$234,360Average Value$160Average Price per Sq Ft56Homes 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
Marge Cahill,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Ottawa, IL sell after 34 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Ottawa, IL over the last 12 months is $212,750, up 12% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this charming all-brick home nestled on nearly an acre of peaceful land in Ottawa, IL! Offering the perfect blend of character, space, and major mechanical updates, this well-loved 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home is ready for its next chapter. Step inside to discover a warm and inviting interior filled with timeless charm and plenty of room to make it your own-or simply enjoy its classic
Own a piece of Ottawa's history. Built in 1894, this beautifully restored 2-story Victorian blends timeless architectural charm with extensive modern updates-thoughtfully and lovingly completed by the current owners. This historic home features 2,398 square feet of living space with a flexible and generous layout, including a huge living room, a first-floor bedroom, and a rare first-floor powder
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
This charming Eastside Historic District home offers four bedrooms, generous living space, and abundant character. When you enter, you'll find a spacious foyer that leads to a large living room and a bright sunroom porch on the east side. Upstairs, all four bedrooms feature hardwood floors. The west bedroom opens to a covered balcony with a view of the Fox River. There is a new roof, a gated
Nestled on a private, wooded one-acre lot in the sought-after Tanglewood Subdivision, this beautifully maintained home offers space, comfort, and modern updates throughout. A welcoming two-story foyer sets the tone as you step inside, leading to a light-filled great room with vaulted ceilings, a brand-new fireplace (2025), and sliding glass doors that open to a spacious deck with composite
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
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
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
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
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
Nice little single family home located on the west side of town. It is a 2 bedroom, 1 bath home, completely updated with new flooring and freshly painted throughout. Owners will consider pets, there is a pet limit and size limit. Also there is a pet fee, all determined by the owners. Home has a stove, but no refrigerator. The bathroom measures 5x6 and is updated and has a tub/shower combo. Tenant
Beautiful Single-Family Home for Rent Located in the historic neighborhood east-side in Ottawa, offers 3 bedrooms, 1 ½ bathrooms, brand-new kitchen with all new appliances, large dining room and living room, enclosed back porch, a full livable basement with ½ bathroom, washer and dryer included, indoor 2 car garage and one driveway parking. Owner pays for water, lawncare/snow
The Lookout at Heritage Harbor--is now furnished and every room is a lookout point. Ready for you to rent! Located on a premium end lot that is double the width of other lots in the Villa Neighborhood you are sure to keep your views. The Lookout is a brand-new, luxury cottage offering sweeping harbor and river views from nearly every room. With 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and an expansive 500+ sq. ft.
Welcome to Nestled Away, a charming and fully furnished home at Heritage Harbor. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath rental includes utilities and offers an easy, all-inclusive living experience with everything in place so you can settle right in. Inside, you'll enjoy an inviting living space with an electric fireplace, a spacious kitchen and dining area, and the convenience of an in-home washer and dryer.
Here is a 2 Bedroom, 1 bath rental all updated inside. There is an small built in breakfast bar to eat at between the kitchen and living room. Laundry hookups are in the basement, washer and dryer are NOT included. In back enjoy a small deck and a nice side yard. Appliances included are the refrigerator and stove. There is an outside entrance to the basement. There is one bedroom and the other
Your chance for long-term resort-style living without the commitment of ownership at The Sunchaser! This bright one-bedroom condo in Heritage Harbor offers a cheerful retreat within a walkable marina community. Enjoy walking paths, waterfront access, and a relaxed coastal feel year-round. Flexible lease terms. Washer and dryer in-unit. Application required. Convenient to downtown Ottawa, Starved
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
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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