Galena is a popular year-round spot in the Land of Lincoln, but when the temperature drops, the town really comes alive, making it a premier winter destination in Illinois. If you’ve ever wondered about things to do in Galena, IL in winter, then head to the far northwestern corner of the state, to learn why this town is the ultimate escape.

Galena is a historic river town that’s perched atop the bluffs above the confluence of the Mississippi and Galena Rivers.
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Its charming downtown area draws tourists during every season of the year.
things to do in Galena IL in winter
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But seeing it bedecked in snow makes the town feel just a little more special.
The area’s deep, river-carved valleys combine with its northern latitude to make Galena a mecca for winter activity.
Chestnut Mountain Resort/Facebook
The best - and most consistent - downhill skiing in Illinois can be found in the Galena area.
In fact, the state’s largest ski resort is located just outside Galena.
Chestnut Mountain Resort/Facebook
Chestnut Mountain Resort boasts more than a dozen and a half runs over a vertical drop of nearly 500 feet. It’s also home to one of the best terrain parks in the Midwest.
If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, grab your sled and head to Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa’s sledding hill.
Eagle Ridge Resort/Facebook
Eagle Ridge also hosts an annual winter festival during the month of February.

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The area’s many parks are perfect for exploring on snowshoes or cross-country skis...
things to do in Galena IL in winter
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...Or simply by hiking.
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You can even enlist some equine assistance with your winter wanderings.
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Shenandoah Riding Center offers trail rides in the Galena area throughout the year.
Or try hiking with goats as your companions. (Yes. Goats.)
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A local business called Hoof It offers year-round "goat treks" for those who don’t mind "kidding" around a bit on the trail.
With all the outdoor opportunities available in the area, it can be easy to forget some of Galena’s history.
Visit Galena/Facebook
Civil War hero and 18th president of the United States, Ulysses S. Grant once had a home in Galena (as did eight other Civil War generals). It’s now a historical site open for tours.

Wondering about more things to do in Galena during the winter months? Check out this YouTube video by LukeGee Travels highlighting some of the best attractions when you spend winter in Galena, IL. 

So, when you find yourself with the wintertime blues in the Land of Lincoln, Galena – the premier winter destination in Illinois – may offer a cure. The annual Argenta IceFest is another wonderful way to while away winter in the Prairie State.

Have you visited Galena in the wintertime? Do you have another favorite Illinois destination during winter? Tell us in the comments below!

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Winter In Illinois

Melanie J. | January 11, 2024

What are some more attractions in Galena?

If you’re searching for more things to do while you’re in town, here are some more attractions in Galena that we recommend: 

  • Blaum Bros. Distilling Co.
  • P.T. Murphy Magic Theatre
  • Thunder Bay Falls (PRIVATE)
  • Galena Trolley Tours
  • Dowling House
  • Galena Cellars Winery
  • River Bend Gallery
  • Horseshoe Mound Preserve

Here’s an article featuring more fun attractions in Galena that we love the best. 

Aside from Galena, what are some more winter towns in Illinois that are great during the colder season?

While Galena is one of the best winter towns in Illinois, here are some more towns that we recommend:

  • Monticello, Piatt County
  • Andalusia, Rock Island County
  • Tuscola, Douglas County
  • Princeton, Bureau County
  • Woodstock, McHenry County
  • Nauvoo, Hancock County
  • Effingham, Effingham County
  • Naperville, DuPage County
  • Rockford, Winnebago County
  • Cambridge, Henry County

Want more? Be sure to check out our article with more information about these winter towns in Illinois.

What are some more fun winter activities in Illinois?

Whether you like spending time indoors or outdoors, there are tons of fun winter activities in Illinois that you will love. Here are 10 of our favorites:

  • Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby
  • Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock, North Utica
  • Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon, Chicago
  • Great Wolf Lodge, Gurnee.
  • Millennium Park, Chicago
  • Enchanted Castle Family Entertainment Center, Lombard
  • Cross-Country Skiing at Beverly Lake, Cook County
  • Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago
  • LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Chicago
  • Snowstar Winter Park, Andalusa

Don’t forget to check out our website to discover more fun winter activities in Illinois.

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