Belvedere Mansion: A Glimpse into Galena's Golden Age
Experience the opulence of Galena's Belvedere Mansion, a Civil War-era masterpiece with stunning gardens and lavish interiors.
The Belvedere Mansion, built in 1857, stands as Galena's finest Italianate mansion, offering a captivating journey into the life and times of J. Russell Jones, a prominent figure in the Civil War era. Explore its lavishly decorated rooms and stroll through the picturesque gardens, experiencing the grandeur of a bygone era.
A brief summary to Belvedere Mansion
- 1008 Park Ave, Galena, Illinois, 61036, US
- +1815-777-0747
- Visit website
Local tips
- Tours are available from mid-May to mid-November; check the website for specific dates and times.
- Allow at least an hour for a complete tour of the mansion and gardens.
- Consider purchasing a combination ticket that includes entry to the nearby Dowling House for a more comprehensive historical experience.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Galena Visitor Center, head northwest on Perry St toward Main St, turn right onto Main St and continue for about 0.3 miles. Turn left onto Park Ave and walk for about 0.5 miles. The Belvedere Mansion will be on your left at 1008 Park Ave. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
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Driving
From the center of Galena Historic District, head southeast on Main St toward Park Ave. Continue straight for about 0.3 miles until you reach the intersection with Park Ave. Turn left onto Park Ave. Continue on Park Ave for approximately 0.5 miles. The Belvedere Mansion will be on your left at 1008 Park Ave. There is parking available on-site. Parking options in Galena include free lots on the east side of the river (accessible from Park Avenue and Bouthillier Street) and a paid lot on Meeker Street ($5 on weekends). Street parking is also available, but restrictions may apply.
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Public Transport
Jo Daviess County Transit provides public transportation within Galena. The general fare for service within Galena is $0.50 each way, with a minimum 24-hour advance notice required. Alternatively, take a local shuttle or taxi from the nearest bus stop in Galena Historic District. If you choose a taxi, expect to pay around $10-$15 for a short ride to 1008 Park Ave. From June through October, a free round-trip shuttle operates on weekends from Depot Park and Meeker Street parking lots to downtown Galena. The downtown stop is on Green Street.
Discover more about Belvedere Mansion
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Civil War Monument
0.5 km
Honor the brave at Galena's Civil War Monument, a serene landmark of American history and sacrifice.
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
0.9 km
Explore Galena's ghostly past with historian-led walking tours. Uncover chilling tales and local legends in this historic Illinois town.
Unmissable attractions to see
Galena River Trail
0.1 km
Discover the natural beauty of the Galena River Trail, a picturesque hiking destination perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Washburne House State Historic Site
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Depot Park
0.2 km
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Historic Marker - Early Galena, IL
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Galena Gates
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U.S. Grant Home State Historic Site
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Chicago Athenaeum
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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.
Linmar Gardens
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Explore Linmar Gardens: A serene escape in Galena, Illinois, featuring stunning floral displays, captivating sculptures, and tranquil water features.
Countryside Tours
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A Darkness Lovely, Retail Store of The Haunted Galena Tour Company
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Galena - U.S. Grant History Museum
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Galena - Jo Daviess County Historical Society
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Old Market House State Historic Site
0.7 km
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Matthew's Haunted Pub Crawl - Ghost Tours
0.7 km
Discover the spooky side of Galena, Illinois, with Matthew's Haunted Pub Crawl—an unforgettable tour filled with ghost stories and local charm.
Essential places to dine
Otto's Place
0.3 km
Discover Otto's Place: A cozy breakfast haven in Galena offering delicious meals with local flair.
Green Street Tavern
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DeSoto House Hotel
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Courtyard Restaurant
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Embe Eatery and Lounge
0.6 km
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Bread and Vine Galena
0.6 km
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Vinny Vanucchi's
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La Michoacana Irmanaju
0.7 km
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Blaum Bros. Public House
0.7 km
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Galenas Tajin Mexican Restaurant & Cantina
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Log Cabin Steakhouse
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Market House Restaurant H.P.
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Paradise Bar & Grill
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Fried Green Tomatoes
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Charlie's Place Eatery
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Peace of the Past
0.5 km
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Bella Rosa
0.5 km
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La Belle Epoque
0.5 km
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Tin-Pan Alley Antique Mall
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Galena Apothecary
0.6 km
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Gustafson & Grey
0.6 km
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Down the Street Boutique
0.6 km
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Rix Antiques
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FLASHBACK
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Dream Catcher
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The Neighborhood Trading Company
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Lulu's Too
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J. Marie’s Fine Gifts
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Simply Elegant Boutique
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Elle & Beck's Lifestyle Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Root Beer Revelry
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Jamie's Wine Studio of Galena
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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
0.9 km
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Gold Room Bar
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wine & spirits weekend
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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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L & J Bootlegger Saloon
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Mississippi Moon Bar at Diamond Jo Dubuque
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First Reserve Whiskey Bar
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