The small historic town located by the river in northwest Illinois is quite the charming gem. Located by the river and surrounded by rolling hills, the once-bustling mining town is now filled with well-preserved 19th-century buildings, several vineyards, and some truly gorgeous places to stay, from quirky chic inns to beautiful boutiques. Here are my picks for the best cool and unusual hotels in Galena, Illinois…



Goldmoor Inn & Resort
Goldmoor Inn & Resort is one of my favorite places in Galena. This charming bed and breakfast offers a stunning view of the Mississippi River that’s simply breathtaking.
While visiting this stately inn, I enjoyed the convenience of being just a stone’s throw away from downtown Portland. Exploring nearby attractions like the Chicago Athenaeum Museum and the Ulysses S. Grant Home was a delightful experience during my stay.
The luxurious suites were a true highlight of my visit. They boast hand-carved furniture, well-equipped kitchenettes, cozy fireplaces, and in-room whirlpool tubs that added a touch of luxury to my stay.
While staying at the inn, I had the chance to explore the on-site amenities, including a wine cellar, beautiful gardens, a classy eatery, meeting rooms, and a spa area with soothing massage services. This made my stay even more enjoyable.
Pros
Hand-carved furniture
Beautiful gardens with a lovely atmosphere
Well equipped kitchenettes
In-room whirlpool tubs
Cons
No valet parking
Beverages are a little pricey
Spread out resort
Cloran Mansion Bed & Breakfast
My visit to Cloran Mansion was an enchanting experience. This exquisite bed and breakfast exudes European grandeur that instantly captivated me. I love the unique Italian theme throughout the hotel, perfect for hosting intimate weddings.
While staying at Cloran Mansion, I had the pleasure of discovering that each room is a work of art. Individually decorated, they feature modern amenities for added convenience. Some rooms even come with 2-person jetted tubs, adding a touch of luxury to the experience.
One of the highlights of my stay was the breakfast, served in a chic, Italian-style dining room that transported me to another place and time. It was the perfect start to my day, and I couldn’t help but appreciate the attention to detail that Cloran Mansion puts into creating an authentic European atmosphere.
Pros
Well decorated rooms
Pull-out sofas available
Italian-style dining room
Wedding packages
Cons
Might be a little noise
Mini fridge might need an update
Paid parking
WorldMark Galena
WorldMark Galena quickly became one of my favorite places for a casual getaway. Just a short drive from the scenic Lake Galena, this all-suite hotel offers a unique mountain lodge atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for adventurers.
While staying, I was pleasantly surprised by the comfortable accommodations and luxurious amenities. Each suite had flatscreen TVs, inviting whirlpool tubs, convenient kitchenettes, and private balconies or terraces.
The rustic-chic ambiance of the hotel perfectly complemented its forested location just outside the city. I couldn’t resist taking advantage of the on-site amenities, which included a relaxing hot tub, an indoor pool, a fitness room, a sauna, and a BBQ area for delicious outdoor meals. I cherished every moment spent in this tranquil mountain lodge setting.
Pros
Beautiful balconies
Eye-catching artwork
Refined architecture
Indoor pool & Fitness room
Cons
Self dining
A little far from town
Amenities might be expensive
The Federal House
I was lucky to discover The Federal House, a charming bed and breakfast. This hidden gem boasts not one but two private suites, as well as welcoming living and dining rooms. What truly sets The Federal House apart is its historic Federal-style architecture, which is quite unusual for a bed and breakfast.
My stay in each suite was an unforgettable experience. The suites feature a comfortable king-sized bed, a cozy fireplace, a plush chair for relaxation, a well-appointed bath, a sofa, a convenient wet bar equipped with a fridge and microwave, a TV for entertainment, and a desk for any work.
The prime location was another aspect I appreciated. It’s just steps away from various upscale restaurants and shops. Moreover, the bed and breakfast vicinity is rich with history, offering the opportunity to explore historic homes, churches, and scenic hiking trails, which added a touch of adventure to my stay.
Pros
Historic Federal-style architecture
Beautiful garden
Wet bar with fridge
Restaurants are near
Cons
No valet parking
Self dining
Lamberson Guest House
My stay at Lamberson Guest House, a traditional-style mansion, was exceptional. Perched at the pinnacle of Prospect Street in Galena’s Historic District exudes charm and history.
As I entered Lamberson Guest House, I was greeted by the allure of four well-appointed and beautifully decorated guest rooms and suites. Each space was beautifully decorated, creating an ambiance that felt like a journey into the past.
One of the highlights of my stay was the swanky dining room, where every morning, I indulged in a delightful 3-course breakfast.
Built in 1870 by the Lamberson family, this mansion boasts unique features, such as the Italianate-inspired porch and hand-carved leaded glass doors. It was as though I had stepped into a time capsule.
Pros
European style decor
Pine floors
Traditional furnishings and chandeliers
Hand-carved glass doors
Cons
Can get booked up
Room size might be small for larger groups
Farmers Guest House
My stay at Farmers Guest House, housed within a charming brick house, was memorable. What sets it apart is its unassuming yet inviting exterior, which appeals to travelers from all walks of life.
I was delighted to discover that it offered comforts and exceptional service right in the heart of downtown Galena. It had nine thoughtfully decorated rooms and suites, all featuring a welcoming country-style interior and essential amenities.
For those seeking a touch of indulgence, upscale amenities like whirlpool tubs and fireplaces were available in the suites, which added an extra layer of coziness and relaxation to my stay.
Pros
Country-style interior
Thoughtfully decorated rooms
Exceptional service
Cons
Amenities might be expensive
Lightning could be better
Galena Inn (formerly Victorian Mansion)
My stay at Galena Inn was a delightful experience. Housed in a meticulously restored Italianate mansion spanning 2 acres in South Galena, this bed and breakfast beautifully captures the essence of the Victorian era. Built in 1856, it seamlessly combines history with modern comfort.
Exploring this charming inn, I was captivated by the vintage-style rooms adorned with antiques, creating an authentic historical atmosphere. In-room amenities include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, fireplaces, living rooms, and kitchenettes for convenience.
This 4-star hotel offered plenty of entertainment, from a game room with a pool table to a hot tub under a gazebo and picturesque gardens.
Pros
Eye-catching antiques
Beautiful trees with an amazing atmosphere
Vintage rooms
Game room with a pool table
Cons
Parking get booked up
Limited breakfast menu
Some extra costs
The Steamboat House
My stay at The Steamboat House was a delightful experience. Built in 1855 by the renowned steamboat captain Daniel Smith Harris, this exquisite inn is a testament to architectural excellence.
The inn features five spacious rooms, each elegantly adorned with antique furnishings, wooden floors, and charming floral or striped wallpapers that capture the artsy essence of the city.
The hotel also offers a formal dining room, parlor, library, and billiard room, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests. In addition, the convenience of having numerous cool restaurants, shops, and attractions nearby made my stay even more enjoyable.
Pros
Redefined architecture
Striped wallpapers
Wooden floors
Antique furnishings
Chestnut Mountain Resort
Chestnut Mountain Resort has long been Galena’s top hotel and resort, and my stay there was truly memorable. Perched on a wooded palisade with breathtaking views of the Mississippi River, Chestnut Mountain Resort offers upscale accommodations with amenities.
What sets this resort apart is its array of dining options and recreational facilities. An elegant riverfront restaurant, and a lively sports bar, all contribute to making it a hot destination for tourists. My time at Chestnut Mountain Resort was a true escape into comfort and leisure.
Pros
In-room jacuzzis
Hillside cafe
Sports bar
Cons
No outdoor pool
Self dining
Belle Aire Mansion Guest House
My stay at Belle Aire Mansion Guest House was a truly unique experience. Located in a historic mansion dating back to 1836, it provides all the comforts and entertainment one could desire.
The mansion’s antebellum architecture, elegant chandeliers, and an array of antique furnishings were reminiscent of a 19th-century movie set.
My room at Belle Aire Mansion Guest House was a studio but for those seeking a touch of luxury, the suites offered four-poster beds and inviting whirlpool tubs. Additionally, there was a suite featuring a minibar and a veranda, adding a special touch to my experience.
Pros
Antique furnishings
Antebellum architecture
Minibar
Tasty American breakfast
Cons
Small guest house vibe
Ten-minute drive to downtown
Abe’s Spring Street Guest House
My stay at Abe’s Spring Street Guest House was a unique experience. This unique bed and breakfast is the only one in Galena inside a lovingly restored 1876 icehouse.
Abe’s Spring Street Guest House offers four types of accommodations, each with essential amenities. The location of this charming guest house made it the perfect base for exploring the city’s myriad attractions. My stay at Abe’s Spring Street Guest House was comfortable, and I enjoyed its historic setting.
Pros
Cafes and shops are nearby
Stunning artistry
Wooden beds
Cons
No breakfast
Little noisy
All Hotels in Galena Ranked
We have ranked the top 11 cool and unusual hotels in Galena in the table below.
Hotel Name | Location | Price Range (per night) | Fitness Facilities | Distance to Attractions (km) | Nearby Restaurants |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Goldmoor Inn & Resort | North Sand Hill Road | $389-$477 | Yes | 8.7 | 0 |
Cloran Mansion Bed & Breakfast | Franklin Street | $248-$310 | No | 1.8 | 3 |
WorldMark Galena | West Longhollow Road | $187-$505 | Yes | 9.6 | 0 |
The Federal House | South Bench Street | $202-$247 | No | 0.3 | 4 |
Lamberson Guest House | Prospect St | $666-$756 | No | 0.1 | 5 |
Farmers Guest House | Spring Street | $244-$386 | Yes | 0.3 | 5 |
Galena Inn (formerly Victorian Mansion) | South High Street | $522-$626 | No | 0.5 | 4 |
The Steamboat House | S Prospect St | $293-$306 | Yes | 0.6 | 5 |
Chestnut Mountain Resort | West Chestnut Mountain Road | $264-$286 | Yes | 6.6 | 1 |
Belle Aire Mansion Guest House | Highway 20 W | $128-$200 | No | 3.3 | 3 |
Abe’s Spring Street Guest House | Spring Street | $251-$320 | No | 0.3 | 4 |
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Becky Moore – Owner, writer and photographer
My first true adventure began as a six month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my ex Athens street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Borneo, Finland, Greece, Berlin, Laos, California and the surreal and beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland.
I’ve been quoted in Forbes, National Geographic, The Times, Yahoo Travel, Huffington Post, Business Insider, Thrillist, British Airways Magazine, Entrepreneur, express.co.uk, Wanderlust, Telegraph Travel, Daily Mail and metro.co.uk. Find me on Linkedin or Facebook.
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