Galesburg, population 33,706, is a railroad hub with a thriving cultural scene and prairie farmland surroundings. The city is home to Knox College, a private school founded by anti-slavery social reformers.
Along Seminary Street Historic Commercial District more than 20 specialty shops, an antique mall and restaurants are housed in restored 1880s buildings. Galesburg Railroad Museum and Discovery Depot Children's Museum explore the city's train history. More than 300 businesses including restaurants, shops, antique stores and art galleries are located downtown.
The restored 1900s Orpheum Theatre is Galesburg's main entertainment venue, featuring local performances, national speakers, musical acts and dance companies. Knox College's Old Main, the preserved site of the fifth Lincoln-Douglas debate, and the Carl Sandburg State Historic Site, birthplace and museum of this Lincoln biographer are the area's top historical attractions.
Galesburg hosts a variety of festivals. Highlights include the three-day Rootabaga Jamm Jazz Festival in March; Galesburg Railroad Days, in June; and in July, Art-in-the-Park. Lake Storey Recreational Area offers a water park and golf course, along hiking, snowmobiling, swimming, canoeing and camping.
Galesburg is located 45 miles northwest of Peoria and 45 miles south of Quad Cities. It is accessible via Interstate Highway 74 and U.S. Highways 34 and 50. Lodging options include: bed and breakfasts and national hotel/motel chains.
