Ottawa, Illinois is a small but welcoming community located near the Illinois and Fox Rivers. This city is home to nearly 20,000 residents, and its nickname is "The Friendly City."  There is tons to do in the area, making Ottawa the perfect place to visit or explore. At Sierra Mazda, we couldn't be happier to serve the Ottawa area.

History

Ottawa was officially incorporated in 1853. It is well known as the site of the first Lincoln-Douglas Debates, and the city was also a stop on the Underground Railroad. Ottawa is also famous as a home for the Radium Dial Company, a watch and clock company known for using luminescent radium paint. There are also significant silica sand deposits in the area, so Ottawa has a strong glass industry as well.

 

Things to Do

One of the top things to do in Ottawa is to visit the Illinois Waterway Visitor Center. You can see the wheelhouse of a barge, indoor displays, and look for eagles as well. The center is popular among bird watchers, though many simply love to come to learn more about the dam system. There's also hiking and trails in the area, and many stay the night at the Starved Rock Lodge.

Looking for an unforgettable adventure? Try skydiving at Skydive Chicago. This location is home to the World Parachuting Championships, but it's also a great place to experience the rush of a lifetime. There is a skydiving school, coaching and organization, and even camping and cabins in the area for those looking to make a vacation out of their visit.

Finally, get outdoors and explore Buffalo Rock State Park. Located on a bluff of the Illinois River, this 298-acre park has bike trails, camping, cross-country skiing, hiking, and geocaching, among other things. Perfect for all ages, this park has scenic views that are simply hard to forget.

Visit and explore Ottawa, Illinois today! You can stop by the waterway center, the state park, or go skydiving, among other things. There's nothing quite like this city, and we couldn't be prouder to call Ottawa home.