The Goldmoor Inn Shares a Surprising Way to Get to Know Galena

 Tuesday, August 16th 2022, 4:00 AM

Area Ghost Tours Offer a Fun Way to Get to Know Gelena History

Galena, United States - August 16, 2022 /Goldmoor Inn/

No matter what time of the year you visit the Goldmoor Inn, it is a great time to enjoy one of the many ghost tours available in the area. Ghost tours are not just for Halloween and are a surprising, enriching way to learn more about the history and culture of the town. In fact, a ghost tour can provide the opportunity to experience parts of the town that would be missed otherwise and bring the historic structures to life.

One of the things that make Galena IL hotels such a popular destination is their access to the area’s unexpectedly rich and exciting history. Visitors from all over come to learn more about the former home of Ulysses S. Grant and the town that has hosted historical figures like Abraham Lincoln, Mrs. Tom Thumb, Ely Parker, and many others. In a town with this much history, there is sure to be a bit of mystery to uncover. The area’s ghostly tales are legendary and date back to the early 1800s when spirit sightings were commonly published in the local newspapers for eager consumption. 

Galena Ghost Tours

There’s no need to be a believer in ghostly hauntings to enjoy the many Galena ghost tours. If for no better reason than to enjoy a great scare, the tours are also sure to give plenty of historical perspective to sites many Galena bed and breakfast guests plan to visit during their stay. 

Matthew’s Haunted Pub Crawl

Matthews Haunted Pub Crawl allows you to “enjoy some spirits with the spirits”  as you visit the most haunted pubs in the historic district. The guide provides expertly told stories of bravery, betrayal, and longing while introducing listeners to the little-known history of the area. The tour guides even use ghost hunting and communication devices to try to detect and connect with the local spirits. 

Haunted Galena Tour Company

Haunted Galena Tour Company promises to delight and terrifies visitors with the area’s dark history, local folklore, and haunted happenings as they descend into the realm of mystery. The company offers several different types of tours and events, including one called “Murder and Mayhem in a Mining Town,” featuring well-researched and documented stories from the area. 

Amelia’s Galena Ghost Tours

For those who want to hear the history but be able to retreat safely to a climate-controlled bus, here is Amelia’s Galena Ghost Tours, the only local company offering a shuttle bus tour. Amelia introduces her fearless guests to paranormal hotspots using the latest in ghost hunting technologies while sharing the documented hidden history behind each site. Some of the stops include the Ryan Mansion and the Old City Cemetary. The company also offers walking tours, haunted pub crawls, and a participatory murder mystery dinner theater. 

After the Fun, a Safe Retreat

Once visitors have enjoyed the lesser-known history of the area and been enthralled with some classic story-telling, there is no better place to safely retreat than one of the most popular Gelena Hotels, the Goldmoor Inn. With whirlpool suites, private fireplaces, and private in-room gourmet breakfasts, the Goldmoor Inn allows visitors to enjoy all the rich history but from a comfortable distance. 

Best Places to Stay in Galena, IL

Ranked as one of the best places to stay in Galena, IL, The Goldmoor Inn perfectly blends ambiance, amenities, history and modernity, and nature and luxury into one beautiful adventure. It is ideally located and is only a short drive or “tank of gas” away from many locations. For more information about booking a stay, visit the website at https://www.goldmoor.com. You can also reach helpful staff at reservations@goldmoor.com or by calling (815) 777-3925. 

The Goldmoor Inn is located at:

9001 W. Sand Hill Rd.

Galena, IL 61036

Goldmoor Inn's Galena IL Visitor Guide to Historic Spots

 Tuesday, August 9th 2022, 4:00 AM

Goldmoor Inn’s Walking Tour of Galena, IL

Galena, United States - August 9, 2022 /Goldmoor Inn/

Visitors to the Goldmoor Inn come for the inn’s luxury accommodations, spectacular service, and astoundingly beautiful natural surroundings. Located just over six miles outside of town along the bank of the Mississippi River, the inn is recognized as one of the best places to stay in Galena, IL. While the Inn provides plenty of reasons to stay in and relax, it is also conveniently located with easy access to beautiful downtown Galena.

About Galena, IL

Galena became a thriving mining town in the early 1800s with the discovery of lead (“Galena” is Latin for lead sulfide). Once the lead was extracted, the population gently diminished, and the town was beautifully frozen in time. Now restored to its original 1800s splendor, 85% of the town is on the National Register of Historic Places. Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th president of the United States, lived in Galena and would recognize the town that stands much the same now as it did in his day. 

The town today is a top destination known for its rich history, natural beauty, outdoor activities, and charming Galena Bed and Breakfasts. 

Top Places to See in Galena

  1. The Davis Block 304-310 S. Main St. 

These were the first all-brick buildings in Galena constructed in 1846 from Galena brick, recognized by their distinctive orange color. One of Galena's nine Civil War Generals, John C. Smith, owned a jewelry store at 306 S. Main, and the town's most infamous lawyer, M.Y. Johnson, had an office on the second floor of 304 S. Main.

   2. The U.S. Post Office Green and Commerce Streets

As the second oldest and continuously owned and operated post office in America, this building has a fascinating history. Designed by architect Ammi B. Young, it was the first design to be standardized for use by government buildings across the nation. The Superintendent of Construction was famed engineer Ely Parker of the Seneca band of Native Americans. Parker played an important role in history and was made a brigadier general and became President Grant’s Commissioner of Indian Affairs. He resigned the role after sending emergency rations to starving Plains Indians prior to congressional approval creating a national controversy. 

   3. Meusel Cigar Factory 208-210 N Main St.

Tobacco was a cash crop in the area until the late 1800s, and Galena was home to several factories, including this building which once housed the Standard Cigar Factory. Today it is registered as one of the town’s many State Historic Sites. 

   4. Old Blacksmith Shop Franklin St. 

In the 1800s, the town was home to nearly 25 operating blacksmith shops. Today this red wood-framed structure,  which was built in 1897, is the only one that remains. The building retains its history and is home to most of its original tools and forges. 

   5. John Dowling House 216 Diagonal St. 

Constructed in 1826, the John Dowling House is one of the oldest structures in Galena. It belonged to Dowling, who was a prominent trader who became one of the largest iron dealers on the Upper Mississippi.

No matter where you choose to wander, Galena is full of history, beauty, and surprises. 

Best Places to Stay in Galena, IL

Ranked as one of the best places to stay in Galena, IL, The Goldmoor Inn perfectly blends ambiance, amenities, history and modernity, and nature and luxury into one beautiful adventure. It is ideally located and is only a short drive or “tank of gas” away from many locations. For more information about booking a stay, visit the website at https://www.goldmoor.com. You can also reach helpful staff at reservations@goldmoor.com or by calling (815) 777-3925. 

The Goldmoor Inn is located at:

9001 W Sand Hill Rd 

Galena, IL 61036

Best Places to Stay in Galena, IL to Reconnect with Nature

 uesday, August 2nd 2022, 4:00 AM

Top Galena IL Hotels are the Perfect Backdrop for Reconnecting With Nature

Galena, United States - August 2, 2022 /Goldmoor Inn/

There comes a time when everyone needs more than a vacation. It’s about fostering an experience that allows one to strip away the noise of the world and reconnect with nature, themself, and loved ones. It is about shedding outward concerns, looking inward to rediscover creativity and capabilities, and pushing beyond what they believe is possible. 

For this sort of getaway, not just any Galena hotel will do.              

Just above the Wise Lake pool on the east side of the Mississippi River, seven miles from town but worlds away sits the beautiful Goldmoor Inn. Framed by 21 acres of natural beauty, the property features beautiful gardens and a lush landscape that invites reflection and rejuvenation and begs you to stop and enjoy the blazing red sunsets mirrored on the river. 

One look at the distinctive Goldmoor Inn confirms it is the ideal Galena bed and breakfast to serve as a stunning backdrop for just such an adventure. 

Choosing Your Room

Recognized as one of the best places to stay in Galena, IL, guests can choose from 13 unique suites, as well as two free-standing log cabins and three cottages. From the Turret Suite, which allows guests to escape to their royal chambers at the top of the tower, to the French Country Cottage, where elegant lines and airy space evoke the luxurious comfort of a French chateau, each space is uniquely decorated and immaculately appointed.

No matter which suite a guest may choose, it will be immediately clear that they have found someplace truly special.

Adventure Awaits

As tempting as it may be to stay in and enjoy the comforts of the inn, it is just the beginning of the rejuvenating escape. One step outside the gorgeously hilly surroundings, the soul begins to reawaken with the many possibilities for adventure. 

Guests may also enjoy many thrilling activities available locally.

Long Hollow Canopy Tours

Enjoy the beautiful canopy while testing your limits on a 2-hour guided adventure course that includes six ziplines, two ladders, Skybridge, Rappel, Quickjump, UTV Ride, and Hike. 

The ziplines range from 190' - 1,250' long and reach heights of 75 feet and 45 mph, and offer amazing views for those brave enough to keep their eyes open!

Horseback Riding

Facilities such as the Shenandoah Riding Center offer the opportunity to enjoy scenic trails, tranquil beauty, and time to relax to the rhythmic sound of soil crunching beneath horse hooves. 

Water Sports

Area visitors can connect with nature and history as they traverse the mighty Mississippi River via canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddle boards. With the many equipment rental businesses in the area, visitors do not need to bring their own. 

Beautiful Trails

Whether walking, hiking, or biking, the many trails in the area, such as the accessible and pet-friendly Galena River Trail or the Buehler Preserve, offer scenic views and historic sites.

River Boat Cruise

Whether the aim is to connect with the power of the Mississippi or its vibrant history, no trip of exploration is complete without an authentic river boat cruise. 

Best Places to Stay in Galena, IL

Ranked as one of the best places to stay in Galena, IL, The Goldmoor Inn perfectly blends ambiance, amenities, history and modernity, and nature and luxury into one beautiful adventure. It is ideally located and is only a short drive or “tank of gas” away from many locations. For more information about booking a stay, visit the website at https://www.goldmoor.com. You can also reach helpful staff at reservations@goldmoor.com or by calling (815) 777-3925. 

The Goldmoor Inn is located at:

9001 W Sand Hill Rd 

Galena, IL 61036