Top 11 Cool and Unusual Hotels in Galena 2023

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…

Our Top 3 Best Cool and Unusual Hotels
1.
Goldmoor Inn Resort Galena l Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled
Best For Instagrammable Decor
Goldmoor Inn & Resort
2.
Cloran Mansion Bed Breakfast Galena l Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled
Best For Couples
Cloran Mansion Bed & Breakfast
3.
WorldMark Galena l Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled
Best For Indoor Swimming Pool
WorldMark Galena
Best For Instagrammable Decor

Goldmoor Inn & Resort

Goldmoor Inn & Resort - Galena - IL Goldmoor Inn & Resort - Galena - IL1

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

Best For Couples

Cloran Mansion Bed & Breakfast

Cloran Mansion Bed & Breakfast - Galena - IL Cloran Mansion Bed & Breakfast - Galena - IL1

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

Best For Indoor Swimming Pool

WorldMark Galena

WorldMark Galena - IL WorldMark Galena - IL1

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

Best For Unique stay

The Federal House

The Federal House - Galena - IL The Federal House - Galena - IL1

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

Best For Historic Charm

Lamberson Guest House

Lamberson Guest House - Galena - IL Lamberson Guest House - Galena - IL1

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

Best For Vintage Chic Decor

Farmers Guest House

Farmers Guest House - Galena - IL - CopyFarmers Guest House - Galena - IL1 - Copy

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

Best For Boutique

Galena Inn (formerly Victorian Mansion)

Galena Inn formerly Victorian Mansion - Galena - IL Galena Inn formerly Victorian Mansion - Galena - IL1

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

Best For Romance

The Steamboat House

The Steamboat House - Galena - IL The Steamboat House - Galena - IL1

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

Cons

Limited breakfast options

Little noise

Parking might be expensive

Best For Views

Chestnut Mountain Resort

Chestnut Mountain Resort in Galena Chestnut Mountain Resort - Galena - IL1

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

Best For Great Breakfast

Belle Aire Mansion Guest House

Belle Aire Mansion Guest House - Galena - IL Belle Aire Mansion Guest House1 - Galena - IL

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

Best For Great Location

Abe’s Spring Street Guest House

Abe's Spring Street Guest House - Galena - IL Abe's Spring Street Guest House - Galena - IL1

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 NameLocationPrice Range (per night)Fitness FacilitiesDistance to Attractions (km)Nearby Restaurants
Goldmoor Inn & ResortNorth Sand Hill Road$389-$477Yes8.70
Cloran Mansion Bed & BreakfastFranklin Street$248-$310No1.83
WorldMark GalenaWest Longhollow Road$187-$505Yes9.60
The Federal HouseSouth Bench Street$202-$247No0.34
Lamberson Guest HouseProspect St$666-$756No0.15
Farmers Guest HouseSpring Street$244-$386Yes0.35
Galena Inn (formerly Victorian Mansion)South High Street$522-$626No0.54
The Steamboat HouseS Prospect St$293-$306Yes0.65
Chestnut Mountain ResortWest Chestnut Mountain Road$264-$286Yes6.61
Belle Aire Mansion Guest HouseHighway 20 W$128-$200No3.33
Abe’s Spring Street Guest HouseSpring Street$251-$320No0.34

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