Naperville is a suburban city where garden-filled parks, aquatic parks and state museums meet a relaxed, small-town ambience. The city is home to an entire neighbourhood listed on the National Register of Historic Places and boasts a wealth of riverfront dining and boutique shopping within its downtown district.

Things to do

If you love immersing yourself in local history, visit the Naperville Historic District, where you can admire over 600 centuries-old buildings, including the 19th-century Dieter House, circa-1847 General Store and circa-1905 First Congregational Church. Afterwards, visit the First Division Museum at Cantigny, which showcases interactive exhibits and military displays on the First Infantry Division.

If you love to shop, make a beeline for Naperville’s downtown district to find clothing boutiques and upscale malls. Browse through designer clothes in the Main Street Promenade or find international chains along West Jefferson Avenue. This neighbourhood is also filled with prime dining outlets, including the Old West-style Ted's Montana Grill and La Sorella di Francesca, which serves delicious Italian fare.

Need a break from the city crowds? Escape among the shaded walking paths and scenic picnic lawns in Riverwalk Park. Split by the DuPage River, Riverwalk Park also boasts a winter ice-skating rink, paddle boat hire and a horseshoe pit. Don’t miss Centennial Beach, where you can swim in the river, ride on slides and play beach volleyball.

If you’ve got the kids in tow, treat them to a day at Knoch Knolls Nature Center, where they can see local animals and marine life. Afterwards, visit Cypress Cove Family Aquatic Park for bayou-inspired water slides, playgrounds and a sandy beach.

Getting around

Naperville is under 50 kilometres from Chicago O'Hare Airport and Chicago Midway Airport. You can get around using public buses, trains, taxis and rideshare services.