Set on the banks of the DuPage River around 30 miles southwest of Chicago, Naperville has long been celebrated for striking the perfect balance between suburban calm and big-city action. It’s no surprise, then, that Niche recently named Naperville to three of its prestigious annual rankings: Best American City to Live In, Best American City to Raise a Family In, and the Third-Best U.S. City to Buy a House In.
So, what exactly makes Naperville so irresistible? There’s so much we love about this amazing community – check out these perks and some of these homes for sale in Naperville right now, if you’re considering making a move.
You Can Experience the “Crown Jewel of Naperville” Anytime
You can’t talk about Naperville without talking about its “crown jewel” – the Naperville Riverwalk. Nearly everything in Illinois’ fourth-largest city revolves around it, from daily morning jogs to community festivals. The 1.75-mile brick-paved pathway winds through downtown, passing green spaces, playgrounds, Century Walk art installations, the iconic covered bridge, and the city’s prized beach.
You Can Hang Outside Year-round
Photo credit: dupageforest.org
Naperville’s outdoor allure doesn’t stop at the Riverwalk. Residents have access to tons of recreational activities, including a network of hiking and biking trails, six golf courses, paddling in the warmer months, and winter sports like ice skating. The city also caters to niche interests, with amenities like a skate park and a model aircraft flying field at Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve.
You Can Dive into Centennial Beach
Photo credit: visitnaperville.com
When the temperatures rise, Centennial Beach offers a refreshing oasis in the heart of the city. This century-old quarry-turned-swimming hole features a sandy beach with zero-depth entry for the littlest swimmers, a diving area, swimming lanes, and concessions, making it the spot on hot summer days. It’s also the venue for the swimming leg of Naperville’s annual Sprint Triathlon.
You’ll Be Steps from Your Next Great Meal
Photo credit: Chicago Magazine
It’s no secret that Chicago is a foodie paradise. But Naperville’s vibrant culinary scene is impressive in its own right. Whether you’re looking to catch up in a cozy café, craving your favorite global cuisine, or wanting to treat yourself to a fine dining experience, Naperville covers all the bases with seemingly endless restaurant, bar, and cafe options. Our favorites? Sparrow Coffee for a quick breakfast, Empire Burgers & Brew for lunch on the river, and Santo Cielo for a modern Latin dinner.
You’ll Be Part of Amazing Cultural Events
Photo credit: visitnaperville.com
The city’s cultural calendar is jam-packed all year long. From live performances at Wentz Concert Hall and the outdoor Naperville Community Concert Center (NCCC) to history and art museums, as well as the renowned Naper Settlement, art and culture enthusiasts will find plenty to love here – and that’s before we even talk about the festival scene. Naperville festivals cover everything from art and music to food and heritage. Our favorites are the Naperville Ale Fest, the Fourth of July celebration, and the Farmer’s Market Summer Fest. In short, you’ll always have plenty to do if you call this community “home.”
Fall in Love with These Naperville Homes
With its one-of-a-kind amenities, a strong sense of community, and recent accolades as one of the best American cities to live in, it’s no wonder that Naperville continues to be one of Chicagoland’s hottest housing markets. And, with a range of real estate options to suit every need, preference, and budget, it’s easy to find your perfect home in this community. Start here:
25 N. Fremont St. – $2,349,000
The epitome of downtown living in Naperville, this five-bedroom, 4.5-bath custom home puts you mere steps from the city’s hottest destinations, including Centennial Beach and the Riverwalk. In addition to exquisite craftsmanship, 25 Fremont offers luxurious extras such as an indoor basketball court, a finished basement with a gym and game room, a four-car garage, front porches on both levels, and a fully fenced backyard oasis with a pergola, firepit, and swing set.
330 S. Columbia St. – $1,699,000
Completed in 2023, this 3,600-square-foot home offers five bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths, 10-foot ceilings, and an ideal location that is walking distance to some of Naperville’s finest restaurants and shops and the train station. On the first floor, the great room features elevated ceilings and access to a backyard with a firepit. The main floor also features a private office, separate living room and dining room, and a large kitchen. Upstairs, there are four spacious bedrooms, each with their own walk-in closets. The luxurious primary suite features heated floors, a shower with built-in bench, a free-standing soaking tub, and a large walk-in closet.
6S221 Marblehead Court – $574,999
Situated on a quiet cul-de-sac in Century Hill near the Naperville Country Club, this home offers four bedrooms, four-and-a-half bathrooms and an open floor plan with hardwood floors throughout. In addition to an updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances and a breakfast bar, the main level features formal living and dining rooms, a family room with a brick fireplace, and access to a deck overlooking the backyard. A partially finished basement makes a great additional living space, rec room, or play room.
1505 Treeline Court – $420,000
Located in Naperville’s charming Baileywood community, this bright and spacious townhome offers luxurious maintenance-free living with three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and over 2,500 square feet of space. The exterior features a landscaped yard and a walk-out basement patio area perfect for outdoor gatherings. Inside, the kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and a large island, and the master suite is large, complete with double closets and a recently updated bathroom with dual sinks. Two additional bedrooms provide plenty of space for family or guests. Other features of this home include hardwood floors, a balcony, and a two-car garage.
Thinking about buying a home in Naperville? Contact The Lori Johanneson Team today!
