Galena Travel Spots

Three hours northwest of Chicago, the historic town of Galena lies among hills, rivers and bluffs, a scenic destination primed for a weekend eat-away. To best capitalize on the area's edible abundance, opt for accommodations with a usable kitchen, like a grill-equipped townhouse at Eagle Ridge.

Huron Produce Market Open April through October, this family-run stand stocks produce from the owner's garden and surrounding farms, plus a regular roster of Amish eats, including sweet black raspberry pie. 7750 US-20 W., Lena, IL; 815-232-5999

Arnolds Farm Visit this hilly family farm in the picturesque Apple River Valley for pasture-raised beef; Duroc, Berkshire or Chester White pork; and all-natural lamb and poultry. 997 N. Salem Rd., Elizabeth, IL; 815-858-2407 or arnoldsfarm.com

Weber Meats Come for an old-world butcher shop experience at this local stalwart, 20 miles north of town. Grab a house-made sausage from the summertime pop-up stand out front, and thick-cut house-cured bacon from the chalet-like store. 725 N. Jackson St., Cuba City, WI; 608-744-2159

Murphy's Gardens Mid-April through mid-October, this sweet spot sells bounty such as organic apples, Giant Marconi peppers, and Cherokee Purple and Red Zebra tomatoes from a small stand on site. 12550 W. Norris Ln., Galena, IL; 815-777-4273 or murphysgardens.com

The Gold Room After a night of drinking at Galena Brewing Company, or to fuel up for a day of hiking or biking, hit this local haunt for a Hangover plate–an egg, bacon, house-made sausage and hash-brown combo, accompanied by a Bloody Mary or screwdriver. 249 N. Main St., Galena, IL; 815-777-0319

Galena River Wine & Cheese Find fodder for a picnic along the river at Grant or Depot Park at this downtown shop stocked with international and domestic wine, craft beer, cheese and snacks. 420 S. Main St., Galena, IL; 815-777-9430 or galenawinecheese.com