"How's Ashley doing on her school paper?" I asked.
"I think she's struggling," Jay reported. "How do you envision something like a sock hop or drive-in or Saturday night cruising if you've never experienced it yourself? It's just words to you."
"Hmmm...why don't we take her back to the 1950's and SHOW her what growing up in the 1950's was like? Let her experience it herself," I suggested.
"How the heck would we do that?" Jay asked.
"Give me a couple of days. If I can find what I'm thinking of we can transport her back to the 50's in a manner of speaking."
And so the 'Take Me Back To the 1950's When You Grew Up' trip was conceived. Ashley's school assignment was to write a paper on what it was like to grow up in a generation that wasn't her own. She'd chosen to write about Jay's and my generation - the Baby Boomers. I could understand her struggling with the topic. After all, the kids today see we Boomers as little more than having outlived our "Best if used by" expiration date. They can't even begin to imagine what it was like growing up in our generation, having the freedoms we had that they'll never know or experience in their lifetimes.
I had my work cut out for me on this one! Where does one find a 1950's sock hop (for example) in 2025?
The Plan A Trip gods were smiling on me. I did find one and I'd previously visited the town only a 5 hour drive from me that would be an almost perfect location to show Ashley what the 1950's were like - Galena, Illinois.
In fact, there are over a dozen U.S. towns that have deliberately kept their 1950's atmosphere and become big tourist attractions because of it. Galena has become the #1 tourist attraction in Illinois, drawing over 1.5 mllion visitors a year to a town with only 3300 full time residents.
This trip was planned pretty much around a 1950's sock hop. That I found one at all still amazes me. That this trip came together as well as it did still amazes me!
Jay did speak to Ashley's teacher to get an extension on turning her paper in...when the teacher heard what we were doing and why, she was more than happy to give Ashley the extension on turning her paper in - in return for doing a class presentation on her trip.
There was only one RV park in Galena so booking a reservation there was a no brainer - the Palace Campground, Full hookups and sewer on some RV sites. $57 per night.
Palace Campground provides a variety of amenities for your convenience:
– Two bathhouses equipped with hot water showers and flushing toilets.
– Laundry facilities.
– A heated swimming pool with a diving board, available from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend.
– Wagon rides on Saturday evenings during peak season.
– A playground with a basketball hoop, playhouse, game field, and play equipment.
– An 18-hole championship miniature golf course.
– A club house arcade.
– Firewood for sale on the grounds.
– An in-office coffee station.
– Glow-in-the-dark mini golf on scheduled weekends (see the Lil’ General page for more information).
If you want budget friendly accommodations then I recommend Chestnut Mountain Resort.
You'll get a good amount of bang for your buck there.
This hotel is 8 miles from downtown Galena and offers views of the Mississippi River, on-site dining options and an indoor pool. Free WiFi and free parking are available.
Every room at Chestnut Mountain Resort includes a cable TV with satellite channels and a private bathroom.
Some rooms also offer a seating area and view of the river.
Guests can enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant or grab a drink at the bar. A mini-golf course, children’s playground and hot tub are all available at the resort. There is also a gift shop on-site.
Enjoy frisbee golf, mountain biking, zip lining and the alpine slide as well at Chestnut Mountain Resort. It's known as THE resort to stay at for nature and adventure lovers alike as it's a ski resort in the winter but has a ton of both winter and summer activities.
Photo credit: Chestnut Mountain Resort
While it's not as fancy as some Galena accommodations I've stayed there before and it was very nice and especially suited to families.
Consider Grant Hills Motel for a cozy and budget-friendly stay, or browse the variety of affordable lodging options available throughout the area, from charming inns to cozy bed-and-breakfasts.
One such charming option is the Belle Aire Mansion Guest House, a historic Federal-style mansion built in 1836. Located just west of Galena, it offers a serene retreat with antique-filled interiors and modern amenities. Guests can choose from suites featuring double whirlpools and fireplaces, or opt for the more private Bungalow cottage. The guest house is also pet-friendly, welcoming well-behaved dogs to join their owners during their stay.
For a bit more variety, Stoney Creek Inn offers rustic-themed rooms with modern amenities, including an indoor/outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and rooms available for under $100 on weekdays during the off-season.
Wyndham Garden Galena Hotel & Day Spa provides an indoor pool and free breakfast, with rooms available for under $100 during weekdays. Similarly, Best Western Designer Inn & Suites offers both indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, and free breakfast, all at affordable rates during weekdays.
Galena Country is a great place for camping. Whether you prefer the peaceful setting of Apple River Canyon State Park, the outdoor comforts of Palace Campground, or a relaxing time at Blanding Landing Recreation Area by the Mississippi River, you'll find great spots to camp and unwind without spending a lot.
No matter what your budget is, you'll find something suitable for your needs in Galena.
Don't forget to pack your 1950's outfits for the sock hop!
Day 1
Morning: Arrive in Galena and get checked into your accommodations. Take a stroll around them to familiarize yourself with everything.
Go into downtown Galena and explore the main street.
I love downtown Galena. Strolling Main Street is though you've stepped back in time. There are so many unique stores, shops and restaurants to explore!
And if you're into antiques, you'll find yourself in antique heaven! But unlike most towns, each antique store is different, has its own niche. For example, one store will focus on Civil War era items, another will focus on 19th century furniture, and so on. No two stores carry the same antiques.
The other strange thing I've noticed about Galena's Main Street is that I've never seen any empty or vacant storefront there any time I've visited! Not once.
Main Street, Galena
From traditional mom ‘n’ pop shops to quaint boutiques to independent stores, downtown Galena offers you a variety of goods from apparel to jewelry to ceramic sculptures. Check out Honest John’s Emporium, Pinder Pottery, and At Home in Galena for some unique shopping options.
If you're traveling with kids be sure to check out The Great American Popcorn Company: at 115 N. Main Street.
The store has been handcrafting popcorn for over 24 years and it is made from 100% non-GMO corn sourced from American farms.
Try some of their mouth-watering popcorn flavors like Bacon & Cheddar, Butter Pecan, Cherry Cheesecake, Freaking Hot, White Cheddar Jalapeno, and more! The store also sells fudge, ice cream, chocolates and candies.
Money $aving Tip: They offer a stamp card: purchase 10 bags and get one free.
We used our card a couple of times after throwing an impromptu popcorn party for our RV park neighbors. They gobbled up the first stash we bought! We didn't mind...we all got to know one another better and Ashley got to question the other Boomers about what growing up in the 50's was like. Which was quite amusing I might add...
They can't even figure out how a rotary phone worked! They claim we Boomers
Ashley: "You had to DIAL a phone?!! Wait...What's a party line?"
are the clueless ones?!! And to think these kids are the future leaders of America. YIKES!
The city’s downtown also has a host of eclectic dining, shopping and entertainment options. Scattered throughout Galena are unique parks and gardens like Linmar Gardens, West Street Sculpture Park, Grant Park, etc. Many art galleries, breweries, wineries and distilleries are also located in Galena.
Just a short drive from Galena, Common Cents Resale in Elizabeth offers a 6,000-square-foot emporium filled with vintage furniture, collectibles, and estate finds. Known for their motto "Repurpose. Reuse. Restyle," they provide a fresh and fun shopping experience.
One of the best ways to see Galena is to take a trolley tour with Galena Trolley Tours.
Your trolley guide will fill you in on all of the town's interesting history that you likely wouldn't learn otherwise. And you can see the major historical sights you may want to visit later.
Tickets can be purchased at the Trolley Depot, located at 314 S Main St.
They are open every day May 1st through Oct 31 at 9:30 am.
The ticket office includes waiting area, snack bar, gift shop and on-site restrooms.
Ticket Prices: Subject to change and availability.
Adult: $22
Children 6-12: $10
Children 5 and under: Free - with purchase of one Adult ticket.
Money $aving Tips:
-
Group Discounts: Groups of 5 or more can enjoy a one-hour non-stop tour for $5 off the regular price.
-
Amazon Coupons: You can get up to 50% off Galena Trolley Tours through specific Amazon coupon
codes
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at Durty Gurt's Diner: 235 N Main St - Galena, for that 1950's diner vibe.
Photo credits: Durty Gurt's
The only thing missing were the tabletop jukeboxes. A local told me Durty Gurt's had the best burgers in Galena and he didn't steer us wrong!
Durty Gurt's also serves salads and sandwiches and of course, shakes and malts. Durty Gurt's is known for its reasonable prices and a fun dining experience, making it a great spot to enjoy delicious burgers.
Remember the movie Field of Dreams, starring Kevin Costner? "If you build it, they will come."
If many of Galena's buildings and businesses look familiar to you, it's because many of them were locations where Field of Dreams was filmed!
Here's a list of the movie locations used in Galena:
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DeSoto House Hotel, 230 S Main St., Ray Kinsella and Terrence Mann search the local Chisholm phone book in an old phone booth for Graham’s contact information. Also in this scene, you can see the Chisholm, Minnesota banner hanging across Main Street.
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Green Street Stairs, Bench St., Ray Kinsella and Moonlight Graham are spotted walking together in the evening hours to Graham’s office.
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Embe Eatery & Lounge, 233 S. Main St., where Ray parks his VW Van while looking for Moonlight Graham in Chisholm, MN. Another scene where the Chisholm banner can be spotted hanging over Main Street.
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Finishing Touches, 119 S. Main St., this building is predominantly spotted in the background as Ray strolls the streets of Chisholm looking for Moonlight Graham. In the movie, you can recognize the building by the old vehicle parked in front of it.
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Champagne on Main, 116 S Main St., this scene features the third symbol of Ray’s apparent time-travel back to 1972. He spots an old car and rubs the dirt off the license plate to reveal the 1972 sticker confirming the travel back in time.
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Country Crafts & Sports, 113 S Main St., this location is the movie theater where Ray smirks at the marquee advertising The Godfather movie title, stating “One of this year’s ten best”. It's the second moment of Ray’s realization that he has travelled back in time.
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La Michoacana Galena, 110 S. Main St., Ray spots the Re-Elect Nixon presidential campaign poster. The first sign of Ray’s apparent time-travel back to 1972.
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Petals and Primitives, 111 S. Main St., is the first quick glimpse the viewers receive of Moonlight Graham, as he passes by in the background.
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Outside the Lines Art Gallery, 101 S. Main St., The iconic scene where Ray Kinsella meets Moonlight Graham for the first time.
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Big Bill's Sandwich Shop and Coffee Bar, 301 N. Main St., is the location featuring the bar scene where Terrence Mann interviews Chisholm locals about Dr. Archibald “Moonlight” Graham.
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Fritz & Frites Bistro, 317 N. Main St., The bar in this quaint restaurant is the bar used in the 'interview scene' mentioned above, with Terrance Mann and residents of Chisholm.
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Galena Chiropractic, 400 Broadway St., is the location of Moonlight Graham’s Optometrist office. During this scene, Ray and Archibald chat about his one game in the majors with no bat.
Take a self guided Field of Dreams tour as you explore downtown Galena.
Another don't miss is the Old Blacksmith Shop: 245 N Commerce St, Galena.
This beautifully preserved 19th-century blacksmith shop offers a rare glimpse into the craftsmanship and hard work that helped shape Galena’s early economy. Visitors can watch as skilled blacksmiths forge metal using traditional techniques, demonstrating the artistry and expertise that once played a crucial role in everyday life. The shop is filled with authentic tools, equipment, and original features, making it feel like you’ve stepped back in time. It's manned by a real blacksmith when during daily operating hours.
HOURS
May – October
Friday-Monday 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
ADMISSION
Adults: $5.00
Family: $15.00
Under 10: Free
Evening: You can choose the restaurant of your choice.
Jay's a steak and potatoes kinda guy. He also loves Greek food so Ashley and I had planned a special dinner treat for him as a thank you for all he does for us. The Log Cabin Greek Steakhouse: 201 N Main Street, Galena. $$$$
The man claimed he'd died and gone to "Greek Steak Heaven". Well he must've because he not only ate his entire steak but half of Ashley's and my steaks as well! ("I just want a taste...")
The Log Cabin Restaurant serves up mouth watering steaks in a specially prepared Greek style. The menu also includes Shish Kabob, Greek Scallops, Salmon as well as many other fine dishes. If you're going to splurge, this is the Galena restaurant to do it at!
It was recently featured on the TV show Check Please!
After dinner we went to the P.T. Murphy Magic Show: The setting is P.T.’s intimate 24 - seat theater located in the heart of historic downtown Galena at 204 Hill Street.
This show was fantastic - due not only to P.T.'s skill as a magician but because with only 24 seats in the theater, it's more of a personal, interactive experience. P.T. is known for his personable style, mischievous sense of humor and sophisticated sleight of hand, making this one of Galena's top attractions. Tickets sell out really fast because the show is limited to 24 seats so you need to purchase tickets as far in advance as possible. The show runs 65 minutes.
Click here for pricing and availability and up to date show schedule.
The show is recommended for 5 yrs and up. The show is not suitable for infants and toddlers.
After the show return to your accommodations and fall into bed exhausted like we did.
Day 2
Morning: If breakfast isn't included with your accommodations, give Charlie's Place a try: 200 N Main St, Galena. $$-$$$
Santa Fe Skillet
Charlie's Place Eatery is a diner favorite for breakfast with locals and visitors alike.
Charlie's offers great breakfast options and the food and service are both excellent.
Try their Santa Fe Skillet shown at left.
Scrumptious!
We decided we'd walk off breakfast by touring
Linmar Gardens.
Galena has beautiful parks but Linmar was our favorite just due to its beauty and landscaping.
The most spectacular feature of the gardens is a sunken garden that is built on the ruins of one of the first African-American churches of the state.
It's centrally located in the middle of the garden.
Ashley was anxious to get to our next activity so we didn't dilly dally in Linmar garden.
Meet the Tacktics Mini Herd.
9997 W Deininger Ln, Galena,
Tacktics offers what they call "Mini Experiences" with these miniature horses.
For $20 expect to meet the herd, feed them treats, learn to brush and lead them for 30 minutes.
You'll also learn about Mini horses and their history.
There is no riding the horses involved.
Kids under 5 are free.
I had to laugh and said to Jay "So we're paying $20 for Ashley to do the stable hands jobs for them...feed the horses, brush the horses, walk the horses...
are we idiots or what?"
Jay: "Well...when you put it that way - we're idiots!"
But Ashley had a ball with the horses so there were worse things we could've spent $20 on.
Afternoon: Have lunch at Campeche Restaurant: 230 N Commerce Street, Galena.
It's Taco Tuesday so tacos are only $3 each!
And Campeche's doesn't skimp on the fillings.
All 3 of us had lunch for under $25!
On Wednesdays, the restaurant features $3 off specialty dinners. There's also plenty of Happy Hour savings, such as Saturday 1/2 off cocktails from 3 pm to 5 pm.
Check their website for more deals!
Their tacos were YUM!
For your afternoon itinerary you can scope out some of Galena's historical sites like the Ulysses S. Grant home if you like.
Many of Galena's buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places.
We decided to return to the Beast as we were all tired and we wanted to be rested up for that evening. We took naps. It was just what we needed to feel refreshed.
Evening: We were going to give Ashley another taste of the 1950's. Drive just under 1 hour to Delmar, IA and the Voy 61 Drive In Movie Theater: the drive in is on Highway 61, Exit 153.
Ashley had never been to a drive-in theater before - and little wonder since there are only about 325 of them left in the entire U.S.
Gone are the speakers you used to hang on your car windows for the movie soundtrack...now you tune to a radio station. But the fun part of being at the drive-in was still there. Jay decided to be funny and sit on the car windshield to block my view - until I hit the windshield washers - which sent him flying off the hood of the car with a wet butt. Ashley decided maybe we Boomers knew how to have fun after all.
Admission to the drive-in is really reasonable compared to movie theater tickets today. $7 per adult, kids 4-12 cost $4 and kids 3 and under are FREE. And you see a movie double feature on weekends, not just one movie.
Money $aving Tip: Go on Tuesday and the price is $4 for everyone.
For the little ones, there's pre-movie activities:
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Swing Set
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Sandbox
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Tether Balls
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Whiffle Ball
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Basketball
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Volleyball
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Train Rides (weather permitting)
The car spaces fill up fast but you can park outside the drive-in and bring blankets and lawn chairs in to watch the movies that way from the lawn area.
For dinner we just picked up some to-go food to eat at the drive-in before the movies started. Of course, we sent Ashley to the concession stand to pick up popcorn and candy, just as we used to do.
She ultimately decided drive-in's were kind of fun.
After the movie we returned to Galena and the RV - and to more discussion about growing up in the 50's.
Day 3
Morning: If you need to grab breakfast, give Dillion's a shot: 701 Franklin St, Galena,
Dillon's is a local favorite known for its amazing breakfast and large portions. Despite being a pizza place and bar, it has garnered praise for its friendly and attentive service. Some describe it as a dive bar with incredible breakfast options, particularly recommending the Side Meat. The portions are so generous that a power nap might be necessary afterward.
All day & evening:
Time to Rock Around the Clock!
We spent our morning teaching Ashley 1950's dances since she knew none of them.
Granted, we couldn't throw each other around like we did as kids without throwing our backs out...and I'm sure our pacemakers were working overtime...but Jay and I still had the moves! (Much to Ashley's astonishment)
Yup, we old coots can still bust a move, Ash! By that evening we had that girl Jitterbugging like there was no tommorrow.
The sock hop was sponsored by Adam's Dance Connection.(They held another on March 1, 2025)
The sock hop kicks off with workshops at 10 am. Sign up for a workshop and your admittance to the sock hop is FREE.
The dance workshops covered 50's dances like the Jitterbug, East Coast Swing, Lindy Hop, Dips Tricks & Styling, and Country Swing.
Workshop tickets were $15 each and the workshops lasted 50 minutes.
Live Music from 7-10pm. Contests, Prizes, 50/50 Raffle, Food, Drinks, and Dancing.
Schedule of Events:
Workshops: 10 am to 4 pm
Sock Hop Doors Open: 5:00 pm
Birds Food Truck: 5-8:15 pm
Recorded 50s/60s Music: 5:30-6:30pm
Costume Contest: 6:30 pm
Live Music: 7 PM to 10 pm
Dance Contest: During Set Break
Tickets for the sock hop itself (if you didn't take a workshop) were $15 at the door.
Money $aving Tip: Bring a nonperishable item to donate to the food pantry and receive $5 off your entry fee at the door!!!
All three of us had such a good time at the sock hop, they ushered us out the door when they were ready to call it a night and close up the hall. And I think Ashley was beginning to see our generation in somewhat of a new light: "You guys, sock hops are DOPE! That was so much fun!"
Day 4
Morning: We decided to try breakfast at The Courtyard Restaurant at the DeSoto Hotel: 230 S Main St, Galena.
Photo credit: DeSoto Hotel
We loved that the atrium had such an open, airy feel to it and had been told they had a fantastic Sunday brunch. It was fantastic, featuring virtually any breakfast item you could think of. There was also a carving station and an omelet station.
Courtyard Hours:
Monday – Friday: 7:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday: 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
We'd brought our bikes along and decided to take a leisurely ride along a portion of the Galena River Trail.
Well, Jay and I took a liesurely ride. We had another 1950's surprise in store for Ashley.
My parents had held onto my first Schwinn bike and I'd brought it along for Ashley to ride.
First comment out of her: "There's no speeds or brakes on that thing!"
Uncle Jay: "Sure there are! Our bikes had 1 speed - as fast as you could pedal them. And to hit the brrakes just push the pedals in reverse!"
It's a good thing we didn't decide to do the whole 16 mile trail because about halfway down the trail Ashley yelled "OK THAT'S ENOUGH BIKING FOR ME!" and she walked her bike all the way back. LOL
Jay "You should be thankful we took pity on you and didn't clothespin a baseball card to the spokes!"
For your itinerary either walk or bike whatever portion of the trail you're comfortable doing.
The Galena River Trail offers 8.0 miles (one way) of scenic hiking, biking or cross country skiing for users. The hard surfaced finely crushed rock trail is open to the public at no cost. The surface is best suited for mountain bikes and hybrids, but road bikes are frequently seen on the trail.
Free parking is available at several trail entry areas, including the under the US Highway 20 bridge, Meeker Street at Field Street, Recreation Park, and at Aiken on South River Road.
While the trail officially ends at the intersection with South River Road at Aiken, users may make a right turn and continue 2.6 miles on lightly traveled South River Road to the base of Chestnut Mountain Resort. Please observe the rules of the road when travelling on roads. A shelter, bike pump, bike tools, and a porta potty are available roadside at the base of the ski slope. The resort offers free chair lift rides for cyclists wishing to visit the resort restaurants or amenities at the top of the slope.
Then again if you don't want to do the trail, visit Grant Park at the 600 block of Park Avenue.Named after general Ulysses S. Grant, the local celebrity, the Grant Park is a tribute to American history, with lots of statues and monuments. With playgrounds and picnic areas, this park is suited for the entire family.
Afternoon: Grab some lunch at Embe Eatery: 233 S Main St, Galena. (Across from the DeSoto Hotel)
Photo credit: Embe Eatery
Embe Eatery and Lounge is a low-key outpost in Galena, that has been serving homemade deli style food, American pub grub, cocktails, beer, and wine since 2011. The restaurant offers homemade dishes made from locally sourced ingredients and is known for its Biscuits and Gravy as well as signature Bloody Mary.
Yes, the sandwiches really are that big! Two people can easily split one. And the prices are really reasonable!
Monday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Saturday 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Sunday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
For dessert, we took Ashley to American Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor: 102 N Main Street, Galena.
It felt like you'd gone back in time to a 1950's soda fountain. Time for Ashley to see what a 1950's "date" usually consisted of. (Key word there: "usually". We didn't fill her in on the submarine races. Yeah, I can hear all of you fellow Boomers out there snickering!)
We're always on the lookout for non-typical tourist attractions and we found one we couldn't resist trying out.
If you’re in the market for truly unique activities, Galena Goat Yoga is one of the coolest things to do in Galena. 7306 US-20, Galena.
Goat yoga is exactly what it sounds like; it’s a practice of traditional yoga alongside adorable goats…yes, real ones!
Sessions are hosted at the nearby Silver Linings Farm. If you’ve never been to goat yoga, here’s what to expect: professionally-led yoga classes in a state-of-the-art pole barn with sweet goats meandering about.
Picture your downward dog with a goat perched upon your back.
The goat yoga experience features a 45-minute session of yoga with the goats, followed by 45 minutes of playtime with the livestock. Cost: $39 per person
Finally, you can end your visit to the farm with a “coffee & goats” session where you can gather with friends to enjoy a cup of joe amid wandering goats. 1 hour $25
Evening: Have dinner at Vinny Vanucchi's: 201 South Main Street, Galena.
Photo credit: Vinny Vannuci's
Vinny Vanucchi's is a charming Italian trattoria located in downtown Galena, offering a casual and stylish dining experience. The restaurant boasts a cozy atmosphere and friendly service, making it popular among families and groups. With a focus on traditional Italian cuisine made from scratch using recipes passed down through generations, Vinny Vanucchi's also features an impressive wine list and a deli with imported items.
Open Daily
11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Following dinner take the Galena Pirate Tour. Phone: 779-202-9138
This tour is a hoot!
From tales of brothels and boozing to scoundrels who were often (we know they were) pirates, there are plenty of stories about scallywags and ladies of the night here in this small Illinois river town. Imagine horse races in the street, lots of gambling, music and mayhem and that's Galena! The tour guide talks all about the petticoat crimes and debauchery, showcasing the real lives and real wickedness of early settlers.
"Forget dusty Civil War stories and uptight Victorians... we explore the WILD & WEIRD history of Galena, Illinois that is anything but boring! From Native American legends to French explorers, pirates, brothels, and ghosts, this town has truly seen it all! And Galena is OLD,
we go back waaaay before the '1826' year people like to assign us. In fact, if it weren't for a really powerful, great and slightly 'rotten' European king we wouldn't be who we are today (and he's not English). Our weird history tours dive deep into the strange characters, shocking stories, and spooky mysteries that shaped Galena. The Galena Pirate Tour is a unique blend of history and legend, offering a fun romp through our town's past! WE ARE NOT A BORING HISTORY TOUR! Audience engagement, humor, sarcasm and bawdy storytelling as well as really wild and weird histories abound as we uncover the wild side of Galena without sugarcoating the past."
Very entertaining. 2026 prices are not posted yet.
Be sure to check out their website for all of the tour's "do's and don'ts"!
Day 5
Otto's Place is a charming bi-level breakfast and lunch spot located in a historic building adorned with local art. It offers a cozy atmosphere that resembles a real house, making it the perfect place to enjoy a hearty meal.
The menu features popular American breakfast choices such as pancakes, omelettes, and skillet dishes. Tucked away from the bustling Main Street, Otto's Place provides an exceptional breakfast and brunch experience.
Photos credit: Otto's
After breakfast we went grocery shopping. Dinner that night was going to be a typical 1950's dinner.
PORK CHOPS & SCALLOPED POTATOES
GREEN BEANS AMANDINE
AMBROSIA SALAD
BUTTERMILK BISCUITS
RED VELVET CAKE
Jay and Ashley went out to play miniature golf while I got everything for dinner ready for later that evening. We made an R&R day of it. You may want to take an R&R day as well.
If you don't have kitchen facilities or don't want to cook, consider having dinner at Amelia's Under the Lamplight Dinner Theater: 129 S. Main Street, Galena.
Experience fine dining and exceptional entertainment in a unique Supper Club atmosphere.
Enjoy a 3-course dinner downtown Galena on the Historic Main Street, while professional entertainers swoon you with their comedic and musical performances.
Check out the calendar of events for a full list of performances and choose from one of six entrees offered each season. Salad, Bread and Dessert included in price. Full bar available and a fabulous wine list.
After our dinner, we watched a couple of 1950's movies.
Day 6
Time to leave the 1950's behind and return to 2025 and home.
During the years I had my party business I only had one client who requested a 1950's party, to be held at my house. (It was held at my house because there was a roller rink right down the road from me that party guests could easily walk to.)
I wouldn't expect anyone to take party staging as far as I did on my 1950's party but I want to show you what's possible.
There was a 1950's diner in a neighboring town that was going out of business because the owner was moving out-of-state to start a new job. He was selling off everything in the diner dirt cheap so he could get moved to the west coast and start his new job on time. I ran spending that money past my client first and told her after the party I could resell the booths, etc. for a profit and would give the money to her - which I did and I doubled what she'd paid for them.
The Coca Cola valances: I bought Coke fabric on sale ($6.52 per yard) and made the valances in under an hour, The ketchup and mustard bottles I had but you can find them at the dollar store. The clock I had hanging downstairs in my house. The only things I bought were the movie poster and the "lights" - which really weren't lights at all. They were plastic dishes from the dollar store that I spray painted after cutting the bases off of them.
By the way, those are my actual living room windows and the view of the lake out of them.
The carhop was one of the guest's teenage daughters and yes, she was on roller skates.
This is a mock up of another of my living room walls...
The soda fountain counter I made out of a refrigerator shipping box laid on its side, then I glued
styrene sheeting to the front and sides of it to give it added strength as we were using it to serve food.
The Coke machine is another corrugated refrigerator box. The door where the Coke bottles would show is just a piece of plexiglass.
I printed the ads on the front of the soda fountain counter on my computer printer, then framed them in cheap plastic frames from the dollar store.
The signage came from a secondhand store.
The traffic light bar light came from Amazon. $20
The Coke straw holder came from Amazon. $11
The glass shelf is one that hangs on that living room wall.
The shake glasses came from Amazon. $22 for 6 pack.
That wall cost under $100 to stage.
Odds are you won't find actual diner booths but here's the low cost alternative:
Use a card table and chairs (borrowed or rented if you don't have them) buy some Coca Cola fabric for a tablecloth and there ya go! Amazon also carries Coca Cola tablecloths and decor here and here!
If you don't want to use the Coke theme, then just buy 1950's type fabric to suit whatever theme you're using - for example, red checkered or polka dots.
Hang a couple of hula hoops on your wall or some vintage 1950's movie posters. Make a jukebox out of corrugated cardboard. You can even hang 50's clothing like a poodle skirt spread out on the wall.
Food/Menu
We served typical diner food - burgers, fries, shakes, etc. and served them in diner baskets.
I've done the dispenser at left as well.
Tip: Cut up the box a 24 pack of Coke cans comes in and glue that over your cardboard and you have a ready made Coke theme decorated dispenser.
No painting of the cardboard required.
1950's parties are so easy to stage.
In another part of my living room I hung some old vinyl 45 records I had.
We put burger condiments in condiment trays our carhop took to the booths.
Games/Activities
There are other games one can do with hula hoops as well, like the relay race in the video at right.
ROLLER SKATING
For my party there was a roller skating rink not 2 blocks from my house so our main party activity was a roller skating party.
HULA HOOP CONTEST
No 50's party would be complete without a hula hoop contest to see who can keep their hula hoop twirling the longest.
NAME THAT TUNE
Play Name That Tune with popular 1950's songs.
You can play snippets of songs (without giving away the titles) - OR - Lots of sheet music can be found on the Internet, with some searching. The trick is to print out key parts of each song (ones that would be recognizable without giving the song away too much…definitely not a part containing the title.) CUT OUT parts to the songs (one musical line to a half sheet.) The fun for your guests will be to try and figure out which popular 50s song is shown by only seeing a portion of the lyrics and musical notes. You can either post these snippets around the party on walls or you can make multiple copies (fitting a few on a page) and pass them out to your guests to enjoy trying to figure them out throughout the evening.
50's BINGO
Sometimes the best game for a retro 1950s party is a very retro game!
Bingo is a GREAT game for so many reasons including all ages can play, you can play multiple rounds and the rules are easy to follow!
You can download a set of 1950s Bingo card HERE!
WHO WROTE THAT SONG?
This is a great game that can passively last throughout the entire party. Create several records to post throughout the party area out of paper or cardboard. However, do not place all of them in easily found locations. Some of them can be in plain view (so that everyone can find a few) but most hide a bit out of site. On each of the records, write a famous 50s decade song along with its corresponding musical artist. Provide for each of your guests to have a copy of a list of all the songs to find. Next to each of the songs, they are to write the artist who wrote the song. Now, many of your guests might be able to write in several of the answers without having to find the records, which is fine. The goal is to be the first to fill out all the artists’ names by either
knowing them outright, finding the record or combinations thereof. You can also instruct them that all completed sheets can be turned in to you by a certain time, then a raffle can be held among all those that are turned in for a prize. A third variation would be to offer a raffle ticket for each correct answer (the more they answer, the better chance they’ll have to win a prize at the raffle.)
1950's TREASURE HUNT
A complete 1950s themed adventure treasure hunt - all ready to be downloaded, printed and set up. This complete package includes five, ready to be set up adventure treasure hunt clues and puzzles - for five separate locations in your treasure hunt.
This hunt is not a bunch of random word searches and paper mazes..The whole adventure treasure hunt is bound together by a central story: Who stole this year's National Bandstand Sock Hop winners trophy? Your guests will have fun trying to figure that out! Just fill in the locations specific to your playing area or city, make the needed copies and you are ready to go.
Already working on a treasure hunt of your own? No problem, these puzzles were cleverly designed to be inserted into a treasure hunt of your own, as well. Use just one or use all five.
Download the treasure hunt HERE
CREATE A DRIVE-IN MOVIE IN YOUR HOME
You can do this either indoors or outdoors. I've done it for other parties and kids especially love it.
Up your game for your next family movie night and make it a drive-in
How to Transform Your Backyard into the Ultimate Home Drive-In Everyone Will Love!
I even built my own movie concession stand out of an old bookshelf I was going to get rid of.
I added my own tabletop vintage popcorn machine to it.
Optional: Add some movie theater popcorn boxes to make it more realistic.
For your movies, show 1950's popular movies:
1950'S SLANG CONTEST
The slang of the 1950s reflected the mood of the decade. It is fair to say that 1950s slang was a vernacular that became a primal language for teenagers who sought independence and liberation while also continuing to reflect the traditional values and lifestyle of the times.
Make a list of slang terms for each party guest, leaving a space to write the definition of the slang term in. Whoever gets the most slang terms correct, wins a prize.
TEACH YOUR GUESTS SOME 50'S DANCE MOVES
Dancing was a huge party activity in the 50s and still is today. What can we say? Humans love to get down and boogey. Instead of bumping and grinding or whatever new TikTok dance is circling its way across the internet, try your hand at these 50s staples.
Kids love doing the Hand Jive!
Ashley's report and presentation on her trip? She aced it, even convincing Uncle Jay to come to her class to teach the kids 50's dance moves and demonstrate them by dancing them together.
I was told when her teacher asked her "What's the most important thing you learned on your trip?" Ashley responded "That Boomers may be old but they're a LOT of fun to hang out with and can teach us a lot. We shouldn't look down on people older than us, they're smarter than we are."