Hotels in Ottawa

Unveil the Elegance of Ottawa: Where Nature Embraces Culture in Every Corner

Discover Ottawa, Illinois, a charming destination where nature meets history. Nestled along the Illinois River, this vibrant city boasts stunning natural parks perfect for outdoor adventures, leisurely strolls, and picnics. Explore the architectural beauty of historic churches and the grandeur of the local cathedral. With its inviting atmosphere, Ottawa is a great location for business travelers and leisure seekers alike. Whether you’re kayaking the serene waterways or attending local festivals, Ottawa offers a unique blend of outdoor exploration and cultural richness, making it a delightful stop for every traveler. For the best hotel rates in Ottawa and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Ottawa

Some of the best places to stay in Ottawa are Utica, Peru and Morris. Utica, Peru, and Morris are charming destinations near Ottawa, Illinois, perfect for travelers seeking unique experiences. Utica offers outdoor adventures with scenic parks, while Peru features shopping and dining options. Morris boasts a quaint atmosphere with local events. Accommodations in these areas include cozy inns, comfortable hotels, and spacious suites, catering to various preferences. For first-time visitors, Utica is ideal, blending nature and local charm for a memorable stay. Ottawa's hotels, like the Holiday Inn Express and Hampton Inn, provide convenient access to these nearby attractions. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Ottawa:

1. UticaOpens in a new window: Utica is a charming destination for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting proximity to Starved Rock State Park and Matthiessen State Park, both renowned for their stunning natural beauty and adventure opportunities. Families will enjoy the Grand Bear Falls Indoor Water Park, offering fun activities for all ages. For accommodations, consider Holiday Inn Express and Suites OttawaOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel that offers various sports and recreation activities onsite or nearby. Another option is Grand Bear Resort at Starved RockOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel ideal for families and adventurers, featuring adventure sports like ziplining and kayaking, along with child-friendly amenities. Lastly, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ottawa, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is a solid choice for business travelers, equipped with essential business facilities and a comfortable stay.
2. PeruOpens in a new window: Peru is an outdoor lover's paradise, with easy access to natural wonders like Starved Rock State Park and Matthiessen State Park, as well as the family-friendly Grand Bear Falls Indoor Water Park. For lodging, The Tiskilwa InnOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star bed and breakfast that provides excellent business amenities. La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Peru Starved Rock State ParkOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel that welcomes pets and offers various business facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay for all. Additionally, Fairfield Inn & Suites PeruOpens in a new window is another 2.5-star hotel focused on business travelers, providing essential services for a productive trip.
3. MorrisOpens in a new window: Morris is an exciting destination for adventure seekers, featuring attractions like the Grundy County Speedway and Route 66 Raceway. For accommodations, Hollywood Casino JolietOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star resort, perfect for those looking to enjoy a casino experience. Families and business travelers can consider Holiday Inn Express & Suites Morris, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel that welcomes pets and provides necessary business amenities. Alternatively, Holiday Inn & Suites - Joliet Southwest, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel that caters to both families and business travelers, offering a range of amenities for children and multiple business facilities.

Things to do in Ottawa for first time

Three days in Ottawa offers travelers a chance to immerse themselves in stunning natural landscapes, including serene lakes, lush forests, and scenic parks. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and boating, explore vibrant shopping districts, and partake in lively festivals, making it a memorable destination for all. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Ottawa:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the breathtaking Starved Rock State Park, where you can explore its stunning canyons and waterfalls. After soaking in the natural beauty, head to the LaSalle County Historical Society & Museum, where you can delve into the rich history of the region through engaging exhibits. Conclude your day with a visit to the Hegeler Carus Mansion, an architectural gem that offers tours showcasing its fascinating history and stunning design.
• Day 2: Start your day at Matthiessen State Park, known for its beautiful trails and picturesque landscapes. Enjoy hiking through its unique rock formations and lush forests. Next, unwind at Baker Park, where you can enjoy a picnic or simply relax in its serene environment. Finish with a stop at the Wild Bill Hickok Memorial, a tribute to the legendary figure, where you can reflect on the history of the American West.
• Day 3: Kick off your morning at Illini State Park, perfect for a relaxing stroll along the river or a morning hike. Then, head to Spring Lake Park, where you can enjoy the tranquil surroundings and perhaps rent a kayak for some fun on the water. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Weber House and Garden, a lovely spot to appreciate beautiful landscaping and learn more about local horticulture.

5 tips to find a great Ottawa hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Ottawa is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are at their lowest. International travelers should aim to book their flights at least two months in advance for the best deals. For a great value for money experience, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully explore the city’s main attractions, such as its beautiful parks and historic churches. This way, you can enjoy all that Ottawa has to offer without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute hotel deals in Ottawa, Hotels.com can be a great resource. To explore options, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you may find competitive prices and good availability just before your trip. Be sure to compare prices and look for refundable options for added flexibility. You could also enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about time-sensitive promotions, helping you maximize your savings on accommodations.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Ottawa.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Ottawa usually tends to be more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can explore the area using transportation options like buses, taxis, bicycles, cars, or boats, which can help you save on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Ottawa. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in Ottawa

Here are some top-rated dishes in Ottawa, Illinois, United States of America:

• Poutine: A quintessential Canadian dish that has made its way into the hearts of many, poutine consists of crispy French fries topped with rich gravy and cheese curds. This indulgent comfort food is perfect for spontaneous late-night cravings and can often be found in local diners and food trucks, showcasing a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
• Beavertails: This iconic Canadian pastry is shaped like a beaver’s tail and deep-fried to golden perfection. Topped with a variety of delicious options such as cinnamon sugar, Nutella, or fruit, beavertails offer a personalized sweet treat that reflects the region's love for indulgent desserts, often enjoyed during festivals or as a casual snack by the waterfront.
• Shawarma: While shawarma has Middle Eastern roots, its popularity in Ottawa reflects the city’s multicultural vibe. Marinated meats are slow-cooked on a vertical spit and served in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and tangy sauces, making it a convenient and flavorful choice for a quick meal on the go.

Best time to go to Ottawa

Ottawa experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 23.9°F (-4.5°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.4°F (23.0°C). May is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Ottawa, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, February, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.

Ottawa Travel Information