The DeSoto House Hotel opened its doors in 1855 and continues to welcome guests with hospitality, charm, and history, awarding the title of "Illinois' Oldest Operating Hotel". Since 1855 they have been the premier location for Galena's most beautiful weddings. Nestled on Main Street in the heart of downtown Galena, they are surrounded by Galena's architecture and history. Just walk out our front door and you are on Main Street amidst everything Galena has to offer, and just outside their back door is beautiful Grant Park.

Facilities and Capacity

They offer the perfect enchanting setting for ceremonies and receptions from small intimate gatherings to large formal events. Room sizes vary from intimate rooms accommodating 2-25 to the spacious Victorian Ballroom which hosts 120 people for dinner followed by dancing in the four-story Courtyard Atrium. Their banquet facilities offer a unique and perfect ambiance for beautiful memories.

Services Offered

A team of dedicated sales staff will work with you to make your day everything you dreamed it would be. They are delighted to host ceremonies, receptions, and rehearsal dinners. They offer a generous selection of delicious dining options and customize your package to fit your event. From the proposal to the "I do" these staff will work with you to make sure your planning process is easy and stress-free.

History

Once the principal river port of the Upper Mississippi Valley, Galena reached its economic peak during the 1850's. With the coming of the Illinois Central Railroad, a group of local investors formed the "Galena Hotel Company" and built a grand hotel to reflect the growing prosperity of this "Metropolis of the Northwest". Named for the discoverer of the Mississippi River, the DeSoto House opened on April 9, 1855, and was billed as the "Largest Hotel in the West". Throughout the years this venue has welcomed such memorable guests as Abraham Lincoln, William Jennings Bryan, as well as serving as presidential campaign headquarters for Ulysses S. Grant just to name a few. The DeSoto House has come full circle. From the grand opening in Galena's glory days, through economic change and misfortune to once again offering deluxe accommodations and superior service in a most historic setting. If one listens closely enough, one can hear DeSoto's rich heritage whispering of historic conversations and music from the grand balls of days gone by. This management team invites you to enjoy your time and it is their honor to add your name to their list of notable guests.

Location

Located in the heart of downtown Galena they are within walking distance to shopping, dining, many historic sights, and their beautiful Grant Park and Galena River. This location boasts that many visitors park their car at arrival and don't return to it until they are ready to go home. Photo opportunities are endless and locals are more than willing to provide you with historic knowledge and little facts about the town that time forgot.