Midwest Gem Announces Its Fall Line-Up For Get-Aways

Midwest Gem Makes A Great Seasonal Escape for Families, Friends & Couples

Midwest gem, Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa, set on 6,800 acres in The Galena Territory just six miles from downtown Galena, offers the best of Midwest autumn — from brilliant foliage and harvest flavors to Halloween thrills and Thanksgiving traditions — all within a short drive from Chicago, Madison, Milwaukee and the Quad Cities.

Guests can enjoy midweek retreats for peak fall colors, girlfriend getaways to Highlands restaurant for Oktoberfest, or family trips for Galena’s famed Halloween Parade. Outdoor adventures include hiking, biking, golf and horseback riding, with relaxation at the award-winning Stonedrift Spa or fireside in the evening.

WHAT:

Seasonal getaways featuring fall foliage, festive dining, holiday celebrations, spa escapes and outdoor adventures

WHERE:

Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa, 444 Eagle Ridge Drive, Galena, Illinois

DISTANCES:

2½ hours from Chicago; 30 minutes from Dubuque, Iowa; 1½ hours from Davenport, Iowa; 3 hours from Milwaukee; 1 hour from Madison, Wisconsin

WHEN:

September – November 2025

WEBSITE:

More information: www.eagleridge.com

Some Fall 2025 Highlights

Fall Foliage Getaways & Golf Course Tours – Mid-September through Late October

Midweek retreats feature lodging specials, spa treatments, and scenic outdoor recreation—hiking, biking, horseback riding, and golf amid The Galena Territory’s vibrant autumn colors. Guests can also enjoy guided golf-cart tours through the resort’s fairways for a unique, up-close view of the stunning fall foliage—perfect for a romantic outing or a leisurely afternoon with friends.

Oktoberfest – October 2025

Highlands, the resort’s restaurant, serves a traditional Oktoberfest menu with hearty German fare and autumn beverages. Guests may also relax with spa treatments or explore hiking, biking, and golfing trails.

Fear Forest Haunted Experience – Select Nights in October

At the Shenandoah Riding Center within The Galena Territory, Fear Forest invites guests to walk a chilling, haunted trail through the woods. The immersive 30-minute experience includes food and beverage offerings and requires navigating uneven terrain. Eagle Ridge lodging packages include tickets and shuttle service. The event will be held at Shenandoah Riding Center on Oct. 12, 19, and 25 from 7 to 10 p.m.

Galena Halloween Parade – Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025

Galena’s 45th Annual Halloween Parade & Festival, billed as the Tri-State area’s largest and spookiest, features spectacular floats, marching bands, costumed participants, prizes and treats, plus a Kids Fest and Food Festival. Shuttle service to Main Street will be available for all resort guests. Guests may enjoy the parade in town, then return to the resort to relax lakeside or with a warm beverage by the fire.

Halloween Party at Highlands – Friday, Oct. 31, 2025

Open to the public, the restaurant hosts an evening of themed dishes and drinks, complete with live music from 10 Gallon Hat, a popular local band with a huge following. The night will also feature a costume contest with prizes. Guests may pair the evening celebration with daytime recreation such as golf, spa treatments, or exploring the resort’s scenic fall trails.

Thanksgiving Weekend & Santa’s Arrival – Nov. 27–30, 2025

The holiday season begins with a festive Thanksgiving buffet featuring more than 50 seasonal dishes, along with holiday crafts and entertainment for all ages. On Friday, Nov. 28, Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive to host storytime, cookie decorating, and “Santa’s Workshop.” Evenings feature outdoor bonfires, s’mores, and screenings of holiday favorites under the stars. Inn guests booking two nights receive the third night free; villa guests enjoy 50 percent off the third night.

Room rates typically start at $159 per night, with private homes and condos available to rent through Eagle Ridge. Spa, holiday and seasonal packages are available. For details or reservations, visit www.eagleridge.com or call 800-892-2269.