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How To: The Holiday Season in Ottawa
Winter brings out a whole new side of Ottawa, with plenty of exciting events to enjoy as the temperatures drop! Chris Kringle Market Ottawa is well known for the Chris Kringle Market, a favorite of both locals and tourists alike! This open-air market is full of a wide...
“Hello, Neighbor!” A Resource for New Residents
Are you a new resident of Ottawa? Do you know someone who has recently moved to town? If so, we recommend stopping by the Ottawa Visitors Center and picking up a “Hello, Neighbor!” package! Our “Hello, Neighbor!” program is dedicated to helping new residents learn...
Festival of Lights and the Chris Kringle Market
On November 29th, the Festival of Lights is back for another year of holiday cheer! Join us to kick off the fun at 6:00 pm on LaSalle Street and the 200 block of West Jackson Street. There will be festive floats, performances, and decorations making their way down...
Looking for a Gift or Souvenir?
A visit to Ottawa is an opportunity to make memories that last a lifetime. If you’re looking for a keepsake or a gift for a friend/loved one, you’ll want to check out the Ottawa Visitors Center’s very own gift shop! Our gift shop has plenty of options to take a piece...
Attraction Spotlight: The Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum
The Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum is a privately-owned, not-for-profit organization that was founded to promote and preserve the traditions and history of Scouting. The museum’s collection includes items and exhibits associated with the Boy Scouts,...
Kane Family Farms
If you find yourself planning a fall trip, it’s important to remember some things: fall is the season of pumpkin patches, hayrides, and apple cider donuts. Luckily, you can find all that and more at Ottawa’s very own Kane Family Farms! Located at 2165 N. 3020th...
Ottawa’s Third Annual Smoketoberfest
The award-winning Smoketoberfest is BACK! Join us on at the Jordan Block on Saturday, October 12 for the famed backyard cooking competition from 12 to 5 pm. Guests can enjoy free live music, rib tasting, whiskey, and bourbon tasting, and the exciting BBQ competition...
Get to Know Ottawa History
So maybe this post is your first time hearing about Ottawa. Or maybe you’ve seen some of our other blog posts. Maybe you even live here! Whatever the case is, this post is intended to help you learn more about Ottawa, Illinois. Hopefully, you’ll learn something new!...
Rainy Day Activities!
If a rainy day has your spirits down, don’t worry. Ottawa still has plenty to offer, even if you don’t want to be outside. Here are just a few of the things you can do here in town that will drive off any rainy-day blues. Reddick Mansion (100 W. Lafayette St) The...
Summer Checklist: Sun’s Out, Fun’s Out in Ottawa, Il!
Summertime in Ottawa is full of exciting events and opportunities for everyone. Whether you're having a get-together with friends, enjoying a day with the family, or needing some quality "me time," Ottawa has got you covered! Here are just a few ways for you to...