If you’re looking for a city vibe with abundance of things to do with the family, look no further than Naperville. This western suburb is a wonderful destination with a thriving metropolis that is vibrant and happening without being too overwhelming.
Downtown Naperville offers a mixture of adorable independent boutiques as well as well-known brand stores. Natural beauty also awaits with a scenic Riverwalk and plenty of open space. And when hunger strikes, you’ll find plenty of options to fulfill any craving. Get exploring.
Eat
Guzman y Gomez
- Address: 1519 N. Naper Blvd., Naperville
When hunger strikes and you need something fast, stop by Guzman y Gomez for yummy tacos and burritos as well as churro sundaes and horchata. It also has a drive-thru so you don’t even need to get out!
Fiamme Pizza
- Address: 19 N. Washington St., Naperville
For pizza and other Italian eats, you can’t go wrong with Fiamme. End your fantastic meal with the Sophia Grazia, a fried dough dessert topped with raspberry and chocolate sauce. Yum!
Meson Sabika
- Address: 22 W. Chicago Ave., Naperville
Feel like getting “fancy?” Try a little bit of this and a little bit of that as you share plates of tapas with the family.
Cookie Dough Creations
- Address: 22 W. Chicago Ave., Naperville
Eating raw cookie dough is not taboo at Cookie Dough Creations. Choose from one of the eight flavors, ice cream, or live a little and get both!
Sweet Home Gelato
For authentic Italian gelato head to downtown Naperville’s Sweet Home Gelato. With 26 flavors made in-house, the hard part will be narrowing down your choices!
Shop
Treasures Naperville
- Address: 121 S. Washington St., Naperville
Located in downtown Naperville, Treasures is a toy store that kids (and adults) will love. Try before you buy with any of the playable demos in the shop. The owner is happy to help you find the perfect gift and if you ask nicely he’ll be happy to juggle upon request. Looking for a unique spot for an event? It has a gaming dungeon for private events.
Little Barn Baby
- Address: 123 S. Washington St., Naperville
Dress up your little fashionistas at this adorable boutique shop that not only sells clothing but gifts, toys and decor.
Anderson’s Bookshop
- Address: 123 W. Jefferson Ave., Naperville
The independent bookstore will have plenty of choices to keep bookworms of all ages happy. Make sure to check back frequently for events, including local and world-renowned author signings.
Play
DuPage Children’s Museum
- Address: 301 N. Washington St., Naperville
Since 1987, the DuPage Children’s Museum has been a prime example of learning while playing. Find interactive hands-on fun that focus on energy, building, art and more. Its newest exhibit, The Questioneers, is one not to miss. Curious minds can be an engineer, a scientist, or even an architect like those characters from the book series by the same way. The annual family-friendly Bubble Bash is also a popular way to ring in the new year and for families with special needs, watch for dates reserved just for you.
Naper Settlement
- Address: 523 S. Webster St., Naperville
During the winter, families can explore the 13 acres of the outdoor history museum by taking a self-guided tour to learn more about the museum grounds and historic buildings. View the latest exhibit at the Pre-Emption House Visitor Center. Make plans to visit again in the spring and summer to see the inside of the historic buildings as well as the splash pad and play area for kids.
Funtopia
This is definitely not your typical wall climbing experience. The colorful themed climbing walls offer a variety of challenges as well as a ninja course for more fun.
Hollywood Palms Cinema
- Address: 352 S. Illinois Route 59, Naperville
Sit down, relax and enjoy a first-run movie from the comfort of your seats.
Explore
Naperville Trolley & Tours
- Pickup location and drop off will vary
See Naperville in a different light aboard a trolley. Literally. During November and December, its offers public and private holiday light trolley tours. It even offers shorter 30-minute public tours perfect for the younger set.
Naperville Riverwalk
- Address: 400 S. Eagle St., Naperville
No matter the season, taking a stroll along the Naperville Riverwalk is always a welcome activity. Sit down and relax at any of the benches along the way. Kids can get rid of the wiggles at the fantastic playground located just off the Riverwalk. Looking for a great view? Climb 14 stories high up the 160-foot Moser Tower for views of the city, Riverwalk and Centennial Beach.
Go on a self-guided art walk
- Locations throughout Naperville
Throughout downtown, the Riverwalk and Naperville, outdoor murals, mosaics, and sculptures are sprinkled for all to enjoy. Looking for more outdoor murals? Check out this list.
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