9 Top-Rated Resorts in Galena, Illinois

A three-hour drive west of the city of Chicago and close to the border with the state of Iowa, the quaint historic town of Galena has become an extremely popular vacation destination and is one of the top places to visit in Illinois.

For travelers in search of a unique Midwest US vacation (or “staycation”) experience, a number of top resort choices are available.

Galena accommodation options include everything from the large resort experiences available at Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa, with its golf courses and meeting spaces, to intimate affairs such as Hawk Valley Retreat. This quaint and attractive bed and breakfast (B&B) is particularly popular for those wanting a romantic getaway.

Whatever your preference, plan your stay in the “town that time forgot” with our list of the top resorts in Galena, Illinois.

1. Goldmoor Inn

Accommodation: Goldmoor Inn

When it comes to location, it’s hard to beat that of the Goldmoor Inn. Ranked one of the best resorts in Illinois, this majestic 4-star inn overlooks the mighty Mississippi River in one of the most picturesque settings in the state. Another plus is the resort’s proximity to numerous attractions and nature reserves, which between them can keep visitors busy for weeks.

And there’s certainly much to do on-site in this country estate-like property. Highlights include a full-service spa offering treatments such as couples’ massages and great dining in its world-class restaurant, which has romantic in-room options available.

Horseback riding is also popular here, with lessons and trail riding experiences available. Other popular activities include great fishing and boating, as well as access to a number of nearby 18-hole championship golf courses.

A great choice of accommodations are the elegantly appointed deluxe suites. Situated in the main building, these guest rooms include chic décor and classy furnishings, large bathrooms with stand-alone jet tubs and showers, large screen HDTVs, and spacious balconies with comfortable seating.

The larger villas and stand-alone cottages also feature full kitchens, living areas, fireplaces, and in-room breakfasts.

Address: 9001 W Sand Hill Road, Galena, Illinois

2. Jail Hill Inn

Accommodation: Jail Hill Inn

Jail Hill Inn, Galena’s newest accommodations, is also the city’s most unique place to stay. Part boutique hotel and part B&B, this landmark was built in 1878 and served as the city’s jail for over 100 years. Only opened in 2015 after an extensive renovation, this attractive red brick building’s leafy setting makes for an unforgettable romantic getaway.

Each of the inn’s six uniquely decorated suites features its own gas fireplace along with comfortable beds and high-end bedding. Other in-room amenities include minifridges, microwaves, coffeemakers, and HDTVs.

Check the availability of one of the larger rooms if more space is needed. These spacious units come with exposed brickwork and separate living areas. A hearty three-course breakfast is provided, along with afternoon snacks. Ample parking is available.

Address: 319 Meeker St., Galena, Illinois

3. Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa

Accommodation: Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa

A great vacation destination for those who enjoy a full-blown resort experience, a stay at the 6,800-acre Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa offers guests no end of fun things to do. A highlight for many is playing a round of golf (or perhaps even two) on this resort’s golf courses, or even taking a lesson from a pro to improve your game.

Visiting in winter? If so, be sure to check for the availability of special offers and packages, especially around the Christmas season. Other notable amenities include being pampered at the full-service spa, relaxing beside the indoor and outdoor swimming pools, or working out in the fitness center.

This resort also offers a chance to explore its extensive 22-mile network of biking and hiking trails, or to get out on Lake Galena aboard a kayak or boat rental. The lake is also a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. Also fun is spending time enjoying a top-notch dining experience in any one of the resort’s world-class eateries.

Consisting of more than 200 accommodation options, Eagle Ridge certainly has something for groups of all sizes. Popular choices include a variety of spacious villas and stand-alone cottages, some with full kitchens and multiple bedrooms.

Also available are the renovated lodge-style suites. These elegant units come with such features as spacious bathrooms, seating areas, and great views from their balconies or patios.

Address: 444 Eagle Ridge Drive, Galena, Illinois

4. WorldMark Galena

Accommodation: WorldMark Galena

The 3-star WorldMark Galena is another great choice as a home base from which to explore Galena and its beautiful surroundings. This large resort property is just a few minutes’ drive away from historic downtown Galena and offers a variety of well-appointed, quality accommodation options.

A popular choice for couples and families alike are the roomy one-bedroom units. Sleeping up to four guests comfortably, these 850-square-foot suites include a separate bedroom, a roomy living area with a pullout sofa, a full kitchen with modern appliances, a fireplace, and laundry facilities.

If you can pull yourself away from your comfortable lodgings, you’ll also find that there’s plenty to do on-site. Notable amenities include a heated indoor pool with a hot tub, sauna, fitness center, and spa. Also worth experiencing are the on-site restaurant, a games room with classic arcade-style video games, as well as sporting activities such as basketball courts.

Address: 5129 W Longhollow Road, Galena, Illinois

5. Hawk Valley Retreat & Cottages

Accommodation: Hawk Valley Retreat & Cottages

The delightful 3-star Hawk Valley Retreat is a great option for those seeking a quiet countryside getaway. This quaint bed and breakfast is located just minutes from downtown Galena yet, thanks to its lovely 10-acre rural setting, offers a peaceful location in which to relax.

The picture-perfect grounds include a tranquil walking trail to explore, along with plenty of wildlife in the meadows and garden, which can also be enjoyed from the large porch, with its comfortable seating and romantic swing seat. Breakfast is included with your stay.

The resort consists of just seven elegantly appointed accommodation options. In addition to its three comfortable rooms in the main building, guests can choose one of the four quaint and individually named cottages spread about the property.

A popular choice is the one-bedroom Somerset Cottage, which comes with a sunset-facing back porch with swing chair, a spacious bathroom with a jetted tub and shower, a handy kitchenette, plus a fireplace. Also popular is the Pines Cottage, nestled, as its name suggests, in the woods.

Address: 2752 W. Cording Road, Galena, Illinois

6. Chestnut Mountain Resort

Accommodation: Chestnut Mountain Resort

Chestnut Mountain Resort is another affordable accommodation option for those seeking a great getaway in the Galena area of Illinois. This charming 3-star resort is particularly popular for its proximity to some of the area’s best outdoor adventures and activities.

A great season to visit is in winter thanks to its on-site ski and snowboarding slopes. The resort in fact boasts a longer-than-average season thanks to its snowmaking machines.

Other activities and amenities available for guests to enjoy include the exciting “Soaring Eagle” zipline experience, a fun mini-golf course, a large network of hiking and biking trails, educational nature tours, and even Segway experiences. There’s also an indoor heated swimming pool plus a sauna, games room, and on-site dining in its restaurants.

With 100 well-appointed and good-quality guest rooms to choose from, you won’t be disappointed when it comes time to bed down for the night. Popular options include a choice of king or two queen beds, spacious bathrooms with large Jacuzzi tubs, comfortable seating areas, HDTVs, and balconies with great views over the slopes.

Chestnut Mountain resort is also pet-friendly.

Address: 8700 W Chestnut Mountain Road, Galena, Illinois

7. LeFevre Inn & Resort

Accommodation: LeFevre Inn & Resort

Set amid 10 acres of rolling countryside, the intimate family-run LeFevre Inn & Resort is a great choice for those looking for a quality stay near Galena. On-site fun at this 3-star property includes hanging out at the large heated outdoor swimming pool, which features plenty of deck space on which to relax and sunbathe, as well as taking a paddleboat out on the resort’s private lake.

Another fun activity includes toasting marshmallows and enjoying a sing-song around the fire pit, a focal point for families and couples at sundown. There are also a variety of great hiking and biking trails that, when the snow falls, double as cross-country and snowshoeing trails. Also available are basketball and volleyball courts. Gourmands are also well-catered to, thanks to the resort’s great dining options.

A popular choice of accommodations are the traditional inn rooms with cozy fireplaces, mini-fridges, coffee makers, spacious bathrooms, and furnished wraparound decks. If possible, consider an upgrade to one of the stand-alone two-bedroom cottages. These spacious accommodations come with their own full kitchen, a bathroom with a large jet tub, a dining room, and plenty of additional living space with a pullout couch.

Address: 9917 W. Deininger Ln, Galena, Illinois

8. Stoney Creek Inn Galena

Accommodation: Stoney Creek Inn Galena

Elegant yet affordable, the Stoney Creek Inn Galena resort offers guests a first-rate vacation experience when exploring this beautiful part of Illinois.

On-site amenities include a restaurant and a gift shop, plus a business center and function rooms. For those in need of a workout, there’s also a good-sized fitness center and a large heated indoor swimming pool with an adjacent hot tub. A great breakfast is included with your stay.

The inn consists of 75 comfortable accommodation options, each with a unique rustic log theme reflecting the area’s rich history. If available, go for one of the inn’s larger suites. These spacious accommodations come in a choice of king or two queen beds and include in-room amenities such as HDTVs and small kitchenettes with mini-fridges and microwaves. They also feature cozy fireplaces and separate seating areas.

Address: 940 Galena Square Drive, Galena, Illinois

9. Best Western Galena Inn & Suites

Accommodation: Best Western Galena Inn & Suites

A popular choice among those looking for quality affordable accommodations in this part of Illinois, the popular Best Western Galena Inn & Suites has been freshly upgraded throughout, including its rooms and public spaces.

Situated just half a mile from downtown Galena, this big brand offering is perfect for those either passing through on business or stopping for a few days to explore the area.

In addition to its standard yet well-appointed rooms, guests can choose from a number of unique and immensely fun fantasy-themed suites. These include a Roman Palace suite, one with a log-cabin finish, as well as a romantic heart-themed unit that’s perfect for couples.

While amenities are few, they’re well-maintained and also recently renovated. Highlights include a heated indoor/outdoor swimming pool plus hot tub, a well-equipped fitness area, and a business center. A great hot breakfast is included with your stay.

Address: 9923 US-20, Galena, Illinois

Map of Resorts in Galena, Illinois

Galena, IL – Climate Chart