Where is the Illinois River Road?
Traversing both east and west sides of the Illinois River from Ottawa, 150 miles south to Havana, the Illinois River Road has spurs to the communities of Princeton and Canton. The Illinois River Road corridor has over 100 natural and historic sites and numerous unique communities located throughout its 10-county region.

The Scenic Byway is conveniently located between Chicago and St. Louis, but just far enough to get away from it all. So get off the beaten path and see what the Illinois River Road has in store for you!

Experience the Ottawa Gateway Along the Illinois River Road

Located in the heart of Starved Rock Country, Ottawa sits at the confluence of the Illinois and Fox Rivers. Derived from the Native American word "adawe" meaning "to trade," Ottawa is accustomed to welcoming new visitors in search of adventure. See where Abraham Lincoln's presidential career and the Boy Scouts of America began. For an adventure in nature, Ottawa's parks and recreational outlets provide amusements 365 days a year. Canoeing, bicycling, skydiving and horseback riding are just a few of the activities you'll enjoy while surrounded by the areas of diverse natural beauty.

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Ottawa Gateway Itineraries

Below are PDF files containing predefined itineraries for the Ottawa Gateway area. Please download and print these helpful guides for your journey. Each itinerary requires the use of the FREE Adobe Acrobat Reader software available here.

Central Northern Byway Itinerary

Ottawa Gateway Maps

Below are links to Ottawa Gateway PDF maps to assist you in planning your journey. PDF maps require the use of the FREE Adobe Acrobat Reader software available here.

Ottawa Photos Ottawa Gateway Resources

Welcome to Ottawa! From the historic buildings to the specialty shops, Ottawa is as charming as they come! Ottawa overlooks the spot where the Fox River meets the Illinois, and we have a pleasant river walk that brings you right to the river's edge!

Or relax on a shady bench in Washington Park, a pleasant town square featuring historic monuments, towering trees, a beautiful fountain dedicated to two famous visitors to town, Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas - even a fresh-popcorn stand!

Ottawa offers a pleasing mix of restaurants featuring everything from ethnic menus to seafood and steaks, from family dining to gourmet cuisine. Whether you grab a quick bite for lunch or linger over a romantic table-for-two, we've got something to suit every taste!

There are many outdoor things to do and see in Ottawa. Often referred to as the "Scenic Route to Starved Rock State Park," Ottawa is just minutes from the legendary wooded cliffs, soaring river bluffs and impressive waterfalls that attract more than two million visitors a year. Whether hiking along the I&M Canal or fishing in the Illinois River, Ottawa is a "natural" delight.

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