Galena
Jo Daviess County (Northwest Illinois) • Population: 3,200
About Galena
Galena is Illinois most charming small town—a perfectly preserved 1850s lead mining community that now thrives on tourism, wineries, and weekend getaways. Main Street slopes down to the Galena River lined with boutiques, restaurants, and historic buildings. While not for everyone (limited jobs, remote location), Galena offers an idyllic lifestyle for retirees, remote workers, and those seeking small-town character in beautiful rolling hills.
Best For
- Retirees seeking scenic, walkable small-town living
- Remote workers who can work from anywhere
- Those escaping urban life for slower pace
- Entrepreneurs in tourism and hospitality
Things to Do in Galena
Historic Main Street
Boutiques, galleries, and restaurants in 1850s buildings.
Ulysses S. Grant Home
Historic home of the 18th President.
Galena Wine Trail
Multiple wineries in scenic countryside.
Chestnut Mountain Resort
Skiing in winter, alpine slide in summer.
Neighborhoods
Downtown
Historic core, walkable, tourist-focused.
Galena Territory
Resort community with golf and amenities.
Surrounding Area
Rural properties with scenic views.
Quick Facts
- Median Home Price
- $275,000
- Average Rent (1BR)
- $900
- Economy
- Tourism, wineries, remote work
- Distance to Chicago
- 165 miles (3 hours)
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