Naperville
Introduction
Located in the state of Illinois, Naperville sits southwest of Chicago along the DuPage River. You can explore this community situated within both DuPage and Will counties.
Before you go
When exploring the riverside areas with small children, you should exercise caution as large sections of the Riverwalk lack guard rails. You must keep a close watch on your little ones to ensure they do not fall into the DuPage River.
Getting there
You can reach Naperville by road via I-88, which traverses the northern portion of the city and connects you to Chicago in the east and the Quad Cities to the west.
Several rail options provide access to the area:
- Metra trains run hourly from Chicago Union Station along the BNSF Line toward Aurora.
- Amtrak serves the city with daily routes including the Southwest Chief between Chicago and Los Angeles and the California Zephyr between Chicago and San Francisco.
- Multiple Illinois Service routes also provide rail access to Naperville Station, located just north of downtown.
Getting around
If you choose to bring a rental car into the downtown area, prepare for a slow process to find parking on the street. You can instead opt for one of the large public parking structures available in the vicinity.
You can find space in the three-story 2 Central Parking Facility located across from the Smoothie King near the corner of Washington and Chicago Avenue. Access the second and third floors via Jefferson Avenue, which is situated one block down from Washington.
Where to stay
You can find a variety of hotels throughout the area that offer passable accommodations for your stay. If you prioritize a convenient location, you might choose to stay at the large Marriott situated near the I-88 tollway exit.
Other options include a bed and breakfast or the Hilton Garden Inn Naperville Warrenville, which features an indoor pool, fitness room, and business center services. You can also find lodging at the Hotel Indigo Naperville Riverwalk.
Food & drink
Savor the local flavors of Naperville by exploring a variety of culinary styles across the city. You can enjoy deep-dish pizza with a renowned crust at Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, located in a former firehouse where you can still see the original fire pole. For a hearty meal, head to El Famous on Ogden Avenue for a giant burrito, or visit Succulent Seafood at Gartner Plaza for fresh seafood options like pasta dishes and fish sandwiches served with various prepared sauces. If you prefer a sophisticated brunch or Spanish tapas, Meson Sabika offers flavorful dishes in an inviting atmosphere.
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Cookie Dough Creations by topping a scoop of ice cream with egg-free cookie dough. When it is time for a drink, explore the different vibes of local establishments:
- Visit 1 White Tavern on Ogden Avenue to experience a setting frequented by blue-collar locals.
- Relax at The Lantern or visit Potter's Place and Two-Nine Martini Lounge in the downtown area.
What to see and do
Explore the charm of Downtown Naperville, where you can browse high-end chain stores and specialty shops housed in quaint, historic buildings. Stroll along the Riverwalk, a brick path following the DuPage River that features the Millennium Carillon, a grand carillon with bronze-cast bells. You can also explore various public art installations, such as the "River of Life" ceramic mural or the bas-relief "Man's Search For Knowledge Through The Ages," by following the Century Walk. For a glimpse into the past, visit the Naper Settlement to see a reconstruction of the town as it appeared in the 1800s.
Engage with the local culture through various activities and landmarks:
- Visit the DuPage Children's Museum to experience interactive activities like a wind tunnel and building workshop.
- Relax at Centennial Beach, a sandy beach created from an old rock quarry where you can rent paddleboats.
- Experience the local history and atmosphere through Haunted Naperville Tours or by visiting the Spirit of the American Doughboy.
- Browse various art galleries, including the Naperville Art League and Hozhoni Native American Art.
- Visit prominent landmarks such as Arrowhead Park, Burlington Square Park, and West Greens Park.
Three days in Naperville
Day one, you can begin your stay in the heart of the city and explore the area near the DuPage River. You might enjoy a stroll through the Riverwalk or find a spot to relax near the water before settling into your accommodations.
Day two, you can experience the local flavors by visiting a nearby pizzeria to savor a slice of Lou Malnati's or head toward the downtown area. You can navigate the streets around Chicago Avenue and Jefferson Avenue to see the sights.
Day three, you can plan your departure from Naperville Station. If you choose to travel further, you can board the Metra on the BNSF Line toward Chicago Union Station or catch an Amtrak train, such as the Southwest Chief or the California Zephyr, for a long journey across the country.