ExploreFranklinCounty
Trails, lakes, universities and a historic downtown — Ottawa is the perfect basecamp for the whole region.
Places worth the drive
Drive times are approximate and may vary with traffic and route.
Outdoors
Prairie Spirit Trail
A scenic rail-trail for cycling, running and walking that runs through Ottawa and rolls south across the Kansas prairie.
University
Ottawa University
Historic private university in the heart of Ottawa — perfect for campus visits, sporting events and graduations.
Shopping & Dining
Downtown Ottawa
A charming, walkable historic main street lined with restaurants, coffee shops, antiques and local boutiques.
History
Old Depot Museum
Explore Franklin County history and railroad exhibits inside a beautifully preserved historic Santa Fe railroad depot.
Lake & Fishing
Pomona Lake
Boating, fishing and camping around a scenic reservoir — one of the best fishing spots in the region.
Lake & Fishing
Hillsdale Lake
A local favorite for bass fishing, boating and lakeside hiking within easy reach of the hotel.
Outdoors
Kanza Park Disc Golf
A nine-hole disc golf course and green space that's great for an easy afternoon outdoors.
Parks
City Park
A classic downtown park in Ottawa for picnics, playgrounds and community events.
Parks
Forest Park
Wooded trails and quiet nature spots for a relaxed walk close to town.
Shopping
Ottawa Antique Mall
Hunt for vintage treasures and collectibles across a large local antique marketplace.
Events
Ottawa Municipal Auditorium
A historic venue hosting concerts, performances and community gatherings.
University
University of Kansas (Lawrence)
The Jayhawks' iconic campus and downtown Lawrence — a short, scenic drive north of the hotel.
University
Baker University (Baldwin City)
One of Kansas' oldest universities, ideal for campus tours, alumni weekends and family visits.
History
Dietrich Cabin
A restored pioneer-era log cabin in City Park offering a window into early Kansas frontier life.