The Naperville Riverwalk follows the DuPage River through the center of Naperville, one of the largest suburbs west of Chicago. Created in 1981 for the city’s 150th anniversary, it has grown into a landscaped path of brick walkways, covered bridges, fountains and sculptures that connects parks, a historic village, a swimming quarry and a lively downtown. It is an easy, low-stress day out, and it is reachable by Metra.
Key takeaways
- The Riverwalk runs about 1.75 miles along the DuPage River through downtown Naperville.
- Stops along the way include Centennial Beach, the Paddleboat Quarry and the Moser Tower with its carillon.
- The downtown Metra station is within walking distance of the Riverwalk.
What the Riverwalk is like
The Riverwalk is a paved, mostly flat path, suitable for strollers and relaxed walking. It winds along both banks of the river, crossing it on footbridges and covered bridges. Along the way there are gardens, benches, sculptures, memorials and places to sit by the water. Downtown Naperville’s shops and restaurants sit a block or two from the path, so it is easy to mix walking with a meal.
Centennial Beach and the Paddleboat Quarry
Centennial Beach is a swimming facility built in a former limestone quarry, with a sandy beach and shallow and deep areas. It is open in summer and charges admission; check the Naperville Park District’s website for the season and rules. Nearby, the Paddleboat Quarry offers paddleboat rentals in warm months, a favorite with families.
Moser Tower and the Millennium Carillon
At the eastern end, in Rotary Hill park, the Moser Tower rises about 160 feet and houses the Millennium Carillon, a large set of bells played from a keyboard. Carillon recitals are held in summer, and the grassy hill in front of the tower is a good place to sit and listen. Tower climbs are offered on a seasonal schedule.
Naper Settlement
Just south of downtown, Naper Settlement is an outdoor history museum with historic buildings moved from around the area. It shows how the town grew from a 19th-century settlement into a modern suburb. It makes a good addition for families interested in history; check hours and admission before you go.
Suggested plan
| Time | Stop | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Arrive by Metra, walk to the Riverwalk | Start at the western end |
| Late morning | Riverwalk to Moser Tower | Covered bridges, gardens, fountains |
| Midday | Downtown Naperville | Lunch a block from the river |
| Afternoon | Centennial Beach or Paddleboat Quarry | Summer only |
| Optional | Naper Settlement | History museum south of downtown |
Tip: On a summer day, bring swimwear. A walk along the river followed by a swim at Centennial Beach makes the trip feel like a small vacation.
Who this trip suits
- Families with young children and strollers.
- Anyone looking for an easy, flat walk with things to see.
- People who want a suburban day out without driving.
Getting there
Metra’s BNSF line stops at Naperville’s downtown station, a walk of about ten minutes from the Riverwalk. By car, downtown Naperville has public parking decks. Weekends in summer are busy, so arrive early.
Before you go
- Check Centennial Beach’s season, hours and admission on the park district website.
- Look up the carillon recital schedule if you want to hear the bells.
- Metra weekend service is less frequent than weekday service; plan your return train.
Visiting in different seasons
The Riverwalk is pleasant all year. Spring brings flowering trees and gardens along the banks. Summer is the busiest season, with Centennial Beach open, paddleboats on the quarry and carillon concerts. In fall, the trees along the river turn color and the crowds thin out. Winter is quiet, and downtown Naperville decorates for the holidays, which makes an evening stroll along the lit paths worthwhile.
Whatever the season, downtown restaurants fill up at weekend dinner times, so plan ahead if you want to eat after your walk.
Common mistakes
The most common mistake is expecting a long hike. The Riverwalk is short and easy, so it works best as part of a relaxed day with food, a swim or a museum. Another mistake is missing the last convenient train back; check the schedule before you settle in for dinner.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Naperville Riverwalk?
About 1.75 miles one way, according to the City of Naperville.
Is the Riverwalk free?
Yes. Walking the Riverwalk is free. Centennial Beach, paddleboat rentals and some attractions charge fees.
Can I get to Naperville without a car?
Yes. Metra’s BNSF line stops downtown, a short walk from the Riverwalk.
Another good west suburban outing is Morton Arboretum vs. Cantigny Park: Choosing a DuPage County Garden Day. For more summer ideas, see Free Summer Concerts in Chicago: Classical, Blues and More.