in the background.
Outside the Lines Art Gallery, 101 S. Main St., The iconic scene where Ray Kinsella meets Moonlight Graham for the first time. Big Bill's Sandwich Shop and Coffee Bar, 301 N. Main St., This is the location featuring the bar scene where Terrence Mann interviews Chisholm locals about Dr. Archibald “Moonlight” Graham.
Fritz & Frites Bistro, 317 N. Main St., The bar in this quaint restaurant is the bar used in the 'interview scene' mentioned above, with Terrance Mann and residents of Chisholm.
Galena Chiropractic, 400 Broadway St., The location of Moonlight Graham’s Optometrist office. During this scene, Ray and Archibald chat about his one-game in the majors with no bat.
Explore and reminisce the amazing locations showcased in the movie, make a few stops along the way and discover even more eateries, galleries and boutique shopping! But first, book your stay and let the planning begin with the digital visitors guide. There's a lot of places out there, but there's nowhere like us!
Posted on June 12, 2020 by Kirsten Bell
Sweet dreams are made of these! Whether you count chocolate, candy, ice cream or milkshakes as your guilty vice, embark on a taste adventure at these 12 sweet spots in Galena Country.
There's a lot of places out there, but there's nowhere like us! Book your accommodation and plan your escape to Galena Country where you will make sweet memories!
Posted on June 9, 2020 by Kirsten Bell
Following the guidance of local and state health authorities, Galena Country has re-opened to visitors! Non-essential stores have opened their doors to welcome customers with social distance precautions in place and restaurants, bars, wineries, breweries and distilleries are now permitted to offer outdoor as well as limited indoor dining. Roads, sidewalks, alleys, parking lots and closed streets have been converted into dining areas where you can now relax with a cocktail, ice-cream, or a full meal! A portion of Galena's Main Street has been closed to traffic to accommodate outdoor seating for all restaurants, adding to the charm of the city as it bears a resemblance to the bustling café culture of Paris and Rome. 
Spend your morning shopping and strolling the streets of Galena Country, before you soak up some rays with patio pancakes and mimosas. Enjoy an afternoon of outdoor music and refreshing wine at an award-winning winery on a picnic blanket or in a bubble tent. Make a toast to a beautiful summer evening with a cocktail and delicious meal on a deck! Regardless of the occasion, make the most of this rare opportunity to enjoy your favorite meal or beverage outdoors at one of these great establishments:
In Galena Country, we've always been known to have a good time... times may change, but that never will! Plan a one-of-a-kind getaway today, by booking your stay and browsing the digital visitors guide.
Posted on June 1, 2020 by Kirsten Bell
Considered the eastern gateway to Galena Country, Stockton is a community rich in historic treasures and is the birthplace of the first Kraft Cheese plant in 1914! It is also home to gorgeous larger-than-life murals painted throughout the downtown area. Discover these colorful and story-telling murals while exploring the historic Stockton.
At the corner of E. Front & N. Main St. This was the first mural to embrace historic downtown Stockton in 2016. 116 N. Main St. next to Ace Hardware.
Next up is an ode to our native settlers, with this colorful mural of an American Indian by artist Chris Shannon. At the corner of N. Main St. & West Front Ave.
This one might not have as much detail, but there is something beautiful in the simplicity of its large singular rose. At the corner of N. Main St. & E. Front Ave.
This stunning floral design has the perfect home on the side of a florist & home décor store. At the corner of Main and E.Queen Avenue.
The newest mural can be found opposite the historic Great Western Hotel, named after the Chicago Great Western Railroad that had a depot nearby.
Just like the area represents, Galena Country is full of great stories and colorful characters! Discover more by browsing the latest digital Visitors Guide.
Posted on May 29, 2020 by Kirsten Bell
In Galena Country, we encourage people to follow their passions. To take a deep breath. relax and be themselves. Whether exploring the rolling hills of the driftless region, treasure-hunting along Galena's historic Main Street, or indulging in a savory farm-to-table meal, it's a great time to make your way to Galena Country!
Everyone loves a good story. And here, one story always leads to another. Make memories, celebrate each other, and be sure to #AmazingForAll and #GalenaCountry when sharing your story. Plan a one-of-a-kind getaway today, by booking your stay and browsing the digital visitors guide.
Posted on May 20, 2020 by Kirsten Bell
Let’s talk about Dad! We love him more than he knows and, every year on Father’s Day, we shower him with gifts and adoration. Traditionally, it’s socks, ties, and tools that make Dad smile. It’s time for new traditions… break free from the expected and surprise Dad with the gift of Galena Country!
Credit: @trolleydepotcoffee
Galena Country not only offers one-of-a-kind gifts to purchase for Dad but also experiences that you can enjoy together and create special memories. From kayaking and golfing to the plethora of gift shops along Galena’s Main Street, you’ll be able to give Dad nothing less than the best to thank him for all he has done.
What’s his favorite team? Whether it’s the lovable losers, winners, or that team only Dad cheers for… the gear to get can be found on Galena’s Main Street. Check out Country Crafts & Sports for sports memorabilia, and Fan Zone for licensed jerseys, shirts, and limited edition team hats. Another great option is For Bare Feet, which offers the largest selection of licensed sports socks made in the USA. Yes, we know… we told you to steer away from the usual socks and ties, but trust us, he will totally rock these team socks! While you’re at it, keep Dad up-to-date on the freshest apparel trends with multiple clothing stores and boutiques found on Galena’s Main Street, such as The Cotton Club, Galena Tees, and The Neighborhood Co.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a burger served with hand-cut fries from Durty Gurt’s Burger Joynt before heading to Galena Brewing Co. for a growler filled with Dad's favorite brew to enjoy at home. In the mood for pizza instead? Stop at Wally’s Pizza in Warren which is conveniently located next door to Pecatonica Beer Company Tap House. If he’s more of a spirits kinda guy, treat him to some fine whiskey from Blaum Bros. Distilling Company. Click here for more dining options.
We know the importance of taking the time for the things that matter most, whatever you choose to do for Dad in Galena Country, you will make it a memorable Father's Day!
Posted on May 15, 2020 by Kirsten Bell
As the weather invites us outside with its blue skies and fresh breeze coupled with blossoming blooms and cheerful bird chirps, it’s hard to resist the urge to picnic! With social distancing in place, it’s an ideal way to dine safely with your family. 
Credit: @lindseytaylorphotography Sit in the sun or the shade of a mossy tree, take your shoes off and lie back in the cool grass, all while enjoying delicious treats and the company of loved ones while chasing a flying napkin or two. Speaking of chasing things... your fur baby would love a new frisbee from New Earth Animals to enjoy at the picnic!
Part of the adventure is the unveiling of what has been packed in the basket! Let’s take a peek at the deliciousness that awaits: A selection of gourmet cheeses, sausages, and pâtés from Galena River Wine and Cheese, freshly baked bread and pastries from Tammy’s Piggly Wiggly and delicious sandwich meat from Pat’s Country House Grocery. Digging a little deeper, we have tasty dips and spreadables from Galena Canning Co. and the Grateful Gourmet Co., as well as yummy gourmet popcorn from the Great American Popcorn Co. Oh, what’s this we have here… some chocolate covered strawberries from Galena’s Kandy Kitchen for dessert. Yum!
No picnic is complete without a refreshing beverage! Pack a bottle of wine from one of Galena Country’s award-winning wineries or a growler of flavorful locally brewed beer! Looking for something a little different? Substitute the wine and beer with a cocktail kit from Blaum Bros. Distilling Co. or from Miss Kitty’s Grape Escape for the perfect sundowner! Cheers!
Casper Bluff Not only does this preserve boast some of the most commanding views of the Mississippi River and its backwater sloughs but the site also contains Native American mounds which were created centuries prior by local natives of the land. The most fascinating mound being the Thunderbird Effigy Mound, the only one known of its kind in Illinois. Gramercy Park Located on the bluff in East Dubuque overlooking the Mississippi River, this 10-acre city park is an Illinois Natural Heritage Landmark. It is home to 26 ceremonial and burial mounds from the Hopewell Native American Culture. Grant Park Pack a bottle of bubbles for the kids from Gabby’s Gifts or Poopsie’s online stores and enjoy a picnic in this historic and scenic park! Take in the stunning views of the city of Galena, watch the trains go by and check out the historic cannons and monuments. It’s selfie time with U.S Grant! Horseshoe Mound This 40-acre preserve offers one of the most scenic outlooks in Galena Country! The breathtaking views stretch across three states. Take a closer look through the viewing scopes! After your picnic, enjoy the hiking trails that extend throughout the preserve. Wapello Land and Water Reserve Based on its significance as a meshing point of two Native American cultures, this 79-acre site south of Hanover, was accepted into the National Register of Historic Places. It now boasts one of the premier prairie restorations in the Midwest. It's true. You can't change time. But if you spend it right, it can change you. Make the most of your time with a perfect picnic, making memories...where one good story always leads to another!
Posted on May 1, 2020 by Kirsten Bell
With over 87% of its buildings listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Galena's prominent past remains a permanent fixture. The architectural achievements of the men who discovered wealth in the region's rich lead deposits and profitable river commerce are best viewed while walking on foot. 
Credit: @jcbgrss This self-guided walking tour of downtown Galena identifies the community's diverse 19th century architectural styles and recounts the lives of the captivating individuals who first settled the steeply elevated terrain. The tour length is one hour. For your enjoyment, we recommend a comfortable pair of walking shoes and bottled water. Bring a camera or a pair of binoculars to capture the tour's breathtaking views. Please note that most of the locations on the tour are private and we ask that you remain respectful while enjoying the tour. Finally, walk at your own pace and have fun exploring Galena's magnificent architectural treasures!
Built by the Army Corps of Engineers 1948-51, this large earthen levee with flood gates protects the downtown business district from periodic flooding, the worst of which was in 1937. This flood left up to five feet of water along Main Street. Visitors often ask how often the floodgates are used. Normally they might be closed only once every few years, usually when the ice leaves the river in the spring.
Constructed in 1853 with a major facelift in 1873 and home of Nathan Corwith’s Bank of Galena. The Corwiths were prominent businessmen from New York. Nathan Corwith left Galena in 1874 and moved to Chicago. He died in 1888, worth over $6 million.
These were the first, all brick blocks in Galena, consisting of five stores, constructed in 1846. Locally produced Galena brick is noted for its orange color and inner softness. For this reason, city ordinance requires they be cleaned chemically to prevent damage to the hard outer surface. Within this block, one of Galena's nine Civil War Generals, John C. Smith, had his jewelry store at 306 S. Main, and the town's most infamous lawyer, M.Y. Johnson had his law office on the second floor of 304 S. Main. He was arrested in 1862 for southern sympathies but later released for lack of evidence. Galena fires: Every early city suffered from a devastating fire. Galena was no exception. Major fires in the 1840s led to ordinances which encouraged downtown commercial structures to be built of brick or stone. Still, the worst fire of all occurred in 1856, taking out several critical blocks. A building boom ensued, all in brick.
Located across from the DeSoto House Hotel, the stairway has been there since the 1850s. Wooden steps were replaced by concrete in 1919 and again in 1996. In addition to hilltop residents, the steps served hundreds of school children who used them morning, noon, and afternoon. They were walking to the large building on the hill with a square clock tower. This is the Old High School which was built in 1905 and converted in the 1980s to condominiums.
It opened in 1855. DeSoto is the oldest operating hotel in Illinois. It was named for the discoverer of the Mississippi - Hernando DeSoto. Investors included Jesse Grant, father of Ulysses. Both Lincoln and Douglas spoke from the balcony, although on separate occasions. Grant's presidential campaign headquarters were here in 1868. The original structure had five floors and 225 rooms, but lack of business, foundation settling, and fire insurance problems led to the top two floors being removed in 1880. Completely renovated in 1985-86.
The original facades of Main Street buildings were kept for historic appearance. The hotel project could not have proceeded without this solution to off-street parking. The garage site was originally a livery stable for the famous Frink and Walker Stage Line out of Chicago during the 1840s and early 1850s.
This is the second oldest continuously owned and operated Post Office in America. The second floor served as the Customhouse, and the first floor served as Post Office. The Renaissance Revival style utilized by architect Ammi B. Young was the first standardized style to be used by the government throughout the nation. Superintendent of Construction was engineer Ely Parker; a Seneca Indian raised on a reservation in New York. When the foundation was laid, he had it stacked with bars (pigs) of lead equal to the weight of the completed structure to settle the foundation. Later the lead was sold and shipped downriver. The structure was then completed with Nauvoo limestone from the same quarries that supplied stone for the Mormon Temple. Today the building is as solid as when it was built. Note: Ely S. Parker was one of the most famous Native Americans in U.S. history. He studied to become a lawyer only to be told by New York State that Indians could not become lawyers. He then became an engineer, was hired by the federal government and sent to Galena to build the customhouse/post office. While here, he met Grant. Volunteering for the Union with the outbreak of the Civil War, he was turned down because of his race, only to be accepted a year later. Grant made him his personal military secretary; he was breveted a brigadier general at the end of the war and later became President Grant's Commissioner of Indian Affairs, only to resign when he created a storm of controversy by sending emergency food rations to starving Plains Indians prior to congressional authorization.
John and Lena Schmohl emigrated from Germany in the 1850s and opened a millinery store at this site. In 1886, Lena, having lost her husband, built this building and installed Galena's first hydraulic elevator. Her apartment was in back along Bench Street. She was a respected business leader long before most women had the opportunity. The second Schmohl Building 213-217 (the white building) was built in 1884.
Built by Joseph Coatsworth and Daniel Barrows in 1856-57. Utilized premium Milwaukee Cream City bricks, cast iron pillars, lintels, and sills. J.R. Grant promptly leased the 120 S. Main section for his leather goods store. It was here that Ulysses came to work in 1860. Major restoration occurred in the late 1970s - the building now houses apartments for seniors.
Built-in 1843 by Galena’s foremost physician/pharmacist Horatio Newhall, a Yale graduate, who also published the "Miners Journal," Galena’s first newspaper in 1828. But his most notable work was in treating Cholera victims during the dreaded 1832 and 1848 outbreaks. His observations on the disease and its spread are considered some of the best of the period. Note the small attic windows in the frieze, typical of the 1840s Greek Revival structures.
Built-in the Greek Revival style in 1846. Charles Hempstead was the first mayor of Galena, elected in 1841. Prior to this, the town was governed by a board of trustees and president. "City" status was given by the act of the legislature; Jo Daviess County's other "city" is East Dubuque; all other towns in the county are villages. The second floor also housed the law office of John A. Rawlins, another of Galena's nine Civil War generals who became Grant's Chief of Staff.
Circa 1837, this was the first large store to be constructed in the downtown of brick. Note federal style stepped gables (double-chimney) and prominent roof dormers.
Also known as the "cobblestone" street, although the stone was laid down as a deterrent to erosion, not as a paving stone. Maintaining control of horses and wagons on steep hills was a constant danger in early Galena (some say it still is...)
Trader Amos Farrar's house became part of Galena's stockade during the 1832 Black Hawk War. A refuge for women and children, the upright timbers placed along the sill shows French "post and sill" influence. Restored to the 1890s appearance. Note: To locate the Old Stockade, take the first staircase at the corner of Perry and Main Streets. Proceed up the stairs halfway to the Old Stockade's entrance, a limestone walkway on the left.
This State Historic Site, built in the Greek Revival style in 1845, once sheltered both vendors and shoppers. It continues to entice visitors with its historic U.S Grant exhibits and events. It also serves as the official Welcome Center for Galena Country Tourism.
This 1888 Italianate commercial building housed one of Galena’s many 19th-century cigar manufactories. It was home to the Standard Cigar Factory. Tobacco was also a cash crop for some county farmers, particularly in the Stockton area, up until the 1890s.
Constructed in 1837 of native limestone. The southern half was purchased by the County and used as the courthouse from 1838 until the present courthouse was completed in 1844. The original building had a gable roof. Interestingly, the street level here was originally much lower; the main entrance in 1838 entered what is now the basement!
The original building housed Bradley/Taylor House hotels and was three stories. Destroyed by fire in 1876. New Italianate structure was only two floors and has housed everything from the People's Bank (original safe still there) to a Justice of the Peace.
The Dowling House is located just left of Main Street on Diagonal Street. This vernacular structure is one of Galena's oldest, constructed circa 1826-27. Dowling was a trader who quickly became the largest iron dealer on the Upper Mississippi. Here you could buy stoves, hinges, nails, picks, and shovels. Note: Turn right on Franklin Street and proceed one block to Commerce Street to view the Old Blacksmith Shop.
At one time, Galena had more than two dozen operating blacksmith shops. Today the little red wood-frame structure is the only one that remains. Built-in 1897, most of the original tools including two forges and equipment are on display. Throughout our history, Galena Country has proudly never been like anywhere else. We may be old but we're never the same old thing!
FAVS
