Founded along the Marais des Cygnes River more than 159 years ago, our thriving little town boasts a distinctive blend of architectural styles that include Gothic, Renaissance, Victorian, and Art Deco. Downtown Ottawa’s Historic District was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1972 and continues to be the heart and soul of our city.
It’s here that you will find a rich history of freedom, commerce, agriculture, and trade that laid the foundation for who we are today. Historic downtown Ottawa is a destination featuring locally-owned businesses, salons, boutique shopping, unique restaurants, and museums. We are proud to have the Oldest Cinema in the World, the oldest surviving George P. Washburn courthouse in the state, and to be at the heart of where the Prairie Spirit Trail and the Flint Hills Trail State Park trails intersect; unleashing over 170 miles of outdoor recreational options.
We invite you to explore our site and our town to see all that we have to offer!
As part of a Kansas Main Street and Main Street America initiative, we're working on Transformation Strategies for our downtown, and we need YOUR insights to guide the way! Whether you're a resident, business owner, visitor, or community enthusiast, we want to hear from EVERYONE. Your feedback will help us create a downtown that truly reflects the needs and spirit of our community. Every perspective counts-your voice can make a difference!! Let's work together to shape the future of Downtown Ottawa! Click here to take the survey!
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