Ottawa, Kansas, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Ottawa, Kansas, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Ottawa, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Ottawa, Kansas, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Ottawa, Kansas, United States of America, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Ottawa, Kansas, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Ottawa, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Ottawa, Kansas, United States of America by month

January

January in Ottawa can be brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Old Depot Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in Ottawa can be very chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the right type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

If you visit the Old Depot Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you visit Ottawa during March, you might find that it is relatively cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

If you visit the Old Depot Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you are traveling to Ottawa in April, you will notice that it is balmy. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

If you visit the Old Depot Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in this region is warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Old Depot Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June in Ottawa is really hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 70s F (low 20s C) to 80s F (low 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Old Depot Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you vacation in Ottawa during July, you may notice that it can be very hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the correct kind. Many adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Old Depot Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August here is really hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you visit the Old Depot Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you visit the Old Depot Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you are traveling to Ottawa in October, you will notice that it is mild. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the necessary kind. Most adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

If you visit the Old Depot Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Ottawa is chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the right type. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Old Depot Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

If you go to Ottawa in December, you will notice that it is cold. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Old Depot Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Ottawa, Kansas, United States of America

Ottawa, Kansas may not be the first place that comes to mind for a vacation, but visitors would be pleasantly surprised by its charm and attractions. Located in the eastern part of Kansas, Ottawa is home to many unique and fun tourist destinations that are perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers. Here are the top tourist attractions in Ottawa, Kansas:

1. Old Depot Museum

The Old Depot Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. This museum is located in the Santa Fe Depot, which was built in the late 1800s and served as a transportation hub for Ottawa. The museum offers exhibits and artifacts that showcase the history of Franklin County, Kansas, and its residents. Visitors can see a replica of an early 20th-century Main Street and learn about the county's contributions to agriculture, military, and transportation.

2. Forest Park

Forest Park is an ideal place for outdoor lovers. This park offers great opportunities for hiking, biking, picnic, and enjoying nature. It has a playground, two fishing lakes, and a swimming pool that provides a refreshing break from the heat. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the forest.

3. Historic Downtown Ottawa

Ottawa's historic downtown is a great place to explore on foot. It features historic architecture, unique shops, restaurants, and cafes. The well-preserved buildings make it feel like stepping back in time, and visitors can enjoy browsing antiques and handmade crafts at the local shops.

4. Prairie Spirit Trail

The Prairie Spirit Trail is an 18.4-mile long rail-trail that starts in Ottawa and winds through the countryside. This trail is perfect for cycling, running, and hiking in a natural and peaceful setting. It’s a great way to burn off some calories and enjoy the scenic beauty of Kansas.

5. Ottawa University

Ottawa University is a small private university offering a great opportunity to visit national historic landmark buildings like Tauy Jones Hall and the Navarre Hall. Visitors can learn about the university's history and architecture by taking a guided tour of the campus.

6. Flint Hills Trail State Park

The Flint Hills Trail State Park is a 117-mile long trail that runs through the Flint Hills of Kansas. It starts at Osawatomie and ends in Herington. The trail goes through several small towns, forests, and prairies, providing a unique blend of natural scenery and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the trail on foot, horseback, or bicycle.

In conclusion, Ottawa, Kansas offers a wealth of attractions that visitors can enjoy throughout the year. From historic sites to outdoor activities, there is something for everyone. When planning your next vacation, make sure to visit Ottawa, Kansas, and experience the heartland of America.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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