From Hitting the Slopes to Enjoying a Soak: How to Enjoy a Perfect Weekend This Winter in Galena, Illinois

Perched on the bluffs of the Prairie State's portion of the Driftless Area, Galena is an impossibly charismatic town that's a popular destination for visitors, who come from far and wide to experience the history and charm of the town, as well as the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Its unique geography also makes it a perfect destination for a winter weekend getaway in Illinois.

You can spend your days on the slopes or in the terrain park at Chestnut Mountain Resort, which is the by far the largest ski area in the Land of Lincoln. Stretched across a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, Chestnut Mountain boasts 19 ski and snowboard trails, and its terrain park includes 25 rails and features spread over seven acres.

There's also plenty of opportunity for hiking and snowshoeing in the area. Apple River Canyon State Park is one excellent place, and it's only half an hour or so out of town. Since I'm going to recommend that you book an Airbnb in The Galena Territory, a private association, you'll have access to all its hiking trails, including one that offers incredible views of Thunder Bay Falls. Although it's not a natural waterfall - it's a spillway for the dam that created Lake Galena - Thunder Bay Falls is incredibly scenic in the winter and is definitely worth the short hike to get there. The waterfall, itself, is on private property, but it can be viewed from the trail, as well as from Thunder Bay Road, which is a public roadway.

After all that outdoor fun, you'll certainly have worked up an appetite, so make your way to Galena's historic Main Street and through the door of The Log Cabin Greek Steakouse, a local institution for more than three quarters of a century. You'll find plenty of hearty, rib-sticking fare, like steaks and chops, as well as bracing cocktails to warm your soul after a day in the winter air. (I strongly advise making a reservation before you go, though.)

When you've had your fill of being out and about, head on back to the hot tub at your cozy Airbnb retreat for a long soak under the stars. This isn't just an ordinary Airbnb, though. It's a three bedroom, three bath home that accommodates up to eight guests in The Galena Territory. This means you'll have access to Lake Galena for ice skating and all the Owner's Club amenities, including a heated indoor pool, as well as all the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Even better? Winter rates are often below $200 per night. Visit this Airbnb cabin's listing for more details, to check availability, and make your reservation.

Can you think of a better place for a winter weekend getaway in Illinois than Galena? I sure can't! Have you ever spent a winter weekend here? We'd love to hear about your favorite things to do and places to go in Galena, as well as your suggestions for other great cold weather destinations in Illinois