Dubuque was the half-way spot for me and the lady a few years back when we did long distance.
The Julien and the Holiday Inn in downtown Dubuque are nice little hotels. From there it's only a 15 min. drive to Galena. Dubuque surprisingly is a nice little weekend getaway spot. We did the Paddle boat cruise on the Mississippi and hit up the Casino afterwards. (if you get bored with Galena that is)
Dubuque is a very nice city to visit. The river walk along a nice portion of the Mississippi River is a quiet little getaway in and of itself. The Star Brewery and Restaurant is at the end of the walk, and has very good food and drink, while the casino is a very short walk from there. There is also a hotel right down in that area, as well.
Oh...and there are other things to do in Dubuque besides the river area, too, haha.