

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.








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.


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.


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.


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


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.


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








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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.

The celebration for the Ottawa Visitors Center 30th anniversary continues, with our birthday festivities set for April 24th. As part of the fun, we have launched the “30 Stories for 30 Years” interview series, starring some past OVC Board members, and others. We’ve been reflecting on three decades of tourism, as well as pondering the future. Join us, as we look back on local tourism’s evolution, some Ottawa Visitors Center history, and a special guest’s unique perspectives. This entry is a special one! We’re featuring Mayor Robert Hasty, as we discuss all things tourism. We first discussed the

The celebration for the Ottawa Visitors Center 30th anniversary continues, with our birthday festivities set for April 24th. As part of the fun, we have launched the “30 Stories for 30 Years” interview series, starring some past OVC Board members, and others. We’ve been reflecting on three decades of tourism, as well as pondering the future. Join us, as we look back on local tourism’s evolution, some Ottawa Visitors Center history, and a special guest’s unique perspectives. This entry is a special one! We’re featuring Mayor Robert Hasty, as we discuss all things tourism. We first discussed the
The celebration for the Ottawa Visitors Center 30th anniversary continues, with our birthday festivities set for April 24th. As part of the fun, we have launched the “30 Stories for