Naperville, IL, is a charming southwestern suburb of Chicago in DuPage County that has so much to offer locals and visitors alike, from beaches and parks to museums and dining establishments.
Planning a trip to Naperville? Be sure to check out our list of all the best things to do in Naperville!
1. Explore the Naperville Riverwalk
Known as the “Crown Jewel” of the city, the Naperville Riverwalk is a must-visit destination, featuring almost two miles of manicured brick paths, fountains, scenic bridge crossings, outdoor sculpture and artwork, recreational facilities, and celebratory memorials.
Naperville Riverwalk offers many recreational activities, including the Grand Pavilion, Millennium Carillon in Moser Tower, Paddleboat Quarry and Fishing Pier, and Centennial Skate Park.
2. Visit the Naper Settlement
The Naper Settlement is an award-winning outdoor history museum that preserves the heritage of the community. Two original 19th-century buildings still stand today, including an 1883 mansion.
This 12-acre living history museum is a year-round attraction, featuring exhibits, escape rooms, and more. The museum also hosts special events and concerts throughout the year.
3. Take the Family to Centennial Beach
One of the best things to do in Naperville is to enjoy water activities at Centennial Beach. This popular destination has a long history as a summer tradition for families and friends dating back to the 1930s.
This local “swimming hole” features a unique outdoor pool created from the remains of a historic stone quarry with a zero-depth entry and goes as deep as 15 feet. It’s also complete with sand and lawn areas perfect for lounging.
Amenities such as waterslides, fountains, bag toss areas, float rafts, a sand playground, a volleyball court, and grilling stations ensure that you and your family have a great time!
4. Shop and Dine at Downtown Naperville
Downtown Naperville is an amazing spot to explore unique family-owned shops, nationally recognized retailers, and distinctive restaurants located in buildings dating back to the 1800s and the early 1900s.
During warm weather, the restaurants offer a delightful al fresco dining experience. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria is a must-visit, serving up some world-famous Chicago deep-dish pizza.
Allegory is a popular spot, serving farm-to-fork dishes with a Southern twist, along with refreshing craft cocktails. For fine dining, Vasili’s and La Sorella di Francesca promise a remarkable culinary experience.
5. Learn and Have Fun at the DuPage Children's Museum
The DuPage Children’s Museum is one of the best things to do in Naperville with kids. It features three floors of interactive exhibits related to science, technology, and creativity that provide experiential learning.
The museum is a place where families can learn together and have fun while exploring art, math, and science.
6. Experience the Morton Arboretum
Located in the neighboring village of Lisle, the Morton Arboretum is one of the best natural places to explore, featuring 1,700 acres of woodlands home to more than 222,000 live plants.
The Morton Arboretum offers an excellent setting for leisurely strolls, bird-watching, and family outings.
7. Watch a Performance at the Community Concert Center
The Community Concert Center is an outdoor theater where you can catch a performance by the Municipal Band every Thursday evening if you’re visiting Naperville in June, July, or August.
If you’re visiting the city outside these months the large concert space as well as the surrounding Central Park are great spots for a picnic or a relaxing stroll.
8. Explore Naperville’s Arts Scene
Experience Naperville’s vibrant arts scene. If you’re visiting the city in September, you shouldn’t miss the annual Riverwalk Fine Art Fair, one of the top-rated art fairs in the nation.
Held along the renowned Naperville Riverwalk and downtown city streets, the art exhibition features over 100 artists from all over the country and showcases their original paintings, sculptures, ceramic pieces, fiber works, and more.
The art fair also includes other enjoyable events, including live musical performances, children’s activities, a specially curated cultural display, and an on-site food booth.
9. Visit the Cantigny Park
One of the best things to do in Naperville for adults is a visit to the Cantigny Park.
The park was once the estate of Colonel Robert R. McCormick, an editor of the Chicago Tribune. Today, it houses the First Division Museum, 30 acres of formal gardens, the Robert R. McCormick Museum, and a visitor center.
10. Go on a Brewery Tour
The brewery tours are held every Saturday at 1 PM and include a walking tour of the production facility, a fresh beer to sip on during the tour, a souvenir glass to take home, and a special discount on their merchandise and beer to-go.
11. Enjoy Nature at the Herrick Lake Forest Preserve
An expansive preserve spanning over 885 acres, the Herrick Lake Forest Preserve is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a refreshing escape from the bustle of everyday life.
There are so many ways to connect with nature at the Herrick Lake Forest Preserve, including birdwatching, hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, horseback riding, camping, and picnicking throughout much of the year and cross-country skiing in the winter.
12. Take a Naperville Trolley Tour
Take a one-hour historic trolley tour and learn about old Naperville as you explore the city. The Naperville Trolley tours are offered in June, July, and August; every Tuesday, departing at 11 AM.
There are trolley rides for the little ones, too! For kids who want to ride the trolley, the tour is 20 minutes long and they get to ring the bell.
13. Check Out the Naperville Century Walk
The city’s public art program, the Century Walk, not only adds beauty but also builds community spirit and bridges generations by paying tribute to over 200 years of Naperville history through a diverse collection of murals, mosaics, sculptures, and more.
Naperville’s Century Walk consists of over 40 pieces of public art featured throughout the downtown area.
14. Hike at the Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve
Springbrook Prairie Nature Preserve is an amazing destination for outdoor exploration. The forest preserve spans almost 2,000 acres, with hiking trails, picnic spaces, and designated areas where dogs can run leash-free.
If you enjoy flying model planes or drones, the preserve also has a model craft area where you can launch your aircraft.
15. Visit the Moser Tower and Millennium Carillon
The Moser Tower is a musical tower open to visitors on weekends. Climb the 253-step tower and enjoy stunning views of Naperville, the Riverwalk, Centennial Beach, and the Chicago skyline.
The 16-story Millennium Carillon is a unique musical instrument with 72 bells that chime throughout the day. This beautiful piece of architecture is hard to miss at the heart of the Rotary Hill in Riverwalk Park.
Conclusion
There you have it – the best places to visit in Naperville, IL. Whether you’re travelling solo or visiting the city with family or friends, there’s something amazing for you to explore.
And, if you’d like to learn about the neighborhoods and real estate offerings in the area, please give me a call at 815-483-7773 or send me an email at shahzanaripp@gmail.com to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is Naperville a family-friendly destination?
Yes, it is. There are several spots perfect for family fun, including Centennial Beach, Downtown Naperville, and Morton Arboretum. -
Are there any outdoor activities in Naperville?
Absolutely! Naperville Riverwalk, Naper Settlement, Centennial Beach, Morton Arboretum, and Cantigny Park are some of the must-visit places that offer outdoor activities. -
What are some must-visit restaurants in Naperville?
Some of the best restaurants in Naperville include Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, which serves some world-famous Chicago deep-dish pizza; Allegory, popular for its farm-to-fork dishes with a Southern twist; and for fine dining, Vasili's and La Sorella di Francesca.
