I went to Galena on real estate business, and as is usually the case I found myself on Main Street. I was not wearing my walking shoes (don’t know what I was thinking) so I stopped in to Honest John’s for some relief. I LOVE this store! The service was great — Nacole, you rock girl! And Dana, the owner, took pity on a poor working girl, wearing the wrong shoes whose job takes her to Main Street in Galena where there are shops aplenty (I know, poor me) and gave me a sweet deal! THIS is why I love Galena – it’s not just the panoramic views and the cool stuff and the many things to do (or this awesome new pair of shoes), it’s the people, and the level of customer service you rarely see anymore. Galena rocks! Honest Johns rocks! And, I get to go back to Galena tomorrow. Life is good!

Dowling House

Illinois’ oldest stone structure, Dowling House, is located in Galena. Built in 1826 it was once a trading post for miners. It is filled with primitive furniture, artifacts, antiques and some of Galena’s own pottery. There are 30 minute tours daily from 11:00 – 4:00. Cost is $9.00.

This building is so old it doesn’t have a website, so if you want more info, call 815-777-1250 or just stop in for a tour.

Okay…so I posted on my ThingsToDoInGalena FB Page looking for people who visited Galena, loved it, and want to go back. I asked for short posts about their experience and what they loved about it. Here are the responses I’ve received thus far:

Gina says:

OH my favorite forever…Galena! We got engaged at the Green Briar B&B! The BEST! Beautiful rooms, views and wonderful hospitality. Can’t wait to go back! I was so excited about the perfect location – Ricky asked me to marry him at in the gardens of the Green Briar on a beautiful bench. I just had to have the bench to remember that moment forever. Ricky asked the owner of the Green Briar if he would let us have the bench and he said yes!! AMAZING!! We now have that bench in the foyer of our new home as a symbol of our beginning. Visit Galena! Beautiful beginnings bloom there!

Tricia says:

love the shops….especially love the Miche Store….we head out towards Galena every summer…love the area…food…bars and shops….

Looking for a place to stay in Galena? Check out Goldmoor Inn – A historic Galena, Illinois bed and breakfast offers luxurious accommodations, full gourmet, sumptuous breakfast, and the very finest in gracious hospitality. Complete your getaway with a relaxing spa experience in the comfort of your suite, open air pavilion, or couple spa treatment room.

Take advantage of “Free Tuesday’s” – Hot Dates with Special Rates Complimentary Tuesday’s Stay any three nights that include a Tuesday and Tuesday is Free. Complimentary Tuesday’s dates February 22nd. March 1st, 8th,15th, 22nd and 29th. Based on Availability May not be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Standard rack rates apply , must pay for two night lodging. Valid on new reservations only.

Go to Goldmoor Inn website or call 1-800-255-3925 to reserve your romantic getaway.

Photo courtesy of Shirahama

Galena Brewery Tours

Date: Jan 16, 21-22, 2011

Location: Galena Brewery

227 N Main St, Galena, IL

(815) 776-9917

Cost: $2.00