Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Galesburg, Illinois

The historical narrative of this small town in west-central Illinois is fundamentally linked to the development of the railroads.

During the latter decades of the 19th century, Galesburg emerged as a pivotal junction for the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad, alongside the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway.

This resulted in the establishment of one of the largest rail yard complexes in the United States, producing some of the country’s most iconic trains. Visitors can still appreciate elements of the industrial architecture from this era around the current Amtrak station.

Galesburg is rightfully home to the Railroad Hall of Fame, which is set to unveil a new visitor attraction in the forthcoming years. Additionally, the city commemorates its rich railroading heritage with a vibrant festival each June.

Galesburg features an inviting downtown area and is home to Knox College, where Lincoln and Douglas engaged in their fifth debate during the senatorial race of 1858.

1. Galesburg Railroad Museum

Galesburg Railroad Museum

At the time of writing, plans were underway to establish a new museum for the National Railroad Hall of Fame in Galesburg.

Construction commenced in 2019, and the attraction is expected to become a national destination, providing a significant financial advantage to the city.

Currently, the history of railroads in Galesburg is showcased within a depot building adjacent to the Amtrak station.

Inside, visitors will find numerous artifacts and memorabilia, including photographs, magazines, uniforms, lanterns, tools, china sets, tickets, and letters.

Outside, a Burlington Route 13501 Waycar (1930), the Pullman Meath car (1921), and a Railway Post Office Car from 1945 can be viewed.

2. Discovery Depot Children’s Museum

Located in a renovated industrial building, this interactive museum caters to children aged 1 to 12, offering experiences typical of those found in larger metropolitan areas.

By emphasizing interactivity and open-ended learning, the museum aims to foster critical thinking and literacy skills, exposing children to fundamental concepts of science, engineering, mathematics, the arts, and technology.

With 14,000 square feet of exhibits to explore, visitors can easily fill an entire morning or afternoon. One of the main attractions is Ferris Village, featuring six recreated shops where children can engage in role-playing everyday situations and professions.

The Art Studio also encourages children’s creative expression while initiating discussions about notable artists and art concepts.

3. Downtown Galesburg

Downtown Galesburg

Buzzing with activity, downtown Galesburg boasts exceptional shopping, live entertainment, dining, and nightlife, all set within a historical ambiance.

Primarily along Main Street, with Simmons Street and intersecting roads, downtown Galesburg features enticing independent shops specializing in antiques, jewelry, gifts, fashion accessories, vintage records, floral arrangements, and more.

There is a vibrant live music scene, as well as thriving performing arts venues like the historic Orpheum Theatre.

Visitors can obtain an itinerary for a walking tour that highlights significant sights along Main Street, alongside seven additional self-guided tours exploring various aspects of Galesburg’s history.

Culinary offerings include renowned local establishments such as Packinghouse Dining Co. and Landmark Cafe & Creperie, in addition to neighboring spots like Cherry Street Restaurant & Bar and Coney Island.

4. Orpheum Theatre

Orpheum Theatre

One of the most visually impressive structures in downtown Galesburg is the Second Empire-style Orpheum Theatre (1916), which continues to serve as a venue for live performances in the city.

Designed by the Chicago firm Rapp & Rapp, the theatre features a French Second Empire facade and an Italian Renaissance interior adorned with elaborate plasterwork.

Despite its grandeur, the venue was designed to be accessible to all social classes, featuring numerous innovations in acoustics, ventilation, and plumbing, including running water provided to the dressing rooms.

Originally a vaudeville stage, the Orpheum transitioned to a cinema in the mid-1930s. After being closed for much of the 1980s due to financial constraints and renovations, it has since become a cherished locale for plays, musicals, concerts, magic shows, comedy acts, and classic film screenings.

5. Lake Storey Park

Source: Larry Richey Photography / shutterstock

Also tied to the railroads, Lake Storey serves as a reservoir in the northern part of Galesburg, constructed in the late 1920s to supply soft water for locomotives of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway.

The company transferred ownership of the lake to the city in 1952, and it remains a favored recreational spot on the northern outskirts, encompassed by a 411-acre park.

On the north shore, the unguarded Lake Storey beach, supported by an elegant pavilion, features golden sand and is accessible daily from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.

Throughout the summer months, visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, pedal boats, and jon boats for leisurely excursions on the 132-acre lake. The waters are stocked with muskie, walleye, and channel catfish, in addition to abundant largemouth bass and crappie.

6. Old Main, Knox College

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A compelling reason to visit the Knox College campus is to view this Tudor Revival structure, completed in 1857 and inspired by Hampton Court Palace in England.

In the following year, Old Main hosted the fifth Lincoln-Douglas debate during the U.S. Senate race, where slavery was a significant topic of discussion.

This event took place on the grounds, attracting an audience of 15,000. Lincoln was involved with the institution that granted Knox College its charter in 1837, and the strongly abolitionist college community displayed a banner stating, “Knox College for Lincoln.”

Although Lincoln lost the senatorial election, he was destined for greater achievements, and there are interpretive “Looking for Lincoln” heritage markers outside, along with a plaque depicting the two men on the wall.

Should you have the opportunity to enter, the chair used by Lincoln during the debate remains in the Alumni Room of the building.

7. Carl Sandburg State Historic Site

Carl Sandburg State Historic Site

A quaint three-room clapboard cottage located in southern Galesburg is recognized as the birthplace of one of the most celebrated American authors of the 20th century.

The son of a blacksmith working at the CB&Q railroad shops, Carl Sandburg (1878-1967) received three Pulitzer Prizes—two for poetry and one for his biography of Lincoln.

Visitors to the house can glean insights into Sandburg’s humble beginnings and examine a selection of family artifacts.

The State Historic Site’s visitor center is located in a neighboring two-story Greek Revival structure from 1858, which houses a museum gallery, video theater, and gift shop.

Behind the cottage lies a small wooded park featuring a Quotation Walk and Remembrance Rock, a large stone under which the ashes of Sandburg and his wife Lilian have been placed.

8. Galesburg Civic Art Center

Art

At the time this list was compiled, the Galesburg Civic Art Center was in the process of relocating to a historic downtown building.

This nonprofit gallery hosts approximately 40 exhibitions annually, all offered free to the community. Visitors can appreciate the creations of local and national artists, along with the opportunity to acquire locally produced art and crafts from the center’s gift shop.

The center actively engages with the community by organizing events such as the Standish Arts & Crafts Market in June and GALEX, one of the longest-running competitions and exhibitions in the country.

9. Iron Spike Brewing Company

Iron Spike Brewing Company

This brewpub, situated in downtown Galesburg, occupies the historic Central Fire Station (1909), designed in the Romanesque Revival style.

Iron Spike Brewing Company produces its beer at a 10-barrel brewhouse in Wisconsin, which is then delivered to the Galesburg taproom.

Up to 15 beers are available on tap at any given time, featuring regular selections such as Light Rail Cream Ale, Hand Car Hefe Hefeweizen, Galesburg Golden Ale, Flatback IPA, Peanutbuster Porter, Amarillo American Pale Ale, Irish Red Ale, Hogger IPA, and Day Late & Dollar Short Stout.

The kitchen at Iron Spike offers an extensive menu, including burgers, flatbreads, sandwiches, steaks, tacos, fish & chips, and appetizers ranging from wings to artichoke dip.

10. Knox-Galesburg Symphony (KGS)

Orchestra

Representing both Knox College and the City of Galesburg, this high-caliber orchestra provides cultural amenities to the local community and surrounding regions.

The ensemble operates out of the Ford Center for the Fine Arts located on the college campus, with musicians typically drawn from within a 100-mile radius of Galesburg.

Despite its small-town context, the Knox-Galesburg Symphony delivers metropolitan-level performance quality and innovative programming, collaborating with world-class artists.

The KGS has been honored as Illinois Orchestra of the Year on three occasions, and its performances are regularly broadcast on public radio, allowing it to reach an even broader audience. Further details about the current season can be found on the symphony’s website.

11. Prairie Players Civic Theatre (PPCT)

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This dynamic theatre group enhances Galesburg’s vibrant arts community, with origins tracing back to 1915.

The group produces a range of plays and musicals, with recent productions including “Cabaret,” “Tommy,” and “Calendar Girls.” In 2015, the PPCT secured a permanent venue in downtown Galesburg at 160 South Seminary Street, conveniently located near the station and Railroad Museum.

This notable venue also hosts significant events in Galesburg’s annual calendar, such as the Chocolate Festival held each February.

12. The Galesburg Antiques Mall Co.

Galesburg Antiques Mall Co.

Operating for over 25 years, this expansive antiques mall is housed within a grand Italianate building at 349 E Main Street.

The mall serves as an intriguing repository of antiques and collectibles, featuring a vast array of furniture, decorative arts, musical instruments, tableware, paintings, vintage toys, glassware, light fixtures, ceramics, vintage signage, and much more.

The knowledgeable staff are well-acquainted with the extensive inventory. Visitors should allocate ample time to explore the three-floor establishment and view displays from the Galesburg Historical Society located at the top. Additionally, there is an opportunity to browse and purchase creations by the resident artist.

13. Kiwanis Park

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Situated on the southeast side of Galesburg, Kiwanis Park features a spacious community area bordered by I-74 to the east.

Spanning 50 acres of rolling landscape, the park is ideal for its 18-hole disc golf course, recognized as one of the longest in Illinois, equipped with well-maintained tees and baskets.

Additionally, the park features a recently enhanced skate park adorned with colorful street art, a horse show arena, a lighted softball diamond, a multipurpose trail, a basketball court, and two modular playground stations for children.

14. Railroad Days Festival

Railroad Days Festival

Galesburg’s rich railroad legacy takes center stage during this beloved four-day festival held at the end of June.

Transforming downtown Galesburg, the Railroad Days Festival is a delight for families and individuals with an interest in railroads. The event features a carnival, arts and crafts market, and various live performances.

Train enthusiasts can admire extraordinary model train displays and railroad memorabilia at Knox College, while a shuttle service transports visitors from downtown to Peck Park, where they can observe locomotives passing and tour the rail yards.

The Galesburg Railroad Museum is integral to the festivities, offering guided tours, and the Galesburg Antiques Mall displays its collection of railroad artifacts.

15. Knox County Fair

Festival

Established in 1851, the Knox County Fair is the oldest running county fair in Illinois. This event occurs over five days in mid-July, and throughout its history, the fairgrounds have only closed their gates twice, during the Civil War and World War II.

Located southeast of Galesburg off I-74, the fairgrounds encompass 60 acres of beautifully landscaped land, featuring a grandstand.

At the Knox County Fair, attendees can anticipate an exciting array of free entertainment, including live music, a carnival, food and craft vendors, 4-H competitions, displays, figure-8 racing, a demolition derby, and much more.