Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Naperville, Illinois. #Top Attractions

Have the intention to visit Naperville, Illinois? Check out the list of the best things to do in Naperville, Illinois, and places to go in Naperville, Illinois below. Wondrous Drifter is a cutting-edge, Web 3.0 travel startup that aspires to change the world.

Blackwell Forest Preserve

Home to various animal species, Blackwell Forest Preserve will allow you to explore Illinois’ natural environment.

The Blackwell Forest Preserve is one of the top preservation projects in the western suburbs, with 1,366-acre of land.

The area is famous for animals found like bald eagles, wild turkeys, red foxes, deer, great blue herons, muskrats, and coyotes.

Foraging birds like lonely sandpipers, wood ducks, and blue-winged teals reside.

While the northern leopard frog breeds in two vernal ponds north of Mack Road in McKee Marsh.

From 1965 to 1973, the county established and operated a trash dump for recreational purposes.

A long list of recreational activities is available at the destination.

The best time to explore the area is from April to September.

Fishing, picnicking, and camping are some things to do in the area.

Visitors can rent rowboats, kayaks, and canoes to explore the DuPage River and Silver Lake.

While roaming around the area, you will encounter people cycling, walking, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, and running.

If you’re planning to visit the area, create a list of activities to do to save more time while traveling.

Address: Butterfield Rd, Warrenville, IL 60555

Bright Side Theatre

Bright Side is the place where every Theatre enthusiast should be.

It is the only and the newest professional theater in Naperville in the historic downtown center.

It puts on shows at the Theatre at Miley-Swallow Hall on the campus of North Central College in the heart of Naperville’s historic downtown.

BrightSide Theatre is a professional, non-Equity, non-profit theater to educates, enlightens, and entertains audiences through comedies and inspiring stories from all over the world.

They host a variety of award-winning works, classics, new works, and world premieres to reflect on our community and make it better.

They do a little bit of everything, from well-known classics like Hairspray to teen versions of 2000s hits like High School Musical.

Each season has a theme, like “Classic Broadway” in 2016-2017, which includes shows like “Moon Over Buffalo,” “Thoroughly Modern Milli,” “Beauty and the Beat,” and “Guys and Dolls.”

In the same way, the theme of the 2015-2016 season was Farce, which includes comedies like Legally Blonde and Spamalot.

Make a ticket reservation if you’re unsure what they’ll play at the theater.

Address: 31 S Ellsworth St, Naperville, IL 60540, United States

Cantigny Park

The Cantigny Park is one of the top attractions in Illinois.

You will never regret visiting Cantigny Park due to its massive land area stretching about 500 acres, and a combination of activities awaits you!

There are two museums in Cantigny Park, consisting of formal and informal gardens, with several things to do.

Visitors can learn about the area’s history by going to A Date with History and Artistry in Wood, which both have woodwork from all over the state.

This park has a lot to offer visitors, such as a 27-hole golf course, picnic areas, and beautiful trails for hiking.

It is an award-winning ground with four restaurants residing in the area.

The annual Spring Bulbs Festival is one of the most awaited occasions tourists must not miss.

The Family Kite Night, where individuals can fly their best kites, is one of the festival’s traditions.

Enjoy a relaxing walk through a beautiful botanical garden.

If you go at the right time of year, you might be able to see live music, lectures that teach you something, or a fun festival.

Try out some delicious food and buy souvenirs from their gift shop as memorabilia.

Address: 1 S 151 Winfield Road, Wheaton, IL 60189

Arranging a trip to Illinois? Come over and check out our best travel guides for Aurora and Joliet. Discover the enjoyable things to do in Aurora, Illinois and the best things to do in Joliet, Illinois

Centennial Beach

Hit the beach on a sunny day, and don’t forget to bring your bikinis!

Centennial Beach features an enormous, crystal-clear pool that seems like a beach.

It is an aquatic park and has an approximately 6-acres land area.

Centennial Beach officially opened in 1932 for swimming and other outdoor activities.

A large sandy beach, crystal-clear water up to 15 feet deep, skilled lifeguards on duty, a bathhouse, and many more amenities are available.

It’s a great spot to hang out with loved ones on a hot summer day. Centennial Beach’s old stone quarry is better than any pool or lake.

The spot is packed with activities such as water slides, fountains, and other amusements that can be found throughout the park.

Attractions include an on-site restaurant and grill that serves a wide variety of exquisite beach fare and other delicacies.

If you don’t feel like doing any water activities, hit the skatepark, baseball field, or a cafe in the area.

Address: 500 West Jackson, Naperville, IL 60540

DuPage Children’s Museum

The best way for children to learn is by having a blast on hands-on activities.

DuPage Children’s Museum should be on your top list when planning to travel with your children.

The museum was established and opened to the public in 1987.

Museum displays make science, math, and art enjoyable for students and encourage them to learn via participative activities.

The museum has nine areas for activities such as Creativity Connections, Young Explorers, The Studio, and Make It Move.

Various activities are accessible, such as producing artwork, attending demos, experimenting with equipment, and conducting experiments.

Sit on the floor and enjoy fun activities suitable for children of different ages.

There are also large toys like legos for children 7 to 10.

More than a dozen exhibits cover a range of subjects from sensory input to fundamental physics to energy sources and everything in between.

Take your kids to DuPage Children’s Museum to help your child’s cognitive development.

Address: 301 N Washington St, Naperville, IL 60540

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Herrick Lake Forest Preserve

Suppose you’re out of ideas on where to travel this summer. In that case, Illinois has the best outdoor activities perfect for the summer!

Herrick Lake Forest Preserve is one of the most popular spots in Naperville, Illinois, with about 887-acre of landscape area.

More than 250 animals reside in the area.

The broad views of the forests’ lush greenery, with about 470 kinds of plants, will make you feel calm.

There are about five miles of paths, large pavilions that can be used for significant events, and more in the park.

The place is a haven for people seeking tranquility due to its beautiful trails and forest preservation.

Their outdoor activities include horseback riding, cross-country skiing, hiking, and biking.

Its lake has a 22-acre reservoir with a broad area perfect for picnics and fishing.

The biggest you’ll catch on the lake are sunfish, largemouth bass, carp, and flathead catfish.

Renting kayaks, rowboats, and canoes are some of the go-to water activities available from May to September.

Water sports gear is available for rent to tourists and locals for water activities.

Spend your day with your family and friends at Herrick Lake Forest Preserve and make the best memories with them.

Address: Herrick Lake Forest Preserve, Naperville, IL 60563

Hidden Key Escapes

Channel your inner Sherlock Holmes and get ready to solve mysteries at Hidden Key Escapes.

Hidden Key Escapes’ escape rooms are a great way to use your critical thinking skills in a fun and exciting setting before the time runs out.

You and your team will be able to get out of a small room in less than an hour by using your five senses to solve puzzles and find clues.

2 to 10 people are needed to work together to get through their themed rooms’ puzzles.

Communication is an essential key to solving puzzles and finding new clues.

The more clues you find, the closer you get to the key that will let you out.

“The Storage Room” and “The Hideaway.” are some of the challenges you can choose from.

The Hideaway has a 40% escape rate, while the latter has a 37% escape rate.

“The Storage Room” needs at least four players, so if you’re traveling with just one other person, the best choice would be “The Hideaway.”

Check out their website about the available activities and make reservations on Hidden Key.

Address: 24W500 Maple Ave Suite 108, Naperville, IL 60540

Knoch Knolls Nature Center

The destination is located in the southern suburbs of Chicago, near the DuPage River and Springbrook Prairie Nature Preserve.

This nature center is a great place to spend a day in the fresh air.

The cycling and hiking trails, which take in picturesque bridges, ponds, rivers, creeks, and other natural features, are perfect for the whole family.

Discover the river’s origins and the wildlife and early humans that inhabited the area.

The nature-themed playground has several activities for children aged 2 to 12.

Picnic areas, golf nets, and pathways are the other areas of interest to tourists.

Take in the stunning environment while learning about the river’s formation, plant life, and wildlife.

When fishing or trekking, use a freshwater tank to see what lurks beneath a river’s surface.

See the fox snake, salamander, and box turtle that live in the center by taking a stroll.

Knoch Knolls Nature Center is a must-see travel destination for people who seek relaxation.

Address: 320 Knoch Knolls Rd, Naperville, IL 60565

Le Chocolat de Bouchard

The Le Chocolat de Bouchard is one of the best things to do in Illinois.

Indulge yourself in a sugar-filled shop in Naperville, Illinois.

Le Chocolat de Bouchard will give you the ultimate chocolate experience with their chocolate, sweets, and wine.

Le Chocolat de Bouchard is a business in Naperville, Illinois that sells chocolate, but it has been more than just a chocolate store for more than a decade.

It is an American Bakery with delicious custom cakes and an Espresso Bar with over 40 specialty hot chocolates, lattes, mochas, and cappuccinos.

Their bakers make products from scratch, which makes each dessert unique.

If you have a chance, go to the patisserie in Naperville and try their croissants and gourmet pastries and croissants.

You do not have to worry about the chocolate running out because they have enough candy for everyone in their Party Room.

Their selection of chocolates, pastries, and drinks should have something for both chocoholics and the most experienced chocolate lovers to enjoy.

They also have a French cafe with tasty seafood feasts, charcuterie platters, crepes, classic baked french onion soup, and Croque Monsieur/Madame.

Visit the place and satisfy your cravings.

Address: 127-129 S Washington St, Naperville, IL 60540

Morton Arboretum

Drop by Morton Arboretum and get mesmerized by its breathtaking view if you’re looking for a romantic place to spend time with your partner.

The Morton Arboretum is an outdoor museum founded in 1922 and home to about 4,100 different plants.

It has about 1,700 acres of living museums with a diverse collection of plants, shrubs, and trees from all over the world.

The place is perfect for plant lovers and is open all year round so people can enjoy its beauty.

Aside from being an outdoor museum, they have a library and a tree study program open for anyone interested in learning more about plants and trees.

They host several activities and events perfect for the whole family.

Some of their events are Mystery Dinner, the Craft Beer Festival, Art of Bonsai, and Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum.

It takes about 30-45 minutes to walk through the winter woods brought to life with the help of innovative projections, music, and lights.

To make your visit more memorable, hiking trails, interactive gardens for children, and bicycle paths are available in the area.

Address: 4100 Illinois 53, Lisle, IL 60532

Moser Tower and Millennium Carillon

The Moser Tower and Millennium Carillon are one of the best places to visit in Illinois.

If you want a beautiful 360-degree view of Naperville, add Moser Tower and Millennium Carillon to your bucket list!

The musical observation tower is open to the public on weekends and was informally known as the “Moser Tower” by the locals.

The Moser Structure and Millennium Carillon is a 160-foot concrete tower constructed in 1999.

The city’s landmark has 72 carillon bells famous among locals and tourists.

The towers are open for excursions in the spring and summer. The 253 steps to the observation platform at this well-kept tourist attraction offer stunning views of the postcard-perfect surroundings.

Take a guided tour of the massive edifice and the cutting-edge tower while you’re here.

Take many pictures of yourself and your pals in front of this beautiful building.

The terrace, from which you may enjoy breathtaking views by ascending several stairs, is easily accessible.

They also stage concerts every Tuesday during the summer and spring.

Drop by the place and take Instagram-worthy photos.

Address: 443 Aurora Ave, Naperville, IL 60540

Naperville Bites and Sites Food Tours

The most excellent way to experience the culture and food of Illinois is by dropping by Naperville Bites and Sites Food Tours.

They have the best food in a town where you’ll learn about the town’s history and its people.

Food tours with Naperville Bites and Sites are a great way to learn about the city’s food and history.

Stop at family-owned shops and restaurants and try their best dishes as you take a culinary and cultural tour of downtown and its neighborhoods.

They have an authentic Irish pub, a chocolate and pastry shop, a specialty tea business, a Chicago-style pizza place, olive oil and balsamic vinegar store, and a premium cookie dough store.

As you find abandoned buildings, hidden paths, and unexplored green spaces, you learn more about the past and present of the area.

The best time to visit the area is April to November, as weekend tours are open to people of all ages.

Address: 200 E 5th Ave, Naperville, IL 60563

Naperville Community Concert Center

Naperville’s awe-inspiring band, which has been around for 150 years, will leave you thrilled by their performance.

The Naperville Community Concert Center is an outdoor auditorium in the Naperville Historic District.

The band first started in 1859 and still exists today.

As of 2022, the band grew to about 100 members and has been an essential part of the community.

The band puts on free outdoor concerts in Naperville’s Central Park every week. Over the years, thousands of people have gone to these concerts.

People can see the band play every Thursday night from June to August.

Concerts by the Naperville Municipal Band are a common way to have fun in the city during the summer.

When there are no shows, the big concert hall and Central Park across the street are great places to have a picnic and play on the playground.

The center is surrounded by a beautiful mural and a public park.

Feel free to wander around the area and gather memorable experiences in Illinois.

Address: 55 Concert Lane, Naperville, Illinois

Naper Settlement

Fulfill your childhood dream of traveling back in time by visiting the Naper Settlement.

With over 12 acres of outdoor history museums, The Naper Settlement has always been open to the public.

Due to buildings from the 18th century still existing in the area, it was regarded as one of the most historic places in Illinois.

The place’s history from its beginning to the present, a variety of hands-on exhibits can be found where visitors can visit.

More than a dozen exhibitions, such as a 3,500-square-foot gallery full of interactive displays, art, artifacts, and photographs, are displayed in the village.

The exhibits include art collections of local artists at the Heritage Gallery.

Learn about Naperville’s architecture and history by taking one of the three walking tours offered at Naperville’s oldest business and residential neighborhoods.

There are instances where villagers wear outfits and costumes for special occasions.

Keep an eye out for their 5,000-square-foot building that features the region’s agricultural history when you visit the place.

Address: 523 S Webster St, Naperville, IL 60540

Naperville Trolley & Tours

Find out what Illinois offers by wandering around through Naperville Trolley & Tours.

The Naperville Trolley & Tours, which was started by Don’s daughter Annette, is an essential part of the city.

Residents of the area often use it to get around, making it a popular route.

The 30-minute Historic Trolley Tour is a must-do because it’s fun and teaches you something simultaneously.

The best way to travel to Naperville and learn more about it is by taking a trolley tour.

Naperville Trolley & Tours offers an hour-long trip through the city’s historic downtown area, where you can learn a lot about the city’s history.

The family-owned business has a long history of making customers happy and delighted when they ride in one of their small trolleys.

You can even plan a tour around Halloween or Christmas.

Next time you plan your trip, include Naperville Trolley & Tours on your travel list.

Address: 936 Lilac Lane and 5283, Naperville, IL 60540, United States

Paddleboat Quarry

If you want to try chill water activities, Paddleboat Quarry is where you need to go.

Enjoy the water without getting your feet wet by renting a paddleboat from Paddleboat Quarry.

Because it is close to Centennial Beach and on the Riverwalk, it is easy to get to Paddleboat Quarry from Centennial Beach.

It is located on the Naperville Riverwalk near Jackson Avenue and Eagle Street.

It is a great place to get rid of stress and take incredible photos for your Instagram.

Rentals are available from May to September if the weather is good.

Kayaks, paddleboats, and paddleboards are available for rent during the weekend.

The Paddleboat Quarry will open its doors to the public for the first time on Memorial Day, May 31.

It is a fun-filled place that doesn’t cost too much to try with your family.

Find out more about the place by checking out their website before you visit.

Address: 441 Aurora Ave, Naperville, IL 60540, United States

Pinot’s Palette

Can’t choose whether to paint or have a drink? In Pinot’s Palette, you can paint and sip simultaneously!

Pinot’s Palette was the first place where people could paint and drink wine together.

It’s a fun way to meet new people and catch up with old friends.

You can buy drinks at the store, but you can’t bring your own.

There are two available rooms to choose from; their main room can fit up to 56 people, and 12 to 24 people in a separate party room.

There’s no need to worry if you have no art experience because you can take an art workshop.

Tools are provided, and skilled local artists instruct people trying to learn.

Pinot’s Palette gives back to the community by bringing new, cutting-edge ideas to their events and making them memorable for the people who attend.

There are a lot of painting workshops on their website where you can watch the art being and have a drink at the same time.

Address: 175 W. Jackson Avenue, Suite 123, Naperville, IL

Riverwalk

A walk to the city’s treasure is the best way to see and appreciate the beauty of Illinois.

Due to its scenic beauty, the area has gained thousands of tourists for about 150 years since it opened its door to the public.

The Riverwalk is a serene location where visitors can wander, relax, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

There are nearly two kilometers of brick paths dotted with magnificent sculptures and water features.

Enjoy a morning walk with your children. While strolling, you’ll come across beautiful bridges,l fountains, outdoor art and sculpture, recreational facilities, commemorative memorials, and meeting and event spaces.

Visitors may check out the famous clock tower, the paddleboat quarry, and other points of interest.

There are historical sites, quaint shops, pavilions, fishing piers, and riverfront restaurants.

Stroll along the area and try out some of the best food that they have in town!

Address: 400 S. Eagle Street, Naperville, IL 60540

Solemn Oath Brewery

Before anything else, grab a glass of cold beer while you’re in Naperville, Illinois.

The Solemn Oath Brewery is a hidden gem in the industrial part of the city.

Solemn Oath Brewery’s beers show how much the brewery loves Belgian, West Coast, and barrel-aged beer styles.

The taproom at the brewery is open seven days a week and has been since it first opened in 2012.

You can go to the taproom and buy pints and flights any day of the week because there is only a half-wall between you and the brewery’s brewing process.

The taproom’s most popular beers are Death by Viking, Punk Rock for Rich Kids, Snaggletooth Bandana, and White Van.

Visitors may grab something to eat from one of the nearby food trucks while drinking their beer.

You’ll find tasty subs, juicy burgers, lobster, barbeque, and pizza on the menu.

Have fun and hang out with your friends at Solemn Oath Brewery.

Address: 1661 Quincy Ave, Naperville, IL 60540