Ottawa

Travel Guide

Northern Illinois showing outdoor art
Starved Rock State Park which includes a waterfall
Northern Illinois which includes signage
Starved Rock State Park which includes forests as well as a couple
Washington Square Park which includes a garden and a statue or sculpture

The site of the first Lincoln-Douglas debate is also the perfect place to base an adventure into the region’s many state parks, famous for their rock formations.

Located at the meeting of the Fox and Illinois rivers, Ottawa, Illinois, has long been a destination for nature lovers and history buffs. Known as the gateway to some of Illinois’ most famous state parks, it also has a charming, neighborly feel. Wander through its historic downtown, the site of the first of the famous debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas. Then set out into the Midwest wilderness.

Explore downtown Ottawa on foot, meandering through the historic old town district in search of its many brightly painted murals. Washington Square Park, site of the Lincoln-Douglas debate, is ringed with several works of public art and crowned by a bronze statue of the two men.

Go back in time at the Reddick Mansion, an enormous Italianate creation that was one of the most expensive residences built in the mid-19th century. Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride down the Riverwalk, a paved trail along the Fox and Illinois rivers with many fishing opportunities.

Prepare for your trip to the outdoors at the Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum, which explores the history of scouting. Practice knots, pack your car and head out to Starved Rock State Park, an enormous wilderness featuring elaborate rock canyons. Nearby Buffalo Rock State Park has solitary experiences among rocks and a herd of buffalo. Bring your hiking boots and a picnic to enjoy one of the most naturally beautiful parts of Illinois.

Ottawa is located in northern Illinois, between Chicago and Peoria. The closest major airport is Chicago O’Hare International Airport, a 1.5-hour drive away. Drive from downtown Peoria in the same amount of time. There is no longer a rail connection to the town. The region is best explored with a personal vehicle.

The sleepy small-town ambiance of Ottawa is great for relaxing. Before you leave, have a jolt of excitement on a skydiving experience.

Postcard Cabins Starved Rock

Postcard Cabins Starved Rock

2 out of 5
1879 N 2703rd Rd, Ottawa, IL
The price is P9,071 per night from Sep 11 to Sep 12
P9,071
P12,283 total
Sep 11 - Sep 12
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this cabin in Ottawa. Enjoy free parking, patios, and climate control. Popular attractions Tangled Roots Brewing Company - The Lone Buffalo and Washington ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (50 reviews)
"It was small and quiet, like I had envisioned. However, the shower had leaked water onto the floor for quite some time and you could see the spots where mold was beginning to grow. As well as the bathroom had the mositure problem, there was a colony of carpenter ants that had moved in. Otherwise ..."

Reviewed on Aug 5, 2025

Postcard Cabins Starved Rock
Super 8 by Wyndham Ottawa Starved Rock

Super 8 by Wyndham Ottawa Starved Rock

2 out of 5
500 East Etna Rd., Ottawa, IL
The price is P4,174 per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
P4,174
P4,632 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Ottawa. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,002 reviews)
"Bed was comfy, interior outdated. Ac had a musty scent. Good for the price. Staff were kind and helpful."

Reviewed on Aug 9, 2025

Super 8 by Wyndham Ottawa Starved Rock
Comfort Inn Ottawa Starved Rock Area

Comfort Inn Ottawa Starved Rock Area

2.5 out of 5
120 W. Stevenson Road, Ottawa, IL
The price is P5,858 per night from Aug 18 to Aug 19
P5,858
P6,501 total
Aug 18 - Aug 19
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Ottawa. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (682 reviews)
"Nice & ok but glass door didn’t lock for safety, elevator broken , had to use steps , gabage outside overflowing outside hotel . But breakfast buffet was great 5 stars !"

Reviewed on Jul 25, 2025

Comfort Inn Ottawa Starved Rock Area
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Postcard Cabins Starved Rock

Postcard Cabins Starved Rock

2 out of 5
1879 N 2703rd Rd, Ottawa, IL
Stay at this cabin in Ottawa. Enjoy free parking, patios, and climate control. Popular attractions Tangled Roots Brewing Company - The Lone Buffalo and Washington ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (50 reviews)
"It was small and quiet, like I had envisioned. However, the shower had leaked water onto the floor for quite some time and you could see the spots where mold was beginning to grow. As well as the bathroom had the mositure problem, there was a colony of carpenter ants that had moved in. Otherwise ..."

Reviewed on Aug 5, 2025

Postcard Cabins Starved Rock
KAYAK STARVED ROCK CAMPGROUND

KAYAK STARVED ROCK CAMPGROUND

1 out of 5
1170 N 27th Rd, Ottawa, IL
Stay at this campground in Ottawa. Enjoy free parking, a picnic area, and boat tours on site. Popular attractions Starved Rock State Park and Illinois Canyon ...
"Stafff was great. Campground was ok but turned into a party zone at night. Music screaming yelling slamming doors constantly. I ppacked up and left for a hotel at 1 am. Party on both ends was going strong."

Reviewed on Aug 31, 2024

KAYAK STARVED ROCK CAMPGROUND
Holiday Inn Club Vacations Fox River Resort at Sheridan by IHG

Holiday Inn Club Vacations Fox River Resort at Sheridan by IHG

3.5 out of 5
2558 N 3653 Road, Sheridan, IL
Stay at this 3.5-star golf aparthotel in Sheridan. Enjoy free parking, an outdoor pool, and a golf course. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (564 reviews)
Food options
"Open restaurant back up with excellent cook"

Reviewed on Aug 8, 2025

Holiday Inn Club Vacations Fox River Resort at Sheridan by IHG
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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