Just 90 minutes from Chicago – but it feels worlds away – Heritage Harbor is a vibrant marina neighborhood on the Illinois River designed for people who want more out of every season. Think low-maintenance waterfront living, a walkable community by design setting, and Starved Rock Country as your backyard.
Life at Heritage Harbor has an easy rhythm. Mornings start on the Riverwalk or along the historic I&M Canal. Afternoons invite you onto the water for boating, kayaking, or a quiet cruise from the marina. Evenings bring sunsets, dockside conversations, and community events that make it effortless to stay connected. With maintenance handled, your time opens up for what you actually want to do – be outside, be social, and keep discovering new favorites.
Everything here is set up to make active, connected living feel natural:
When you want to roam a little farther, adventure is minutes away. Spend the day hiking Starved Rock or Matthiessen State Parks, exploring waterfalls and overlooks, biking scenic routes, or strolling local downtowns like Ottawa for coffee, boutiques, breweries, and live music. From farmers markets to festivals, the area keeps your calendar as full as you want it to be.
Feel the wind in your hair and the spray on your face as you take to the water at Heritage Harbor. Waterski, tube, kayak, fish or kick back on your boat and make memories with those you love.
Our neighborhoods are designed to be walkable, providing easy access to the harbor and river walks. The flow of open spaces allows you to find your deeper purpose.
With the I&M Canal Trail and 4 state parks including Starved Rock State Park nearby, you’ll never be far from a scenic, friendly and exhilarating jaunt out in nature.
Heritage Harbor is close to challenging 18-hole golf courses with plenty of obstacles to keep you on your toes. 18 holes too much? Try a 9-hole course or disc-golf.
Located just south of I-80, the city of Ottawa is filled with shopping, restaurants, farmers markets, wine tastings, antiques and more, all in a setting that will remind you of “Mayberry”.
With a full-time Events Coordinator at Heritage Harbor, you’ll never lack for something to do. Our calendar includes year-round activities, musical events and community gatherings.
Challenge friends to a game on our pickleball courts, perfect for all skill levels. Enjoy a fun and active way to stay entertained in a beautiful riverside setting.
Homes at Heritage Harbor offer a rare mix of waterfront serenity and social energy. If you’re curious about what’s available now or want help finding the right fit, our team is here to make the process easy.
Call 815-242-3434, request your Info Packet below, or schedule a tour to experience the Harbor life in person.
Heritage Select Realty is the preferred sales team at Heritage Harbor, Ottawa. Discover the unmatched advantage of working with a brokerage that truly understands the heart of Starved Rock Country. Heritage Select Realty is your go-to expert for new home sales, resales, and investments.
1851 Old Chicago Road, Ottawa, IL, 61350;
Licensed Designated Managing Broker – Pierre Alexander;
HeritageSelectRealty.com;
815-433-5000; HHO@HeritageHarborOttawa.com
Hit the trails and explore Starved Rock Country on two wheels, with a boost! Quest Watersports’ electric bike rentals are a fun, efficient, and eco-friendly way to discover the area’s rich scenery and history. Ride the historic I&M Canal towpath, cruise along the Illinois and Fox Rivers, or venture into downtown Ottawa to explore local shops and attractions, all at your own pace.
Each e-bike is equipped with five levels of pedal assist and a thumb throttle, allowing you to choose how much effort you want to put in. Add in your own pedaling for greater speed and longer battery life, or let the motor do the work for a more relaxed ride. It’s a great option for both recreational cyclists and curious explorers.
Comfortable & Easy to Use: Ideal for casual riders or those new to e-bikes.
Adventure-Ready: Perfect for covering more ground without overexerting.
Flexible Power Modes: Adjust your boost level with the digital display.
Rental Requirements:
Riders must be at least 16 years old (per local ordinance) and able to safely and confidently operate a bicycle.
Riders under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian (on their own bike).
A properly fitted helmet and closed-toe shoes are required at all times during the ride.
Looking for a more hands-on way to explore the water? Quest Watersports’ self-propelled rentals offer a fun and active way to enjoy the beauty of the Illinois River and the calm waters of Heritage Harbor’s 32-acre protected marina. Whether you’re paddling solo, with a friend, or bringing the whole crew, we have options for all ages and experience levels.
All rentals include basic safety equipment and a brief orientation to get you comfortable before launching. Guests are welcome to explore beyond the harbor and enjoy over 12 scenic miles between the Marseilles and Starved Rock locks, unless otherwise noted for safety.
Single Kayak: Great for solo paddlers who want to cruise at their own pace. Lightweight and easy to maneuver, ideal for beginners or those looking for a peaceful outing.
Double Kayak: Perfect for pairs, whether you’re teaming up with a friend, partner, or older child. Stable, roomy, and fun to navigate together.
Four-Person Hobie Fiesta Kayak: The ultimate group adventure! Outfitted with four pedal drives, a steering system, and plenty of room for fun. Best for families or groups looking for a social, high-energy ride.
Stand-Up Paddleboards (SUP): Enjoy a full-body workout and a unique perspective from the water. SUPs are limited to in-harbor use only for safety, making them ideal for beginners or those seeking a calmer experience.
Rental Requirements:
Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Riders must be able to safely and confidently operate the equipment.
For the Fiesta Kayak: Riders must be 11+ to venture beyond the harbor. Riders 10 and under must remain inside the harbor for the duration of the reservation.
Heritage Harbor’s boat rental fleet offers options for every kind of day on the water, from laid-back cruising to high-energy tubing. All rentals depart from our marina and are available seven days a week, weather permitting (May through October). Leashed pets are welcome aboard, but must have their own properly fitted life jacket. Looking to add some extra fun? A tube can be added to any rental for just $50.
Each rental includes a full tank of fuel, basic safety equipment, and a pre-launch orientation covering boat features and the boating area.
Leisure Cruising Pontoon: This classic, budget-friendly pontoon is perfect for slower-paced, relaxed outings with smaller groups. It seats up to 10 people comfortably and is equipped with 90 HP engines, ideal for cruising, sightseeing, or anchoring near a beach.
Or upgrade to the Premium Fleet: Designed for adventure, our tritoons offer greater speed, stability, and power with 115 HP engines. They’re a great choice for tubing or simply covering more ground on the water. With a capacity of up to 12 people, they’re ideal for families or larger groups looking for high-energy fun.
Rental Requirements:
Renters and all boat operators must be at least 18 years old and provide a valid driver’s license or state-issued ID. A working cell phone must be on board during the rental, and the primary operator is required to complete a free online Boating Safety Certification (a link is provided in your confirmation email).
Job Description | 2026 Season
Job Type: Seasonal (35 hours/week)
Pay Range: $20+ hour (based on experience)
Location: Heritage Harbor Marina | Quest Watersports – Ottawa, IL
Heritage Harbor Ottawa is a master-planned marina resort community located along the Illinois River. The Harbor features a 32-acre marina, waterfront dining, pools, parks, events, and year-round recreation, all designed around connection, lifestyle, and attention to detail. In partnership with Quest Watersports, the marina delivers a high-quality boating experience through rentals, guest services, and on-water support.
The Boat Operations Lead plays a key role in supporting daily marina and boat operations during the peak boating season. This is a hands-on, outdoor position requiring strong boating experience, sound decision-making, and a high level of dependability. This role supports both customer experience and operational execution, ensuring boats, docks, and services are running smoothly and professionally at all times.
This role is an opportunity to be part of a growing marina operation focused on delivering a high-quality boating experience. If you are confident on the water, take pride in your work, and enjoy working in a fast-paced outdoor environment, we encourage you to apply.
