Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom, a full-time worker, or a college student on break, everyone needs some time away with a good group of girlfriends. Wondering how this can be possible with your busy schedule or strict budget? Try a weekend getaway within driving distance! According to a 2017 report on travel trends, short trips and weekend getaways have been the preferred choice of trips by Americans, with 17-20 percent making plans for three- to four-day trips.
So, look no further than Galena, Illinois, for your girlfriend getaway! This quaint town offers TONS of activities, experiences, sight-seeing, shopping, and much more! Here’s a list of 10 popular activities to help your crew have an amazing weekend.
- Shop till you drop.
Galena is well known for Main Street, AKA, “One Helluva Half Mile.” Main Street shops, housed in historic buildings dating back to the 1800s, include more than 125 boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and bars.
- Spend a day at the Spa
While you’re on Main Street, stop by Sacred Sole for a massage, facial, or both! Take some time to allow yourself to relax and rejuvenate among the hustle and bustle of a weekend trip! If you don’t have time to make it down to Main Street, the masseuse offers a mobile massage service!
- Take it to the slopes
Whether it’s your first time on a mountain or you’ve been skiing/boarding since you could walk, Chestnut Mountain offers a range of opportunities to ski or snowboard. From rentals to lessons, our team will ensure you have the best time out on the mountain. Beginners of all ages have access to group lessons, so you can have a safe and fun time on the slopes! Expert snowboarders can shred some snow at one of the Midwest’s top terrain parks: The Farside.
- Go on a ghost tour pub crawl
Feeling spooky? Book a haunted experience with Matthew’s Haunted Pub Crawl! You and your friends will be led by Matthew, a knowledgeable storyteller, to three haunted pubs in downtown Galena. This is your chance to drink spirits with the spirits, learn about this history of Galena and connect with local spirits through ghost equipment. Do you dare to take on this adventure?
- Go horseback riding
Are you a city gal looking for some country fun? Check out Shenandoah Riding Center to get your horse fix! With trail rides for beginners and experts alike, fall-themed wagon rides, or sleigh rides through the snow, horse-centered activities are year-round! Call for reservations to make sure your group will be able to join in on the fun.
- Visit one of Galena’s four vineyards
What girlfriend getaway is complete without a wine tasting? Galena Country is home to four beautiful vineyards: Fergedaboudit Vineyard and Winery, Galena Cellars Vineyard and Winery, Massbach Ridge Winery, and Rocky Waters Vineyard and Winery, Inc. Pick one or visit all four; it’s your weekend to make the most of!
- Take a tour of a museum
Galena is rich with history, so history buffs don’t have to look very far to find something interesting! There are tons of museums scattered around Galena, and even more historically preserved buildings and attractions. For example, did you know that Ulysses S. Grant lived in Galena? There’s a park in Galena named after him, and tours of his home are available. Check out this list of museums around Galena and see if one – or more – interests your group!
- Unwind at an art gallery or studio
Galena is full of creative and artistic individuals, and there is no shortage of places to see their art! Throughout Main Street and the rest of the county, there are tons of galleries for a variety of styles and mediums. Check out this list to pick a few galleries to add to your weekend of fun.
- Enjoy live music at a local pub
There’s nothing quite like seeing live music performances! Stop on down to one of the pubs in Galena to catch a band performance and grab a drink. Some venues with live music in the area include The Cornerstone, Galena Brewing Company, and many more!
Already did some of these activities and looking for something new? Reach out to someone at the front desk at Chestnut Mountain Resort for some recommendations or check out visitgalena.org for even more activities. Whatever it is you’re looking to do on a vacation, you can find it right here in Galena, Illinois. We can’t wait to hear about your trip!
