A Rare Galena Landmark Opportunity: The Historic Ryan Mansion at 11373 W US Highway 20

Offered at $575,000, the historic Ryan Mansion at 11373 W US Highway 20 in Galena, Illinois represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to acquire a landmarked property with extraordinary character, rich history, and immense income-producing potential.

Situated prominently at the corner of Highway 20 and Oldenburg Lane, this iconic estate is a licensed small inn and has long been admired as one of Galena’s most distinctive historic residences.

Due to an investor’s change of plans, the property is now available to a new owner at an exceptional value and is being priced to sell AS-IS, with existing building materials included. Much of the heavy work has already been completed, setting the stage for the next owner to bring their vision to life.

A Historic Mansion with Vision and Momentum

The Ryan Mansion is currently under construction, with extensive improvements completed over the past two years. Many of the bathrooms have been fully gutted, and high-quality remodeling is already underway—offering buyers the rare advantage of customizing finishes while avoiding the most labor-intensive stages of renovation.

Photos reflect the level of craftsmanship and materials being installed, and a detailed improvement and repair list is available in the associated documents.

This property is ideal for investors, hospitality entrepreneurs, or preservation-minded buyers seeking to complete and operate a distinctive boutique inn, event venue, or luxury short-term rental.

Architectural Grandeur and Unique Design Elements

From the moment you enter the mansion, the scale and artistry are unmistakable. The home features marble fireplaces in most rooms, a striking testament to the elegance and craftsmanship of its era. Built-in bookcases in the Library/Family Room add warmth and sophistication, creating inviting spaces for guests to relax and gather.

One of the most fascinating and symbolic features of the Ryan Mansion is its custom Ruby Red Czechoslovakian door, designed specifically for the home and aligned with both the summer and winter solstice—a detail said to “bring new light into the home.

” Adding to this celestial theme, the circular windows in the third-level ballroom are aligned with the sun and moon, creating a rare and meaningful architectural connection to nature and time.

Inn Layout and Guest Accommodations

The mansion offers an expansive layout with 10 bedrooms and 9 bathrooms (including 8 full baths and 2 half baths), making it exceptionally well-suited for continued use as a licensed inn. A bell service system runs directly to the guest suites, preserving the authentic hospitality experience that defines historic inns.

A laundry and linen storage room on the second level adds practicality and efficiency for inn operations, while multiple main-level bathrooms support event hosting and guest flow.

The home is offered furnished, with only a few personal exclusions, allowing a new owner to step in with ease and continuity.

Third-Level Ballroom and Event Potential

One of the most exciting features of the Ryan Mansion is the partially finished ballroom on the third level. This expansive space opens the door to exceptional revenue opportunities, including weddings, private events, retreats, and celebrations.

With new HVAC installed, spray insulation completed, and new plaster applied, this space is already well on its way to becoming a show-stopping venue that could dramatically enhance income potential.

Few properties in Galena offer the ability to host events within a historic mansion setting—making this feature especially valuable.

Cottage, Garage, and Grounds

In addition to the main mansion, the property includes a detached three-car garage equipped with garage door openers, offering ample parking and storage. Also included is a charming one-room cottage featuring a full bathroom, fireplace, and private deck—ideal for an owner’s quarters, premium guest suite, or private rental.

The grounds are enhanced by a side porch and gazebo, both with newer roofing, creating inviting outdoor spaces for guests to enjoy Galena’s natural beauty.

Mechanical Systems and Key Updates

Significant infrastructure and mechanical updates have already been completed, providing peace of mind and long-term value. These include:

Kitchen remodel initiated in 2019, including appliances

Water heaters replaced in 2019

Well pump and pressure tank replaced in 2020

Mansion roof replaced in 2014

Garage roof replaced in 2016

Side porch and gazebo roof replaced in 2021

New garage doors installed in 2019

Chimney resealed in 2021

New HVAC system installed in the ballroom, including spray insulation and new plaster

Cottage HVAC and water heater replaced in 2022

The home also features dual heating options, including a wood burner connected to the furnace as well as gas forced air, offering both efficiency and flexibility.

A Strategic Location in Galena

Located directly along US Highway 20, the Ryan Mansion enjoys excellent visibility and accessibility—an ideal combination for an inn or event venue. Galena is renowned for its tourism, historic charm, and year-round visitor appeal, making this property exceptionally well-positioned for hospitality success.

The corner lot location provides ease of access while maintaining the grandeur and presence befitting a landmark estate.

Endless Possibilities Await

Whether your vision includes completing the renovation and reopening as a luxury boutique inn, transforming the mansion into a wedding and event destination, operating a historic Airbnb, or creating a private estate with income-producing components, the Ryan Mansion offers unmatched potential.

With much of the structural, mechanical, and preparatory work already complete, this property allows a new owner to focus on finishing touches, design choices, and operational planning—rather than starting from scratch.

A Historic Legacy Ready for Its Next Chapter

With 10 bedrooms, 9 bathrooms, a ballroom, cottage, garage, and an array of rare architectural features, the Ryan Mansion is far more than a property—it is a living piece of Galena history. Opportunities to acquire a landmarked, licensed inn with this level of character, scale, and forward momentum are exceedingly rare.

For the right buyer, 11373 W US Highway 20 offers not just a purchase, but the chance to steward an iconic estate into its next era of life, light, and legacy. Schedule a private tour today and explore the extraordinary potential of this Galena treasure.

FROM ZILLOW

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