20 Cool Things To Do In Naperville Illinois

1. Experience Alley 64

Alley 64 is the address of a trendy, lively spot where arcade games blend with creative cocktails and different dining in a single place. It hosts a nostalgic, fun throwback thanks to the mix of classic and modern video arcade games perfect for a fun night out with friends or family.

Most of the drinks are freshly made and quite imaginative. From the food perspective, this dining experience is characterized by an array of new twists on comfort favorites mixed with gourmet options.

Not least among its many attractions is this restaurant's stylish decor and lively atmosphere, fit for socializing, looking to celebrate special occasions, or just wanting to have fun in a relaxed setting.

2. Visit Naperville Running Company

If you're a runner, check out the Naperville Running Company for all your gear, as well as some of the local events they host. This is a place not to be passed by every runner or person into fitness who wants a great variety of high-quality running shoes, apparel, and accessories, leveraging their offerings toward a multitude of needs and tastes.

Events such as races and group runs, for which the Naperville Running Company is well known, provide great opportunities for socialization among fellow runners to help with motivation. If you're looking for things to do in Naperville, IL, this store puts a little shopping together with the experience of an active and engaging local community.

3. Have Fun At Topgolf Naperville

Topgolf Naperville is one of the great ways to have fun times at the driving range by playing interactive golf games accompanied by a lively atmosphere. This place combines conventional driving range games with modern technology, making it possible for players to engage in several golf games to entertain and challenge any level of golfer.

This interactive game keeps tabs on all your shots, instantly responds to them, and puts some competitive element into your experience. Beyond golf, Topgolf is set in a lively atmosphere with a full-service bar and restaurant, so it's an ideal place to socialize, have a celebration, or just enjoy a fun time out with friends or family.

4. Spend Time At Lake Naperville

Lake Naperville is among the great spots in the Naperville tourist attractions where visitors can spend their time fishing, picnicking, or simply enjoying the scenery. The calm lake is a perfect getaway from daily hectic life.

Whether you are fishing with a line to catch your next dinner, laying out a picnic with family and friends, or simply catching the beautiful surroundings, Lake Naperville makes sure to give you a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Its scenic view of the landscape with pathways leading around the lake forms one of the ultimate spots to enjoy a whole range of outdoor activities and strolls. It is one of the best spots in the whole of Naperville to experience serene calmness with beautiful scenes.

5. Visit North Central College Art Gallery

The North Central College Art Gallery is an absolute haven for art lovers, hosting various rotating exhibitions and art activities. The gallery is located on the campus of North Central College and features different works of art by emerging and established artists. This provides visitors with images that keep on changing dynamically.

The gallery offers lots of activities related to art, including artist talks, workshops, community outreach, and space for mere appreciation of the arts. It also provides an actual platform for the creation of dialogue and creativity.

Visiting North Central College Art Gallery enriches your experiences in culture and allows exploration into contemporary art in an engaging setting.

6. Enjoy At Riverwalk Cafe

One of the fine places to consider when exploring what to do in Naperville is the Riverwalk Cafe. With a rather cozy atmosphere on the scenic Riverwalk, this fine cafe allows one to enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee with beautiful views along the riverfront.

They offer a menu with numerous delicious options, from full and satisfying breakfasts to light, refreshing lunches, paired with freshly brewed coffee.

Its outdoor seating faces the Riverwalk, so one can sit in serenity with a great view. The Riverwalk Cafe is going to be great for starting the day with a leisurely breakfast, taking a short coffee break, or finding a beautiful place to take your time; this is the reason that it attracts visitors as well as locals alike.

7. Catch A Show At The Comedy Shrine

The Comedy Shrine is a great platform to view stand-up comedy and enjoy an evening filled with laughter. This local theater built up an excellent tradition of energetic and brilliant performances.

There are various performances held here that include stand-up, improv, and sketch shows. With a lineup of hilarious comedians and a friendly atmosphere, The Comedy Shrine provides audiences of every age group the opportunity to have an entertaining evening.

This setting ensures that every seat is great for getting a view of the stage and adds to the overall enjoyment of the performance. The Comedy Shrine provides one with a fantastic opportunity to experience comedy at its finest in search of a lively and entertaining evening out.

8. Explore Knoch Knolls Nature Center

Knoch Knolls Nature Center is a lovely spot for nature and outdoors enthusiasts. This nature center, based in Naperville, offers many activities and experiences around the natural environment. One can walk through scenic trails that curve through varied landscapes of woods, prairies, and wetlands.

Inside the nature center, visitors can find informative exhibits illustrating the local flora and fauna in a manner that is both information-rich and edifying of the natural history of the area. Other programs and events Knoch Knolls offers include guided hikes, wildlife observation opportunities, and education programs on environmental education.

9. Visit Wheatland Salem Church

Wheatland Salem Church is one of the best things to do in Naperville, and is a kind of claim to fame in this area, retaining a piece of its historical and architectural heritage.

The old beauty still speaks to the craftsmanship of that time with striking architecture and fine lines well-preserved. It is an active community hub that hosts several activities and events that bind people together.

From religious services to community and cultural events, Wheatland Salem Church has been a dynamic presence in local life. A visit here provides the opportunity to enjoy the history of this place and also to see how its role is still active for the community today.

10. Walk Through Naperville Historic District

Take a stroll through the Naperville Historic District and admire the finely preserved 19th-century homes. The district is a look into the past of Naperville, with its entire collection of historical buildings well-preserved to depict the architecture and construction techniques of that time.

You will see picture-like streets with elegant row houses, each of which speaks for itself in the chronicle called 'City's History'.

It's a great district for a leisurely walk, offering a peaceful and very picturesque experience with views while giving insight into heritage and development regarding Naperville. This is a great way to get closer to the past and into the architectural beauty of this historic area.

11. Downtown Naperville Shopping

Stroll through Downtown Naperville and explore the wide array of unique shops, boutiques, and restaurants amidst a charming and lively atmosphere. The downtown district is lined with an eclectic mix of stores selling everything from fashionable apparel and handmade products to unique home decorations and specialty items.

There will be a wide range of restaurants to suit every taste, from casual dining to fine dining, so you can stop for a meal or a cup of coffee while shopping. And historic architecture, complemented by quaint streets, adds to the experience that really wouldn't matter where you had spent the day shopping and dining in downtown Naperville.

12. Visit The Naperville Public Library

The Naperville Public Library is a great place for a diverse range of events and programming, but even just to get lost in a good read in a beautiful setting. Programming here is pretty well-rounded and includes author talks, workshops, and educational programs targeting every age group, really making the library a community hub of engagement and learning.

It has a collection full of various books, digital media, and research materials that are sure to meet the interests of many. Its inviting, well-designed spaces provide a tranquil environment for reading and study. Due to the combination of a quiet atmosphere with educational offers, the Naperville Public Library is very appropriate for learning and leisure.

13. Explore Naperville Art League Gallery

The Naperville Art League Gallery offers the exciting opportunity to experience local art and surround yourself with regional creativity. Paintings, sculptures, and mixed media are part of the constantly changing body of work presented at this regional talent gallery.

Each exhibition represents another insight into the artistic trends and expressions of the local art community. Special events such as artist receptions or workshops take place at the gallery, allowing visitors to better interact with the art and its creators.

14. Enjoy At Centennial Beach

Centennial Beach is a very enjoyable and unique spot to relax and swim at a former quarry that has been remodeled to resemble a beach. This location was once a limestone quarry but was developed to be one of the more popular recreational spots with a large sandy beach area and an identified swimming area.

Freshwater in the clean lake provides a refreshing retreat for swimmers, and space in the adjacent park is ample for sunbathing or picnicking, among other casual activities.

With its unique scenery and well-maintained facilities, Centennial Beach offers the perfect spot to spend time with families, friends, or anybody else in need of a fun, serene day out. This is a unique spot in Naperville, bringing history and recreation together in one place.

15. Visit The Morton Arboretum

Morton Arboretum is known to host outstanding collections of trees, long hiking trails, and seasonal activities that one may participate in. The arboretum sits on over 1,700 acres and contains an enormous array of trees and plant species, specifically chosen to form beautiful and enlightening landscapes.

Year-round activities include plant sales, classes, seasonal festivals, and strolls on beautiful trails meandering through themed gardens. Morton Arboretum is a fine place to be with nature. With so much beauty of nature and loads of activities, it is indeed a refreshing getaway spot.

16. Explore Naper Settlement

Naper Settlement is a very exciting living history museum with historic buildings and interactive exhibits that recreate the past. Visitors to Naperville's downtown area will have the opportunity, through this 13-acre outdoor museum, to access a collection of very well-preserved structures dating as far back as the 19th century directly related to a blacksmith shop, schoolhouse, and several homes.

Each building presents a glimpse into the daily life and culture of that era, costumed interpreters, and hands-on activities that engage visitors of all ages. Special events, educational programs, and seasonal celebrations make a visit to this museum dynamic and engaging. 

17. Stroll Along Naperville Riverwalk

The Riverwalk has an undeniably picturesque and tranquil destination within Naperville, one that is great for a stroll. Beautifully landscaped paths adorned with decorative bridges and fountains can be discovered lining the DuPage River.

Adding more charm to your leisurely walk on the Riverwalk, you'll find a few public artworks, lush garden spots, and quiet nooks where you can sit and enjoy nature.

The Riverwalk is also a place that holds many community activities and events that draw together residents and visitors alike. If you seek quiet time, exercise, or a day outdoors to enjoy at your leisure, Naperville Riverwalk offers a great time out with its combination of nature and urbanity.

18. Visit Cantigny Park

There are some features in Cantigny Park, such as beautiful gardens, museums and a golf course. Cantigny Gardens are well known for their flawless gardening, they have seasonal flowers and plant collections that give visitors a peaceful place to explore.

It contains interesting exhibits of military history that focus on the experiences of America’s 1st Infantry Division. The museum comes with storylines that capture and hold your attention, historical artifacts, and interactive displays where you can feel part of the action.

In addition to this; it also has an outstanding golf course which is perfect for those who want to play somewhere beautiful.

19. Visit The DuPage Children's Museum

The DuPage Children’s Museum is a dynamic and inspiring space made for young people with interactive exhibits and displays that are fun. The museum is based in Naperville where children can expand their minds, play, and learn through hands-on experiences.

Exhibits are creatively designed to provoke inquiry and imagination, dealing with topics such as science, art, and engineering.

Here children can participate in activities like constructing structures, experimenting with water features, or delving into art projects. Moreover, the museum organizes tailored programs, workshops as well as events to fit different age-set groups and interests.

20. Naperville Trolley & Tour Co.

Naperville Trolley & Tour Co. offers an interesting and educative experience. In a fun, nostalgic environment, this is the only tour where visitors can learn more about the past, landmarks, and points of interest in town. The guides are well-versed in local history and have interesting narratives about both current and previous happenings in the city.

Passengers on board enjoy great views of historical areas, beautiful suburbs as well as significant buildings while passing through some of Naperville’s charming streets that define the city’s image. For a first-time dweller, its offer is always exciting when you want to explore deeper into the area’s rich cultural background and active community life.