Planning a getaway from Chicago this fall, but undecided on your final destination?
You might want to consider the Illinois town that was just named among the top 3 coziest fall locations in the U.S. for 2026!
Here’s a look at the ranking.
Galena, IL among Coziest U.S. Destinations For Fall
A new ranking of 20 quintessential fall getaway spots from casino BetMGM named Galena, IL among the Coziest U.S. Destinations For Fall
Galena claimed the number 3 spot on the list, with a “cozy score” of 62.7.
BetMGM notes Galena’s abundance of fall foliage, low average rainfall, and crisp average seasonal temperature of 50 degrees.
Galena, located about 3 hours west of Chicago, is a popular vacation spot for Chicagoans and Midwesterners.
Its quaint downtown area and wealth of 19th-century architecture give the town a storybook atmosphere.
Popular activities in Galena include downtown dining and shopping, with dozens of locally-owned boutiques and restaurants to explore.
Nearby natural areas like Lake Galena, Thunder Bay Falls, and the Mississippi River provide breathtaking vistas and hiking.
Visitors can also explore historical places like the Ulysses S. Grant house, civil war monument, and the Belvedere Mansion.
According to the ranking, fall foliage in Galena is expected to peak in color around October 24, 2026—so if you’re thinking of making the trip out, that’s the prime time to go!
Click here to view the full list of America’s coziest fall vacation spots for 2026.
