DeSoto House Hotel

DeSoto House Hotel is located at 230 S Main St in the heart of historic Galena, Illinois. Opened on April 9, 1855, it is recognized as the oldest operating hotel in Illinois. Its Main Street location puts guests within easy walking distance of many of Galena’s shops, restaurants and historic attractions.

The hotel was built during Galena’s mid-19th-century mining and commercial boom. The original building had five stories and 225 guest rooms. It also became part of the city’s political history: Abraham Lincoln spoke from its Main Street balcony on July 23, 1856; Stephen A. Douglas spoke from the same balcony in 1858; and Ulysses S. Grant later used rooms 209 and 211 as his presidential campaign headquarters. The property underwent a major restoration between 1985 and 1986.

Today, DeSoto House offers 55 individually decorated Victorian-style guest rooms and suites, all non-smoking. The hotel lists oversized rooms, high ceilings, wireless internet, in-room coffee and tea service, bottled water and complimentary enclosed parking among its guest amenities. Some suites include a separate sitting parlor and fireplace. Published check-in is 3:00 p.m. and check-out is 11:00 a.m.

The hotel has three on-site dining venues: Courtyard Restaurant, set in a four-story atrium and serving breakfast and lunch; Green Street Tavern & Restaurant, a casual pub-style option; and Generals’ Restaurant, which offers casual fine dining in the evening. The property also includes a ballroom, meeting and banquet rooms, specialty shops and a private parking garage.

For travelers interested in Galena’s history, the DeSoto House is more than a place to stay: it is one of the city’s surviving 19th-century landmarks and a convenient base for exploring the historic downtown on foot.

Maskay verified the current business presence, address, contact information and official website on August 17, 2026. Rates, promotions, availability, policies, restaurant hours and amenities can change; travelers should confirm current details for their specific travel dates before booking.