Traveling to Europe is a dream for many but flights are getting super expensive right now. Luckily you can find a perfect European vibe right here in the United States without breaking the bank. Galena in Illinois is a charming historic town that feels exactly like walking through the beautiful streets of Prague.
The Streets Were Made for Walking Not Driving
This town was built way back in the 1820s when people only used horses and wagons so the streets are totally perfect for walking around. You do not even need a car to see the best parts of the city because everything is super close together just like in a real European capital.
The River Makes Everything Look Totally Magical
The Galena River runs right through the area and it gives the whole town a super relaxing and scenic waterfront setting. People love taking boats out on the water during the summer and it really makes you feel like you are chilling somewhere in central Europe.
Almost Every Building Is a Historic Landmark
About eighty five percent of the buildings here are actually on the National Register of Historic Places which is pretty mind blowing to see in person. Walking past all the red brick storefronts and old houses genuinely makes you feel like you stepped back in time into a movie set.
You Can Actually Visit Ulysses S. Grant’s Home
This beautiful house was built in 1859 and was given to the former president as a gift to live in. Now it is a really cool museum that you can explore to see exactly how people lived back in the booming days of the town.
Checking Out the Mighty Thunder Bay Falls
You only have to drive about ten minutes away from the downtown area to find a really beautiful waterfall hidden in the trees. It is the absolute perfect spot to cool down and relax for a bit after spending your whole morning shopping on the main street.
Watching the Massive Summer Balloon Race Event
If you visit in June you can catch the Great Galena Balloon Race where tons of colorful hot air balloons take over the sky. It is a massive three day festival filled with fun activities and you really have to see it in person to believe how cool it looks.
Planning Your Route on the Historic Highway
The town sits right on the famous Route 20 which is actually the longest scenic road trip highway in the entire country. You can easily drive in from Chicago or fly into a nearby airport if you want to skip the long cross country road trip.
Seeing the Incredible Fall Foliage Colors Everywhere
Autumn is honestly the absolute best time to visit because the leaves change colors and make the rolling hills look completely unbelievable. Walking around this historic town with a hot coffee while the fall leaves drop around you is the best travel experience you can ask for.
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