With over 175 years of history under our belt, it's not hard to see why Galesburg draws discriminating antique shoppers from around the Midwest to its quaint shops. It's also a great way to experience prairie life from the 1800s.

The arts and culture are an important part of what makes Galesburg a community. From from the fine arts to the performing arts to modern multimedia, Galesburg has an active and dedicated arts scene for you to experience and enjoy.

If you're hungry, Galesburg delivers. Whether you're craving burgers, pizza, grilled steaks, barbecue, Mexican, fresh baked goods or coffee, our restaurants offer delicious dining.

If you're coming to Galesburg, then bring your sticks! We offer 90 holes of challenging play over 4 area courses.

A lot has happened since 1835. From the abolition of slavery to the rise of the railroad to the triumph of poetry, literature and the visual arts, Galesburg's noble past is present and easily experienced by just walking down our tree lined streets.

From family friendly RV camping to pampered bed & breakfasts to our award-winning hotels and motels, you'll find yourself a clean, comfortable and friendly stay in Galesburg.

“In the 1830’s, the trails leading west to the Upper Mississippi valley were white with covered wagons.  Forty-six Yankee wagons carried Galesburg’s first settlers: Presbyterian and Congregationalist farmers and their families, leaving rocky Mohawk Valley for the lush Illinois Prairie.” From the Jacket of “They Broke the Prairie”, by Earnest Elmo Calkins.

History about those settlers as well other prominent Galesburg natives can be found at local museums. Our museums include the newly renovated Discovery Depot Children's Museum and an impressive Railroad Museum. Our Knox County Museum is worth a visit, as well.  Or, take a walk in the garden at the Sandburg Birthplace and pay your respects at Remembrance Rock where Sandburg's ashes are interred.  Galesburg's Welcome Center also contains exhibits about Carl Sandburg, Ronald Reagan, Abe Lincoln and much more! 

Information about our local museums follows.

The Galesburg area is just plain beautiful. With its historic Lake Storey Recreational Area, the Spoon River watershed and the Snakeden Hollow State Fish and Wildlife Area, there are plenty of options if you want to get out in the woods or out on the water.

Looking for a little "retail therapy"? Galesburg has the goods. From antique shops to quaint gift shops to artisan galleries, our shops present the unique prairie town that Galesburg is.

In the mood to savor a buttery California Chardonnay? Or revel in the complex body of a French Bordeaux? Or just learn the difference between the two? A wine tasting can be the perfect complement to a relaxing day wandering the historic streets of Galesburg.