Discovering Naperville

Set on the banks of the DuPage River around 30 miles southwest of Chicago, Naperville has long been celebrated for striking the perfect balance between suburban calm and big-city action. It’s no surprise, then, that Niche recently named Naperville to three of its prestigious annual rankings: Best American City to Live In, Best American City to Raise a Family In, and the Third-Best U.S. City to Buy a House In.

So, what exactly makes Naperville so irresistible? Check out these perks and some of these homes for sale in Naperville right now, if you’re considering making a move.

You Can Experience the “Crown Jewel of Naperville” Anytime

You can’t talk about Naperville without talking about its “crown jewel” – the Naperville Riverwalk. Nearly everything in Illinois’ fourth-largest city revolves around it, from daily morning jogs to community festivals. The 1.75-mile brick-paved pathway winds through downtown, passing green spaces, playgrounds, Century Walk art installations, the iconic covered bridge, and the city’s prized beach.

You Can Hang Outside Year-round

Naperville’s outdoor allure doesn’t stop at the Riverwalk. Residents have access to tons of recreational activities, including a network of hiking and biking trails, six golf courses, paddling in the warmer months, and winter sports like ice skating. The city also caters to niche interests, with amenities like a skate park and a model aircraft flying field at Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve.

You Can Dive into Centennial Beach

When the temperatures rise, Centennial Beach offers a refreshing oasis in the heart of the city. This century-old quarry-turned-swimming hole features a sandy beach with zero-depth entry for the littlest swimmers, a diving area, swimming lanes, and concessions, making it the spot on hot summer days. It’s also the venue for the swimming leg of Naperville’s annual Sprint Triathlon.

You’ll Be Steps from Your Next Great Meal

It’s no secret that Chicago is a foodie paradise. But Naperville’s vibrant culinary scene is impressive in its own right. Whether you’re looking to catch up in a cozy café, craving your favorite global cuisine, or wanting to treat yourself to a fine dining experience, Naperville covers all the bases with seemingly endless restaurant, bar, and cafe options. Our favorites? Sparrow Coffee for a quick breakfast, Empire Burgers & Brew for lunch on the river, and Santo Cielo for a modern Latin dinner.

You’ll Be Part of Amazing Cultural Events

The city’s cultural calendar is jam-packed all year long. From live performances at Wentz Concert Hall and the outdoor Naperville Community Concert Center (NCCC) to history and art museums, as well as the renowned Naper Settlement, art and culture enthusiasts will find plenty to love here – and that’s before we even talk about the festival scene. Naperville festivals cover everything from art and music to food and heritage. Our favorites are the Naperville Ale Fest, the Fourth of July celebration, and the Farmer's Market Summer Fest. In short, you’ll always have plenty to do if you call this community “home.”