Pardon the pun, but bakeries are a dime a (baker’s) dozen; a mainstay in pretty much every small town and big city across the U.S. Even if you eschew the bakery behemoths for the little, locally-owned bakeshops, you’ll still find lots of options for coffee and a tasty treat wherever you travel or find yourself.

Galena, Illinois, is certainly no exception. This picturesque and historic small town in the Northwestern corner of Illinois is about as charming as it gets. Home to a small-but-mighty population of 3,200, Galena is the kind of place folks go to settle down and raise a family; a sleepy little locale with a bustling business district and oodles of small-town pride. And bakeries. Yes indeed, Galena might be small, but it’s teeming with bakeries — on Main Street alone, there are several. None, however, are quite as delightfully delicious and impossibly charming as Galena Bakehouse.

Galena Bakehouse opened in September 2021 and has quickly become a beloved community cornerstone. It’s no surprise, though, as the bakehouse is owned and operated by two of the most delightful and inspired proprietors, a duo that came to Galena from the hustle and bustle of New York City to give “small town life a try.” And we’re so glad they did.

Interested to learn about other unique American small businesses? Our Small Business Spotlight series highlights the often-overlooked work of small business owners across the country, from Maine to Southern California.

 

Many thanks to Alex and Geoff for sharing the story of their delightful Illinois bakery. Learn more about Galena Bakehouse at its websiteFacebook, and Instagram pages.

Of course, Galena Bakehouse is just one of the many amazing small businesses in Illinois; please nominate your favorite attractions and businesses for a chance to be featured in an upcoming Only In Illinois article. And be sure to follow Only In Illinois on Facebook and Instagram to learn about this region of the Land of Lincoln’s most incredible places, attractions, and events.

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