Galesburg Illinois, Exit 46A off I-74

We fount the city of Galesburg Illinois by happenstance.  But there’s a good chance that you’ll love it too.  If you find yourself traversing I-74 through Illinois, Doug and I both agree that planning a stop in Galesburg should be on the list.

This is a full-service city with all of the normal amenities one would expect to find.  There are hotels, campgrounds, big name stores, and chain restaurants.  But more than that, the historic small city charm found here is endless.  A true gem in the middle of the country.

We suggest a summer visit at the beginning of the month.  Knox College hosts “First Friday’s” on the first Friday of June, July, August, and September.  Seminary Street in the downtown historic district is blocked off to vehicles and venders take to the street.  There’s live music, food, treats, and fun for all ages.

If hanging out in the street isn’t quite your speed, maybe take a historic tour.  Galesburg has ties back to President Lincoln, as well as, President Obama. 

For the whiskey lover in your family a stop at “The Bar” is an absolute MUST.  The Proprietor Sam knows his stuff.  I don’t believe we’ve ever seen a display of so many different types of whiskey in one place before.  But not only does Sam carry everything imaginable, he KNOWS what all of them taste like.  Doug is the whiskey drinker, but Sam didn’t leave me disappointed.  He asked what I usually drink, when I replied with ‘Gray Goose and Club with Lime,’ he went right over to the shelf and grabbed a bottle of whiskey.  He poured me a glass and, well, maybe I do like whiskey!  I guess I just hadn’t had one I liked yet.  Can’t say that anymore!  The Bar is in fact a full bar, but their specialty is Whiskey.

Galesburg is full of friendly faces, happy places, and just a great hometown feel.  If you don’t stop for any other reason though, stop in and say Hi to Sam, tell him Doug and Loretta from Interstate Adventures sent you! Watch our YouTube video for a full replay of how we found Galesburg and what happened during our stop.