Discover Serenity at Washington Square Park
Explore Washington Square Park, a serene oasis in Ottawa, Illinois, where nature meets history in a vibrant community setting.
Washington Square Park is a hidden gem located in the bustling downtown area of Ottawa, Illinois. This beautifully landscaped park is a wonderful place for tourists to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The park features a variety of amenities including walking paths, benches, and open green spaces, making it an ideal location for picnics, casual strolls, or simply enjoying a quiet moment in nature. Visitors will appreciate the rich history surrounding the area, with several historical monuments and memorials scattered throughout the park, offering a glimpse into the past. The park is not only a perfect spot for relaxation but also serves as a community hub, often hosting local events, farmers' markets, and festivals that showcase the vibrant culture of Ottawa. Families will find playgrounds for children, while nature enthusiasts can take advantage of the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in the park's ecosystem. Furthermore, the surrounding area offers various dining and shopping options, making it easy to spend an entire day exploring. With its convenient hours from early morning until late evening, Washington Square Park invites tourists to come and enjoy its beauty at any time of day. Don't forget your camera, as you will want to capture the stunning landscapes and picturesque moments that this charming park has to offer.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and beautiful sunrise views.
- Check local listings for events or festivals happening during your visit.
- Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
- Don’t forget to explore the historical monuments for a deeper understanding of local history.
A brief summary to Washington Square Park
- 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Downtown, Illinois, 61350, US
- +1815-433-0161
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-9 pm
- Thursday 6 am-9 pm
- Friday 6 am-9 pm
- Saturday 6 am-9 pm
- Sunday 6 am-9 pm
Getting There
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Car
From Matthiessen State Park, exit the park and head south on IL-178 toward Utica. Continue on IL-178 for about 4 miles until you reach the intersection with I-80. Merge onto I-80 West. After approximately 20 miles, take exit 93 for IL-71 toward Ottawa. Turn left onto IL-71 and continue for about 5 miles. Once you reach Ottawa, continue straight onto E. Lafayette St. Washington Square Park will be on your right at 101 E Lafayette St.
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Public Transportation
From Matthiessen State Park, you will first need to travel to a nearby town, such as Utica. You can arrange for a local taxi or rideshare service to take you to the nearest bus station in Utica. From there, take a Greyhound bus or a local transit service to Ottawa. The bus ride typically takes about 30-40 minutes. Once in Ottawa, exit the bus and walk east on W. Main St. until you reach E. Lafayette St. Turn left, and Washington Square Park will be on your right at 101 E Lafayette St. Note that bus fares may vary, so check local schedules for pricing.
Attractions Nearby to Washington Square Park
- Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum
- Chief Standing Proud Statue
- Allen Park
- Buffalo Rock State Park
- KAYAK STARVED ROCK CAMPGROUND
- Illinois Canyon
- Kaskaskia Canyon Illinois
- Hennepin Canyon
- Owl Canyon Overlook
- Starved Rock State Park
- LaSalle Canyon
- Lonetree Canyon
- Sandstone Overlook
- Starved Rock State Park Campground
- Wildcat Canyon
Landmarks nearby to Washington Square Park
- Starved Rock Country
- Starved Rock Family Campground
- Oswego,IL Water Tower
- Sam and Ruth VanSickle Ford House
- West Side Historic District (Aurora, Illinois)
- Holbrook Mill
- Historic Aurora
- Aurora Farmers Market - Downtown
- David L. Pierce (The DLP) Art & History Center
- Aurora Historical Society
- Leland Tower Apartments
- Paramount Theatre
- Aurora Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
- Zombie Outbreak Chicago
- Aurora,IL Indian Trail Water Tower