Trip-Planning Aid: Info Request

If you’re planning a trip to Ottawa or want to learn more about what the city has to offer, we have the perfect solution! The Ottawa Visitors Center makes and mails out Information Request Packages to those who call or use our website. It’s simple! On a computer, all...

The Penguin Plunge Returns for the New Year

The Penguin Plunge returns for the new year on Saturday January 25th at Skydive Chicago from 11am to 3pm. This event was created back in 2012 to fundraise for Make a Wish Illinois. Those who register can help raise money to make a child’s wish come true by taking the...

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!...
The Middle of Everywhere

Ottawa, Illinois 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.

Ottawa is… The Middle of Making Memories. So, start making your Ottawa memories now! Book your stay, you’ll see why we love Ottawa.

Overhead view of Ottawa, IL.