Anniversary Planning 101

Need a little help so this year's anniversary isn't quite so "ho-hum?" Spending your anniversary in Galena is far from ordinary. Let us help you make this year's a romantic getaway you won't soon forget!

May we suggest:

• Let's start with lodging, and we'll share a little tip. Galena's innkeepers and lodging staff are more than happy to help you add some extra flair. Be sure to check out their romance packages and go the extra mile to have those little details covered in your room. Some creative ideas may include rose petals, massage oils, bubble bath, and local specialties such as wine, chocolates or popcorn. Extra brownie points: write a love letter and send it to your concierge ahead of time, asking them to have it waiting on the pillow for your arrival.
• Ever tried a couple's massage? Galena has some amazing spas that are glad to cater to your every whim. (And with this, you both win!)
• A little walk and a little talk. Spend the day enjoying conversation and taking in Galena's natural beauty. Try an architectural tour or a leisurely stroll along the levee. Or, share sweaty palms as you embark in the dark on a ghost tour.
• A view (and a hike) to remember. Take your walk from Main Street up 190 steps to Prospect Street for a panoramic view overlooking the city. You might even be able to steal a kiss at the top.
• Pack a picnic. Many of our local restaurants are glad to pack a boxed lunch or dinner to go if you call in advance. Amazing places to break out your blanket: next to a waterfall at Linmar Gardens, in the gazebo or on the riverbank at Grant Park or at one of our many scenic nature preserves or outdoor recreational areas.
• Take a ride. Snuggle up in the seat of a horse-drawn carriage as you meander through the downtown. Or, pair up on a set of scooters and head to a vineyard.
• Plan an adventure! Try your hand at kayaking, canoeing or geocaching.
• Wine (and beer) tasting! Experience everything from locally produced specialties to imports, educational tastings to cheese, chocolate or dessert pairings.
• Make a memory--together. There's lots of "hands on" in Galena! Together, try a cooking class or a Glaze and Graze: throw pottery to make dinnerware and then learn to cook an exotic meal. Or, make a keepsake—handcraft your own beautiful piece of jewelry to take home.
• Find a memory. Go on a scavenger hunt and shop Galena's many boutiques, antiques and gift shops, looking for treasures that remind you of when you first met.
• Have an amazing meal. Enjoy a candlelight dinner at one Galena's finest restaurants. Galena proudly boasts a variety of international and ethnic cuisines.
• Renew your vows or make a commitment for the future—in a church, at a wedding chapel, in a gazebo or in a hot air balloon.

Make this an anniversary to remember (and leave your cell phone and electronic devices at bay). Start planning your romantic getaway. More ideas are waiting at VisitGalena.org. Let us be your guide.