AWESOME OTTAWA Tours

When you first arrive in Ottawa, Illinois you’ll notice the beautiful scenery at the confluence of the Fox and Illinois Rivers. You’ll marvel at the beautifully preserved historic downtown. You’ll wonder about the man made canal that cuts through town, the Illinois and Michigan Canal.

Once you’ve settled in you’ll enjoy a vast array of locally owned restaurants and boutiques. Beautifully manicured parks and trails. You’ll also feel an overwhelming sense of history. At this point, the most common question for visitors is WHY? Why is this city placed here in what seems like the middle of nowhere? Who are the people who envisioned such a town in north central Illinois? What has allowed this beautiful hamlet to remain and flourish?

The answers to those questions are many and vast. That’s where Awesome Ottawa Tours comes in. With eight unique tours, Awesome Ottawa will take you on the journey that IS Ottawa, Illinois. From the city’s humble beginnings as a canal town to its prominent position on the

Illinois underground railroad, Ottawa’s history runs deep. These captivating tours will delve into the dark history as well, such as when the notorious Radium Dial Corporation came to Ottawa in 1923. Hear about the early years of the city with the Ottawa Obscura tour, which is offered as both biking and driving adventure. Looking to explore contemporary Ottawa? Take a tour of the Tangled Roots Brewing Company. You’ve no doubt noticed the large historic homes in Ottawa, learn about those who built and occupied them on the Grand Homes of Ottawa, Illinois Tour. If you are more inclined to relax with a glass of wine or a cocktail as you learn about Ottawa, take the Wine Through Time Prohibition Pub Crawl.

Awesome Ottawa tours is owned and operated by local history expert Tom Aussem - whose family has lived in the Ottawa area since the 1830’s. These fun and informative tours bring history to life and will leave you feeling like a local.

For more information, and to book your tour, visit AwesomeOttawaTours.com or call (815) 343-4940