Linmar Gardens — Attraction in Galena

We got there right at 5 till 2 on a Sunday -no parking so we parked and walked elsewhere - there is sign saying tour starts here-you can not go in without a guided tour- but Nowhere did it say where to go to get the tour -we walked down and started coming up and an old guy asked if we knew how to read? We said yes and he said that doesn’t mean you can wonder around(we were not) we knocked on a door w cobwebs that led to believe they weren’t open anymore. Another couple was there to. Due to him being so rude we all left. I won’t donate money to rude people or send them business. I should have asked him if could find people skills before opening a business. If he doesn’t want people to go beyond the sign put a rope up or a gate. Or maybe a simple “wait here” sign for those...

Amazing, one-of-a-kind private gardens, one of the most unique places to visit in Galena. Unique terraces, sculptures and structures incorporated into the 3 acre grounds that you won't see anywhere else. Very friendly and informative tour guide. We recently went back a second time and it was still very lovely. The deer population is rising, and they like to eat hostas, unfortunately. The owner Bob is 90 years old and an army veteran, he came out to speak with the group, but no longer does the tours. Always a very special experience!

Note that the gardens are on private property (several signs mention this), daily guided tours at 11:00am (weather permitting). Open mid-May...

This place is phenomenal.

While it is not advertised as such, the garden is one of the closest you’ll see to a Japanese shaded garden in the US. The selection of plants is unique in that it is adapted to the challenges of the soil and the local critters (deer).

Hal, Bob, and Janet are all excellent people and are great fun to chat with at the conclusion of the tour. I highly recommend this place and you won’t regret spending the ten dollars as you’ll walk away with some great memories, conversation, and photographs.

Give this place a look the next time...