You can plan your vacation months in advance, but thanks to unpredictable weather conditions, sometimes plans have to change. Fortunately, there’s a variety of fun events and activities you can attend in Ottawa on a cloudy or rainy day. Avoid cabin fever by having these five back-up ideas in mind as you plan your trip. Who knows? After reading our must-do cloudy day activities, you might find yourself hoping for a little rain during your stay!

Take a tour of Ottawa’s Reddick mansion

This magnificent mansion, standing 50 feet tall, was built before the Civil War by William Reddick. It’s one of the most expensive mansions constructed in the Midwest during the 1800s, and still looks beautiful to the modern eye today. Tours are available Wednesdays through Mondays from 11 to 3 p.m. Visit the Reddick Mansion’s website for more information.

Enjoy a cold one at Tangled Roots Brewing Company

Taking a break on an adults-only vacation? Then do so while sipping on delicious craft beer at Tangled Roots Brewing Company. This exciting new development opened downtown in the fall of 2015, and it attracts both visitors and locals every day. While sampling the craft selection, be sure to order some of the kitchen’s tasty offerings. The Tangled Roots Brewing Company supports local farmers by providing fresh food for guests.

Grab a cup of joe at Jeremiah Joe Coffee

Jeremiah Joe Coffee offers all of your caffeinated favorites and a few new options too! From Mochas to Lattés and Little Joe’s for the little ones in your life (caffeine- free of course). Jeremiah Joe Coffee offers a large space where you can sit back and relax and enjoy the day inside sipping on your favorite hot or cold beverages and enjoying time with friends and family.

Spend some time browsing the Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum

For just $3 per person ($2 for youth), you can spend a rainy afternoon learning a little Ottawa history. The Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum is home to exhibits relating to the Boy Scouts of America, as Ottawa is home to one of the founders, William Dickson Boyce. This museum also includes special artifacts from the past, such as carriages and 19th-century pianos. Learn more about visiting hours here.

Have a blast bowling at Pinheadz Entertainment Center

When you’re ready to stop browsing museums and mansions, hit up the Pinheadz Entertainment Center for some energetic fun! The newly renovated entertainment center is home to bowling, bags and more fun games, and it also features a full-service bar and grill.

Take the kids out on a fun rollerskating adventure

Plan an activity the whole family can enjoy. The Paramount Skating Arena is open to people of all ages. Kids have a blast zooming around the rink, while the adults can relish in feeling like a teenager once again. Check the dates and hours here for the best times to visit.

Ottawa, IL is beautiful city and home to a wide range of activities. Come rain or shine, you’ll be ready for a fun, relaxing vacation.

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