Galena Historic District

The Galena Historic District preserves a downtown area with more than 800 properties arranged in three tiers along Main, Bench, and Prospect Streets. The district covers roughly 85 percent of the city with a collection of residential and commercial buildings from various periods still standing in their original locations.

The district emerged during the 1800s lead mining boom when Galena briefly surpassed Chicago in population and became a major commercial center in the Midwest. The wealth generated from mining financed the construction of many impressive buildings that still define the character of the city.

The architecture displays Federal, Greek Revival, and Italianate styles, with buildings constructed from brick and stone following strict building codes implemented after major fires in the 1850s. Visitors walking through can see how safety regulations shaped the appearance of homes and commercial structures throughout the district.

The district features numerous bed and breakfast establishments, art galleries, restaurants, and shops spread throughout its streets. Allow time for walking on sloped terrain, as the layout follows the natural hillside, and wear comfortable shoes for exploring the different levels.

The DeSoto House Hotel opened in 1855 and remains the longest continuously operating hotel in Illinois, still welcoming guests today. Visitors can stay at this property and experience a place that has functioned without interruption for nearly 170 years.