One of the Top 20 Most Beautiful Small Towns in the US is a Short Drive From Us

Vacations are a necessity, in my opinion.  It takes away the stress of everyday life and just lets you sit for a moment and appreciate what you have.

Vacations don't have to be big cross-country trips with the luggage tied down to the roof of the "family truckster".  They could simply be a day trip to a town that has a lot to offer.

Stepping Back in Time on Historic Main Street

You want a place that has a history about it. Maybe a Main Street that dates back to the 1800s and is home to over 125 independently owned shops, restaurants, inns, and bed-and-breakfasts, with no chains or franchises in sight.

Biking and Hiking Trails with Stunning Views

Beyond the historic downtown, you want a getaway to be not just charming, it also is an outdoor lover's paradise. You're going to be looking for breathtaking views of towering bluffs from the nearby biking and hiking trails.

And the best part? It's just a short drive from the Quad Cities or Chicago, making it the perfect getaway destination with a view along the way that beats any water park or tourist trap any day.

One of the Most Beautiful Small Towns in America

TravelAndLeisure.com has chosen Galena as one of the 20 most beautiful small towns in the US.

It's a true step back in time and a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, one they call "a town straight out of a Hallmark Christmas movie"