Welcome To Ottawa
Welcome to Ottawa! From the historic buildings to the specialty shops, Ottawa is as charming as they come! Ottawa overlooks the spot where the Fox River meets the Illinois, and there is also a pleasant river walk that brings you right to the river's edge!
Or relax on a shady bench in Washington Park, a pleasant town square featuring historic monuments, towering trees, a beautiful fountain dedicated to two famous visitors to town - even a fresh-popcorn stand!
Ottawa offers a pleasing mix of restaurants featuring everything from ethnic menus to seafood and steaks, from family dining to gourmet cuisine. Whether you grab a quick bite for lunch or linger over a romantic table-for-two, there is something to suit every taste!
History
One trip to Ottawa and you will feel the history, see the historic landmarks and learn more about our country through this unique and interesting town. Ottawa is rich with history.
Where Lincoln's Voice was First Heard
The first Lincoln-Douglas senatorial debate was held in Ottawa's historic Washington Square on August 21, 1858. Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas stood in this beautiful park to deliver the first of seven senatorial debates. It was estimated that 20,000 spectators gathered to witness this famous debate. The site of the debate is marked by a boulder and plaque, and a fountain topped by bronze statues of the "Railsplitter" and “The Little Giant” forms the centerpiece of the beautifully landscaped square.
Boy Scouts of America and W. D. Boyce
William Dickson Boyce was a resident of Ottawa. He is remembered as the man who brought scouting to America. He was inspired by a chance meeting with a British Scout in a thick London fog. The boy showed him the way, saying that he was a Boy Scout and their motto was "Do a good deed everyday."
William Reddick Mansion
The William Reddick Home stands facing historic Washington Square and was built in 1858 for the then-costly sum of $25,000. Mr. Reddick served as a state senator. Mr. Stephen A. Douglas was one of the many politicians entertained at the Reddicks' house. This mansion has been restored to its original splendor and is open to the public.
Murals
Celebrate an undying romance between a 19th century wife and her soldier husband. Relive the artistic vision of an Ottawa businessman whose talent and skills were legendary around the world. Follow the building of an ambitious state transportation project that symbolized the spirit and cultural diversity of a young state. Or join the parade of Ottawans marching through a pivotal decade, the 1950s, or get a glimpse of one of the exciting moments in the lives of some of Ottawa’s earliest settlers, the Native Americans.
I & M Canal
The Illinois and Michigan Canal is a historic landmark not to be missed. It is a favorite site for hiking, exploring history and taking in the beautiful scenic surroundings. The I&M Canal is a historic treasure.
Louis Joliet Camped Here
Louis Joliet was one of the first explorers to experience Ottawa's natural and scenic beauty. His panoramic campsite is today called "The Town of Two Rivers" because Ottawa is the site of the confluence of the Fox River and Illinois River, just east of Starved Rock, Matthiessen and Buffalo Rock State Parks.
Civil War Heritage
One of that conflict’s greatest generals, W.H.L. Wallace, made his home here before the war. Wallace’s life story went beyond his military career; it was a love story: As he lay dying from wounds received at the Battle of Shiloh, his young wife – who had crossed the battle lines from Illinois to be with her husband – was at his side.
Shopping
Whether your taste runs to antiques or boutiques, you’ll find a wide selection of shopping opportunities here in Ottawa. Add to your array of scrapbook supplies or pick up a new needlework stitch, browse book selections or bask in relaxation at a salon. If you crave collectibles, you’ll uncover treasures in our antique stores. You’ll find the latest and greatest fashions at our new-clothing and vintage-clothing outlets, and accessories to fit you out in style! Whether you’re searching for the whimsical or the pragmatic, sophisticated or simple, you’ll find it here. Ottawa offers two distinct retail districts: charming Old Town near the riverfront or the bustling retail outlets near Interstate 80.
Dining
Satisfy your cosmopolitan tastes without ever leaving Ottawa’s charming historic community! The fine dining establishments offer mouth-watering dishes from around the world. Treat your taste buds to Asian wonders, relish a taste of Old Mexico or savor a hand-tossed omelet created to your specifications. Or ask about one of the local delicacies, such as a juicy pork tenderloin or our flowerpot salads. Whether you prefer your beef in burgers or dipped au jus and your chicken batter-fried or tenderly grilled, Ottawa restaurants can serve up a tempting array to satisfy any age. Top off your meal with a slice of delicious homemade pie, creamy cool ice cream or one of the other delightful confections.
Entertainment
Ottawa sets the stage for great entertainment, with rib-tickling standup comedy acts, delightful children’s fairytales and live local bands that’ll leave you clapping for an encore! Also in the spotlight: Toe-tapping musical revues will have you humming along, and crazy karaoke sing-alongs will leave you cheering! Relive memories to the tune of a swing-band sax under the shade trees, or groove to the beat of a rockin’ n’rolling concert along the riverfront. Variety will spice up your nights on the Ottawa entertainment scene.
Old Town
From the historic buildings to the specialty shops, Ottawa's Old Town is as charming as they come! Ottawa overlooks the spot where the Fox River meets the Illinois, and we have a pleasant river walk that brings you right to the river's edge!
Or relax on a shady bench in Washington Park, a pleasant town square featuring historic monuments, towering trees, a beautiful fountain dedicated to two famous visitors to town - even a fresh-popcorn stand!
Ottawa offers a pleasing mix of restaurants featuring everything from ethnic menus to seafood and steaks, from family dining to gourmet cuisine. Whether you grab a quick bite for lunch or linger over a romantic table-for-two, we've got something to suit every taste!
Cutting through the skyline of historic storefronts are several church steeples. Many of Ottawa's churches are historic landmarks and are wonderful examples of beautiful architecture.
Ottawa's Old Town is truly an American treasure - an architectural feast for the eye, a culinary treat for the body or an historical delight for the mind!
Outdoor Recreation
There are many outdoor things to do and see in Ottawa. Often referred to as the "Scenic Route to Starved Rock State Park," Ottawa is just minutes from the legendary wooded cliffs, soaring river bluffs and impressive waterfalls that attract more than two million visitors a year. Whether hiking along the I&M Canal or fishing in the Illinois River, Ottawa is a "natural" delight.
Power-boating, sailing and jet skiing are extremely popular in the "The Town of Two Rivers," with public access ramps conveniently located in the city's Allen Park.
Winter enthusiasts enjoy cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and hiking along the many inspiring canyons and ice-sculpted waterfalls along nearby scenic State Park trails.
Enjoy the magic of Ottawa, whether by hiking nature trails, mountain biking, canoeing or simply by contemplating the scenic vistas. Ottawa offers a complete list of things to do and places to visit.
Information Provided By The Ottawa Visitors Center |