Ottawa, IL

OTTAWA: WHY REUNITE HERE

• Downtown Ottawa’s commercial district features nostalgic charm and 19th century buildings while offering a variety of shops and dining experiences.

It is also home to Reddick

Mansion and Gardens, an ornate 50-foot-tall, 22-room

Italianate mansion

• Ottawa serves as a hub for four state parks and a nature preserve, all within 20 minutes of its charming downtown area, including

Starved Rock State Park

• Ottawa features a host of excellent restaurants that will appeal to every member of your family including The

Lone Buffalo, one of Illinois’ best brewpubs

Ottawa, Illinois

This alluring city in the middle of everywhere features nostalgic charm and outdoor adventure

“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,’ located in the heart of the state, central to several major Illinois cities and drive markets, and within a stone’s throw of many diverse activities. Those who visit Ottawa, Illinois take note of its friendly and neighborly, hometown feel."

Surrounded by open spaces, rivers and trails, Ottawa is a picturesque natural setting that allows families to get outdoors, relax and have a memorable outing. Ottawa serves as a hub for four state parks and a nature preserve, all within 20 minutes of its charming downtown area. The most popular of these parks is Starved Rock State Park, which was voted the No. 1 attraction in Illinois and is located a scant 10 miles from Ottawa. Starved Rock is home to amazing waterfalls, 13 miles of trails, great fishing and boating on the Illinois River. Standing on the north bank of the Illinois River, Buffalo Rock State Park affords a magnificent sweeping view of the river. This 298-acre park has long been a favorite picnic area and a nature lover’s delight.

A Historic Downtown

Downtown Ottawa’s commercial district retains its nostalgic charm and 19th century buildings while offering a variety of shops and dining experiences. Large murals and public art displays, mom and pop shops, historic American figures and adventure activities are just a few of the attractions families will find downtown. Enhance your enjoyment of downtown Ottawa by taking an informative, guided tour that tells about Ottawa’s exciting past.

Groups can choose from bike tours, walking tours, hike tours, seasonal haunted tours or a custom tour. Among the many shops families can peruse include A Mess of Things, which sells vintage, repurposed and recycled home décor, clothing and accessories, and Sister in Laws, a small hometown decor shop.

The Lone Buffalo features a rich and varied menu and excellent beverage selections.

Built before the Civil War in 1858, Reddick Mansion and Gardens, an ornate 50-foot-tall, 22-room Italianate mansion, anchors the Washington Square National Historic District. Dedicated to the preservation of the history of the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Campfire and the Ottawa area, the Ottawa Historic and Scouting Heritage Museum features collections of memorabilia relating to Ottawa’s historic past. Ottawa is home to a diverse culinary scene that includes such reputable establishments as The Lone Buffalo, which features a rich and varied menu, taking familiar favorites and giving them a chef-inspired twist.

Reddick Mansion and Gardens is an ornate, 50-foot tall, 22-room mansion.

CONTACT: Donna Reynolds

Ottawa Visitors Center events@pickusottawail.com 815-434-2737

pickusottawail.com