GALENA, Ill. — If you are looking for some of the top places to visit in 2023, you won't have to travel far from the metro Quad Cities. Travel company Travel Awaits, just named Galena, Illinois the top place to visit in the Midwest for those 50 and older in 2023.
Robyne Stevenson, an author with Travel Awaits says, "[In Galena] you are transported to a simpler time, filled with home-baked Americana at every turn." Galena's historic downtown is filled with shops, cafes and restaurants prepared to cater to every taste.
Visit Galena gives this suggestion for how you can plan your trip to Galena:
"Day 1 Make a pit-stop along the Historic Hwy 20 with a visit to Stockon. Fuel up for the day with baked goods and treats from Sweet Alice's and a coffee at Stella's Cafe. Before heading back to the bus, make a point to capture a few memories, as the murals make for a lovely background. Onward towards Galena! Arrive in time for a light lunch at Green Street Tavern, located in the historic DeSoto Hotel, followed up with early check-in. Quench your thirst with a refreshing drink from Rootbeer Revelry before stretching your legs to explore Main Street. Make a point to stop at the Welcome Center and gather information for this trip and future visits. While you're there, take a close look at the Grant memorabilia on display, it's the largest collection... in the world! 3:00 p.m. meet for a Trolley Tour, learn about the history of Galena and a personalized view of the gorgeous architecture throughout the town. After the tour, enjoy some free time to further explore Main Street or head back to the DeSoto House Hotel to freshen up for dinner at Galena's oldest supper club, the Log Cabin. Travel tip: Polish off your dinner with a hand-mixed grasshopper!
Day 2 Arise for breakfast at the hotel or offsite at Victory Cafe on Main Street or Otto's Place, across the river near the Old Train Depot. 10:00 a.m. Head to Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site for a tour, followed up with more history at the Elihu B. Washburne House, two blocks away. Travel Tip: Take in an extra moment while in the library, as that's where Grant received the telegraph announcing he had been elected as the 18th President of the United States! Head back across the river for a visit to the Old Blacksmith Shop, to experience live forging demonstrations. Enjoy lunch on your own and meet back at the bus at 2:00 p.m. for a tasting and tour of Galena Cellars Winery and Vineyard. Make your way to the hotel and freshen up for dinner and a show at Amelia's Under the Lamplight Dinner Theater.
Day 3 Enjoy breakfast at the hotel or journey along downtown to Kaladi's or Big Bill's coffee shops. 9:00 a.m. visit to the Galena and U.S. Grant History Museum followed with a tour of Galena's oldest home, the Dowling House. Dine with a view at Chestnut Mountain Resort before making the journey home. Travel Tip: Relish in a peaceful chair lift ride for an even more incredible view of the mighty Mississippi River. With so much to discover in Galena Country, you'll be back to indulge in even more historic discoveries. Further plan your group tour by contacting the Welcome Center at galena@visitgalena.org."
Find other top places to visit in the Midwest by visiting Travel Awaits' website by clicking here.
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