Ottawa Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of the Illinois region, Ottawa is a charming city that offers visitors a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and small-town charm. With its picturesque setting along the Illinois River and a rich history dating back to the 19th century, Ottawa is a hidden gem worth exploring.

For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Reddick Mansion is a must. This beautifully preserved mansion was built in 1855 and offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the era. Take a guided tour and marvel at the exquisite architecture and lavish interiors that have been meticulously restored to their former glory.

Nature lovers will find plenty to discover in Ottawa's outdoor spaces. Starved Rock State Park is just a short drive away and offers breathtaking views of towering sandstone bluffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush greenery. Hike along the park's numerous trails, go fishing in the Illinois River, or simply enjoy a picnic while taking in the serene surroundings.

If you're looking for a taste of small-town charm, head to Ottawa's historic downtown district. Stroll through the tree-lined streets and explore the unique boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries that dot the area. Don't miss the chance to visit the Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum, which showcases the city's rich history and its ties to the Boy Scouts of America.

For a culinary adventure, Ottawa offers a variety of dining options to satisfy any palate. Indulge in farm-to-table cuisine at one of the city's cozy restaurants or grab a quick bite at a local café. Don't forget to sample some of the region's famous wines at one of the nearby wineries.

In the evening, Ottawa comes alive with live music performances, theater shows, and cultural events. Check out the local events calendar to see what's happening during your visit and immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene.

Alternative names: Population: 18.3 thous.Area: 13.47 mi²Elevation: 482 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 41°21'1"N, 88°50'31"W

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IllinoisUnited States

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Ottawa Top Attractions

Ottawa Attractions - What to See and Explore

Ottawa offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Ottawa East Side Historic District, Reddick Mansion Association, Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum, Ottawa Rail Bridge. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Park
Ottawa East Side Historic District
The Ottawa East Side Historic District is a residential historic district in eastern Ottawa, Illinois. The district is located on a peninsula formed by the confluence of the Fox River and Illinois River and is only connected to the rest of Ottawa by a single bridge.
41°21'1"N • 88°50'29"W
Reddick Mansion Association
Specialty museum • Museum
41°21'5"N • 88°50'43"W
Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum
Specialty museum • Museum

Bridge
Ottawa Rail Bridge
The Ottawa Rail Bridge is a railroad bridge spanning the Illinois River in the municipality of Ottawa, LaSalle County, Illinois.
41°20'45"N • 88°51'3"W
Starved Rock Hot Glass
Shopping • Museum
41°21'3"N • 88°50'31"W
Ottawa Commercial Historic District
The Ottawa Commercial Historic District is a historic district in downtown Ottawa, Illinois. The district includes 195 buildings and structures, most of them commercial buildings, spread out over 26 city blocks. The oldest buildings in the district, located near the Illinois and Fox rivers, were built in the 1830s.
41°20'46"N • 88°50'35"W
Knuessl Building
The Knuessl Building is a historic mid-19th Century commercial building in downtown Ottawa, Illinois. It was built around 1868 by a local pharmacist. The Knuessl Building was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1992.
41°20'49"N • 88°49'60"W
Jeremiah Strawn House
The Jeremiah Strawn House is a historic house in the city of Ottawa, Illinois. It is a good example of a front-gabled house with Italianate detailing. The Strawn House was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1995.
41°20'24"N • 88°50'28"W
John Hossack House
The John Hossack House is a historic house in Ottawa, Illinois, United States. It was built in 1854–55 and was a "station" on the Underground Railroad. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
41°20'55"N • 88°49'45"W
Andrew J. O'Conor III House
The Andrew J. O'Conor III House, also referred to as "Riverbend" and "Buena Vista," is a historic home in the city of Ottawa, Illinois, United States.
Neighbourhood
Washington Park Historic District
Washington Park Historic District, also known as Washington Square is a historic district in and around Washington Park in the city of Ottawa, Illinois, United States. Washington Park was the site of the first Lincoln-Douglas debates of 1858 and is surrounded by several historic structures.

Day trips

Ottawa – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Ottawa, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Farnsworth House (Plano), Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago (Lemont), Fabyan Windmill (Geneva).

25 milesNE
Historical place, History museum, Museum
Farnsworth House, Plano
The Farnsworth House, a quintessential icon of modernist architecture, is nestled in the verdant landscape of Plano, Illinois. Designed by the legendary architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, this museum in Kendall County is not merely a house but a work of art that...
49 milesNE
Sacred and religious sites, Temple, Historical place
Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago, Lemont
Nestled in the serene suburb of Lemont, Illinois, the Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago stands as a beacon of spiritual solace and cultural vibrancy for the local community and visitors alike. This majestic temple, embodying traditional Indian architectural aesthetics...
45 milesNE
Windmill
Fabyan Windmill, Geneva
Nestled in the charming city of Geneva, Illinois, the Fabyan Windmill stands as a testament to American ingenuity and Dutch craftsmanship. This historic mill, restored to its original luster, offers a picturesque glimpse into the past for visitors and locals alike.
46 milesNE
History museum, Museum
Naper Settlement, Naperville
Naper Settlement, nestled in the heart of Naperville, Illinois, is a cultural gem that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past. This outdoor history museum is a sprawling 12-acre campus that showcases the history of the region through a collection of carefully...
39 milesNE
Historic park housing native animals
Phillips Park Zoo, Aurora
Phillips Park Zoo is located on the grounds of Phillips Park, in Aurora, Illinois, United States. It was originally established in 1915, and is still open year-round with no admission charge.