Five Gay Friendly Illinois Places (Outside of Chicago) – Gay Star News

Aldrich Guest House - Galena, Illinois

There’s no denying Chicago, the largest city in the state of Illinois, is a bona fide bucket list destination.

With its futuristic skyline, explosive dining and extensive LGBTI scene, the blockbuster supercity is up there with the likes of New York City and Los Angeles as one of America’s most famous destinations. But there is so much more to Illinois than just Chicago.

Here are five charming and historical places to visit in The Prairie State, all driving distance from Chi-town, several via the iconic Route 66…

1 Galena

Firstly, with a population of just 3,255 people, is Galena in northwest Illinois. This tiny town makes a huge impression. Located near the Wisconsin boarder, it’s worth a visit for a photo op on Main Street alone. This iconic street is perfectly preserved with colourful, charismatic 19th century houses.

Why not visit the charming boutiques and coffee houses before mixing it up with a whiskey at the Blaum Brothers distillery? Or perhaps Amelia’s Galena Ghost Tour? The town is believed by many to possess ghoul-infested historical buildings. For blood pressure-friendly activities, head to the Galena Historical Society and Museum or the Galena Cellars Vineyard & Winery.

For upscale accommodation options try Aldrich Guest House Bed and Breakfast [above], the Jail House Inn and Inn at Irish Cottage.

By Jamie Tabberer – Full Story at Gay Star News

Illinois Gay Travel Resources

Aldrich Guest House – Galena Gay Bed & Breakfast

Aldrich Guest House - Galena Gay Bed & Breakfast

At Galena’s Aldrich Guest House, we provide you with with luxurious surroundings coupled with professional and intuitive, yet unobtrusive, service. We have renewed the interior and decor to provide relevance in the 21st century yet maintain the inspiration of the origins of the house from 1845 by highlighting the architectural beauty and craftsmanship that put this house on the National Register of Historic Places – no doilies here!

We invite you to take advantage of all that this Galena mansion has to offer and make yourself at home. You are encouraged to walk through the nearly half acre of lawn and gardens, relax on the screened in porch, play games or enjoy wine and listen to music of your choosing in the parlor, or let us schedule a massage for you in the library.

Or maybe you would like to explore Galena and visit the historic sites, shop along Main Street, or see the wineries, distillery, or brewery. For those who enjoy the outdoors, kayak or canoe down the Galena River, walk or bike along the riverfront trail, cross country or downhill ski, or explore any of the nearby national and state parks. All of this is just a five minute walk from Aldrich Guest House and is waiting for you!

Whether it’s a getaway from the stress of the city, a romantic couple’s vacation, a friends or family reunion, a sightseeing adventure, or anything in between, Aldrich Guest House is your premier boutique bed and breakfast in Galena. We’re looking forward to welcoming you soon!

See the Aldrich Guest House Expanded Listing on Purple Roofs Here

Illinois Gay Friendly Bed and Breakfasts, Hotels, and Vacation Rentals

 

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Jail Hill Inn – Galena, Illinois

Jail Hill Inn

Periodically we’ll feature one of our properties here to let our readers know about some great gay friendly places to stay:

Jail Hill Inn is a boutique inn located one block from downtown historic Galena Illinois, prominently situated to overlook Galena and its stunning countryside. Choose from 6 different, 800-square-foot, luxury suites for your perfect getaway.

Embracing environmental and socially sustainable practices, Jail Hill Inn is proud to have earned the Galena Green Lodging designation. Keeping a strong respect for the earth in mind, we supply Aveda plant-based products in every suite and are pleased to offer our guests two charging stations for their electric vehicles during their stay; a Tesla station and a universal station.

When you stay at Jail Hill Inn in Galena, you will enjoy a wonderful reception of wine and cheese on your arrival and in your suite chocolates and chilled champagne awaits you. After a great night’s rest, you will enjoy a 3-course, gourmet breakfast in our 1st floor dining room.

See the Jail Hill Inn Expanded Listing on Purple Roofs Here

Gay Friendly Bed and Breakfasts, Hotels, and Vacation Rentals in Illinois