St. Genevieve riverboard, docked.
St-Gen-e1719429970348 (1)
The Middle of Memory Making

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.

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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.
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.
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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.

WELCOME TO OTTAWA, ILLINOIS

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.

WHATS HAPPENING IN OTTAWA

List of events in Photo View

List of events in Photo View

OVC Blog

Ottawa’s Special Events

We recently met with Commissioner Wayne Eichelkraut and City of Ottawa Administrative Assistant Alaina Iverson, of the Ottawa Special Events Committee. We got to hear about some of the exciting things the Special Events Committee has planned for this summer, as well as some of the history of your favorite events – like Music in the Park, Jordan Block Jams, and the Kids Fishing Rodeo. We also learned about some exciting news, Friendship Days is back for 2026! First, Wayne told us a bit about the history of Music in the Park. It’s been an Ottawa staple for

Read More »

Ottawa’s Special Events

We recently met with Commissioner Wayne Eichelkraut and City of Ottawa Administrative Assistant Alaina Iverson, of the Ottawa Special Events Committee. We got to hear about some of the exciting things the Special Events Committee has planned for this summer, as well as some of the history of your favorite events – like Music in the Park, Jordan Block Jams, and the Kids Fishing Rodeo. We also learned about some exciting news, Friendship Days is back for 2026! First, Wayne told us a bit about the history of Music in the Park. It’s been an Ottawa staple for

Read More »

Ottawa’s Special Events

We recently met with Commissioner Wayne Eichelkraut and City of Ottawa Administrative Assistant Alaina Iverson, of the Ottawa Special Events Committee. We got to hear about some of the exciting

Read More »