Galena

Galena 

June 24th-26th, 2026

 

 

Join us on a delightful tour to one of Illinois’ most treasured historic hotels, nestled in the charming town of Galena, where Main Street is lined with unique shops, inviting restaurants, and old-world charm.

 

We’ll spend two nights at the DeSoto House Hotel, a grand landmark with a story as rich as the town itself. Once the leading river port of the Upper Mississippi Valley, Galena thrived in the 1850s and became known as the “Metropolis of the Northwest.” To reflect this prosperity, the Galena Hotel Company built the DeSoto House, which opened its doors on April 9, 1855, proudly billed as the “Largest Hotel in the West.”

 

History comes alive here—Ulysses S. Grant returned to Galena after the Civil War to a hero’s welcome, with 25,000 citizens crowding the streets. He later used rooms 209 and 211 as his presidential campaign headquarters.

 

Inside the hotel, you’ll find a beautiful four-story atrium for courtyard dining, the Generals’ Restaurant honoring Galena’s nine Civil War generals, and the cozy Green Street Tavern, the perfect spot to sit and watch the bustle of Main Street.

 

Day 1: Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy an elegant dinner at the hotel, where we’ll be joined by special guests—General John Eugene Smith and his wife—who will share stories of his service during the Civil War. (Smith, a Swiss immigrant, was one of Galena’s nine generals.)

 

Day 2: After breakfast, the day is yours to explore at leisure. Consider a trolley ride, a distillery tour, or visits to Galena’s historic homes, including the U.S. Grant Home, Belvedere Mansion, and Dowling House. Each offers a unique window into the town’s storied past.

 

Day 3: Following breakfast, we’ll check out, but our adventure isn’t over yet! You’ll have until 2:00 p.m. to shop, stroll, and enjoy lunch before we bid farewell to Galena.

 

 

 

 

Timi's Tours offers Travel Protection through Trip Mate. The Pre-Existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver is available if Travel Protection is purchased at the same time you make your Timi's Tours deposit (or within 15 days). For questions about coverage please call our office.

 

Travel Insurance price per person:

Single: $116.81

Double: $98.77

 

Activity Level: 1

*Our Activity levels are a 1-4 scale. To view what each level includes, please go to the  “Policy” tab on the website*