If you are thinking about moving to Naperville, IL, here is my customized day trip Itinerary that I would encourage people to use to explore Naperville for the first time. Of course feel free to contact myself Amy Pearson who is a local realtor that was raised in Naperville and is now raising her family in Naperville at Amy@LuxHomeChicago.com or 708-653-8366. I can also set up home showings as well during your visit to Naperville.
First stop:
Downtown Naperville Located at 55 S Main St, Naperville, IL 60540
The parking garages in downtown Naperville are FREE and have a parking space counter sign displayed out front to show how many spaces are available. The downtown area is very walkable and I would recommend parking in a parking garage and walking around the downtown streets to check out the mix of over 150 best-in-class stores and spas alongside Naperville’s most exciting eateries.
Second stop:
Naperville River Walk – Located at: 188 W. Jackson Avenue Naperville, IL 60540
Naperville Riverwalk was built by residents in 1981 to commemorate the city’s 150th birthday. Since then, it has become a focal point of the community and is recognized as one of the most beautiful spots in the Midwest, and has won state and national awards. Its covered bridges, fountains, landscaping, and distinctive shepherd’s-crook light poles have become symbolic of Naperville’s ties to its historic past as the oldest settlement in DuPage County. Visitors travel from far and near to enjoy the splendor of the Riverwalk and the quaint restaurants and shops in downtown Naperville. Known as the “Crown Jewel of Naperville” the Riverwalk attracts lunchtime strollers, families and early morning joggers. Stroll along the brick-paved winding paths of the Riverwalk, view the art pieces of the Century Walk, have a picnic at the pavilion, or enjoy a summer outdoor concert. A memorial to the victims of the September 11 attack is located on the Riverwalk’s south bank, adjacent to City Hall.
Third Stop:
Centennial Beach Located at 500 W. Jackson Ave. Naperville, IL 60540
Historic quarry-turned-swimming facility in 1931. Includes sand, grassy area for picnicking, shallow-end slide, water play features, diving boards and more.
Lunch time options
Portillo’s – fast food restaurant and is home to America’s favorite Italian beef, burgers, salads, Chicago-style hot dogs, and chocolate cake.
There are two Naperville locations at: 950 E Ogden Ave, Naperville, IL 60540 and 1992 W Jefferson Ave, Naperville, IL 60540
Bev’s – Located at 245 S. Washington Street, Naperville, IL.
Located in the heart of Downtown Naperville & paying homage to longtime building owner Beverly Patterson-Frier. Midcentury modern vibes with upscale, made from scratch fare, craft libations, & a unique experience. This restrauant has a large outdoor patio during the warmer months.
Hugo’s Frog Bar – Located at 55 S. Main Street
Hugo’s continues to be the destination for premier east and west coast oysters, crudos, frog legs, lobster and seasonal fish and shellfish, in addition to Gibsons Prime Angus and Gibsons Grassfed Australian steaks. An extensive wine list, classic cocktail list and selection of impressive signature desserts accompany the menu of fresh seafood, steaks and chops.
Explore Transportation in the Town
Time to explore the community, there are two train station stops in Naperville to check out to see how long it would take to get to the train stations.
Naperville Metra Station, is located at 105 E. 4th Ave., located close the downtown Naperville.
Route 59 Train Station, located at 1090 North Route 59, Aurora, IL 60504, this location is more convenient for south Naperville residents.
Additional Points of Interest to Check out:
Millennium Carillon –Located: 443 Aurora Ave. Naperville, IL 60540
The grounds around the tower are open year-round during normal Park District hours, and you are welcome to visit the grounds and listen to the carillon at any of the scheduled performances.
During the open season, visitors can climb the 253 steps to the top of the tower on the guided tour and enjoy the spectacular view, where on a clear day the Chicago Skyline can be seen. Those who are unable to climb the stairs are encouraged to use the elevator and remain on the Gallery Level Observation Deck.
Naper Settlement located at 523 S. Webster St. Naperville, IL 60540
Just steps from downtown Naperville, Naper Settlement is Chicagoland’s outdoor history museum, offering interactive activities for all ages. Tour historic buildings, visit with interpreters in time-period clothing and enjoy programs on and off-site. The village tells the story of how life changed throughout the 19th century for the people of northern Illinois in towns such as Naperville. There is a fee for admission.
Knoch Knolls Nature Center 320 Knock Knolls Rd. Naperville, IL 60565
Visitors are invited to explore the fascinating DuPage River and its branches that teem with life of all kinds. The East Branch and West Branch of the DuPage River join together here at Knoch Knolls Park, creating a unique confluence of water and land. The Nature Center has FREE admission and provides a window into the underwater world found right in our community.
DuPage Children’s Museum 301 N. Washington St. Naperville, IL 60540
Watch your children’s eyes light up with wonder and curiosity as they explore over 150 hands on activities within the brightly colored walls of a unique, three-story discovery center …where learning comes in to play! Innovative activities invite both you and your children to splash, construct, build, create, and play in lively learning neighborhoods within DuPage Children’s Museum: Build It, AirWorks, Make It Move, Creativity Connections, Math Connections, and Waterways. There is an admission fee for the museum.
If you or anyone that you know is thinking about moving to Naperville, IL, please have them contact Amy Pearson at 708-653-8366 or at Amy@LuxHomeChicago if you have any real estate needs in the Chicagoland area. I hope to help you find your dream home in Naperville!