The Ultimate Weekend Getaway to Naperville, USA
Explore the charm of suburban life in Naperville, USA.
22 April 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Naperville, a charming city in the state of Illinois, is a perfect destination for tourists seeking a blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy exploring the stunning Riverwalk, a scenic destination featuring fountains, bridges, and beautiful gardens. Additionally, Naperville is home to several museums, theaters, and restaurants that offer a glimpse of the city's rich heritage and modern charm.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check into Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Naperville, a beautifully renovated hotel with an indoor pool and a complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast.
- Stroll through Downtown Naperville, a charming area filled with locally owned boutiques, restaurants, and a Riverwalk with paddleboat rentals.
- Visit Naper Settlement, a historic outdoor museum featuring 30 buildings that depict life in Naperville during the 19th century.
- Browse the collection of contemporary art at the DuPage Children’s Museum, where children can learn through interactive exhibits.
- Have a late lunch at Jackson Avenue Pub, a cozy gastropub serving hearty burgers, pizzas, and beer flights.
- Start the day with a relaxing walk around Knoch Knolls Nature Center, a park with walking trails and a pond where you can spot turtles, herons and other wildlife.
- Take a short drive to the Morton Arboretum, a vast botanical garden that offers year-round activities, from hiking to tree-climbing to seasonal events like fall foliage tours.
- Spend the afternoon shopping at the Chicago Premium Outlets, home to over 170 designer stores, from Nike to Gucci, with steep discounts.
- Have a dinner date at Mesón Sabika, a romantic Spanish tapas restaurant housed in a historic mansion. Don't miss the paella and the sangria!
- Start the day with a visit to The Naperville Train Depot, a 4-building museum complex that serves as a reminder of the important role the railroad played in the history and growth of Naperville.
- Head to the Wentz Concert Hall and Fine Arts Center, a state-of-the-art venue that hosts various performances, from classical to pop music, and art exhibits.
- Have lunch at Egg Harbor Café, a popular spot with a comfortable decor and delicious breakfast and lunch dishes, all made from scratch.
- Learn about Japanese culture and history at the nearby Naper Japanese Community Center, which offers classes and workshops, and hosts a yearly Japanese Festival in the summer.
- End the day with a sunset view and a refreshing drink at the rooftop bar of Hotel Arista, a stylish boutique hotel located in CityGate Centre.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to reach Naperville, United States by plane is to fly to Chicago O'Hare International Airport and then take a taxi, bus, or train to Naperville.
Car
The best way to reach Naperville, United States by car is to drive on I-88 W from Chicago. The trip takes around 45 minutes depending on traffic.
Train
There is a Metra train that runs from Chicago Union Station to Naperville Station, making it the best way to reach Naperville by train.
Boat
There is no direct boat transportation to Naperville, United States. However, you can take a boat tour from Chicago to Naperville on the Chicago River.
Bus
Taking a bus from Chicago to Naperville is the best way to reach the city by bus. Greyhound offers regular bus service from Chicago to Naperville.