MOM'S LITTLE BLACK BOOK | Heritage Harbor In Ottawa
- Glancer Magazine
- May 3, 2021
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 20, 2025
BOATS, JET SKI’S, TUBES, AND MORE
OTTAWA-It’s that time of year when living on the water feels like a second home. If I am being honest, each year, I am just a little bit envious of seeing the social media posts of all those people with lake houses and boats.
I want one too!
There aren’t too many places close to the western suburbs where you can just rent a boat or jet ski for the day and enjoy the fun too; so, I was so excited to find Heritage Harbor in Ottawa. Just 52 minutes from my south Naperville home, this was the perfect escape for a day on the water with friends; and yes, we rented the tube too even sans kids! An adult adventure on the boat with silly antics on the tube!
The marina staff are extremely knowledgeable about the Illinois River and share their expertise and tips. When you rent a watercraft, there is a quick online tutorial you must complete prior to driving the boat, then you are on your way along 16+ miles of beautiful waterways. Relax, take in the sights of Starved Rock Country, and have fun!
You can rent the boat for a couple hours, a half day or full day…..take the jet-ski for an hour or two or even the day! Bring your towels, swimsuits, sunscreen, and coolers of refreshments and spend the day on the water. The pontoons are large and can seat up to 10 of your closest friends or family!
We went out late afternoon for a couple hours and it felt like we were a million miles from home. We laughed, we tubed, and we saw the sought-after hang-out spots that some might liken to Chicago’s playpen, but most importantly - we had a blast!
Heritage Harbor is gorgeous, well-manicured, and picturesque and you just might find me living on the water from now on between April and October appreciating their awesome extended season!!!
OVERVIEW
Whether you desire the rush of adrenaline from riding jet-skis or prefer a slower–paced pontoon cruise, the Marina at Heritage Harbor offers a variety of watercraft rentals to get you out on the water.
Heritage Harbor
111 Harbor View Drive
Ottawa, IL 61350
(815) 433-5000
Hours: Open Seasonally April through October
Price $: Price Varies Depending on Rental
