Top reasons to visit Ottawa
- Charming Downtown: Stroll through Ottawa's downtown area, filled with local shops and restaurants that showcase the city's vibrant spirit.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy serene parks and nature reserves perfect for family outings and leisurely walks.
- Rich Historical Experience: Discover Ottawa's rich historical backdrop, ideal for history enthusiasts.
- Exciting Motor Racing: Experience thrilling motor racing events that add excitement to your visit.
- Welcoming Accommodations: Choose from a variety of accommodations, including pet-friendly and family-oriented options.
Find great hotels in and around Ottawa
Explore a variety of hotel accommodations in Ottawa, Kansas, catering to diverse traveler needs. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly stay, a comfortable spot for business travel, or a family-friendly experience, Ottawa has options for everyone. From the well-known Knights Inn to charming agritourism properties, you’ll find the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring this vibrant community.
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Lawrence: Located 23 miles from Ottawa, this charming 3-star hotel boasts a guest rating of 9.0, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a comfortable stay. With a pet-friendly policy, it caters to both business and leisure guests. Amenities include spacious rooms, complimentary breakfast, and a fitness center. Ideal for those traveling with furry companions, the hotel allows pets with specific weight limits and fees, ensuring a convenient experience for all.
- Quality Inn & Suites Lawrence - University Area: Situated 23 miles away from Ottawa, this budget-friendly hotel offers a practical option for travelers looking for value without compromising comfort. Perfect for business trips and pet-friendly stays, it features essential amenities such as free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and an on-site business center. Pets are welcome here too, with certain restrictions, making it a suitable choice for those traveling with dogs. Enjoy a comfortable stay while exploring the nearby university area.
- SureStay Hotel by Best Western Ottawa: Nestled in Ottawa, this budget-friendly hotel caters to families and pet owners alike. With amenities designed for children, such as cribs available for a fee, it’s an ideal spot for family vacations. The hotel also welcomes pets with specific weight restrictions and fees, ensuring a welcoming environment for all guests. Enjoy a comfortable stay with access to essential amenities, making it a practical choice for families visiting the area.
Where to stay near Ottawa
Discover the charm of Ottawa, Kansas, where culture and outdoor activities blend seamlessly. Stroll through downtown Ottawa to experience local shops and restaurants, or venture to western Ottawa for serene parks perfect for family outings. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and ample recreational opportunities that make this city a great destination for both relaxation and adventure. With its welcoming vibe, Ottawa promises a memorable vacation for everyone.
- Princeton: Located 9 miles from Ottawa, Princeton is a charming city that offers a rich cultural experience. Visitors are drawn to its vibrant community, especially during peak seasons from May to June and October. With a focus on outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions, Princeton is home to a historic college university and a scenic lake. The local library is a great spot for educational pursuits, while motor racing events provide thrills for adrenaline seekers. Whether you're looking to explore local history or enjoy a day out with the family, Princeton has something for everyone.
- Pomona: Just 10 miles from Ottawa, Pomona is a picturesque city that invites visitors to immerse themselves in its stunning natural scenery. Popular from July to August and October, Pomona boasts outdoor experiences that are perfect for romantic getaways or family outings. The city features beautiful recreational areas, an impressive national state park, and an urban park ideal for leisurely strolls or picnics. Golf enthusiasts will also appreciate the local courses, making Pomona a well-rounded destination for those looking to enjoy both relaxation and adventure.
- Rantoul: Situated 10 miles from Ottawa, Rantoul offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions. With peak visitor numbers in April and from July to January, this city is a great spot for those seeking a seasonal escape. Rantoul features shopping centers and malls for those looking to indulge in retail therapy, alongside recreational areas that provide ample opportunities for exploration and fun. The local lake and urban parks serve as perfect backdrops for picnics or outdoor adventures, making Rantoul a delightful choice for a memorable getaway.
Things to do in Ottawa
Ottawa, Kansas, offers a charming blend of culture and outdoor activities, making it perfect for romantic getaways. Visitors can explore educational attractions and enjoy thrilling motor racing experiences. For history enthusiasts, Ottawa provides a rich historical backdrop, while the local recreational areas invite relaxation and fun. Don't miss out on the entertainment options that highlight the city's vibrant spirit and community.
Shopping
In Ottawa, visit the quaint shops downtown for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the East Hills Shopping Center in St. Joseph, where you'll find major retailers and dining options to enhance your shopping experience.
Recreation
At the Ottawa Wellness Center, experience rejuvenating yoga classes and calming meditation sessions in a tranquil environment. For outdoor fun, the scenic Ottawa City Park offers walking trails, picnic spots, and a serene pond, perfect for relaxation and connecting with nature.
Adventure
Explore the scenic Ottawa State Fishing Lake for fishing, kayaking, and hiking along beautiful trails. Head to Forest Park for exciting picnics, playgrounds, and sports facilities, perfect for a fun-filled day outdoors with friends and family.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Brick House on Main Street for great cocktails and a lively atmosphere. For a more laid-back vibe, check out the Ottawa Brewing Company on 2nd Street, where you can enjoy craft beers and often catch a live band performing.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ottawa
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Ottawa are March and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Ottawa is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Ottawa is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool makes it easy to choose your budget, desired location, and other preferences. You can sort the results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to filter your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly accommodations that are ready for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Ottawa with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.
Find the best attractions in Ottawa
Ottawa, Kansas, offers a delightful blend of culture, outdoor adventures, and romantic settings perfect for any traveler. Popular attractions include urban parks, nature reserves, and family-friendly sites that provide a city experience infused with nature. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors or enjoy a leisurely stroll, Ottawa has something special for everyone.
- Forest Park: Enjoy a serene escape in this urban park, perfect for family outings and outdoor activities. With lush greenery and walking trails, it offers a refreshing atmosphere for picnics, playtime, and leisurely strolls.
- Old Depot Museum: Immerse yourself in local history at this charming museum. Housed in a historic train depot, it showcases Ottawa’s cultural heritage through fascinating exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the area.
- Ottawa University: Visit this vibrant educational institution with a rich cultural vibe. Explore its beautiful campus, attend events, or engage with students and faculty to learn about the diverse academic offerings.
Best time to go to Ottawa
The best time to visit Ottawa can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Ottawa falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Ottawa falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Ottawa
When visiting Ottawa, Kansas, you have several airport options to consider. Kansas City International Airport (MCI) is 56 miles away, with nearby hotels such as the 4-star Argosy Casino & Hotel and the 3.5-star Hilton Kansas City Airport, both just 2 miles from the airport. Manhattan Regional Airport (MHK) is 84 miles from Ottawa, offering hotels like The Bluemont Hotel and DoubleTree by Hilton, both within 6 miles. For a closer option, Forbes Field (FOE) in Topeka is only 32 miles away, with nearby accommodations including the 4-star Cyrus Hotel and the 3-star Hyatt Place Topeka, both within 9 miles of the airport.