Top Attractions for First-Timers
Naperville has no shortage of exciting things to do. Here are some of the top attractions and activities you won’t want to miss on your first visit to town.
Family Fun
Naperville is an extremely family-friendly destination. Knock out two of the city’s most popular attractions in one place at Centennial Beach and Centennial Park. Kids will love splashing around at the beach’s zero-depth entry pool. After swimming, enjoy the park’s playgrounds, trails, gardens, and interactive fountains. Top off your family fun day with a ride on the Centennial Wheel for spectacular views.
Historic Downtown
Take a stroll through charming downtown Naperville. Pop into the iconic Naper Settlement living history museum to experience 19th century life. Visit the DuPage Children’s Museum for hands-on exhibits designed just for kids. Check out downtown’s many locally-owned shops, restaurants, galleries, and Riverwalk plaza. Don’t miss the iconic Moser Tower and Millennium Carillon.
Performing Arts
Experience Naperville’s vibrant arts and culture scene. Attend a show at the state-of-the-art Wentz Concert Hall or the more intimate Pfeiffer Hall. See first-rate musicals and plays at BrightSide Theatre. Kids will love the interactive performances at the DuPage Children’s Museum. Many free concerts and events also take place at the Riverwalk Performance Pavilion downtown.
Outdoor Recreation
Naperville offers many opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Walk, run, or bike on the scenic Riverwalk path. Rent a kayak and paddle down the tranquil DuPage River. Go for a hike at Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve. Play a round at Springbrook or Naperbrook Golf Courses. You can also enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, and more along the lakefront.
Unique Museums
In addition to the Naper Settlement living history museum, Naperville boasts several other specialized museums that make for fascinating visits. The Naperville Heritage Society’s Century Memorial Chapel exhibits Victorian-era furnishings. The Children’s Hands-On Museum at Naper Settlement offers interactive early learning. And don’t miss the WW2 experience at the American Heroes Museum.
Local Flavors
Dining out is a highlight of any Naperville visit. Downtown offers a delicious array of locally-owned eateries, from cozy cafes to chef-driven bistros. Visit the Naperville Ale Fest in the summer or Winter Ale Fest to sample craft brews. You can also embark on an ice cream tour to taste unique flavors at iconic local creameries like Graham’s, Kilwins, and Bebe’s.
How to Get Around Naperville
Naperville offers several transportation options for visitors. Here is an overview of the main ways to navigate the city:
Public Transportation
Pace Suburban Bus Service offers several routes through Naperville that connect with neighboring suburbs and downtown Chicago. The 505 bus travels along Ogden Avenue, the 715 bus goes to Aurora, and the 779 bus links the Route 59 train station to downtown Naperville.
Taxis and Rideshares
You can call local taxi companies like Naperville Taxi or Yellow Cab to arrange curbside pickup in Naperville. Uber and Lyft also operate throughout the Naperville area.
Charter Buses
For group travel or special events, consider chartering a private bus. Charter buses provide door-to-door service on your schedule. They’re ideal for airport transfers, tours, nights out, and more. Our company, Naperville Party Bus Company, offers luxury coaches equipped with amenities like wifi and entertainment systems. Call 217-800-4810 for group transportation with the flexibility and comfort you deserve.
Ready to Get Started?
We hope this first-timer’s guide gets you excited to visit Naperville! With kid-friendly attractions, historic sites, great dining, and so much more, you’re sure to have an amazing time. Reach out to Naperville Party Bus Company at 217-800-4810 to arrange reliable transportation for your group during your upcoming visit. Let us handle the driving while you sit back and experience all that fantastic Naperville has to offer!