Naperville

Welcome to Naperville

Located in the western suburbs of Chicago, Naperville is a picturesque community with all of the comforts you could ever need or desire. The area is home to a thriving population of 147,501 and is situated in both DuPage and Will Counties. In addition to having top conveniences and amenities, including fantastic shopping and dining, Naperville has many excellent attractions—including the DuPage Children’s Museum and the Naper Settlement.

One of the reasons Naperville is such a sought-after spot to relocate is its outstanding public schools. From pre-kindergarten through high school, children can attend award-winning schools just minutes from home. Families also love the abundance of parks and playgrounds in the surrounding area.

As you explore homes in Naperville, you’ll find many gorgeous properties. Everything from sprawling single-family builds to palatial dream homes is available on the market. The current median list price for homes in this city is $474,900.

What to Love

• Exceptional public schools
• Unparalleled conveniences and amenities
• Numerous parks, playgrounds, attractions, and golf courses
  

History

Naperville, Illinois, founded in 1831 by Captain Joseph Naper, boasts a rich history rooted in its early days as a critical frontier outpost. Initially settled along the DuPage River, Naperville quickly became a bustling center for agriculture and trade, attracting settlers with its fertile land and strategic location. The arrival of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad in 1864 further accelerated its growth, transforming it from a rural village into a thriving town.

Significant events that shaped Naperville include the devastating tornado of 1946, which caused substantial damage but also spurred a period of rebuilding and modernization. The post-World War II era brought rapid suburban expansion as families sought the charm and convenience of Naperville's burgeoning neighborhoods. The establishment of North Central College in 1870 and the construction of the Riverwalk in 1981 further solidified Naperville’s status as a cultural and recreational hub. Today, Naperville blends its historic charm with modern amenities, making it one of the most desirable places to live in the Chicagoland area.

Lifestyle

Naperville can easily be characterized as a laid-back, fun, and family-friendly community. People genuinely love living here, thanks to its many incredible offerings. Its neighborhoods are well-maintained, beautifully landscaped, and have quiet residential roads.

Since it’s situated a reasonable 33 miles from Downtown Chicago, Naperville is an excellent choice for commuters. If you’re looking to escape the busyness and noise of the city at the end of the day, Naperville is a wonderful place to relocate.

Dining & Nightlife in Naperville

Think you need to head downtown for all of the best shopping and dining? As a Naperville resident, you can save the trip and enjoy the many wonderful establishments located in town.

Naperville boasts a diverse and vibrant dining scene, with options to satisfy every palate. Downtown Naperville is a culinary hotspot, featuring acclaimed restaurants like Mesón Sabika, a Spanish tapas bar housed in a historic mansion, and La Sorella di Francesca, known for its authentic Italian cuisine. For those craving American fare, Catch 35 offers a delectable seafood menu, while Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House specializes in steaks and seafood in an elegant setting.

The nightlife in Naperville is equally lively, with several bars and pubs to explore. Empire Burgers & Brew is a popular spot for craft beer and gourmet burgers, while Quigley's Irish Pub offers a cozy atmosphere and traditional Irish fare. For a more upscale experience, Sullivan’s Steakhouse combines fine dining with live jazz music, creating a sophisticated evening out. Numerous cafes like Sparrow Coffee and Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea provide a more relaxed environment for socializing or working over a cup of artisanal coffee.

Shopping

Naperville offers a plethora of shopping options, catering to both everyday needs and luxury indulgences. Downtown Naperville is a shopper's paradise, featuring an array of boutiques, specialty shops, and national retailers. Stores like Dean’s Fine Clothing and Gotskind’s Shoes & Clothing provide unique fashion finds, while Anderson’s Bookshop is a beloved independent bookstore known for its author events and curated selection.

For more extensive shopping, the Naperville Plaza and the Ogden Mall feature popular chains and grocery stores, including Trader Joe’s and Casey’s Foods. The Fox Valley Mall, located a short drive away, offers a comprehensive shopping experience with major department stores, a food court, and entertainment options like a movie theater and an arcade. Additionally, Naperville Crossings provides a convenient mix of retail, dining, and entertainment, ensuring residents have ample choices for all their shopping needs.

Local Attractions

Naperville is home to a variety of popular attractions and landmarks that cater to all interests. The Naperville Riverwalk, often referred to as the "Crown Jewel" of Naperville, is a must-visit. This picturesque, nearly two-mile-long path along the DuPage River features beautiful landscaping, fountains, covered bridges, and outdoor sculptures, providing a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a family outing. Nearby, the historic Naper Settlement offers a glimpse into the 19th-century life with its meticulously preserved buildings and engaging exhibits.

Another notable landmark is the Millennium Carillon in Moser Tower, a 160-foot-tall bell tower offering panoramic views of the city. Additionally, Centennial Beach, a unique swimming facility created from a former quarry, provides a sandy beach, diving boards, and picnic areas, making it a popular summer destination. For nature enthusiasts, the Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve offers extensive trails for hiking, biking, and bird-watching amidst prairies and wetlands.

Cultural Scene

Naperville's cultural scene is vibrant and diverse, offering residents and visitors a wealth of artistic and educational experiences. The Naper Settlement, a 12-acre outdoor history museum, serves as a cultural cornerstone, providing interactive exhibits and programs that bring the 19th-century pioneer era to life. This living history museum features costumed interpreters, historic buildings, and engaging events that offer a deep dive into the region's heritage.

The city also boasts a thriving arts community, with the Naperville Art League serving as a hub for local artists and art enthusiasts. Their gallery showcases a rotating collection of works from regional artists, and they offer classes and workshops for all skill levels. For performing arts, North Central College's Fine Arts Center hosts a variety of concerts, theater productions, and dance performances, featuring both student and professional talent. Additionally, the DuPage Children’s Museum offers interactive exhibits and educational programs that inspire creativity and learning for children and families.

Annual Events & Festivals

Naperville is known for its lively annual events and festivals that draw crowds from all over the region. One of the most anticipated events is the Naperville Ribfest, held every summer. This four-day festival features mouth-watering ribs from top barbecue vendors, live music performances, and family-friendly activities, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display.

The Last Fling, another major event held over Labor Day weekend, offers a carnival, a parade, and live entertainment, providing a fun-filled farewell to summer. During the holiday season, the Naperville Christkindlmarket transforms Naper Settlement into a traditional German holiday market, complete with festive booths, delicious food, and unique gifts.

Other notable events include the Naperville Ale Fest, showcasing a wide selection of craft beers from local and national breweries, and the Naperville Wine Festival, which offers wine tastings, gourmet food, and live music. The city's cultural calendar is also dotted with numerous art fairs, garden walks, and historical reenactments, ensuring there's always something exciting happening in Naperville.

Schools

Naperville is home to several excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include schools located in District 203 and District 204. There are also numerous private schooling opportunities including All Saints and Saints Peter and Paul.

Naperville School Districts

• Community Unit School District 203 
• Indian Prairie School District 204 
• Naperville Chamber of Commerce

Best Naperville Neighborhoods

Best Naperville Neighborhoods | Episode One | Downtown Naperville
Learn more about the Naperville Historic District, East Highlands, and West Downtown Naperville

Best Naperville Neighborhoods | Episode Two | Pool & Clubhouse Communities
Learn more about Brookdale, Saybrook, and Hobson West

Best Naperville Neighborhoods | Episode Three | Golf Course Communities
Learn more about Cress Creek, White Eagle, and Tamarak

Best Naperville Neighborhoods | Episode Four | Exploring the Naperville Lifestyle
Learn more about the Naperville lifestyle and all that this incredible suburb has to offer residents

Resource Guides

• City of Naperville
• Naperville Park District
• Naperville Visitors Bureau