Sunshine, good food, and riverside views, this is what summer tastes like in Starved Rock Country.
There’s something magical about summertime dining—the warmth of the sun, the clink of glasses on a patio, the joy of a soft-serve cone melting faster than you can eat it. At Harbor Inn, we believe the best summer memories are made outdoors, and that includes mealtime. Whether you’re staying for a weekend escape or planning a week-long getaway, you’ll find that Ottawa is filled with outdoor dining gems perfect for every taste and occasion.
When you stay at Harbor Inn, you’re not only steps away from beautiful views of the Illinois River you’re also in the heart of a food lover’s paradise. From patio dining and waterfront cocktails to picnics and ice cream strolls, here’s how to savor summer, one delicious bite at a time:
Start at the Water: Bluegill Boathouse & Marina Bar
There’s no need to leave Heritage Harbor to find fantastic food. Just a short walk from your Harbor Inn rental, Bluegill Boathouse is the go-to spot for casual, laid-back waterfront dining. Watch boats drift by while enjoying a fresh grouper sandwich, juicy burgers, and seasonal cocktails. The Oasis Bar is a favorite for happy hour, and there’s live music on the weekends to set the perfect summer mood. It’s a must for guests looking to soak up the harbor lifestyle.
Downtown Dining: B.A.S.H. (Burger and Sushi House)
Ottawa’s downtown is buzzing in the summer, and B.A.S.H. offers one of the most exciting menus in town. Whether you’re a burger enthusiast or a sushi lover, their patio is the perfect place to dive into something flavorful and fun. Their outdoor seating provides the perfect mix of fresh air and urban energy. It’s a great spot to stop after a day of shopping or sightseeing.
Craft Beer & Local Flavor: The Lone Buffalo
Just a few blocks from B.A.S.H., The Lone Buffalo by Tangled Roots Brewing Company offers modern American cuisine with a commitment to locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy your meal on their spacious patio and sip on a flight of house-brewed beers. The food is hearty, the vibe is relaxed, and the experience captures everything we love about Ottawa in the summer.
Sweet Treats & Ice Cream Walks: Sweet Bean Gelato
No summer food tour is complete without dessert—and Sweet Bean Gelato delivers big flavor in a perfectly chilled scoop. Tucked into downtown Ottawa, Sweet Bean specializes in handcrafted small-batch gelato with rotating seasonal flavors. Grab a cup or cone and head out for a sunset stroll through Washington Park or along the riverwalk. It’s a refreshing, indulgent way to cap off a summer day.
DIY Dining: Picnic at Allen Park
Looking for a peaceful, scenic spot to enjoy a quiet meal? Grab carryout from your favorite local restaurant or build a picnic basket with goodies from The Cheese Shoppe and Jeremiah Joe Coffee, then head to Allen Park. Located across the river from Heritage Harbor, this shady riverfront park has picnic tables and plenty of open space to unwind. Bonus: it’s a fantastic sunset spot.
Why Harbor Inn is the Ultimate Home Base for Food Lovers
One of the best parts of staying at Harbor Inn is that everything, from riverside dining to downtown flavor, is just minutes away. After a day spent hiking, boating, or shopping, you can return to your cozy, modern rental home and unwind on your own private patio or balcony. Many of our homes are equipped with grills and outdoor seating areas perfect for prepping your own summer feast.
Imagine this: coffee on the porch in the morning, lunch at a sunny sidewalk local restaurant, dinner overlooking the river, and dessert under the stars back at your vacation home. That’s the kind of summer rhythm we love and it’s all possible when you stay at Harbor Inn.
Book Your Summer Stay
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family adventure, or a girls’ getaway, Harbor Inn puts you at the center of everything Ottawa and Starved Rock Country has to offer, including its delicious outdoor dining scene.
Ready to taste your way through Starved Rock Country?
Explore our vacation rentals and book your summer escape today.
