Galena - Jo Daviess County Historical Society
Explore Galena's vibrant past at the Jo Daviess County Historical Society: mining, steamboats, and U.S. Grant await!
Discover the rich history of Galena and Jo Daviess County at the Galena & U.S. Grant Museum. Housed in an Italianate mansion, the museum features exhibits on lead mining, steamboating, and Ulysses S. Grant's life. Explore artifacts, artworks, and documents that bring the past to life in this charming Illinois town.
A brief summary to Galena - Jo Daviess County Historical Society
- 211 S Bench St, Galena, Illinois, 61036, US
- +1815-777-9129
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience and more personal interactions with the staff.
- Check the museum's event calendar online for special exhibitions or lectures during your visit.
- Take advantage of guided tours for deeper insights into the exhibits and local history.
- Explore the museum's gift shop for unique historical books and souvenirs.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in the Galena Historic District, walking to the Galena - Jo Daviess County Historical Society is a convenient option. Head south on Main Street towards Bench Street, then turn left onto Bench Street. The museum is at 211 S Bench St.
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Driving
From the Galena Historic District, head south on Main Street and turn left onto Bench Street. Continue on Bench Street until you reach 211 S Bench St. Street parking is available, but be mindful of parking regulations. Parking: * **Free parking:** Spring Street on the west side of the river, past the intersection of U.S. 20 and Bench Street/Riverside Drive. A large free parking lot is on the east side of the river near the Old Train Depot Visitors' Information Center. * **Paid parking:** Galena City Hall parking lot at 101 Green Street. All-day paid parking lot is north of downtown on Meeker Street. $5 per day on weekends and free Monday-Friday.
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Public Transport
Galena does not have a dedicated public transportation system. Jo Daviess County Transit provides on-demand transit service for Galena residents. Reservations are necessary. The general fare for service within Galena is $0.50 each way. Contact the dispatcher at 815-777-8088 for more information and a fare quote. Rideshare services like Uber or Lyft may be available.
Discover more about Galena - Jo Daviess County Historical Society
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Haunted Galena Tour Company
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Discover Galena's ghostly secrets with captivating walking tours through historic streets. Experience chilling tales and local legends.
All About A Ghost Tour
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Explore Galena's ghostly past with historian-led walking tours. Uncover chilling tales and local legends in this historic Illinois town.
Civil War Monument
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Honor the brave at Galena's Civil War Monument, a serene landmark of American history and sacrifice.
Unmissable attractions to see
Galena - U.S. Grant History Museum
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Explore Ulysses S. Grant's fascinating legacy at the U.S. Grant History Museum in Galena, Illinois, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits.
Amelia's Galena Ghost Tours, INC
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Explore the haunted history of Galena, Illinois with Amelia's Ghost Tours, where chilling tales meet rich heritage in a captivating atmosphere.
A Darkness Lovely, Retail Store of The Haunted Galena Tour Company
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Discover the hauntingly beautiful treasures at A Darkness Lovely in Galena, Illinois, where the spooky meets the charming.
Matthew's Haunted Pub Crawl - Ghost Tours
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Discover the spooky side of Galena, Illinois, with Matthew's Haunted Pub Crawl—an unforgettable tour filled with ghost stories and local charm.
Galena
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P.T. Murphy Magic Theatre
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Countryside Tours
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River Bend Gallery
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Discover the artistic treasures of River Bend Gallery in Galena, Illinois, where local creativity and stunning landscapes come alive through art.
Old Market House State Historic Site
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Dowling House
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Linmar Gardens
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Galena Gates
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Grant Park
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Experience the beauty and tranquility of Grant Park in Galena, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
The Grape Escape
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Experience the best of Galena at The Grape Escape, where fine wine meets live music in a cozy, charming atmosphere.
Old Blacksmith Shop
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Uncover the fascinating world of traditional blacksmithing at the Old Blacksmith Shop, a must-visit attraction in historic Galena, Illinois.
Essential places to dine
Bread and Vine Galena
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Discover the perfect blend of bakery delights and cocktail sophistication at Bread and Vine Bakery in Galena.
Vinny Vanucchi's
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Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Vinny Vanucchi's in Galena – where every dish tells a story.
Embe Eatery and Lounge
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Discover culinary excellence at Embe Eatery and Lounge in Galena – where American flavors meet vibrant dining.
Courtyard Restaurant
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DeSoto House Hotel
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Discover historical elegance and modern comforts at DeSoto House Hotel in Galena - a perfect getaway for every traveler.
Green Street Tavern
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Discover the flavors of Galena at Green Street Tavern – where local ingredients meet exceptional hospitality.
Blaum Bros. Public House
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Experience Galena's culinary delight at Blaum Bros. Public House – where great food meets warm hospitality.
La Michoacana Irmanaju
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Discover La Michoacana Irmanaju in Galena - where delightful ice cream meets hearty breakfasts in a cozy atmosphere.
Market House Restaurant H.P.
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Experience delightful American cuisine at Market House Restaurant H.P., where comfort meets flavor in the heart of Galena.
Galenas Tajin Mexican Restaurant & Cantina
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Log Cabin Steakhouse
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Experience exceptional steak dining in Galena at Log Cabin Steakhouse—where rustic charm meets culinary excellence.
Charlie's Place Eatery
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Discover delicious American cuisine at Charlie's Place Eatery in Galena - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Paradise Bar & Grill
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Experience casual dining at its best at Paradise Bar & Grill in Galena - where delicious meals meet affordable prices!
Fried Green Tomatoes
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Gobbie's Sports Pub & Eatery
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Elle & Beck's Lifestyle Boutique
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J. Marie’s Fine Gifts
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Explore J. Marie’s Fine Gifts in Galena for unique handcrafted treasures and memorable souvenirs that embody the essence of this historic town.
The Neighborhood Trading Company
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Explore The Neighborhood Trading Company in Galena, IL for unique clothing and accessories that capture the essence of local fashion.
Let's Reminisce
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Discover unique gifts and local charm at Let's Reminisce, the perfect destination for memorable souvenirs in Galena, Illinois.
Dream Catcher
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FLASHBACK
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Lulu's Too
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Beyond the Horizon
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Explore Beyond the Horizon, where Galena's unique gifts and local artistry await every visitor.
Rix Antiques
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Explore Rix Antiques in Galena, IL – a unique antique store filled with historical treasures and vintage collectibles that captivate the imagination.
Down the Street Boutique
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Explore Down the Street Boutique in Galena, IL for a unique selection of stylish clothing and accessories that capture the essence of local fashion.
Simply Elegant Boutique
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Explore Simply Elegant Boutique in Galena for unique fashion accessories, exquisite furniture, and expert interior design services that inspire style and elegance.
Gabby's Gifts
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Gustafson & Grey
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Galena Apothecary
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Country Crafts & Sports
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Jamie's Wine Studio of Galena
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Root Beer Revelry
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Champagne on Main
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Galena Cellars Winery
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Massbach Ridge Winery Tasting Room Galena
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Galena Taphouse
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Gold Room Bar
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wine & spirits weekend
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Explore the Wine & Spirits Weekend in Galena, Illinois – a delightful bar experience perfect for tasting local wines and spirits in a charming atmosphere.
Birch Lounge Galena
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Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa
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Bluff City Slots
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Bubba's Pub
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Mississippi Moon Bar at Diamond Jo Dubuque
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First Reserve Whiskey Bar
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Wicked Dame
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