Naperville on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun!

Discover the charm of Naperville on a shoestring budget.

21 June 2023

Naperville, United States is an excellent destination for travelers on a tight budget. Visitors can enjoy free activities like exploring the Naperville Riverwalk, visiting the local Naperville Farmers Market, and hiking in the DuPage River Park. Additionally, there are affordable accommodation options, such as budget hotels and vacation rentals, and plenty of cheap dining options.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arriving in Naperville

  • Check into the Best Western Naperville Inn, a budget-friendly hotel with cozy rooms and a complimentary breakfast.
  • Take a stroll around the Naperville Riverwalk, a picturesque park along the DuPage River with fountains, sculptures and art installations.
  • Treat yourself to some artisan ice cream at Millie's Market, a local favorite that features creative flavors like salted caramel and brown butter pecan.
  • Explore the Naper Settlement, an outdoor museum that showcases the history and culture of Naperville through interactive exhibits and historical reenactments.
  • End the day with dinner at Single Barrel Social, a modern gastropub that serves up elevated comfort food and creative cocktails.
Day 2

Nature and Brews

  • Start the day with a hike at the Morton Arboretum, a stunning 1,700-acre botanical garden that boasts over 222,000 living plants from around the world.
  • For lunch, head to Solemn Oath Brewery, a craft brewery that specializes in Belgian-style ales and IPAs.
  • Visit the DuPage Children's Museum, a playful learning space where kids can explore science, engineering and art through hands-on exhibits.
  • Have dinner at the White Chocolate Grill, a polished restaurant that offers upscale American fare like smoked salmon and ribs.
  • Cap off the evening with drinks and live music at Frankie's Blue Room, a cozy bar that's a favorite among locals.
Day 3

Art and Architecture

  • Spend the morning at the Naperville Art League, a community-based art center that hosts exhibitions, classes and workshops.
  • Grab lunch at the Sparrow Coffee, a sleek coffee shop that serves up artisanal coffee and light bites.
  • Take a walking tour of the historic district of Naperville, which features beautiful homes and buildings from the 19th century.
  • Visit the Naperville Public Library, a state-of-the-art facility that's renowned for its architectural design and sustainability features.
  • Have dinner at Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House, a swanky seafood restaurant that serves up delicious crab cakes and lobster bisque.
Day 4

Shopping and Entertainment

  • Spend the day at the Westfield Fox Valley Mall, a sprawling shopping center that features over 150 stores, a cinema and an arcade.
  • Take a break for lunch at Quiubo, a bustling Mexican restaurant that serves up delicious tacos and margaritas.
  • Visit the Hollywood Palms Cinema, a retro-themed movie theater that offers dining options and live entertainment in addition to the latest films.
  • For dinner, try Meson Sabika, a charming Spanish tapas restaurant that offers a variety of small plates and sangria.
  • End the day at Potters Place, a cozy bar that's a favorite among locals for its live music and cozy atmosphere.
Day 5

Farewell Naperville

  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Egg Harbor Café, a cozy restaurant that specializes in breakfast and brunch dishes.
  • Take a final stroll around the Naperville Riverwalk to soak up the scenery and fresh air.
  • Stop by Anderson's Bookshop, a beloved local bookstore that's been serving the community since 1875.
  • Check out of the hotel and say farewell to Naperville, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated from your five-day stay in this charming and vibrant city.

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.

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