Take a Holiday Getaway in Galena, Illinois

Holiday Celebrations

The Galena Center for the Arts' "Wonder of Winter" art show runs into January. The Trolley Depot Coffee & Tea Company offers hands-on seminars on brewing the best winter warm-ups, complete with a specially curated dessert plate for all participants.

Welcoming Accommodations

One of Galena's most appealing places to stay is the Aldrich Guest House, run by husbands Robert and Douglas Mahan. While the landmark inn has played host to past Presidents, Ulysses S. Grant, and Abraham Lincoln, its current claim to fame is being Illinois' first and only cannabis-friendly bed and breakfast, with a dedicated "Potting Shed" and a patio for outdoor indulgence.

Another enticing gay-owned option is The Inn at Irish Hollow, set on a 500-acre working farm in the countryside. Innkeepers Bill Barrick and Tony Kemp estimate that 50% or more of their guests are queer. In addition to rooms in the main building, couples often arrange to stay in private cottages on the grounds to enjoy ultimate privacy. The gentle rolling hills here are ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Gift Hunting Paradise

With nearly 100 unique shops in Galena's Main Street shopping district, you'll be able to find something for everyone on your holiday gift list. Here are a few of don't-miss recommendations for local specialties:

Who doesn't like to do a little spooning on cold winter days? The Galena Spoon Company is a showcase for craftsman-owner Paul Pendola's handcrafted wooden home goods, from, of course, spoons of all sizes to hand-turned wooden bowls, cutting boards, serving trays and other artisanal kitchenware.

The Galena Bakehouse is a dream come true for Alex and Geoff Arroyo-Karnish, midwest natives who met and married in New York, then returned to the heartland to start their own business. After initially working as innkeepers at Galena's Inn at Felt Manor, the couple opened this rustic bakery that also serves breakfast and lunch. Warm-up with a fresh-from-the-oven empanada or their specialty Spanish almond cake.

At Galena River Wine and Cheese, you'll find an array of regionally sourced temptations to give to loved ones as gifts or share with friends at a holiday party. Ask for a sample nibble of the Marieke Bacon Gouda from a family farm in Wisconsin – then try to resist buying a whole pound! Sip a glass of vino as you browse an enticing array of sauces, relishes, dips, and baked goods.

And be sure not to miss the award-winning vintages from Galena Cellars Vineyard, a third-generation family business that's been making a name for midwestern wine over more than 30 years. Their dedicated tasting room is on Main Street and, if you have time, treat yourself to a visit to the vineyard itself for a memorable wine tasting inside of a heated igloo!

If you want to add an extraordinary personal touch to your holiday gifts, stop by Scent Workshop. Expert staff members will help you concoct custom fragrances and candles tailored to your recipients' tastes.

And if you're keen on hunting for antiques and collectibles, there's no shortage of treasures to be uncovered at shops including La Vie en Rose, You Gotta Be Cooking, and the Galena Antique Mall.

Treat Yourself

Who says holiday shopping needs to feature crushing crowds and big box stores? Why not swap the usual rush for a cozy escape? Give a gift to yourself with a Galena getaway this winter!

Learn more about shopping, staying and celebrating in LGBTQ+ Galena at Enjoy Illinois.