How to Spend a Day At Chestnut Mountain in Galena

Ascend to the peak of Chestnut Mountain in Galena, one of the top local destinations for outdoor adventures, and let the fun begin. Whether you visit in the summer or winter, you’ll have plenty to do! Take a look below at what you can expect to find.

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Activities & Attractions at Chestnut Mountain in Galena

Chestnut Mountain in Galena is just 9 miles from Farmers Guest House. Here’s everything you can enjoy at this delightful resort!

cycling outdoors, close up of the feet on pedal
close up of golf tee and golf ball
person on a boat for a river cruise

Summer Attractions

The splendor of summertime isn’t complete without delighting in the many things to do at Chestnut Mountain in Galena. Enjoy the rush of adrenaline as you race to the base of the 2,050-foot Chestnut Mountain Alpine Slide.

Or, set sail on the wonderful Mississippi River Cruise, a weekend-only experience, where the wonder of the Mississippi encapsulates you. Other fun-filled things to do include:

top view travel items on the floor for mountain trip
people drinking hot beverages outside in winter
snowboarder jumps on blue sky backdrop.

Winter Attractions

As snow blankets the peaks, the powder-covered landscape affords you the opportunity to break out your winter gear and get ready for an unforgettable experience. Perhaps one of the most popular ways to enjoy Chestnut Mountain in Galena is skiing or snowboarding down the slopes.

Before you go, check out the Chestnut Mountain trail map and choose which one you want to shred. We also recommend purchasing your lift tickets in advance because they tend to sell out quickly, as Chestnut Mountain is popular. It is, after all, the largest ski resort in Illinois!

Ski season begins in late November around Thanksgiving, so start planning your winter trip to Farmers Guest House today!

breakfast at Farmers Guest House
three beers
Chef putting final touches on gourmet meal.

Where to Eat

After your time enjoying the outdoor activities of Chestnut Mountain in Galena, head indoors for a hearty meal. Whether you want breakfast, lunch, or dinner, grab a table at Sunset Grille, The Summit, or The Mountain Top Cafe!

Each of them offers something to satisfy your cravings with robust menus of excellently seasoned dishes, sumptuous small plates, and decadent desserts. Pair your meal with freshly roasted coffee, a glass of exquisite wine, or a savory craft brew!

If you’re eager to return to downtown Galena, find your foodie fix at one of the restaurants on the Helluva Half Mile! This iconic stretch of cultural delights is located just around the corner from the Farmers Guest House and helps you indulge in our local community. For recommendations, consult our Vacation Guide and review this list below!

  • Campeche Mexican
  • Fritz & Frites
  • Gobbie’s Sports Pub & Eatery
  • Goldmoor Restaurant
  • Little Tokyo
  • Log Cabin Steakhouse
  • Market House
  • One-Eleven Main
  • Perry Street Brasserie
  • Vinnie Vanucchi’s Little Italy

Thaw Out at Farmers Guest House

view of julia roomBefore you make the trip to Chestnut Mountain in Galena, fuel your day with an incredible breakfast at Farmers Guest House. Each morning, the Breakfast Diva herself crafts the richest delicacies, hearty entrees, and savory delights from scratch and makes your meal just the way you like it. Do you follow a special lifestyle or have food allergies? We will accommodate you—just give us 24-hour advance notice!

After your daily adventures, return to your charming accommodation at Farmers Guest House. Each of our intimate retreats offers an abundance of natural light, beautifully restored hardwood floors, and stunning furnishings.

We invite you to browse our selection of guest rooms and hand-select the ideal one for your romantic getaway. Once you book, you’ll already feel relaxed and ready for your vacation. We can’t wait to host you and your special someone this year!

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