St. Genevieve riverboard, docked.
A beautifully-plated sushi entree sitting on the right hand of a wooden table.
Nell's Bridge
The Lincoln and Douglass statues in Washington Square (Ottawa, IL).
Inside one of the hotel rooms in Ottawe, IL.
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The Middle of Memory Making

Get away with the girls, savor time with your spouse, pack up Fido and hit the road. Ottawa offers all you need to make lasting memories on a vacation that is virtually stress-free.

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The Middle of The Arts

Nestled in the heart of Illinois, Ottawa thrives as a vibrant hub of artistic expression, showcasing a rich tapestry woven from murals, mosaics, and blown glass. Complementing this creative landscape is its own art gallery and studio, adding depth and diversity to the city's flourishing arts scene.

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The Middle of Creative Cuisine

Dig in to diverse and ever-changing dishes found in restaurants of all kinds, from your casual small town coffee shop to made-from-scratch fine dining to cultural cuisine.

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Relaxation

Take a deep breath, this soothing natural setting surrounds you.

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The Middle of History

Stand in the spot where President Lincoln gave the first of seven debate speeches, wander the home of the famed and unfortunate Radium Girls, and relive Ottawa's history through murals.

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Settle down and snuggle up in one of Ottawa's established hotels, motels, unique properties or private rentals.

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The Middle of Memory Making

Get away with the girls, savor time with your spouse, pack up Fido and hit the road. Ottawa offers all you need to make lasting memories on a vacation that is virtually street -free.

red-mobile-BASH
The Middle of Creative Cuisine

Dig in to diverse and ever-changing dishes found in restaurants of all kinds, from your casual small-town coffee shop to made-from-scratch fine dining to cultural cuisine.

purple-mobile-wallace-mural
The Middle of The Arts

Nestled in the heart of Illinois, Ottawa thrives as a vibrant hub of artistic expression, showcasing a rich tapestry woven from murals, mosaics, and blown glass. Complementing this creative landscape is its own art gallery and studio, adding depth and diversity to the city's flourishing arts scene.

green-mobile-nells
Relaxation

Take a deep breath, this soothing natural setting surrounds you.

yellow-mobile-statues
The Middle of History

Stand in the spot where President Lincoln gave the first of seven debate speeches, wander the home of the famed and unfortunate Radium Girls, and relive Ottawa's history through murals.

blue-mobile-bed

Settle down and snuggle up in one of Ottawa's established hotels, motels, unique properties or private rentals.

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WELCOME TO OTTAWA, ILLINOIS

Ottawa is a vibrant tourist destination located 80 miles outside of downtown Chicago. It is often considered to be “In the Middle of Everywhere”.  You are within a stone’s throw of many diverse activities–from lush and natural outdoor areas to renowned cultural and historic attractions.

Surrounded by open spaces, rivers, and trails, Ottawa is a natural setting that allows for people to get outdoors and enjoy some relaxation. We serve as a hub to 4 state parks (Starved Rock, Matthiessen, Buffalo Rock, Illini State Park) and a nature preserve all within 20 minutes of our downtown.

What's Happening

Ottawa Visitor Center's Blog