$232,717Average Value$167Average Price per Sq Ft83Homes For Sale
Recreation on the Illinois River
About 90 miles southwest of downtown Chicago, the city of Ottawa is sometimes known as “The Town of Two Rivers” because it is located where the Fox River empties into the Illinois River. Four state parks are located within a 10-mile drive of Ottawa, including Starved Rock State Park. “That’s our claim to fame,” says Robin Wilson, a broker with Home Smart Realty. “People from Chicago have no idea where Ottawa is, but they’ve heard of and know where Starved Rock State Park is.” History is also prominent in Ottawa as the Illinois River was a waterway in the 1800s where goods were shipped between Lake Michigan and the Mississippi River. The Illinois River is also a tourist destination, with the Sainte Genevieve Riverboat offering sightseeing cruises from June through September.
Starved Rock State Park features miles of scenic nature trails for Ottawa residents to enjoy.
The lodge at Starved Rock State Park is a favorite among Ottawa residents.
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Starved Rock and other parks
Ottawa is considered the scenic gateway to Starved Rock State Park, which is in the small nearby community of Utica Township. The park is over 2,600 acres with over 13 miles of trails that lead to picturesque canyons, sandstone walls and waterfalls on the south side of the Illinois River. Buffalo Rock is on the north side, featuring panoramic waterway views. Washington Square Park is part of the city’s rich history in downtown Ottawa. It was the site of the first senatorial debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas in 1858. There are historical markers and statues of both men. Amenities include a fountain and walking paths. It’s also the site for Saturday night concerts during the summer. There are plans for an amphitheater to be located along the Illinois riverfront.
Starved Rock State Park is a popular tourist attraction in Ottawa.
Washington Park in Ottawa was the site of the first Lincoln-Douglas debates in 1858.
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Variety of housing in Ottawa
From homes dating to the 1800s in a historic district to new construction homes in modern subdivisions, a wide variety of housing is available. “There is a nice mixture, and there are prices that are attractive to the first-time buyer,” Wilson says. The median single-family home price is about $302,000, similar to the city of Peru about 20 miles west on the Illinois River. The median price there is almost $314,000. There are a few condo developments, primarily east of downtown. Most townhouses are north of downtown and a few south of the Illinois River. “With the amount of people working remotely, there are some who work in Chicago and live in Ottawa,” she adds. “There are still plenty who work locally.” The Ottawa Chamber of Commerce says the top employers in the area are the OSF St. Elizabeth Medical Center, the Petsmart Distribution Center and SABIC Innovative Plastics.
Downtown Ottawa features many homes from the 1800s.
Newly constructed riverside homes are available in the eastern part of Ottawa.
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Vibrant downtown Ottawa
Independently run restaurants, boutiques, antique shops and craft breweries line the streets of downtown. “It’s always vibrant,” Wilson says. “The transition happened about 20 years ago, and it’s consistently stayed popular.” There’s a focus on the arts on display during Ottawa’s Third Friday, running from May through September. Many retailers are open late, and the Open Space Art Gallery hosts the event. There are murals all over downtown depicting the city’s history. On the city's north end are more retail and restaurant options close to Interstate 80.
Downtown Ottawa is lined with restaurants and shops for residents to enjoy.
Enjoy an afternoon at one of Ottawa's many breweries.
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Ottawa public and private schools
Ottawa Elementary School District 141 consists of four elementary schools, an intermediate and a middle school. The district is rated a B on Niche. Ottawa Township High School is part of the Ottawa Township High School District 140. The school is rated a B-minus. Private school options include the Catholic K-12 Marquette Academy, rated a B-plus and Ottawa Christian Academy, serving kids from kindergarten through tenth grade.
Educational opportunities abound at Ottawa Township High School.
Ottawa Elementary School District has dozens of effective and excellent teachers and staff.
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Car-dependency in Ottawa
A car is needed to get around Ottawa and beyond. Interstate 80 is accessible north of downtown, leading east to the south suburbs of Chicago and west toward the Quad Cities and the Iowa border.
Things to Know
According to FBI data, violent crime and property crime rates are relatively low, but cases have increased annually between 2021 and 2023; the most recent year data is available. The First Street Foundation, an organization that tracks environmental dangers, says houses near the Fox and Illinois Rivers are in severe flood zones.
Written By
Jeff Stapleton
Photography Contributed By
Patrick Kelley
Video By
Ruo Zheng
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Ottawa, IL sell after 37 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Ottawa, IL over the last 12 months is $215,500, up 13% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Now available, the remaining 32 units of Amber Woods Planned Unit Development. This is a prime development opportunity located on the north side of Ottawa, offering an exceptional opportunity for developers. With approval already in place, you can hit the ground running and finish the remaining 32 residential units. Situated within Wallace School District, the property is conveniently close to
Discover an exceptional opportunity with this 51-acre parcel located adjacent to the historic I&M Canal. Zoned for industrial use and located I the Canal TIF, this versatile property offers a rare blend of development potential and natural beauty, making it ideal for a wide range of possibilities. Whether you're envisioning an industrial use or a unique recreational destination such as a
Welcome to this exquisite one-of-a-kind home boasting great craftmanship and stunning cherry woodwork throughout. This home showcases attention to detail with built-ins and custom finishes. Step inside and be greeted by the grand two-story foyer. The spacious family room features soaring ceilings and cozy fireplace. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring a large 14 foot granite island
3 BR 2 BATH SYCAMORE MODEL PERFECT FOR A WEEKEND RETREAT OR FULL-TIME LIVING LOCATED IN HERITAGE HARBOR!!! Located in the fantastic Heritage Harbor community situated on the picturesque Illinois River! This home features upgraded materials, including a designer kitchen with granite countertops, white shaker cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and satin nickel fixtures. Huge island providing bar
Prime light industrial development site consisting of 13.14 acres located just minutes from Interstate 80 in Ottawa's growing industrial corridor. The property is zoned Office, Research, Light Industrial (D) and ideally positioned near major regional employers, including the Kohl's and PetSmart distribution centers. City utilities are available on site, including water and sewer, providing
Don't miss this opportunity to secure prime commercial land. With its strategic location close to I-80 and governmental facilities, generous size, and potential, this property is your gateway to success. A location near the LaSalle County Governmental Complex adds an extra layer of appeal. Businesses catering to government agencies or seeking to engage in public-private partnerships will find
Build your dream forever home or home-away-from home vacation house on this waterfront custom lot! Located in the marina resort community of Heritage Harbor only 15 mins from Starved Rock State Park. Steps away from a private clubhouse, small fitness room and pool. Walk down to the community dock, on-site restaurant and walking path. Enjoy easy access to the I&M Canal, year-round events and just
This solid brick duplex at the end of a quiet dead-end street on Ottawa's south side is a rare turnkey find for an investor or an owner-occupant looking to supplemant their mortgage. Both units have been remodeled with a functional two-bedroom, 1.5-bath layout, bridging the gap between historic character and modern rental demands. Recent updates provide immediate move-in readiness and long-term
This home was built for people who like to live well and gather often. With more than 4,000 square feet of finished living space-including a finished basement designed for fun-it offers room to spread out without ever feeling disconnected. One of the first things you notice is the living room: tall, airy ceilings that pull in the daylight and a fireplace that anchors the entire space. The kitchen
Discover a versatile opportunity with this 1.12-acre property comprised of two adjoining parcels offering both commercial and residential potential. Whether you're a developer, investor, or business owner, this unique setup presents exceptional value and flexibility in a high-visibility area. Parcel 1, C-3 Commercial Zoned (.52 acres), is positioned with future direct access off Route 23
Escape to the peaceful countryside with a 1-acre lot in Crooked Creek Phase II. Enjoy the best of country living with plenty of space, privacy, and fresh air, all while being just a short drive from Ottawa, the Starved Rock area, and I-80.
Welcome to one of the finest properties in Northern Illinois! Nestled amidst the tranquil beauty of the Illinois River Valley, this exceptional property epitomizes luxury living. Boasting 4 bedrooms, 6.5 bathrooms, and sprawling across 6,000 square feet, this magnificent home offers unparalleled comfort and privacy. Situated on 1.51 wooded acres, it provides a serene escape while being
AMAZING, 2024 CONSTRUCTION AVAILABLE FOR RENT!! 3 BR, 2 FULL BATH home located in the fantastic community of Heritage Harbor! The kitchen is completely updated with a huge island for bar stool seating! Great open floor plan! Luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout the main living area! Enjoy all of what Heritage Harbor has to offer with a clubhouse, pool, boat launch, parks, and beach!! Rent
Cedar Crossing Apartments welcomes you home!! We feature an in ground swimming pool, fitness center and park like setting. We also have off-street parking and on-site laundry for your convenience. We are pet friendly (restrictions and additional fees apply) and have 24 hour maintenance to meet all of your needs! We are in a quiet area with schools, churches and daycares very close-- even
Recently remodeled in 2026, this 2 bedroom, 1 bath home offers updated finishes and modern mechanicals in a quiet setting near Ottawa. Approximately 25 minutes from Starved Rock State Park and conveniently located near shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation. Features include gas forced air furnace, central A/C, newer windows, newer water heater, and whole-house water filtration system. Well and
Property Id: 1555589This is a 2 bed, one bath layout. This unit has been renovated with freshly painted baseboards, walls, trim, and cabinets. New laminate flooring. Individual storage unit (no additional charge). FREE washer/dryer is provided in the basement to be shared with all four units. This unit has a balcony. Great proximity to grade schools, churches, Rigden Park and the Cheese
Live like you're on vacation in this move-in ready condo at Heritage Harbor Ottawa, an award-winning waterfront community along the Illinois River. Welcome to The Cardinal Cottage, a fully furnished two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo with a versatile layout featuring one bedroom and living area on the main level and a second bedroom with additional living space in the basement, each with its own
2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment available. Kitchen appliances and On-site laundry and off-street parking included. $1,200/month + $1,200 deposit. No smoking. No pets allowed. Hablo Español
Flexible lease terms and move-in ready! Welcome to the Sea-Doo at Heritage Harbor Ottawa. This bright one-bedroom fully furnished condo features modern finishes, comfortable furnishings, and access to community walking paths and the marina. Flexible lease terms and quick move-in available. Conveniently located near downtown Ottawa, Starved Rock State Park, and with easy access to I-80. Experience
For Rent. 3 bedrooms – 2 bathrooms - $1,400 a monthLovely 3 big bedrooms, 2 bathrooms in Ottawa, IL. Second floor apartment, just renovated on Marcy Street. New kitchen cabinets, appliances, including dishwasher. Refinished wood floors all around. New washer and dryer in the unit. Bedrooms have big windows, with windows treatment, providing extensive sunlight. Electrical heaters in
FLEXIBLE LEASE TERMS AVAILABLE! Beautiful 2BR/2.5BA duplex at Heritage Harbor featuring modern finishes, vaulted ceilings, gourmet kitchen, and covered porches with water views. Positioned across from the pool and near the marina, trails, parks, and riverfront. Enjoy resort-style living with community events, outdoor amenities, and an in-home Peloton available for tenant use. Easy to apply!
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