Midweek Fall Getaway

As the weather turns cooler and the trees begin to show their spectacular fall color, savor a slower pace when you travel midweek to Galena. Whether you are meandering along leaf-strewn country roads on a scenic drive, weaving in and out of shops on Galena's Main Street, or sampling seasonal specialties and drinks, the Galena experience reaches new heights this time of year.

Outdoor Recreation

In autumn, Galena and the Mississippi River valley's rolling hills, rocky outcroppings and dense woodlands are quite dazzling. Kayak and river tours along the Mississippi and Galena Rivers offer an unforgettable opportunity to spot wildlife and experience the region from a new perspective. Hiking and biking trails are plentiful. Jump on the Galena River Trail, conveniently located near downtown Galena, and take a brisk walk to the Buehler Preserve, a hilly woodland area and large floodplain, great for bird and wildlife watching, hiking and fishing.

Scenic Drive

It's a shame if you don't take a moment to get off the main roads and experience the rural countryside. The 40-mile long Stagecoach Trail picks up at the north end of Main Street. This two-lane road is one of the most scenic in the state of Illinois. A bit like a roller coaster, the road twists, turns and changes elevation quite frequently as it passes through small, yet all-American towns. The trail intersects with US-20, where you can loop back to Galena.

Shopping

It's no secret that Galena's Main Street boasts an eclectic, yet amazing collection of clothing boutiques, specialty food stores, art galleries and gift shops. Shopping midweek allows for a slower pace. Chat with shopkeepers to discover the latest arrivals. Sample a seemingly endless variety of specialty food products at Galena Garlic Company and Galena Canning Company. Take your time perusing the shops to find trendy accessories to freshen up your fall wardrobe.

Dining

Autumn is the ultimate time of year for a foodie getaway. Comfort foods and seasonal drinks emerge on menus and delightful autumn treats are every where you turn on Galena's Main Street. For a sweet harvest treat, stop by Great American Popcorn Factory to see if their seasonal favorite, Apple Pie a la Mode, is in stock!

Vineyards

Four award-winning, family-owned wineries are nestled in the countryside just a short drive from Galena.  Wine lovers take a leisurely drive through the picturesque rolling hills to sample at a vineyard tasting room. For a unique take on the widely popular Honeycrisp Apple, try Galena Cellars Unconditional Surrender Hard Cider, a lightly carbonated cider that surrounds your palate with Honeycrisp Apple and finishes with a grippingly tannin-infused complexity.