Galena, United States - /Goldmoor Inn/

There are many reasons guests book a stay at the Goldmoor Inn, ranked as one of the best places to stay in Galena, Il. Among those reasons is that the bed and breakfast is perfectly located to enjoy the area's amazing history. 

Established in 1826, Galena was named after the mineral formed from lead sulfide which was first mined by the Sac and Fox tribes of Native Americans. Often called “the town time forgot,” eighty-five percent of the buildings in Galena are located in a National Register Historic District. 

For those planning a trip to Galena bed and breakfasts here are the top places of historical interest that should not be missed. 

Galena Dowling House

Built in 1826 by John Dowling, the Dowling House is the town’s oldest house. John and his son Nicolas were both very prominent early residents with Nicolas serving as alderman, then as Mayor for two years. The limestone structure is an example of single-pen style architecture that was common in early pioneer structures in the United States. The Dowlings used the first floor as the area's only trading post and lived in the upstairs quarters. 

Today visitors can enjoy a 30-minute tour of the home and browse artifacts from the early nineteenth century. 

Elihu B. Washburne House State Historic Site

If there was anyone people knew in the mid to late 1800s, it was Elihu B. Washburne, a prominent attorney, congressman, political advisor to Lincoln and Grant, and later an ambassador to France. Constructed in 1843, Washburn welcomed many prominent people into his home. Ulysses S. Grant was a guest when he received a telegraph that he had been elected President and received the news in the Washburne House library. 

Galena & U.S. Grant Museum

No trip to Galena is complete without a visit to the Galena & U.S. Grant Museum. The museum is a repository of treasures, artifacts, letters, and exhibits that tell the fascinating history of the region. The museum also hosts many events including living history presentations, cemetery walks, and a walk with General Grant tour. 

Old Stockade on the Cobblestone Street

Originally a small fort built in 1820, the Old Stockade is a historic log building that now houses and preserves Galena’s history through art and exhibits. 

The Belvedere Mansion and Gardens

The Belvedere Mansion and Gardens were commissioned by the highly successful merchant J. Russell Jones. The 22-room Italianate mansion was built in 1857 and is lavishly furnished and decorated. It features a fascinatingly unique collection including an exquisite Italian hand-carved marble fireplace, velvet drapes from Gone with the Wind, Tiffany lamps, artifacts belonging to Marie Antoinette and Liberace, sculptures, and art. The mansion and gardens are one of the most visited historic places in Galena. 

The Old Blacksmith Shop

The Old Blacksmith Shop is living history at its finest, as an authentic 1897 shop with working forges. The shop is home to 100 years worth of blacksmithing history. Visitors can engage with the onsite historian, watch the process, and even buy Galena-forged items in the gift shop. 

Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site

In 1865, the grateful citizens of Galena celebrated the return of their celebrated hero, General Ulysses S. Grant, and presented him with a beautiful home. Today, the home of the 18th President of the United States is open to the public and visitors can see it with all its original furnishings.  

The Goldmoor Inn Provides a Front Row Seat to History

The Goldmoor Inn is the first choice in Galena lodging because it is perfectly located for easy access to all of the amazing history, yet removed enough to make the trip a true getaway. The inn features beautifully decorated and fully-appointed suites, cottages, and cabins, top-tier hospitality, gourmet food, and amazing views of the Mississippi River. 

Best Places to Stay in Galena, IL

Ranked as one of the best places to stay in Galena, IL, The Goldmoor Inn perfectly blends ambiance, amenities, history and modernity, and nature and luxury into one beautiful adventure. It is ideally located and is only a short drive away from many locations. For more information about booking a stay, visit the website at https://www.goldmoor.com. You can also reach helpful staff at reservations@goldmoor.com or by calling (815) 777-3925. 

The Goldmoor Inn is located at:

9001 W Sand Hill Rd 

Galena, IL 61036