Ulysses S. Grant Home Reviews

We opted to skip the house tour but walked around the grounds, near the statue of Julia Dent Grant, walked inside the General Store and threw pennies into the wishing Spittoon in the historical house. The grounds are very well maintained and i think it is worth the stop even if you plan to do it 'free' and go without the tour.

After visiting the Grant/Dent farm in St Louis last summer we were excited to see their Galena home this year. The home was small and the tour short, but the docent gave good information and seemed genuinely interested and well versed in the subject matter.

If you like history and especially Civil War history this is a must see. Most all furnishings belonged to US and Julia Grant. The tour guide was very informative.

Attempted to take my mother to tour the Mansion only to be told that we'd need to wait outside for another 30 minutes because everyone else in line went in front of us. My mother struggled to get up the stairs to the Mansion in the first place as there is nothing accessible about the property. The woman guiding the tour saw my mother holding herself up with her cane and still decided that she needed to wait another 30 minutes outside in 90 degree heat. The selfishness of people along with the complete lack of empathy from the tour guide were incredibly hurtful to my mother.

Grant’s home had much of the original furniture. The guide was well informed and provided interesting information on the Grant family. The setting was very nice too. It was possible to take photos too.

Super nice. Super super nice / quaint lil town.
A day trippers must do.

Scenic area, hilly quant simple folks.
2 days would be perfect finding lodging would be easy.

The home itself is very well kept, parking could be hit or miss, a second lot is available as well

Enjoy filling your mind

If your into history and well preserved homes, this is worth seeing. Many original items still in home and nearly all architecture original.

It was nice to see, but the tour of the house itself is not self guided, you need to wait on the porch until someone comes to do the tour, the sign says 5-10 minutes, but it sure seemed a lot longer. overall it was interesting but not fantastic.

My wife and I have toured the Ulysses S. Grant home in Galena, Illinois, on several occasions over the years. It is the most popular tourist attraction in this historic town and we have never tired of listening to a guide and strolling from room to room of the two-story red brick home that was constructed in 1859-1860, was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1960 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966. Located at 500 Bouthillier Street, on the east side the Galena River, atop a hill overlooking downtown Galena, it was a gift from the city of Galena to its favorite son, a Civil War hero, who lived in the house from 1865 to 1868 when he left for Washington D.C. to become the 18th president of the United States. On this occasion, Katharine was our guide. Very personable, very knowledgeable, very humorous, very informative. Most of what you see in the house is original, including the tub that all the Grants bathed in every Saturday night--father, mother, four children, all in the same water. There is Grant's favorite chair and his cigar stand, the original fireplace, Julia Dent Grant's family Bible, a painting on the wall over the fireplace depicting Grant being commissioned as Lieutenant General by Abraham Lincoln and Elihu Washburne and red vases on the mantle, which were gifts to Grant from the King of Bulgaria during his world tour in 1878. Ninety percent of the living room, dining room and bedroom furniture is original, as it appeared in the 1860s. An adjacent building features exhibits about Grant and the history of the home.

This is a quick tour through a historic home. Many items were owned by the Grant family. My family enjoyed viewing the historic pieces and learning more about the life back then. Free will donation for tour but suggested costs were $5 for adults and $3 for children I believe. The guide was knowledgeable and guided us through the lower level of the home. The top floor was self guided. Grounds were beautiful with several things to explore outside.

We were wise to check the website before traveling. Limited availability means book on Eventbrite early. This is a great glimpse into 19th century history. The guides were very informative and knowledgable. For example, when asked, they knew what house Grant inhabited when he returned to Galena before the Civil War. The grounds are on the high point east of Galena so you can enjoy pretty views year-round. The statue of Mrs. Grant is not a great portrayal, but it does honor her nonetheless. Be sure to check out the paintings throughout the house - and ask to see the bronze bath tub (complete with drain) in the back of the kitchen.

Our tour guide was very knowledgeable! It’s a beautiful home with original pieces of furniture and China. If you’re a history buff, you should definitely carve out 30 minutes to enjoy this.

This tour was very interesting and informative. Loved seeing all the things original to Ulysses Grant home . Lynn our tour guide was a great story teller. Highly recommend!

A beautiful, intimate glimpse of the family life of a postwar President Grant. The tour was engaging, fun, and interesting. I recommend devoting 90 minutes for touring the house and the grounds. I was passing through Galena and was thrilled to take this delightful detour.

Nice complex where the home is located. Grounds are immaculate. Historically accurate. Informational.

It was interesting to tour the home. This is the home the town gave him after the Civil War & not the home they lived in before the Civil War. That home is still standing, is vacant & for sale. There is no indication it was once the home of the Grant family.

Even though Grant only lived here for a year, this home is a great historical stop! Most of the furniture is authentic and was used by Grant and his family. Our tour guide, Katherine, was the sweetest lady and gave great information about the family and the home!

Very knowledgeable docent. Informative and fascinating look back in our history. It is rare to have a famous home that has never changed hands with all the family furniture still in place. It is worth the time to see it.

Perhaps one of the most amazing things about this place is that pretty much all of the furniture is ORIGINAL to the house! == This is a lovely house on a hill near the downtown area. You wait outside on a bench for the next tour guide to let you in. You put a donation in the box inside. The guide takes you to all the major rooms, and explains both the history of Grant & his family, and what each room represented. The building has two stories, and then another small building outside. The guide is excellent, both in telling the complete history, and in her voice (so it's not boring). Imagine a president not having indoor plumbing; and a tiny stove & no live-in servants... so many cool details... and the extra bldg. has an exhibit that shows how many pets each president had, using tiny sculptures! so many cool things. --- they do have a very small gift shop in the final room, mainly books & postcards.

My girlfriend and I made this the first stop on a February Saturday in Galena. The house's holdings are almost all original to the Grant family, and because of the timing of the Grant family's residency, the tour includes information about their lives before and after the presidency. Excellent way to begin a day in Galena!

Beautifully preserved piece of history. Lots of details about a great President. We really enjoyed the knowledgeable guide and the ability to take the tour at our own pace. The display of White House China was very cool.

As always, the tour staff is knowledgeable, the house is amazingly well preserved, and the home is a great way to start off a Galena trip! Great for all ages, some access issues if you are unable to handle stairs but can still maneuver through the first floor.

This was a very interesting tour and it was nice to be able to go upstairs in the house. The guides were knowledgeable and friendly. Sadly, not much in the house is original to the Grant family. Admission fee is a suggested donation. The outbuildings of the house have some interesting displays including Pets of the Presidents and rocks painted with the presidents and first ladies.

While I didn’t go inside the home, I thoroughly enjoyed the grounds and exploring the adjacent historic buildings. Further up the hill is a large cemetery with headstones dating to the late 1800s.

Great guided tour. Lasts about 35 minutes and is free but donations are appreciated. Interesting information about the personal life of our 18th president.

This tour was great! It was 100° outside but nice and cool inside! I brought my kids (12 years- 4 years) and they enjoyed it. Our guide, Terry, was great! He made sure to include my kids on the tour and was able to engage with them easily! I would recommend this tour to anyone!

This is such an outstanding historical home to tour. Our server at Frank O'Dowds told us it was a don't miss in Galena and so we had to come. She had said they had almost all the original furnishings which they did and it was so fun to see this piece of The Grant family history. Our tour guide was so informative and it was really neat to see the same furnishings used by the family right in front of you and in the paintings hanging on the walls at the same time! Our guide was very informative and even though it wasn't a long tour it's a must see.

Great tour by knowledgeable guide! Authentic family items throughout, and you see nearly every part of the home. An excellent experience learning of the humble, hardworking couple the Grants were after the war and before the White House. Enjoy this special place!

Enjoyed seeing Grant's home, seeing how he lived and hearing about his family. Despite Grant's stature, the house was pretty "normal" which Mrs. Grant making dinner and taking care of her family and home. Worth a visit.

Good visit to historical home. Grant had this home for 16 years but only lived in it for about 18 months (due to the Civil War and family travels). Many items are original. History was interesting. Our tour guide did a wonderful job.

This was a very nice visit. Loved all the history and that almost everything (item wise) was original. It's shouldn't be missed especially if you are a history buff.

We really enjoyed our tour of the Grant home, especially the fact that most of the furnishings were original to the home. Guides were informative and interesting.

If you, like me, love this kind of stuff: you will like the Grant home. You probably could have guessed that.
If your spouse/kids hate this kind of stuff, they will be fine. It’s a short tour (less than an hour to see the whole site) and small donation per head.

Great tour. Guide was very knowledgeable. Furniture was original and interesting. Stories about Grant were interesting.

Very historic and knowledgeable tour guides. They only allow 16 per tour group, so you may have to wait 20 minutes for the next tour. The house is furnished to Grants period with most original pieces and some replicas. Over all an interesting and thorough tour. A must see if in Galena.

Our guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. It was an excellent peek into the past. Having so many original pieces of the Grants still in the house made the tour even more fascinating. Great place for older children and couples.

We walked right up and were able to get in at the next scheduled "start" time.
At the start, guests view a short video by actors portraying President and Mrs. Grant. It kind of set the stage for the led and self-directed tour to follow.
Our tour guide was pleasant and certainly knowlegable, if a little bit quick in moving room-to-room. The self-directed portion of the tour was really neat.
They have a lot of Grant memorabilia and Civil War Era items spread throughout. I'm a geek for that stuff, and so I could have remained there for much more time. The employees do not push you at all and you can take as long as you like.
The U.S. Grant home is well worth your time if you're in Galena. Fascinating!

excellent tour of President Grant’s home.
The tour guide was very, very interesting and he took you back in time.
Would highly recommend this tour.

Wonderful experience. Chuck was a great tour guide. Our elementary school aged children enjoyed the tour as much as we did! Be sure to book online in advance as COVID restrictions in IL are constantly changing. Total time spent about 30 minutes, well worth it.

Historic Grant home in Galena is a nice afternoon activity. Tour guides were great and very informative about the Grant family and the residence.

Limited number on tour due to Covid. They did well, good docents and interesting history. Well organized with an intro outside, then room to room

This was our first stop in Galena. This giuded tour of President Grants home us a must see for all ages. The home has nearly all of the original furnishings and what has been replaced is authentic to it's time. Walk the same halls as our former president and his family did while learning a bit of his very interesting life. While the sign said $5 entry fee, there were simply donation boxes at the doors. Well worth that donation, though. There was a family with younger kids in our group that really seemed to enjoy it, too. A must see!

This is a great tour of a beautiful and historic home. The guides are informative as they discuss the history, main features and furniture in the home.

We really enjoyed the tour of the Ulysses S. Grant Home. It wasn’t a long tour, but for $5, it is certainly worth the time and money to learn more about this important former resident of Galena.

US Grant lived here after the Civil War. Lots of Grant items available with a few period pieces added in. There is a tour and out docent was knowledgeable. Good views from home.

The home is gorgeous and has 95% of the furnishings from when the Grants were there. There is a sign on the front porch to not knock and wait 10-15 min for the next tour. We waited at least 20 min, and our tour guide was knowledgable but not very welcoming.

Here they have a suggested donation ($5) tour every 15 minutes, but there were a lot of people waiting for it, and it could only have 16 people at once. The small exhibit behind the house about presidential pets was fun.

This was a great history lesson! It’s definitely a must-stop for your first trip to Galena. I do wish the “tour groups” had been made smaller. The house was far too small to have 16 people tour together.

Definitely stop in to learn more about President Grant. He was not the drunk history makes him out to be. The guide and quotations from his children paint a picture of a loving family man. You'll be surprised to hear about his strong, independent wife too. Most of the furniture is original to the home. It's interesting to see how simply they lived.

Tours every 15-20 minutes by knowledgeable docents. No charge but a $5-$10 donation suggested. If you are a history buff or interested in how people lived in the 1860’s this is a good spot to visit.

Most of the items in the house are original, and our tour guide was very knowledgeable! There is a gift shop out back next to the restrooms.

This house is great for anyone with a love of history, the American Civil War, or Ulysses S. Grant. It is well preserved with much of the original or time period-specific decor. The tours happen every fifteen minutes or so with knowledgeable and friendly guides. It’s a small house, so you don’t need more than an hour. Donations are appreciated. It’s super easy to find.

Well maintained former home of Grant. Took the tour and it's clear the guide had a real love for the house and its history.

We were only able to tour the first floor of the main house of Grant's. The people were very informative and helpful but we were very restricted in what we could see.

If you enjoy touring historic homes, this one is a must-see in Galena. It’s a surprisingly modest abode. The tour was informative and interesting. 30 minutes is plenty of time to allow.

Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable. My husband had so many questions and each where answered in such detail.

At first I thought I would be disappointed when I realized that Grant had only lived in this house a short time but I was gladly proven wrong! The guides were awesome and the glimpse back in time was awesome. I also learned more about Grant & his presidency and life.

An important part of history. When I was a little girl of maybe six or seven years old I remember going through the Ulysses S Grant home with my family. I haven’t been there for almost 60 years so of course I had to revisit it again when in Galena. I’m assuming not much has changed since they have preserved this home since the late 1860s. Of course this time I was much more interested in the story than I was when I was a little girl. Thanks to the state of Illinois for preserving this wonderful site along with the furnishings of the family. The tour seemed rather short And I think there could’ve been more time spent on the actual history with he and his wife but that’s because I’ve read more about him than probably many people that visit. All in all a very enjoyable experience.

Quick, family friendly tour of a home of a former president. Knowledgeable about Grant and Galena. Low cost, donation based

December was such a perfect time to do this tour. No line for the tour to begin. Our tour guide was so knowledgeable. The sign said tours were 25-30 min long but we were able to spend 45 minutes learning here. You’re able to see all rooms on both floors.

If you like history, you will really enjoy this tour...it's not very long, but is filled with lots of information

Lovely home with authentic furnishings, etc., in the home. Very good tour guide. Short tour of about 25 minutes. Closed Monday/Tuesday. Go early.

Ms Katherine of President Ulysses Grant’s home gave us a tour. Two interesting facts are prominent in my memory.

First was that 10 businessmen in Galena, IL bought the house for the Grants in 1865 for $2,500.00. Second, the house has a bathtub made of copper. All six members of the Grant family took a bath in the same hot water in the tub in this order: father, mother, eldest to youngest child. At that time, there was no running water. They had to fetch water from the well, boil it and fill the tub.

The house is situated on a hill with a nice view all around (ref. Pictures uploaded).

Ms. Katherine did not start her tour until after we dropped a $5 “donation” per adult. Therefore, there is a fee.

Easy to get to, good guides, good parking. Grant's history in Galena is probably not widely known. Combining a visit here with a visit to the US Grant Museum (in town) is a great way to experience it.

Even though our tour guide was hilariously badly-mannered AND poorly-informed, I really liked spending time in the Grant home and seeing the other exhibits on the grounds, particularly the "Pets of the Presidents" exhibit! The view of Galena from the Julia Dent sculpture on the west side of the premises was especially pleasant too. Will be back...hopefully with a different tour guide leading, this time.

We learned a lot about Grant, his Family, In-Laws and how people lived during this time period in Galena. Out Tour Guide was great and sincerely appreciated. This is a Do Not Miss place to visit!

This house has been cared for by it's caretakers lovingly. Most of the furniture is true to Grant's lifetime. They restore when they need to & keep it as authentic as possible. They give a great history lesson also.

We took our 4 teenagers to this place while on vacation. They all complained that we were going to some boring museum but once the tour was over they all said they were so glad we went. The home is beautiful and so interesting to see. The tour guides kept the kids interest and were very well versed on the history of the place. Since we went in the winter we were only allowed to visit Grants house. In the summer there are several homes to tour on the property. Definitely worth the 5 bucks per person donation. I highly recommend.

While in need of a little repair, this was an enjoyable visit to a period home of a famous general. The docents were well versed and clearly enjoyed their roles of guiding tours. The room contained much original Grant furniture. The whole visit was about an hour, and a hour well spent.

A very nice tour of an American President/Civil War General. Quite abbreviated, though, due to the Covid.

Our guide was very knowledgeable and we learned a lot about the Grant family and era. Everyone should make this a must when visiting Galena.

The top floor was closed due to Coronavirus, but the rest of the house was so neat to see. Amazing that so much of the furniture is original. The guides are very knowledgeable. The number of people allowed is limited--so make reservations in advance.

Our tour guide was very well informed and gave us a great tour of the house. With a suggested donation of $5.00 per adult and $3.00 per child, this tour was certainly worth every cent.
It was quite interesting to learn that the citizens of Gelina gifted the home and most of the furniture to the Grants in recognition of his service in the Civil War. We also learned that they had no servants and that the Grant family stayed together (often on or near the front lines) throughout the Civil War.

This was a very enjoyable tour. The tour guide made it especially interesting. She was very knowledgeable. Don’t mistake the future site of the Grant museum with his house (we almost did). There are steps to climb. Admission cost is a suggested donation of $5. If you go into the gardens to see the statue of Julia Grant, beware of the bees! They were VERY aggressive.

We truly enjoyed visiting Grant's home. The furnishings were all original to the home and it was incredible to see how the Grant's lived. We took an amazing step back in time.

My boyfriend and I just happened to be staying near the home and decided we would check it out on the way to town. I was pleasantly surprised at how interesting the tour ($5 suggested donation- worth it) was and how many artifacts in the home are original to the Grant family.

Great tour of Gen. Grant’s home. Well with the history and antiques! I have been several times and always learn something new!

Well worth the donation! There is a flight of steep stairs, but even if you didn't go upstairs, it's worth it. Go on a non rainy day because you have to wait outside for your tour to start.

Went there yesterday around four. No charge but ask for five dollars each. The tour guide knew her stuff. The is a tiny building behind the home that has some presidential things. In one case it had different presidents on rocks. They do need to update them. Missing the last couple presidents. Also, when some of them died. I would say we were there maybe a half hour.

Great experience we learned alot about the 18th president usa the house is beautiful love the experience I will recommend to do this if you here in galena

We went for a tour on a Saturday morning around 11. Free parking is available in a few lots nearby. The line for the tour is outside on the porch. We had to wait about a half hour. They allow 15 people per tour and it probably takes about 30 min. The main level is a guided tour & upstairs is self-guided. Was nice to see actual furniture used by the president and hear about the family’s time in Galena. Suggested donation is $5 per person. A great piece of history to see!

A must for every American! Grant was instrumental in saving the union. This house was given to him by citizens of Galena at the end of the war. The docents were great and told many interesting stories about Grand and his family.

The tour of Grant's home is a must-do if you are in Galena. The tour guides are very knowledgeable and able to answer questions that aren't part of a script (unlike another house tour in town). The home is filled with authentic furniture, paintings and other possessions of the Grant family. Lots of history here!

Entry is free, but a $5 donation per person is recommended. It is well worth the money.

We have decided to go in after passing by it many times. This is a must while in Galena, as you get engulfed in great history facts. The famous General and President spent many years here. 90% of the inside is original from Grant’s time here. No entrance fee but donation (5$/pers) is sugested.

This was a home Grant and his wife lived in for a few years after his presidency. If you love old homes, you will appreciate that 90% of the furnishings were the ones the Grants actually used. The docent was friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating. The tour groups are limited to 16 people, and there is not a good place to wait for about 15 minutes if you don't make the cut. On a chilly day in November, that was a problem, but the tour was worth it.

Excellent tour. Guide very knowledgeable. Home tastefully restored to original condition. Free to visit with request for donation.

Our tour guide, Kathryn, was amazing. She kept us enthralled and entertained. She was very knowledgeable and had a wonderful sense of humor! I felt like I was back in time because her descriptions and explanations made me feel as though I was there.

Grant’s home is, of course, a must see. It is a beautiful home and has furnishings that are original to the home. The guide did a great job and made the tour interesting. The grounds and home are well worth seeing.

My wife and I visited the Grant home on our recent visit to Galena. House tours begin on the half-hour and are now limited to 16 people because of COVID. Our hostess was Katherine and she did a excellent presentation on the history of Grant and this house. I did note that she said nothing about the corruption which plagued Grant's presidency--much of it was because he trusted old military colleagues too readily. The staff carefully space out the group going through the home so that social distancing can be maintained. The house has many Grant furnishings. Sadly, because distancing cannot be maintained on the second floor--where the five bedrooms are--that area of the house is closed. Despite that, the house is worth a visit.

A great piece of history in a beautiful town. The house has original furniture and the guide was very knowledgeable.

Visiting this house was fascinating to me. This man was President and, of course, the General that led the Union Army to victory over the Confederacy. It is a home that is mostly intact with original artifacts and furniture of the Grant family. A modest home, but very comfortable. The wallpaper was fascinating, but was popular at the time. I would recommend this house just because a famous, great person lived there. There are signs around the house talking about his children and the family’s life.

This house was the residence of U.S. Grant and his family during the period between the Civil War and his election to the Presidency. It is furnished primarily with the furnishings, books and other items actually used by him and his family; you can see the same items in front of you and in paintings of the time. You tour the house with a docent; ours was quite knowledgeable and professional. The house is surprisingly modest. There are narrow staircases (I hate to think of carrying bedpans down from the bedrooms upstairs down those stairs - the house has no indoor plumbing), a small kitchen (with no pump or running water) and a few outbuildings. The tour takes about 20 minutes. There is no admission fee but donations are requested. It is something that you should see if visiting Galena.

If you are visiting the area, the Grant home is a wonderful place to visit with a good amount of details concerning the president's life before and after the Civil War. It is a must see!

Glad we did the tour but the upstairs was closed so the actual tour was very short, wish we could've seen more

Really a great tour with lots of interesting facts! You get to see almost all areas of the house and get great background information on Grant

The Grant Home is up on a hill overlooking downtown Galena. The house was smaller than expected. The tour is worth the wait and only costs $5 per adult.

Operated through donations (suggested $5/per person), Grants' home is open for guided tours. The guide did a great job sharing the history of the house, Grant and Galena. The home is 90% furnished with the Grant family belongings which is incredible.

GREAT place for a trip back in time. The furnishings are what Grant used! It is a walk back in time. Keith was a GREAT tour guide! Very enjoyable and educateing.

It was good tour. The guide was funny and very informative. Learned a lot about Grant I never knew. The view from that house is nice. Would be beautiful in the fall.

A beautiful piece of history preserved Such a great tour with 90% of authentic items from Grants House. A must see if you are in Galena

It was very cool to visit the house of a former president. My son's name is Grant (not named after this one!) and so he has a particular fascination with him. Definitely a good historical stop while in the area.

Great tour of Ulysess S. Grant's family home. The home contains lot of the original furniture of the family. Well worth the time spent for the history buff.

For history buffs a good place to see. Quick tour!
80% original furnishings from Ulysses S Grant family.

The Ulysses S. Grant Home, located at the top of a hill overlooking the historic town of Galena, Illinois, on the Galena River, attracts more visitors than any other attraction in the community. Located at 500 Bouthillier Street, it was constructed in 1859-1860 and was given to Grant by residents of Galena in 1865 as thanks for his service in the Civil War. It has been maintained as a memorial to Grant since 1904. Grant and his family lived in the house during his 1868 presidential campaign and again for a few periods during his presidency and retirement. He last visited the home in 1880. Designed in the Italianate style, the house features well defined rectangular shapes, a roof with a low pitch, balustraded balconies extending out over covered porches and projecting eaves. Knowledgable tour guides take visitors through the grand sitting room, the small sitting room, the dining room, kitchen and bathroom on the first floor, the bedrooms on the second floor and point out the many original furnishings that belonged to the Grant family, including the large copper tub used for bathing. The rooms are furnished to represent a mid-1860s appearance. An adjacent building houses exhibits about Grant's military and presidential careers and the history of the home. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1960 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1966. The house also lies within the Galena Historic District.

Can't miss if you love history. They only let so many inside at a time so you may have to wait outside for awhile. Was worth the wait for me. You have a tour guide for the downstairs and then you go upstairs to look around by yourself. The house was very interesting and the Grant information was excellent. Only a donation is needed for this attraction.

The majority of this home’s furnishings are original. That is unusual for a museum home like this. As a history teacher, I appreciate the care that Galena takes in keeping the home preserved and staffed.

The staff were very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable.

The self- guided tour takes only about 20 minutes if you take time to read and ask questions. Good social distance was practiced. They only allow 16 visitors at a time and stagger entrance into the home. So get in line about 15-20 before tour time if other people are arriving. Tours are every hour. We went at 2:30.

When we were there the general store museum was closed. There is a nice picnic area next to the larger parking lot. There is limited parking and handicap parking closer to the home. It is on a hill and there are stairs. There is a ramp to use if needed, but you may have to ask for assistance from staff since there are COVID restrictions with the number of people entering.

If you want a quick, convenient tour, this is it. No reservations necessary, just pop in for a 15-20 min tour with at most a 20 minute wait time. Knowledgeable volunteer staff leads you through the home. However, if you're looking for an in depth review of Grant's life, this is not it. The Civil War is pretty much glossed over, as the focus is strictly on Grant's time in Galena. Furniture and decorative items actually owned by Grant family.

I love history and historic sites. The Grant home includes more original artifacts to the family than any other presidential home. The guided portion of the tour was filled with interesting facts about President Grant and his family and frames it in a chronological timeline.

We also visited the Museum which ties Grant’s time in Galena with the history of the city. Now that I have seen his home I want to visit Grants Tomb in New York. Fascinating pieces of history.

A visit to Galena means a visit to Grant's house. It was an informative and well presented tour. The house is in great shape and it is so nice that residents take pride in such a gem.

This was a very thorough tour by knowledgeable, enthusiastic guides, showing us all of the rooms. 90% of the furnishings are original!

Went with our Scout Troop, they charged quite a hefty amount. Summer really is not the time to go here if you are heat intolerant or sensitive to odors. Smelled quite musty, no AC. Would love to re-do this with the kids during the Grant Pilgrimmage in April. The stairs are very narrow going to some of the displayed rooms, so not necessarily handicap friendly

Wonderful tour guide as she was knowledgeable and answered all questions. If you like history this is a must stop. A lot of the furnishings are the ones Grant and his family had.

Amazingly original home and furnishings. Walked the entire house. Interesting.
American hero of the Civil War.

If you’re into US history and is specially Civil War, then this is a must in your bucket list. US Grant, one of the best generals and made what the United States is today. Visiting this historical landmark will give you more perspective of American life during the era but more of his and his family’s day to day activities. From their beds, utensils , food , etc.
Plus it’s in the beautiful city of Galena❤️

Very informative tour. Learned a lot of facts about Grant, his in-laws, and children, who all had interesting lives. Nearly all the contents belonged to the Grant's, an authentic view of history. You didn't have to wait long for a tour, they kept them running continuously and there was no admission charge, only donations.

The Illinois Park staff tour was interesting and well presented. We recommend this site. Grant's life story and house info was very interesting.

The Grant home is filled with original furniture, artifacts, woodwork, and other items that belonged to a real American war hero and U.S. president, Ulysses S. Grant. Our guide was generally knowledgeable about the home and Grant and his family. Admission is a donation, suggested for adults is $5. Definitely worth seeing. There are several steep stairs.

No need to reserve as tours are given about every 20 mins. An easy tour to take in. There are steps leading up from parking lot across, but if you park in the other parking to the right lot it’s an easier access with only a couple of steps if you have any issues. The Tour is not overly long, but informative. Grant did not live in this house long, but it does hold a number of his things still. It was turned back over to the area & then Historical society by his kids after their Mother passed. Great house to see & the garden/statue area. Check out the general store next door as well.

We were able to learn some things about the President and General and see some of the items from his home.

Fantastic tour with a knowledgeable guide! It was fascinating to learn about Ulysses S. Grant, his family, and their connection to Galena. The suggested donation of $5 per person was more than worth it for the experience and insight we gained

Our family, including our 9- and 12 -year olds, thoroughly enjoyed this tour. We went on a Thursday morning, and only had to wait about fifteen minutes for our turn. Up to sixteen people are allowed in for each tour. Our guide told us he was new, but he did a wonderful job of teaching us about the history of the home. We were impressed that so many of the furnishings were original!

The tour was about 10 minutes total, the staff are knowledgable about some of the pieces and can give slight possibilities of information on others. It was an interesting tour that is free with a suggested donation box at the front and back entrances. Only 10 at a time inside but there isnt a wait the tour is continuous until close. Mask are required.

Had a nice tour of General Grants Galena Illinois home, They suggested a ten dollars donation to help with cost, which is minimal. Our tour guide was very informative and spoke very clear. The home is well maintained and you get a good view of all the rooms. The groups are kept small, which makes it easier to get around the house. This was very nice and worth the time.

We visited the Grant home on a weekend. Tours go about every 15 - 20 minutes or so and last about 30 minutes. They suggest a $5 per person donate for tour. Nice area to walk around. It's an easy walk from downtown and through the park. We would recommend the tour.

The docent was extremely knowledgeable and able to answer history questions not just related directly to script. House is well preserved and worth spending time in to get a little history. Appreciated that a part of the tour was self guided.

We had a memorable tour of the Ulysses Grant Home. We learned a lot about Grant and his upbringing in Southern Ohio. His education at West Point, his early career in the army, his leaving the army and his move to Galena to work for his brothers in the lather business. His marriage and his family. The civil war and his rejoining the army and his rise to become commander of the union army under Lincoln. Then his election as POTUS. His life after his presidency which included more time in Galena. The tour guide was charming and professional.

The tour guide was amazing. He knew his stuff and was passionate. Great place to visit if you love Grant. Over 90% of the stuff is original to Grant and his home! Make sure you book your tour time though in advance online because they only n take 8 at this time. Highly recommend!

The tour was informative and the home is well maintained. You see most items up close and all but the piano is original to the family and home. Walk in the footsteps of the Civil War General/18th President. Stand where he lived with his family and celebrated his win of his presidency. It is only $5 requested donation and a beautiful view of downtown Galena below. See pictures of how the river has changed in the past 200 years where it can no longer support the travel of riverboats as it did in Grant’s day. Great piece of history and a must see!

Our guide was a woman who clearly knew her stuff. The house is incredibly well preserved and beautiful.

Wonderful tour of Grant’s Home with excellent guide and interesting historical facts. Highly recommended!

This home is beautiful upon arrival. Sitting up on the hill gives a prime view of the city. Interesting guided tour by knowledgeable staff. The house is still furnished with the original furnishings which gave it the true historical tour we were looking for. We were provided not to much as to bore and not too little as to not having a clue information. This was a great little experience that we are glad we took.

We walked up, not expecting it to be open on Easter Sunday. Had a great tour guide that answered all the questions. Very informative.

Stopped on a Thursday afternoon - got a private tour since we were the only ones here. Docent was very helpful to answer our questions. Very interesting to learn about President Grant and his life. Glad we stopped!

Very informative tour of the Grant's home. We got to see every room in the house. They had some of the original furniture. A very unique look into the past!

This home was very interesting. We learned a lot about President Grant. They asked for $5.00 donation which I thought was fair. Our guide was very knowledgeable about the history and the Grant family

Taking a tour of Grants home was amazing For a donation, you can take a guided tour and learn more regarding the personal side of Grant and his family. Our guide was Great!

Very interesting history lesson… His wife was the first real first lady that wrote her own press release! Julia Dent Grant was The first president’s wife to be called the First Lady. She was the daughter of a slave owner and she married the son of an abolitionist! Think it was great they let you take pictures! That was the best $5 I’ve spent in a long time!

This is a great tour that doesn't take long or cost too much. The docent was very informative and shared many interesting facts about the house and the Grant family. Don't miss the exhibit in the out building showing which pets each President had going back to George Washington!

If you are in Galena take the 30-40 mins to tour the home and property. The tour guide was very informative and took time to answer everyone's questions. Very informative tour!

Just a little way out of town is the home that was given to Grant and his family by "the grateful citizens" of Galena for his role as commanding officer of all the Union armies during the Civil War. The house was purchased for $2500.00. The Grants moved to NYC, after his 2 term presidency and a 2 1/2 year European trip, to be near their children, but kept the Galena residence as their official voting address. Most of the furnishings in the house belonged to them, including a favorite chair which went to the White House with them. Very interesting.

This home tour was great and out guide Evelyn was wonderful. The only thing that was disappointing was that they left out President Trump at the end of the tour exhibit. Regardless your political affiliation he was one of our presidents and deserves his spot in history. We cannot and should not erase history, but learn from it.

Though it was closed to visitors, the house was still beautiful. Keeping history alive. A must see for anyone visiting Galena.

Came and did the tour of the Grant home in Galena the tour guide was pleasant and did a good job going over the details of the home and history
it was about 30 minutes overall does involve going up some steep stairs
we made a donation -they seem to rely on getting donations to help
keep this going

Love the history of Grant. He was as good american. Too bad he left Galena for New York . I think he got TB.

Was a walk through of Grant's House. The history about Grant and his family wants me to read about him. Going to look for the book that Mark Twain helped him write.

I've been to Galena many times but never took the time to visit Grant's Home. Shame on me! The tour guide was extremely knowledgable and now I know a bit more about our 18th president. I'm also very grateful for indoor plumming!

Easy to get to, interesting guided tour by docents and beautiful grounds. This is not an overwhelming tour, but an interesting look at life in the bustling (at the time) town of Galena in the 1800's.

This was a well-preserved historic house. There is parking across the street with stairs leading up to the house. They do tours every 15 minutes or so with a suggested donation. The tour provides history of President Grant and his family, the home itself, and several of the objects in the home. It is definitely worth stopping by if you are in the area.

Wonderful history and guides. Would highly recommend. The home was very awesome to have almost all original furnishings.

A wonderful guide took us through. Very knowledgeable and friendly impressive that 90% of furnishings are original. A valuable addition to Galena trip.

We very much enjoyed touring the home. Our docent was knowledgeable and entertaining, seeing original pieces was great, and hearing about Grant and Galena was very interesting. We applaud the volunteers who give their time to keep the house open. A must see in Galena, in our opinion!!

Being able to walk the street and know the people that have walked those same streets years ago was amazing! Standing on the same porch that Mr. Grant and so many other influential leaders of our history also stood on is very humbling. Grounds are kept perfect it is truly something to see!

I usually tour Grants home every chance I get while in Galena. October 26th was not exception.
The tour is packed with history, Grant, his family and their love of Galena. Most of the home is the original from when Grant and his family lived there.
It is only $5 to tour, which is a steal.
The gentleman that did our tour, I can't recall his name, at about 4:15pm was fantastic!
I can't wait to go again.

I enjoyed spending time in Galena learning more about our 18th president, how he came to live in Galena and more about his home. What a wonderful treasure and really a steal for only $5. The tour guides are simply lovely and, again, I learned so much. I'm glad this historic site still exists and that we're allowed to tour it. I would imagine it gets crowded but I'm glad I was there on a Sunday morning with no crowd. Highly recommend for fellow presidential history buffs like me.

The Illinois Historic Preservation Agency maintains this home and does a very good tour as well. We learned a ton about Grant and his family, not only through the stories we heard by also because almost everything is the house belonged to the Grants. It's interesting to see what their tastes were like and what they took with them to the White House. Time well spent!

This well restored and maintained home will give you a great glimpse into the life of one of our great civil war generals and presidents.

The tour was nicely done and our guide was very pleasant to understand. Recommend going earlier in the day as you must wait outside until the small group size inside is finished. In the small building at the end of the tour are rock paintings and they definitely left someone out. Just noticing.

We went aug 1,2020 it is open for tours only on scheduled times and only let 10 in at a time but can have more in the group just in the house so don’t get discouraged by the sign.. tours are every hour just know ur times before u go will help and get there early.. the tour is only 10-15 and with COVID you only see down stairs the upstairs is only 5 bedrooms.. and $5 donation is optional but very cool history can walk around the grounds without the tour and there is a bathroom on site ( nice/clean) def a must see.free parking also

The house given to US Grant by 13 Galena business people upon his return from the Civil War is still in incredible shape. We were told that 80% of the possessions are original, perhaps because the house has only been owned by the Grant family or a government not for profit. Our knowledgeable guide provided a summary of President Grant's life and that of his wife and children, in addition to discussing many of the household furnishings, paintings and gifts received by the Grants during the Presidency and post-Presidency world tour. The workmanship in building the house that is now over 150 years old is amazing and is presumably the reason the house remains in such good condition.

This is an amazing bit of history right in the heart of town. To walk through is like time travel into the past, to imagine oneself during those times and to be grateful for their part in our American foundation.

Excellent tour. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and well spoken. Really enjoyed! Tours run every 15 minutes. Check on days and hours of operation prior to going.

The tour through the home was great. And to see the furnishings and lifestyle post-Civil War for a war hero is great. Enjoyed a picnic in the park afterwards.

Your visit to Galena is not complete if you do not take the tour of the Grant home. This house is beautiful to look at, filled with lots of history, and our volunteer tour guide (Dan) was just so friendly and personable. Your visit will not be complete if you do not take the tour of the Grant Home!

A must see if you are anywhere near Galena. Our tour guide was excellent. A new Grant Museum is under construction across the street from the home. We'll definitely want to see that as well.

Very easy tour, no reservations needed. Our guide was great, I wish I could remember her name. She was very knowledgable and funny! Goodwill donation.

Stopped in Galena Illinois on way to Great Lakes without remembering this was one of Grants home. We visit is place in St. Louis a couple years ago. The house is will kept and the tour guide is very knowledgeable. Will worth the time to stop. Many other historical buildings are in same area.

US Grant was our 18th president and spent a lot of time in Galina. This house was presented to Grant by the people of Galina. It is run through donations from the public.
The guided tour begins on the house front porch.
Throughout the tour we were shown many of the gifts Grant received while president.
The house was home to Grant, his wife Julia, and their three children. All rooms are available to view and are furnished accurately with either actual artifacts or with comparable items.
Galina is in the process of furnishing a new Grant Museum nearby this place to be opened in 2021.
Parking is free and a short stroll away.

The tour was overwhelmed by a group of school kids so I didn’t get to hear much of it but the house is cute and it doesn’t take much time out of your day. The grounds are lovely and make a great spot for taking some pictures.

Great tour which was very informative. We learned a lot about General Grant that we previously did not know.

Our guide was very knowledgeable about the history of the house, Galena, and the Grant family.

The house and grounds themselves, are beautiful; Galena should definitely work on signage pointing the way to house from Main Street, or at least from Grant Park, though.

Was very interesting to go through. I was in a group that had a very knowledgable about the family and historical events. My wife stayed in the car as she is handicapped and could not go through the house.

While driving through Illinois to Iowa, accidentally came across Grant's home. I did not have much time, but figured it was worth a stop. It turned out to most certainly be accurate!
There is a guided tour of his home and you can see how the 18th president lived when in Galena. It turns out that this town is also where the early 1900 scenes from Field of Dreams was shot. It definitely feels like you have stepped back in time. I was in and out of the home within 39 minutes, but could have stayed for hours in the guided tour.

Half hour tour of compact but stately home of Gen. Grant and family. It is loaded with the actual home furnishings of the family, frozen in time to show us what a typical day in the life of this very important man was like. Since no one but the government has owned the house since the Grants left, you are looking at pristine condition cleaned up but authentic artifacts of the mid to late 19th century. Our guide Kathleen was very knowledgable and helpful. God people used to be tiny! Wait til you see the beds. One caution.. its on top of a very steep hill. Drive up from downtown, don't walk unless you ate a fit hill climber!! I thought I would have a heart attack. Then in the middle of the tour you have to climb a flight of stairs! aaaaaauugh!! Overall a nice time and very informative.

A nice tour of the 18th President's, U.S. Grant, home. Also on the grounds is time period (1850's) general store, schoolhouse and other buildings.

This home has been lovingly restored and the grounds are beautifully designed and well maintained. Our guide was knowledgeable and friendly. A very eye opening walk through our nation’s history.

Toured November 2019. Guide was incredibly knowledgable, overall experience was very interesting. They accept donations which is nice but it is definitely good enough to charge admission should they so choose. Only caution would be there are 2 stairways to navigate if you want the full tour....may not be suitable for the frail senior (altho that part of the tour could be skipped).

I generally do not take tours but decided to try this one as we had some time to kill.
Very interesting tour. We had an excellent tour guide who was very informative. The State of Illinois is not keeping up the maintenance on the building which is disappointing.

The tour is free. Donations excepted. The lady that gave our talk was outstanding.
They give you a short talk about the house, history and Grant. Then you can walk through the home and ground at your own pace. Pictures are allowed. It is well worth the time spent. Part of the important history of the Galena history.
During covid. You do need a mask. They have limited the number of people in the house at one time. Plus not as many tours.

What a beautiful, historical site. The setting is scenic and picturesque where you can get one of the best views of Galena. Our docent was friendly and very knowledgeable as she took us back into the history of Ulysses S Grant. I highly recommend.

We learned a lot about Grant and his family. The tour guide was knowledgeable and helpful. Not handicap accessible unfortunately.

Definitely a required stop for any Galena trip for anyone even remotely interested in U.S. history.
Interesting facts talked about during the tour.

Enjoyed learning more about Grant, his family, their life style and the community of Galena. Very reasonable donation suggested. Worth it!

This is definitely a tour you want to take if you like history and want a glimpse into the past. While the Grant's life wasn't as hard as some folks back in the 1860's, it certainly isn't today's convenience filled life. Our guides knew the family history well, but also history of the time and lives of folks then. They were willing to share a great deal of info and were able to answer most questions. Highly recommend this tour!

Easy to get to, plenty of parking. Nice information on our 18th president. Knowledgeable guide. Covid hours so stop by and read information if interested in tour.

If you love history of U.S. Presidents, this is definitely a must stop for you! The tour guides are very informative and help take you back in time to get an understanding of what life was like back in Grant's days in Galena.

This is worth a stop if you like walking through historic homes. The furnishings are impressive. It's only $5 and takes about 30 minutes, so not a big commitment.

There's a second little building with a fun and funny display of all of the presidents' faces painted on rocks.

The tour was great. Very knowledgeable and friendly guides. Beautifully kept home. We were lucky to attend when the lines were minimal.

Galena, Illinois, is a popular tourist destination and it's No. 1 attraction is the Ulysses S. Grant Home. Located at 500 Bouthillier Street, atop a hill overlooking the town, it is the former home of the Civil War general and 18th President of the United States. Built in 1859-1860 in the Italianate style, the two-story red brick structure with emerald-green shutters features well defined rectangular shapes, a roof with a low pitch, balustraded balconies extending out over covered porches and projecting eaves. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1960 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966. After failed careers in the military, real estate and farming, Grant accepted his father's offer to work as a clerk in the family's tannery business and moved to Galena with his wife and four children in 1860. The family remained at the house while Grant climbed the ranks of the Union Army and orchestrated monumental victories in the Civil War. When he returned in 1865, the town's citizens purchased the house and presented it to him as a gift for being a war hero. Though he didn't spend much time there, he used the residence as his official address during the election, his two-term presidency and his retirement. It was opened to the public in 1904. Many of the furnishings are original, including the copper bathtub. An adjacent building houses exhibits about Grant and details the history of the house. Tours are from 9 to 4 Wednesday through Sunday.

It was closed the day we visited but we were able to walk the grounds and take pictures. We will definitely go back to see the inside.

A very nice visit. Guides are very informational. Nice tours and all they request is a donation. So nice to see actual furnishings and items from General Grants life.

What makes this home different from other presidential homes you may have visited, this home has nearly all original furnishings so you get a real feel for the president and his time.

Highly recommended.

Great, knowledgeable staff. Loved that there were so many original furnishings! That's so rare in historic homes. Graciously answered questions and provided assistance. So glad we visited!!

Interesting tour of Grant's Home. Very knowledgeable and entertaining guide. Due to COVID you're only able to view the 1st floor. Reservations are required. If you plan on walking from town prepare for many stairs or an uphill climb. If that's not for you plan to drive.

We enjoyed the tour of the Grant home and grounds. Our guide, Charles did a nice job giving pertinent information and answering questions about history of the family and the home. The tour of the home took about 30 minutes and we spent another 20-30 minutes on the grounds and the area. Definitely worth the time.

I had been there a little over a year ago and took a friend this trip! It was very cool to see the original furniture and items of the Grants and hear the stories about him. This is a must see when visiting.

We did a walk-around self tour of the property, as it was closed due to COVID-19. Well maintained and very informative signage all over. Restrooms were open, so that was a bonus.

Though Grant only lived here for a few short years and his life in Galena was interrupted by the Civil War, this was the place he lived in before elected president.

This was the highlight of our trip to Galena. So informative, beautiful house and kids rooms are so cute.

This brick house was presented to General Grant upon his return to Galena after the Civil War. It and other historic buildings are located in a well kept, hilly neighborhood. Their are tours offered for the cost of a donation ($5 suggested adult donation) but be aware you may not be looking at Grant owned items. The Grants lived in the home for only three years before moving on to New York City and eventually Washington DC. There is a small First Lady's park also at the site. This is a must see for everyone, history buff or not.

Our tour of Grant's home in Galena Illinois was awesome! The home is really interesting and beautiful! Our tour guide was awesome and very knowledgeable. We will visit again.

Loved Grants home ! Lots of history here. Makes you feel like going back in time!! Loved all the other buildings like the general store too.

This is a beautiful home. The history is amazing to listen to. History so close to home. Our storyteller gave a great tour.

Definitely worth the time! Our guide was delightful and we enjoyed the house tour with her very much. You can also tour the grounds and some smaller buildings and exhibits by yourself. They request a $5 donation per person.

I feel like you have to stop here if you are in Galena. The tour guides were knowledgable and friendly. It's a quick tour, maybe 30 minutes. Neat little history.

Very impressed! The tour guide was very knowledgeable and answered all our questions. It was very beautiful and we learned a lot.

We went to see this as my husbands choice . I enjoyed also...it was very interesting. I like the little tiny sewing machine and all the period furniture.

We enjoyed this, great amount of history shared and the woman seemed knowledgeable and shared little bits of humor along the way

It was hard to get to this landmark. We kept driving around until we found a place to park. It was interesting and didn't take much time. It was okay.

So much of Galena was closed on Monday. Really wanted to go inside. We did get to walk on the grounds and take a few outside photos

I enjoyed this tour. Lovely home. Stairs are steep but a must to see. Tour was amazing as well. If you don’t want to go inside there is a monument outside the home.

Just the idea that a grateful town would buy a house for a returning hero strikes me as awesome! Galena did and U.S. Grant and Julia lived here with their 4 children after the war. Original furnishings throughout, nice 25 minute tour of the home.

Going back in time was our wonderful experience! The historical vibes were deeply felt and the tour guides were very informative! 🇺🇸⭐️

Great local (and national) history stop. Getting to, and parking by, the home is quite easy. We happened to arrive just as a tour was beginning. The tour is informative and seeing the home is a must-see if you are interested in presidential history. Our tour was about 30 min, including the self-guided viewing of the second floor bedrooms. Note: you will need to be able to go up one set of stairs and down the other to see the second floor where the Grant's bedrooms are. This being an old home the stairs are narrower/shallower and steeper than modern staircases. They are carpeted. If the stairs are a no-go for you it is still worth seeing the first floor living rooms, dining, and kitchen. Almost all of the furniture and most furnishings are original. There is a small exhibit and public restrooms located just outside the back/kitchen door of the home. (Bathrooms were clean, which I always appreciate!) Be sure to take a stroll around the outside of the home and see the statues. Landscaping in "Julia's Garden" could definitely use some work but I'm sure that's on their list of many things to do. (Wonderful opportunity for any local landscapers looking to donate their time.) I bet the views from the home are wonderful when the trees change color in the fall.

Our guide was very informative—we liked that you were able to look a little on your own as well. And the $5 admission is just a suggestion (although we paid it) which is nice for families on a budget.

The Grant home tour is very informative and it lasts around 1/2 hour. You do not have to make reservations because the tours go every 15-20 minutes. There is NO fee but they appreciate donations.

Great time on a beautiful day to walk the grounds and enjoy the view. The facilitator who gave us the tour of the house was very informative and fun!

Learn a lot about Ulysses Grant and his family after the Civil War. You see and learn about how they all lived in Galena, IL.

A must see! Ulysses S. Grant and family are one of the reasons Galena exists today! Tour and tour guide (forgot tour guide's name but he was great) were excellent, and the grounds and house are very kept up!

We enjoyed the tour immensely. The history was great and the site has been so well preserved and restored. Would highly recommend to anyone passing through.

Excellent! So well preserved and much knowledge by the tour guides on President Grant's life as well as First Lady Julia Dent Grants life.

Our guide didn't seem to be enjoying her job. She spoke in a monotone. I realize she has said the said thing 100s of times, but it would have been nice if she appeared a little more excited about what she was saying.

My husband and I came back for a visit to this awesome historic mansion..was here in early 90’s and it was awesome experience and very historical as well.

This is one place that should not be missed when it comes to Galena. Take the trolley tour which covers this, the Dowling House and the Belvedere Mansion. It is worth the time. There are many things of interest in this home--all historical.

I always love touring Presidents homes and this one was no exception. The guide was knowlegable and very informative, with great stories about President Grant. It is amazing how small people were in the 1800"s. The house has 90% all the original furnishings, which are amazing. A must stop. They are only open Wednesday thru Sunday so plan accordingly. Cost: $5 ea.

Lynn was very informative and sweet. We all really enjoyed our visit. A lot of history and even in winter the area looked beautiful. In the back there is a building showing all the animals each president owned. Being animals lovers, we thought that was very neat along with paintings of presidents on rock/stone. My dad wanted to go because he loves history but we all enjoyed the experience.

Our tour guide was very informative. She spoke to us and answered all of the questions we asked. She had funny stories and quips regarding Grant and his life. We did hear the other guide as we moved from one room to another, and he sounded just as good. I will definitely go again.

Ulysses Grant residence in Galena is definitely a must visit tourist attraction. Grant was Civil war hero and 18th President Of United States of America, who played a major role in ending slavery. The home tour takes almost 30 mins, with guides giving you ample background and interesting facts about the home, Grants and their lifestyle. The home still have the original furnitures and its a lovely ride through history- and their simple yet productive lifestyle will make you reevaluate yours.

This is a lovely snapshot of how life was lived after the Civil War, but they lean into the fact that Grant lived here while others suggest he was more of a visitor after the War. Nice that the furnishings are mostly from the house. The other buildings on the site are interesting, but it would be great to have more info on them.

We didn't try to go inside. The outside was a brick home, not special except for a nice view and the fact that President Grant once lived there. Statue of his was neat. Small display near the bathrooms was a bit kitchy (e.g. president faces painted on rocks). But it was free and didn't take long. Worth it for the historical angle.

Enjoyed an interesting tour of not only a past President's home but a look at life in the mid-nineteenth century.

I am not really a huge history fan, but really enjoyed the tour by Chuck. He was knowledgable and funny at the same time. Chuck knows much more than the 25-minute tour gives him, he could answer any specific question. Very interesting house.

My wife and I took an hour on Friday and went on the Grant's home tour. We had a great time and due to it being off season had our very own tour guide to give us the details of the house and it's history. I wasn't sure how interesting this would be but was very happy to have done the tour. I will go again in the future and see some of the surrounding grounds and area.

We enjoyed the tour very much--we knew very little about President Grant before--and were very impressed with him after we learned about what he accomplished. The tour was also special when you find out that 90% of the homes furnishing that you see are original to when Grant lived there.

My wife and I visited the Ulysses s Grant home in Galena. It is a good tour for a good price. If you are interested in US presidents and civil war history you should definitely swing by.

The tour was good. The staff were very knowledgeable. The house definitely needs some attention and repair.

Great tour and historical information on Ulysses S Grants. Recommend going during the week, mush less crowded.

This is such a well-preserved home with the majority of the furnishing being original. It's an exceptional look into the life of the Grant family. Our docent, Evelyn, was excellent and was able to share details about the Grants. We have visited many historic homes, and this is one of the best.

Although we have visited several historic homes we still learned a great deal at the Grant home. Our guide was most interesting and she appeared to really enjoy her work.

100% worth visiting!!! I am not a history buff but I really enjoyed this tour. 90% or 95% of the exhibits are authentic. Just amazing. Our guide was great, very knowledgeable and funny! I would recommend it to anyone!

Learned a lot about President Grant, his family and his life - very glad we took the tour. the tour guides liked their job.

We visited the Grant house, but it was closed due to the pandemic.

We walked around the grounds a little. From the outside, it looks like the house needs some exterior maintenance.

The garden has a statue of Mrs Grant, and a few historic plaques to read.

This is a wonderful home to visit (in a really cute little town). The town gave the home to the Grants after he moved to Galena after leaving the White House. The Grants lived here off and on, but the house has always stayed in the family (although it was rented out). However, most of the original furnishings and personal items belonging to the Grants have remained with the home, which has been open to the public since 1904. The tour of the ground floor is docent led and the upstairs bedrooms are self-guided. There is a small museum next door as well as restrooms. This is definitely worth the nominal entry fee.

President Grant looms large in this town and why not. He lived in Galena both before and after the civil war and only left when he became president. This house was given to him and his family upon his return a hero by the citizens of Galena. The tour was free although a donation was solicited. Picture taking was allowed, a plus in my book. Our guide was very informative and down right funny at times. Most of the furnishings were original and those that were not were pointed out. It's so interesting how people once lived without the basics we take for granted, like indoor plumbing and electricity. Yet a great man and his family lived here and did quite well. This is a must attraction for any Galena visitor.

Great tour lead by our guide Keith. Very informative and interesting. It was aamazing to see so much original furnishings actually on display. Tour is free, but $5 donation per adult is recommended and is definately a fair ask. There are several steep and winding staircases to maneuver (up and down) so if steps are an issue, avoid this tour. Otherwise, add this to your Galena to-do list.

With very few exceptions this home is decorated with Grant's actual furnishings which is so unusual for historic homes of this age!! Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and answered all of our questions! We will probably see it again when we are in the Galena area!

U. S. Grant was one of eight Presidents who came from Ohio. Being an Ohioan, I wanted to visit all the homesteads and farms of these Presidents. This was the last one of several homes that are connected to President Grant. The house is full of original artifacts and furniture. It is well kept. The tour guides give us information about the house on the first floor. The second floor where the bedrooms are are self-guided with signs explaining who stayed in each room. The grounds were immaculate. This is a must-do for anyone history buff, and especially for those who are from or currently live in Ohio.

A great piece of history in the town that time forgot. The tour of the home given to Ulysses S Grant by the town leaders is a must-see experience.
Most of the artifacts in the house belonged to the Grant family. The docent did a great job of explaining the time period and the Grant family.
Make it a part of your Galena trip.

Obviously the main thing to see in Galena! 20 min guide and donation box. Gives a good look at Grant's household with mostly all original items ---- FIRST CLASS ALL THE WAY !!!

Visited in winter when Galena is partially closed, but the Grant House was open for tours! The admission is a suggested fee of $5, and if you love history, it is well worth it! The docent was very knowledgeable on the house as well as the history of the residents. I admit, I did not know much about Grant, but I feel like I came out knowing his life story! This house is a great way to spend 30-60 minutes! I would love to see the exhibit section, more specifically the painted rocks of the presidents be updated!

Wonderful tour with history of the main floor. Self guided tour upstairs with detailed info about each room. Much of the furniture is Grant’s furniture! Air conditioned - wonderful for summer. Tour guide VERY knowledgeable. Restrooms onsite. Free parking onsite. Tours about every 20 minutes and you wait on the front porch. Limit of 16 per tour as the spaces for viewing/tour are limited to just about that number. Would recommend!

It was interesting to see the home. Lots of original family history. The tour guide was polite and knew his history. It was ok.

Highly recommended . Good for ages 7 and up , although they make everyone feel welcome.

Many details and lots to see. Guides have a variety of details so if you go one year you may hear some thing new the following year.

First, to clear up some of the confusion I experienced before our trip: There is no set admission fee; the house and the tour are free. There is, however, a suggested donation of $5 for adults and $3 for children. Also, contrary to what Google will tell you, through the month of February (I missed the starting month) the hours are 9AM-4PM. Now, with that out of the way, I have to give a shout out to our tour guide, Chuck. He was personable and knowledgeable and really made the experience. The house is fascinating with many original furnishings and it was a pleasure to learn about a president I really knew nothing about. Tours run about 25-30 minutes and if you have time to spare, I highly recommend stopping by.

I have visited several presidential homes and this tour is on par with all others in my view. The volunteers were well versed and a tad robotic given the repeatedness of their presentations but it did not take away from the tour.
Tour well worth your time to visit if you enjoy American history

All original furniture and floor plan. Good docents - you can take pictures. Beautifully maintained - restrooms & interesting, small museum out back door.

The guide was very knowledgeable and could answer all our questions. She gave us a lot of information and made it interesting for our 10-year-old. WHole family enjoyed it!

30 minute tour. Guide was very well prepared. At the end, the display of presidential pets across all office holders was a bonus

Exceptional tour. Lynn, the Volunteer guide, was over the top for information and personal acquaintances with the area and items in the home

The tour was interesting and informative. The tour can be as long or short as you’d like. Evelyn was a fantastic guide.

Very nice to walk through the house a receive a history lesson about US Grant; and his house. Beautiful place.

Interesting story of the town folk who bought the home for the Grants after the war. Most furnishings belong to the family who I believe owned it until the early 1900’s. Worth a visit

This is a great historical spot in Galena that is underrated. I'd recommend making this your first stop for your first morning in Galena since it can get crowded if groups are large. Tours are short and free but they do invite you to donate if you can at the end of the tour. I do think they need improvements on their tour. This would include educating their tour guides on the slave background of Ulysses S. Grant and family. The tour guide was unsure each time I asked but could be hesitation not to make other tour visitors upset but I think its important to our US history to acknolwedge the good and the bad. They also should do a historical paint analysis on the home to see if they can find the true colors of the wall which was evident that they had not done so yet according to the tour guide. If you have the opportunity, take time to stroll the grounds. The house has a great view of downtown Galena.

Run by the State, over 90% of the furniture in the home was from when Grant lived there. A fascinating look at the history of that time and how people lived. Tour takes about 20-30 minutes so the $5 suggested donation is a bargain.

The home itself is a typical 1880's residence. The guide made the tour interesting because of his knowledge of the Grant presidency, family and history. We got free delicious cookies because of Grant's 200th birthday.

This was a nice tour of the home. It wasn't too long, which was fine. Our guide, Katherine, was very knowledgeable. It was a neat place to see and learn about.

We were very interested in seeing Grant's Home while in Galena and we were not disappointed. Our guide was excellent and he did a great job of answering our questions. We were amazed that 90% of the artifacts in the home belonged to the Grant family. I'm not sure we have ever been in a historical home with that percent of original furniture, etc. Usually they only have artifacts from that period of time. We are so pleased that this historical home has been saved and preserved.

Had a great tour guide. He was funny and very thorough. We love history and this was a really neat place to visit.

We are a group of four senior women. After visiting the home was suggested by an employee of Wild Birds Unlimited, we decided to go....only to find that it was closed on Tuesday. However, it was open on Wednesday, and we visited before we left town. We were so glad that we did. We had a wonderful guide...I think his name was Chuck? We received a lot of historical information about Ulysses S. Grant, and also about his very admirable wife, Julia. I hadn't realized how they both were beloved by the people and that Ulysses Grant served two terms as President. Make sure that you go visit the statue of Julia outside the home and read more about her.
And, ask your guide about how Mark Twain was involved in getting Grant's memoirs distributed. Interesting story that wasn't really part of the tour.

Grateful the house is still available for touring. Worth going through. Are they saying all the right history? about slavery? the "book" on the table which was a "Bible" not so much. Keep going to these historical sites. Keep asking questions or this is all going to be gone. No admission they ask for donations. Grateful

Grant’s Home was my high-point of the trip to Galena. The tour was interesting, especially given that the furniture in the home was the Grant family’s actual furniture when they lived there. Our guide, Keith, was knowledgeable, helpful, and well-read on General Grant. The home is well-maintained and respectful of one of our greatest military and political figures.

One suggestion - read up on Grant before you travel there. I had read Ron Chernow’s “Grant” biography this spring. I find that some pre-study is helpful when visiting historic places like this. Having read “Grant” was immensely helpful.

Waiting a half an hour in the blazing 92 degree sun to be ushered thru the first floor of Grant’s house only (not enough ventilation to see the upstairs) is frankly hardly worth it. The house is air conditioned, but you are in it for all of 7 minutes at best. You will wait for this sweltering half an hour, sweat pouring your back, when the docent cheerfully appears to gather you for the tour on the lawn. You might think you are going to be taken out of the sweltering sun before you drop,but NO, the docent proceeds to give a 12 minute long talk about the Grants. The talk was wonderful- funny, informative and comprehensive but when delivered on the lawn, I feared for the elderly persons in the other groups. This is not a well thought out way to conduct a tour at all. They have these oddly staggered times so that people end up stuck standing out in the hot sun, or I guess the pelting rain because you can not reserve a time to see the house. Only 16 folks are allowed at a time with social distancing between groups and proper mask wearing. It really wasn’t worth it.However, the docents were all very nice.They either need a tented waiting area with seating,a reservation system or more frequent tour times so you only are waiting for a brief period.

We appreciated that the house was restored to (almost) the original. Our guide, Katherine, was very knowledgeable and shared many stories about the Grants with us. Highly recommend seeing this!

Very educated and interesting Docent. Interesting history. Visit was included with our weekend tour.

It was an excellent tour! Happy we went - it took 30 minutes and was very informative. Highly recommended.

Nice historical tour by 2 knowledgeable guides. They were also able to answer all detailed questions.

Gorgeous views and some interesting facts: Ulysses smoke 8 to 10 cigars a day and died of throat cancer! Ugh moral of the story don't smoke.
Love the horse hair furniture

This was probably one of the best Era home we have been too. alot of the furniture were actually the General and family used including his favorite green chair he took to the white house and brought back. we had the gentleman guide who was awesome and engaging and seemed very knowledgeable on Grant and his family. we are taking a group in August and will be sure to stop again.

The tour was pretty short and the house smaller than it looks, so if you are looking for a tour with a lot of details and stories of the Grant family, you will be disappointed. However, it was just the right length for us to satisfy our curiosity and the tour guide knew a lot and could answer everyone’s questions well.

They do a great job with this tour of the house that the Grants lived in. We didn’t have to wait too long outside until they took us in and talked about Grants life before moving to Galena. Upstairs (which is self guided)are the bedrooms and placards that five a short history on their children.

Make sure you go to the building next door to see the painted presidential rocks. Need to update deaths and include Trump.

Also see the presidential pet display which includes types of pets and their names. Finally walk out to the statute of mrs grant which the term First Lady started with.

It was nice to see the grounds were Grant lived with his family. It was on elevated land allowing you to see a great view of Galena.

Keith was our tour guide and did a great job. Really knew his stuff. Hour in quick and toured thd whole house on a hot summer day.

After the Civil War, Grant returned to Galena to a hero's welcome and a new home bought by the town. There is a guided tour every 15 minutes or so. No charge, but a donation is requested. Lots of interesting things to see. Some of them relate to Grant and some are good representations of home furnishings of the period.

The tour guide, Lynn, was knowledgeable about the town and held many interesting facts about President Grant, his wife, and his life. She could share many tidbits to make the furnishings and the home more real to us all.

Well done, Lynn, and well done to all the people keeping this historical home in our reach.

Due to Covid, there are only five tours per day with a maximum of 16 people per tour. Unable to view the top floor with the bedrooms due to covid. Suggest to park across the street about half-hour prior to tour. When you see people start to line up near the front porch, then get in line also. Tour guide gives a talk outside and tells you what is important in each room. Then, you are allowed to go in, one family group at a time. When a family group moves on the next room, then another group is allowed to go in so there is no congregating. Masks required. Talk plus a walk through of the lower level took 20 minutes total. Have always wanted to see the house but wish we cold have seen the upper level. Toilets are behind the house. 90% of the furnishings are original from the Grant family. Donation of $5 per person requested.

This tour of the US Grant home was exceptional! I say that because here you have the rare opportunity to see a historic home that is essentially still as it was at the time the Grants lived there. Nearly everything in the home was actually theirs. This is because no private owner ever had it after the Grant's moved. It went from one government entity to another, and was carefully preserved. You don't usually see that. Usually someone has owned a historic home and it has to be brought back to condition but not here. Our guide Kathleen was very knowledgable and could answer our questions well. Definitely worth seeing. BEWARE THE MASSIVE HILL IT SITS ATOP! DRIVE UP DON'T WALK UNLESS YOU ARE FIT!

I love seeing history. Beautifully maintained home. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable of the home & the era. Plus it’s free! They take donations. It’s a must see if you’re in Galena!

If you want to see it book well in advance. There we looked a few days before going and there were no openings.

My husband and I enjoy history. The guide was very knowledgeable and made our tour one to remember. There are some steep stairs but we were able to maneuver at our own speed. Donations only. The house is kept in remarkable condition with 98% of the furniture original pieces. Must visit while in Galena

Very budget friendly tour ($5 suggested donation), in an air conditioned century old home that is still in amazing shape. We had Keith as a tour guide, and he was wonderful. Some humor, lots of facts, and the ability to answer just about anything. This is not a long period, I would say less than 30 minutes, but it was enjoyable.

The tour of the old house was awesome! The guides were super engaging and kept it interesting without dragging things out. It was really well maintained, too.

We are here during a time when things are just beginning to reopen. We just missed the tour at 11:30 and didn’t make it back for the 1:30. Walked the grounds and the surrounding area. I gave it a four because even without the tour and area was pretty cool and the information was that was available was very interesting. Without the tour we spent about an hour here.

I have been coming to Galena my whole life my family is from Galena. We come see the Grant home at least twice a year. Every time I find it more interesting than before. There are some great views. The tour guides are very knowledgeable a out Grant and the town. Highly recommend.

Nice tour. Interesting but not too lengthy. The house and grounds are very authentic. Worth a stop! The tour asks for donations only to help maintain the home.

Beautiful view from the top of the hill. Worth the walk up even in 90 degree heat and humidity. We only walked the grounds. So no comment on the interior of the home. If you could give a 4.5, that would have been my rating

Excellent tour guide who was knowledgeable and able to tell the stories of the family, the house, and the items in it, which are 90% authentic from the family. Worth it if you like history.

This was worth a stop! A docent guides visitors through the first floor rooms, though the groups when we visited (~16 people) were a little large to get a good look at everything. After seeing his study, the parlor, and dining room, guests were free to go upstairs without the docent and look at the bedrooms, them down the back stairs to see the kitchen and exit. There was no charge for the visit though a donation is suggested. This was interesting and well worth the stop.

I'm a resident of Elizabeth and bring my visiting guests here over and over and everyone loves seeing the history portrayed here.

This is a remarkable home that has been well taken care of. You could definitely imagine what life was like in the late 19th century.

The only issue we had when we arrived at Grant's home was waiting for the next tour to begin. It would have made my experience even better if they provided some kind of shade while waiting. Other then that, the tour guide was very knowledgable about the history of the house and the Grants'. I enjoyed this tour more than the others we went on.

We visit many historical homes on our travels and this one was added to our list of unique homes. All of the furnishings inside are original and in marvelous condition. The rooms and furnishings are small in typical Victorian fashion. Loed the colorized real photos. Our tour guide Katherine added many interesting facts about the Grants especially Julia Grant. Her information has inspired me to research the feud between Julia and Mary Todd Lincoln. The tour did not take long and you visit the upstairs on your own. The only disappointment was what they called "the gift shop". Not much there and not in good condition. According to our trolley driver, there is to be a much needed Galena/Grant museum opened in 2021 in a Victorian mansion next to the house. Our only recommendation is, because of the close quarters, go during a quiet time. Not sure this would be much fun in crowded conditions.

This house was built in 1860 - it was given to Grant by residents of Galena in 1865 as thanks for his service in the Civil War. Grant and his family lived in the house between the war and his 1868 presidential campaign and again for on and off during his presidency and retirement. Dedicated tour guides take visitors on a 25ish minute tour through the library, the parlor, the dining room, kitchen and bathroom on the first floor, then the bedrooms on the second floor explaining the original furnishings that belonged to the Grant family. The rooms are furnished to represent a Civil War era look. A building next door has exhibits about Grant's military and presidential careers and the history of the home. There's also a general store you can walk into.