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How to avoid the Midwest vacation tourist trap of crowds and high cost
Sometimes, everyone just has to get away. This is a feeling most Midwest city-dwellers are familiar with, year-round.
Too often, residents looking to escape from Chicago, Madison or other larger, metropolitan areas flock to the all-too common, well-known city vacation spots only to be barraged with crowds and high prices for lodging, food and other specialties. Areas such as Lake Geneva, Wis., and southwest Michigan are the same old spots hit-up by Chicagoans year-round looking for a place to get away from it all. What they find, however, is a locale brimming with tourists looking for the same escape - not the relaxing time they aimed for.
Tammy Barry, of Heritage Harbor Ottawa in Ottawa, Ill., says she hears it all time. After working and living in Chicago and other crowded areas, the last thing people want is to drive for an escape to a place filled with crowds.
"Homeowners and vacationers at Heritage Harbor Ottawa tell us the horror stories of other vacation spots all the time," Barry said. "For example, at most lakes vacation spots up north, it's harder to enjoy water sports because of the rough water and the boat traffic. Plus, the drive to the northern getaways like southwest Michigan can be a nightmare since so many people crowd in there during weekends off."
That's why so many city residents are turning to other great weekend vacation spots, such as Ottawa, Ill., and Heritage Harbor, she adds.
Ottawa, Ill., and the resort community and marina Heritage Harbor sit in Starved Rock Country, which is filled with outdoor adventure, fine dining, picturesque towns and landscapes - and it isn't overrun during the weekend, making it a tourist trap. The area is a place to get away quickly, and not be bothered by the stresses of a nightmare drive and crowds.
Places like Lake Geneva tout watersports and boating, but at Heritage Harbor, which has a full-service marina, tourists and homeowners can spend time on the Illinois River - less crowded, beautiful views and less-rough water, which is great for stand-up paddle boarding, fishing and countless other water activity. Plus, Starved Rock Country, which is home to nationally-known Starved Rock State Park, Buffalo Rock State Park and Matthiessen State are within a few minutes of boat or car drive and are a growing fall and autumn destination for both hiking and boating.
Starved Rock State Park was named Illinois' 2012 No. 1 attraction.
Southwest Michigan boasts its wine-tasting country, but in Starved Rock Country, there are several wineries that grow their own grapes where tourists don't have to fight long lines and crowds to take part in a free or affordable wine tasting of some of Illinois' best beverages.
There are several wineries in Utica, Ill., down the road from Heritage Harbor, including August Hill Winery. At August Hill, guests can enjoy individual creations conceived in the heart and expressed through the hand in its tasting room.
Tourists looking for an out-of-this-world thrill will also find a gem in Starved Rock Country at Skydive Chicago. Skydive Chicago is a world-class skydiving center built from the ground up to handle any skydiver's need, from newcomer to experienced jumper. And while the art scene is popular in Michigan Harbor Country, Ottawa and its surrounding communities are filled with specialty shops, art galleries, unique restaurants - such as the waterfront Tracy's Boat House at Heritage Harbor - and eateries. And Ottawa's botanical-themed, historical downtown is a piece of art in itself.
To learn about more hidden gems in Starved Rock Country and Heritage Harbor Ottawa, contact Tammy or Janet at (815) 433-5000.
Heritage Harbor sees a lot of faces throughout the year from the northern Illinois suburbs and Midwest cities; no one knows how to vacation and visit Starved Rock Country better.
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Greetings from the Harbor!
I know it's nearly October and thoughts of winter layup are on our minds, but there is great boating still ahead!
The leaves are just starting to turn and the morning mist is beautiful. I have also noticed flights of Pelicans, quite a few Eagles, and of course the ever present Canadian geese in greater numbers.
It will be interesting to see how saturated the fall colors will be with the dry weather we had this summer and so far this fall.
We have had more great loop boaters stop in on their journey. The reviews of the marina have made it a destination stop that is not to be missed! We've seen boats from all over and of all kinds-- From 65' motor yachts to yes, a 16' canoe! The canoe had been on the "loop" for nearly 12 months and took 2 and a half months to cross the great lakes. He made the boat himself, cedar strip then fiberglass. When he left here he headed downstream to Grafton where his trip began - that's a lot of paddling!
The Illinois State police will be using the harbor and marina facilities to hold a WMD scenario training exercise Oct. 2-3. There will be over 100 personnel involved during this state wide tactical response training. You are welcome to visit and view the event.
On Sunday, October 21 we will hold the John C. Harbeck Memorial Scramble in conjunction with the Ottawa Noon Rotary Club. It will include a 5K run, cycling, kayaking, and a Triathlon. This is in memory of Dr. John Harbeck who was tragically killed in an accident last year. Proceeds will benefit needed dentistry for less fortunate area kids and adults. Follow the link for more information.
https://www.active.com/event_detail.cfm?event_id=2059919
There are a lot of great times still ahead this fall on the river! Thanks for all your support and I look forward to seeing you at the harbor.
Mark Pentecost
Harbor Master |
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As part of the Adventure Lifestyle available at Heritage Harbor Ottawa we strive to connect our homeowners, boaters, and guests with some unique experiences that are exclusive to our area here in "Starved Rock Country".
Have you tried the Burgoo?!
For almost 50 years, locals and sightseers have come from near and far to celebrate the pioneering days of our heritage.
Utica, Illinois, a village of around 1,500 people, is eagerly preparing for their 43rd Annual Burgoo Festival. The LaSalle County Historical Society's major fund raising event of the year is expected to attract more than 25,000 people. If you have not experienced The Burgoo Festival before, it is a great day filled with arts, crafts, history, food, sunshine, music, and so much more. On Sunday, October 7th, all will line the streets of Utica between 9:00am and 5:00pm. Food vendors will offer butterflied pork chops, barbecue, homemade ice cream, cold drinks, and the Society's famous homemade pies. Be sure to try the Burgoo too! Burgoo is a hearty pioneer stew that is slow cooked all night long and served the entire day of the festival. The New Doodledorfers, marching bands, and vocalists will provide the musical entertainment throughout the day.
For more information about area activities and services check out the Heritage Harbor Ottawa blog.
"Life is an Adventure...Live it Here!"
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What Are Your Plans This Winter?
- Buying a larger boat
- Are You Downsizing or Changing Styles of Boat?
- Selling your boat
- Do You Need A Boat Lift?
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Whatever your needs...We at Quest Watersports are here to help and appreciate that you turn to us for our expertise. Quest Watersports is looking for pre-owned boats for our consignment program. We promise even in the off season to aggressively market your boat, throughout the United States and Canada. What a perfect time to sell - when you are not using it!! It also gives us plenty of time to help you locate the boat of your dreams through our strong co-brokerage relationships, if that is your next step. If you are ready to make a boat lift investment, we now have pre-owned custom lifts at great prices. Please contact me if you are considering a change for 2013... Contact Info: linda@questwatersports.com
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 QUEST EXPRESS Welcomes 4 New Members in September!
Quest Watersports successfully started Quest Express Boat Club so people who love boating or wanted to sample a boating life style could truly enjoy the simple pleasures of life on the water at a fraction of the cost of boat ownership. Over the years the Club has continued to grow consistently and that was very apparent last month. Even though the summer was wrapping up, new members continued to join and were eager to start their membership. It was an exciting month watching the families go through orientation and then out on the water for the first time!
When we asked one new member why they joined in September... they said, "Why not... there are plenty of nice weekends left and we can boat next summer at 2012 rates".
Welcome New Members and Thanks for Sharing the Following...
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"As a previous boat owner, with the cost of storage, maintenance and launching services the costs became too much. Quest Express allowed me to get back into boating with my family for a fraction of the cost and also provided us the opportunity to use multiple boat styles that are of high quality & clean without any headaches. Since joining over Labor Day weekend we have already used the boat for 4 weekends straight and every time we finish, the family asks "when can we come out next". We have rented boats in the past and the quality of the boats always left something to be desired. Thanks Quest Watersports we are looking forward to boating this fall and watching the leaves change colors."
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| -Nagle Family |
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"We deliberated for many years whether to get a boat or not, and if we did, what kind of boat? Quest Express was the solution to both questions. We discovered we love being on the water but our lives are way too busy to actually own and take care of a boat, let alone haul it around, store it, and pay for a slip. Also, having access to different kind of boats made it possible to do everything we were looking for: fishing, tubing, and cruising on the river. Quest Express is everything we love about boating with none of the hassle."
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| -Jeff & Family |
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"We just learned about the Boat Club concept, liked it, and decided to give it a try. We really like the people, staff and friends we know at the Resort. It is so convenient to not transport, maintain, insure, & etc our own boat. The staff's assistance in loading & unloading does not go unnoticed. Heritage Harbor is an easy ride, just an hour from our home. I'm happy we made the decision, and look forward to boating all next season."
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| -Fernandez Family |
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You drive the boat...we do the rest !!!
Find out more...see our FAQs and contact Linda at 815/433-2200 or linda@questwatersports.com
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It is that time of year again. The leaves are changing colors and the nights are getting cooler. Although there is still plenty of good boating weather, it is time to start thinking of winter storage for your boat. We are pleased to announce that our storage options have greatly expanded. We have doubled our inside storage capabilities for this season! This will
allow us to better serve our customers. We will offer numerous options for your storage needs. Please email me for your custom quote. There is also numerous winter service and maintenance specials, so please don't hesitate to ask our knowledgeable staff about anything your vessel needs. Quest looks forward to another winter of caring for your boat!
Dennis A. Cruise Jr
Service Manager |
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Canal Boat & Trolley Tour | Every Friday, May-October | 11:00am-3:00pm
Start off with a hot lunch in the historic Main Dining Room of Starved Rock Lodge. Then, board one of the Starved Rock Trolleys for a ride to the Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center. After that, enjoy a relaxing ride to LaSalle and step back in time aboard "The Volunteer" where period-dress interpreters will take you on a 1-hour, mule-pulled canal boat ride. Finish your tour with a final stop at the Lock 16 Visitor Center. Reservations are required for this tour. Tickets are $39 per person. Please call (815) 220-7386.
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June 1st - 5K Foam Fest
Hot new craze in the racing circuit. Imagine all the fun of the mud run combined with foam and water obstacle for an experience that is a lot like running through a giant car wash! For more information contact Ariel at (801) 798-5451.
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Every Saturday JUNE - SEPTEMER Land & Water Cruise | Starved Rock State Park | 9:30am-1:00pm
Enjoy our most popular tour and see Starved Rock from the water! You can really see how big the ROCK is when you see it from this perspective. Plus, you'll see the wildlife living on Plum Island (egrets, cranes, migratory birds such as pelicans and more). Tour includes a hot lunch in our rustic Dining Room, a historic trolley ride and a leisurely 50-minute Illinois River cruise on the Belle of the Rock, an authentic paddlewheel boat. There is minimal walking involved on this tour. Tickets are $40.00 per person. Reservations are necessary. Please call (815) 220-7386.
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June 2nd, July 21st, August 25th, September 1st & 22nd - Music & Wine Under the Pines| Fox Ridge | 3:00pm-4:00pm
If the soft sound of the wind through the towering pines isn't enough for you on a Sunday afternoon, head to Fox Ridge at Starved Rock Lodge for outdoor concerts and a chance to sample and purchase Starved Rock wines. Sunday concerts at Fox Ridge are great for all ages and audience members are encouraged to bring a snack along from our Cafe to enjoy during the performance or purchase a snack at the Fox's Den right at Fox Ridge. An afternoon of music awaits! Admission: Voluntary Donation. Click here for more information.
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June 7th-9th - Ottawa's Two Rivers Wine and Jazz Fest | Downtown Ottawa | Friday @ 5:00pm-10:00pm, Saturday @ Noon-10:00pm, & Sunday @10:00am-5:00pm
Wine-Food-Jazz! Celebrating Illinois WINE paired with exceptional FOOD and smooth sounds of JAZZ! Please check out our Garden and Botanical Arts Vendors, Antiques along with local specialty stores in the Old Towne District. Buy your tickets at www.ottawa2riverswinefest.com. Or call 1-888-OTTAWA-4.
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June 8th - Hobie Demo Day ~ National Marina Day | Quest Watersports | 10:00amm-3:00pm
What's HOT on the water? Take a ride and see for yourself...DEMO DAY! Saturday, June 8th 10am-3pm at Heritage Harbor Ottawa. RSVP to Linda at (815) 433-2200 or linda@questwatersports.com.
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June 8th - Movie Night ~ National Marina Day | HHO | 8:30pm
Come out to HHO for a movie! Take the night off and relax with family and friends and enjoy the movie Ice Age: Continental Drift beginning at 8:30pm. Candy, popcorn and soda available!
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EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT June 8th- October 26th - Saturday Night Storytelling at Fox Ridge | Fox Ridge | 7:00-8:00pm
There's no better place to spin a yarn or tell a tall tale than around the campfire! Make time each Saturday night from June 8 through October 26 at 7pm for Storytelling at Fox Ridge. The campfire will be roaring, the popcorn will be popped and the storytellers with be telling their tales - some of them true and some with a little bit of exaggeration peppered in! Contact the Activities Department for more information:
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June 9th - Brunch with Brad | Tracy's BoatHouse | 10:00am -Noon
Come out to Tracy's Boat House from 10am-noon and enjoy a brunch with chef, Brad Miller! Brad was a part of the famous show Hell's Kitchen season 3!
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June 7th-10th - 12th Annual Heritage Tractor Adventure
Join 200 vintage tractors led by Max Armstrong as they travel from Streator to different communities in the Heritage Corridor for food, entertainment and camaraderie. Tractors will enjoy Ottawa's 2River Wine and Jazz Fest on Friday evening. Other stops include Spirit Family Farm, Downtown Pontiac and Toluca. Orion Samuelson, world-renowned agriculture reporter will be signing his new book, "You Can't Dream Big Enough" at Streator's City Park on Saturday evening. Everyone is welcome to all events and tractors over 30 year's old are asked to have their drivers call 866-6-Tractor or email maryde@hccvbil.com for information on how to participate.
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TUESDAYS June 11th-July 16th - 2013 Texaco Country Showdown | Veranda at Starved Rock Lodge | 5:00-9:00pm
Singers are wanted for the 2013 Texaco Country Showdown on the Veranda at Starved Rock Lodge. The vocal competition kicks off on Tuesday, June 11, 2013 and runs every Tuesday night through July 16. Contestants will compete in one of the first four rounds. Up to two finalists will be selected from each of those rounds. Selected contestants will have a second chance to compete for a chance at a Wildcard Round (set for July 9). Finals will be held on July 16th. WALLS 102 is co-hosting the Showdown with Starved Rock Lodge, along with MillerCoors, Euclid Beverage and Dr. Ed Monroe. Click here for the rules and registration form on WALLS 102 FM. Join us Tuesday nights (from June 18 - July 16, 2013) The grill opens at 5 pm with great burgers, cold salads, and brick oven flatbread pizzas. And, we have home-made Artisan Ice Cream, too!
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June 14th - 15th Annual Cruise Night | Downtown Ottawa | 6:00pm-10:00pm
Come to Ottawa and check out the antique and custom cars during the city's 15th Annual Cruise Night! Over 100 different models of cars will line the streets! It's every car buff's dream! LaSalle Street will be closed down for this event. Hosted by The LaSalle County Cruisers and the City of Ottawa. For more information call (815) 228-4083.
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June 15th - Jr. Fishing Tournament | HHO | 10:30am
Spend the day with the kids and grandkids as they participate in a Junior Fishing Tournament at HHO. Registration is from 10am-10:30am and is limited to children and grandchildren of Heritage Harbor Ottawa residents. Workshops for the kids start at 10:30am. Workshops include How to Tie a Knot, How to Bait a Hook, and How to Identify and Clean a Fish. There will also be a Casting contest and Fishing contest. Hotdogs, chips, and pop will be available. For more information please call Heritage Harbor Ottawa at (815) 433-5000.
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June 16th - Father's Day
Come out and enjoy Father's Day with a special brunch at Tracy's Boat House!
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June 16th - Drum Circle | Fox Ridge | 3:00pm-4:00pm
Join us on Sunday June 16, 2013 under the Pines at Fox Ridge for a Drum Circle with Dave Peterson. This moving event begins at 3pm. If you've never been to a drum circle, just come and watch. Before you know it, you'll want to join in the fun. You'll enjoy the musical talent of local musician Dave Peterson and friends as they lead an outdoor drum circle surrounded by the beauty of nature at Starved Rock! You can listen to the amazing sounds or even sit down to drum along with the group. The drum circle may last longer than one hour. Call (815) 220-7386 if you have questions. Admission: Voluntary Donation.
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June 22nd - Rock the Docks | HHO | 6:00pm
H2O and HHO are teaming up for Rock the Docks, a blender bash on the docks! Boaters are encouraged to decorate their boats or their part of the dock to the theme. Blend or mix up your favorite drink or offer an appetizer if you wish! T-shirts will be sold with our sponsors on the back. The event starts at 6pm and is a great way of getting to know your fellow boaters!
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June 22nd "Honey I Got This" Women's Boating Class & Movie Night | HHO
For women of all skills, HHO is offering a woman's boating class! Hop aboard and join us for a fun hands-on day of learning! For more information call Heritage Harbor at (815) 433-5000.
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June 23rd - 6th Annual Ottawa Garden Walk | Heritage Harbor | Sunday Noon-4:00pm
The Garden Fair will be at Heritage Harbor from 12-4 on Sunday June 23rd. Our Garden Walk begins with ticket/map pickup at the Reddick Mansion from 12-1. There will be 5 homes again this year and the cost is $12.00. The gardens will be open for viewing from 1:00-4:00. We will have a drawing for door prizes at 4:20.
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June 23rd - Falconry Program | Fox Ridge | 3:00pm-4:00pm
Join Falconry expert, Rich Escutia on June 23 at 3pm at Fox Ridge (our outdoor venue at Starved Rock Lodge) as he shares his expertise in falconry. Learn about the types of birds he has studied and meet some of his feathered friends during your visit. This is a free event. Donations are welcome. For more information call 815-220-7386.
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June 27th - Ottawa Chamber Sunset Showcase | Heritage Harbor Marina
Come on over to the Heritage Harbor Marina for a taste of Ottawa, food vendors, beer tent and music. A good time is sure to be had by all! Event is hosted by the Ottawa Chamber. For more information please call the Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce at (815) 433-0084 or visit their website at www.ottawachamberillinois.com
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June 27th-30th - Spring Valley Miss Riverbottom | Spring Valley Boat Club
The annual IRBBA Miss River Bottom event will be held at Spring Valley Boat Club (winner of last year's contest). On Friday, June 28th there will be a variety show, food, and music. Scheduled for Saturday, Jun 29th is a bags tournament, games, food, and the Miss River Bottom contest. Breakfast is also lined up for Sunday, June 30h. Please call (815) 433-9663 for more information.
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July 4th - Ottawa 4th of July Fireworks | Ottawa Township High School | 9:00pm
One of central Illinois LARGEST and most SPECTACULAR light shows! Our unique venue offers viewing from the high school bleachers all the way to the bluffs along the Illinois & Fox Rivers either on shore or in your boat. Stay tuned for more information to come! For more information call (815) 434-2737.
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July 5th - Movie Night | Heritage Harbor | 8:30pm
Come out to HHO for a movie! Take the night off and relax with family and friends and enjoy the movie Brave, rated PG. Show begins at 8:30pm by the sand volleyball court, bring chairs and blankets. Candy, soda and popcorn available!
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July 13th, 19th, 20th, 27th- Music in the Park | Washington Square Park | 6:00-8:00pm
The City of Ottawa proudly presents their "Music in the Park" Series every Saturday evening at the historic Washington Square Park! This family friendly event offers a variety of live music for all ages! Don't forget to bring your lawn chairs! Rain Location: 808 LaSalle Street.
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July 19th-21st - WilleyWorld Community Production presents Deathtrap | Central School Auditorium | Friday & Saturday 7:30pm, Sunday 2:30pm
After four years of bringing All My Children stars to the Illinois Valley, "Deathtrap" will be the fifth summer show presented by WilleyWorld Community Productions, this time featuring not one but two special guest artists, and a brand new location for the production. This year's special guest stars are Chance Willey, Walt's Son & Bobbie Eakes from All My Children's "Krystal Carey" $25 per ticket in advance/ $30 at the door. For more information call (815) 434-2737.
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July 20th - "Summer Party" | Heritage Harbor | 4:00-8:00pm
Come out to Heritage Harbor for family fun days! Enjoy the afternoon from 4-8pm out at HHO with friends and family at the Harbor. Games, food and beverages will be provided!
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July 20th - Movie Night | Heritage Harbor | 8:30pm
Come out to HHO for a movie! Take the night off and relax with family and friends and enjoy the movie Rio, rated PG. Show begins at 8:30pm by the sand volleyball court, bring chairs and blankets. Candy, soda and popcorn available!
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July 28th - Island Party | Heritage Harbor | Boats leave at 11:45am
Save the date! Sunday, July 28th will be the annual HHO Island Party; all boaters and homeowners are invited. Bring the family, bring the friends, bring the beach towels, bring your lawn chairs and cooler, and we'll bring the FUN! Boats leave for HHO Island Party at 11:45am and will be back to ferry everyone to and from the island in multiple trips. For more information or to reserve your spot call Heritage Harbor Ottawa at (815) 433-5000.
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© 2012 Heritage Harbor LLC. All Rights Reserved.
1988 N. 2753rd Road | Ottawa | IL 61350 | hho@heritageharborottawa.com
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