On Our Way Home ~Galena, IL ~Featured as one of the Best Small Towns to Visit in America ~Another Charming Vacation Destination

 

Galena, Illinois. Hubby read an article about this little gem,

listing it as one of the best small towns in America.

We drove through some rain, arrived late in the afternoon,

and checked into our hotel.

Then, we ventured downtown to check what time the shops open

in the morning, and find a bite to eat.

We stopped in the Galena Brewing Company for a refreshment,

and to get out of the rain.

We shared this appetizer there.

And this is what you’ll see if you look for their restroom.

Our next stop was the Frank O’Dowd’s Irish Pub.

Again, we ordered off the Appetizer Menu.

Hubby had the Mussels with Fresh Herbs,

Garlic and Perry Cider, served with Irish Soda Bread.

I enjoyed the Fried Panko dusted Brussels Sprouts,

with Crisp Prosciutto, Apple and Curry Cream.

The next morning we got an early start downtown.

Main Street is lined with coffee shops, boutiques,

gift shops, specialty stores, and restaurants.

The first place we went in had everything you

could possibly need (or want) for your cat or dog.

Second stop was in Pasta Perfetta. Who knew that there

were sooo many different shapes, sizes, and colors of pasta?!

Of course our first two purchases were souvenirs for our Lizzie

and for our Dinosaur Loving Grandsons.

Then we stopped at this amazing bakery.

This was the window display that drew us in.

That…and the aroma that was wafting out to the sidewalk.

Like most other retired empty nesters, we don’t need more stuff.

So all of our souvenirs were consumable.

From the Galena Canning Company, we purchased Corn Salsa,

Blackberry Jam, and Balsamic Sweet Onion Jam.

From the Galena Roasters Shop, we purchased their

best selling blend of coffee beans. And from that Pasta Shop,

we chose this Italian Pesto Blend. There was an entire wall of Flavored Pastas,

so all you need is a drizzle of Olive Oil and maybe some Parmesan Cheese.

Galena is located in NW Illinois. It has a population of 3,400

and was the home of Ulysses S. Grant.

It is a quaint little community with well-preserved 19th Century Buildings.

85% of of the town is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Another great place to visit if you are looking for a weekend get-away.

Imagine how beautiful it looks when it is all decorated for Christmas!

Plan your next road trip through Galena, Illinois.

Take care,

~Natalie