This was out first visit to Naperville, on a perfectly sunny September day. I imagined a big box retail chain paradise but I got quite a surprise when I got there. The quaint, old-fashioned downtown main street shopping district is next to a beautiful pedestrian park along a river that runs through Naperville. Benches, fountains, flowers and bridges give it a distinct character. And speaking of characters, there's even a Dick Tracy statue along the walkway, a tribute to the legendary comics detective. After our lunch in town, it was pleassant to take a walk along the river and admire so many flowers still at peak colors in early fall. The walk was pretty crowded on the Saturday afternoon. We wondered if people fall into the water, but from the look of it, the water is pretty shallow that you can see the rocks along the bottom. Though we were headed to the DuPage Children's Museum, this detour was well worth the extra time we spent in Naperville. read more

Naperville Riverwalk - Dandelion puff-like fountain - Parks Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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Love this walk! It is so much fun and very relaxing. There is plenty of shade and lots of things to look at. Bring bread to feed the ducks! There's also a pool and tons of fun restaurants and coffee shops around! read more

Beautiful Riverwalk, Less chaotic, busy, and big than the Chicago Riverwalk but beautiful and has a lot of nature and shops and restaurants within walking distance. go in summer or fall but spring is also nice also in the winter they put up holiday lights and trees and stuff along the Riverwalk which is cool and River street has hotel indigo which is nice and new with nice restaurants (as I said) good for dogs and there are a lot of parks along the Riverwalk and there are Pavillions with festivals and small thing for children and adults. You could grab something to eat like a sandwich or ice cream and take a nice walk on the river's edge. One of the best Riverwalks in the US and not many people know about it. read more

Naperville Riverwalk - Parks Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

The Riverwalk is one of the great many FREE things to do around Naperville! I go to the Riverwalk once a year for the Walk to End Alzheimer's, but I always enjoy it. It is wheelchair/stroller accessible, for the most part - and the places that aren't have an alternate route. If you go late enough in the year, you can avoid being accosted by hissing geese. It's a great place to take pictures. I'm always amused by Centennial Beach, though. It's not a beach. At all. It's a pool. But the kids love it. And I wish my legs still worked enough to get into and work a peddle boat, because if they did, I'd be in those things all summer! read more

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Never get tired of the river walk! Well maintained and landscaped, fun for the whole family. I appreciate how they don't allow bikes scooters or rollerblades on the Riverwalk allowing pedestrians to enjoy it all year long. read more

Great location for photos and great for walking along when the weather is good.There are local boutiques littered around the area and this is a great place to sit and relax. There are some bars on the water too that make for good places to hang out. If you are in the area you should definitely take advantage of this oasis. read more

Amazing PARK !!!! Quiet , clean and beautiful !!!!!! We came here after dinner and I can't explain how charming it is this park. If you want to have a quiet promenade - COME HERE ! Best park in suburbs !!!! read more

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This is a beautiful place to walk in the warm weather. I like to go early-ish on week-end mornings, take a book and read; the sound of the water and the shade of the trees is lovely and restful. Of course later in the day it's clogged with families with double strollers (hard to get by on the rather narrow walkway along the river, and there's no guardrail or anything). I've discovered the pond with the pedalboats, which look like a fun afternoon event. This is near the Carillon, the big bell tower which has free concerts on Tuesday nights in the summer. Centennial Beach is on the other side, which looks like a throw-back to the Fifties with the big floating rectangular astroturfed rafts. There's a snack shop where you can get ice cream to eat as you roam along, or just laze on the lawn under the Carillon. Overall, it's a nice summer diversion. read more

This place is so romantic and peaceful and beautiful. My fiance' and I are thinking about having our engagement pictures done here. read more

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A very clean and scenic spot in Naperville. The place is lined with stores and coffee shops. There are benches and fountains, and a quaint little bridge. We enjoyed the ambience and the walk along the river. read more

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okaish. very far from downtown chicago. but if you are closer might be worth it. Lights in the place is good.

This is such a beautiful and relaxing walk along the DuPage River. You can stroll along on the narrow concrete path just inches away from the river or take the brick path just a few feet away. The brick path takes you along the river, over a few bridges and through the beautiful trees. Along the way there are many benches to sit and watch the cute little squirrels or the ducks in the river. This Riverwalk is especially beautiful in the autumn when the leaves turn colors. After your walk, there are many shops to visit and restaurants to eat at in this beautiful small town of Naperville. Every year I go back to Illinois from California, and every year I love walking this Riverwalk! read more

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Gorgeous does not even come close to describing this perfect little spot. I was in town for a random "Time to Figure out Your Life" and thought about Chicago and the Western Suburbs....stories from friends and co-workers that the people are friendly and the land is beautiful..... Needless to say they were right, I stumbled across the Riverwalk and felt like I got lost in beauty. From all of the carefully and very detailed landscaping to the sculptures and the wooden bridges that cross over the river. Definitely a must stop if you are in the area and the weather is gorgeous. I heard that there is even an Art Fair in mid September that is supposed to be stellar so I'm uber excited to be in town for it! Thanks Naperville for keeping this hot spot so fresh and so clean clean! read more

The river walk is a nice area with lots of unique stores nearby. Unfortunately, those stores are never open when you will actually go. Many of them are open bizarre hours like 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and it's a wonder they stay in business. There's lots of overpriced restaurants nearby where you can buy some of the most unpalatable meals known to mankind. I refer to areas like the Riverwalk as douche-bag central. What I mean by this is that the folks patronizing the riverwalk are typically yuppie mid twenties to middle aged douchebags who think that simply walking near a river, a body of water while staying in the convenient area of downtown Naperville will provide them with both a a feeling of being in an exotic outdoor setting. Adventurous as these people may be, they can safely experience this amazing site of nature while remaining within WiFi coverage distance from an upscale coffee shop so they don't lose connection to their internet on their various Apple products. read more

I grew up in Naperville. And I can't believe how much I took this for granted. The Riverwalk was something that we, as teenagers, generally regarded as the epitome of "rich monotony." But, upon growing up and moving away, I realized that the Riverwalk was what made Naperville truly different. It's beautiful, scenic and helps you get a good work out. It actually runs a pretty long distance these days (I heard it goes all the way down past Bailey and Washington, now. Is that true?!) and really helps to beautify my ex-hometown. About a half mile or so past the fountains, near the VFW, lies a playground, series of baseball and volleyball fields and picnic area. If you're from Naperville, you know damn well what you're doing down there. If you're not: well, you can take a stroll on the River Walk with some ice cream from the near by Downtown (Cookie Dough Creation or Cold Stone Creamery), or pick up some food to have a picnic down the way. There's also the 9/11 memorial, which is actually quite moving. It involved faces of victims, as drawn by grade school students, carved into a sunken wall, as well as pieces from Ground Zero and the Pentagon. It's actually a pretty good way to spend the day. read more

Sweetie Pie and I were married on the Riverwalk...July 4th ...14 years ago! You know that little concrete landing by the covered bridge?...yeah, that was the place. We had about 30 people there. We make a pilgrimage each year to OUR spot. I don't recall the name of our minister...other than his first name: Dick. Pastor Dick! ...and he was late, so everyone was asking "Where's Pastor Dick!!" Exciting times! The Riverwalk is the best of America! The people, the scenery...the whole concept. I'm sayin' WOOHOO! As good as it gets! Kit Lawson read more

Beautiful central location for wedding photos. Our venue didn't have a lush green golf course or anything like that, so we stopped here first. Our favorite pictures were on the bridge. We also headed to Jimmy's grill, our 1st date spot, to take a few more pictures and get a drink. Make sure your limo company knows you're going to stop here to avoid the headache of their complaints that they can't park on the street. I would've really liked a map of the Riverwalk. Would help with planning. read more

When friends come from out of town (which often happens considering my husband and I are originally from metro Detroit), we like to show off other parts of the area besides the traditional tourist traps in downtown Chicago. The Naperville Riverwalk is one those spots we haven't tired of visiting. During a stroll on the path right next to the river, one can rest at various benches that include statues honoring some of Naperville's well-known residents such as a statue of the comic strip character Dick Tracy (paying homage to the writer who lives in the 'ville). It is also scenic with the green landscaping, roaming ducks, scattered bridges and fountains eventually culminating to the Carillon Tower. One minor gripe is that the path is sometimes a bit narrow near the water. With a group of four, we would sometimes walk single-file or close together in pairs. read more

I have so many wonderful memories of walking down the Riverwalk with a cup of coffee and a few friends! There are plenty of benches to sit on and watch the river or feed the ducks (if they're around and you're feeling generous). It's actually quite an extensive walk that even takes you into the woods. The wooden bridges are quaint and romantic, and it's a perfect way to end a date in downtown Naperville. Oh, and yes: there are paddleboats. read more

As much as I believe that the Riverwalk in Texas is 1000 times better, this isn't a bad place to stroll if you don't mind gnats. Now that the authoritarian government has outlawed feeding the ducks and geese, there is less poop so that is a plus I guess. The best part is the paddle boat rental. Something like $8 for 20 minutes up to 4 people and you can have a canopy - great fun for the kiddies, they have all size life vests too. The Riverwalk eatery provides a standard little snack booth atmosphere and food - but great if you need to cool off or refuel with an icepop read more

Whatever the season, a lovely stroll among well-kept grounds and trees while listening to rushing water cannot be beat. Excellent location to meet friends and family, or to take a stroll after a great meal. Don't miss the seasonal events, such as the art show and last fling. Very safe, even at night. Great people and pet watching. Kids love to play in the fountaints when it's hot. read more

My favorite things about Naperville - the park activities and the Riverwalk. A site for a scenic walk, art shows and even live jazz at times. In the summer we bring our kids to the playground and Centennial Beach. There are carillon bell tower concerts, paddle boat rentals, kids' magic shows, nice flower gardens and shelters for picnics. If you're lucky, you'll catch a wedding in progress. After dinner, get some ice cream. I hear if you walk while eating dessert it cancels itself out. read more

This place is a treasure for wholesome family fun: - Need a huge hill to run up and roll down? You got it. - Need endless sidewalks, parks, and creepy bronze statues of people every 1/4 mile? You got it. - Need ducks? Yeah, you got it. I even saw a wood duck here once too! Have you ever seen a wood duck? Google it! Breathtaking. I also saw a guy rescue a garden snake from the river with a stick once. Awesome. I wouldn't travel tens of miles to visit here, but I am sure glad it's in my town. read more

Naperville's Riverwalk makes for a very pleasant way to spend an afternoon. The winding path is far enough away from the street to make for a peaceful stroll. Stick around long enough and you'll hear the bells chime from the Millennium Carillon. The path on the north side of the river hugs Centennial Beach and its massive and lovely quarry-turned pool. Unlike a lot of municipal pools, this one has green space and trees aplenty. Well done, Naperville. Give the Riverwalk a try if you're looking for a little relaxation. You'll get it here. read more

Nice scenic walk around the river, complete with swimming ducks, foraging racoons, annoying teens yelling (seriously, why are teenagers always screaming?? CHILL OUT, KIDS!), and families trying to cover their childrens' ears from the noise. I do enjoy walking up and down this path, there are sections to walk right along the water, and other parts to walk a little bit away. There is sculptures, and a yearly art theme to check out, and plenty of people to people watch. I had a friend jokingly propose to me there, and it really wouldn't be a bad idea, actually! I'm only commenting about the actual riverwalk part, there is more places along the river like bars and shops, with patios that face the river, but that's where the river sitters go. Lots to see there, so I do recommend it! read more

So beautiful here! I didnt realize you can walk right next to the river as well as the walk way. Also, the walkway goes on and on... great views! read more

Naperville Riverwalk - Parks Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

This is a wonderful place to take your family or sweetheart for s stroll. The scenery includes bridges, various monuments and a few fountains. There are a few bits of local history along the walk, especially Centennial Beach, one of the prides of the locals. Also, at the west end of the walk, you can find reasonably priced paddled boat rentals So, if you've just finished a bite with your loved one(s), be sure to mosey on over. Enjoy. read more

Am I in Europe?! Ok not quite but I had the great opportunity to hang out in "downtown" Naperville for a day and I loved it. Really well thought out bike path and park that gives you the feeling you are miles away from a city of 100,000. A great place to take a bike ride or a walk. Don't miss those covered bridges and prime photo opportunities! read more

There is plenty to do for everyone here. Take a nice stroll down the walk along the river. We saw ducks and geese. Lots of nice water fountains and art displays. Big playground for the kids. read more

Whether you want to stroll along the paths or paddle down the river, it's such a relaxing way to spend a relaxing afternoon!

This was a great place to take a walk after lunch and a writing session. I got to walk right up to these friendly ducks and take their photos--being a city guy, that was a fun experience! Oh, and it's pretty much the most beautiful little park. Can't forget that detail. ;) read more

Amazing.... Love the serenity of this walk... Down town Naperville is truly a well planned and guarded gem. read more

In a word: gorgeous. While the big kids were in school, the husband, the three year old, and yours truly decided to check out the Naperville Riverwalk as we haven't been there in years. It was every bit as beautiful as I remember, even on a chilly morning. You can walk near the river itself (for a bit, anyway) or on a path up a bit more inland. Obviously the main path is more stroller/wheelchair/etc., friendly, but we managed just fine near the water with our jogging stroller for awhile (although it did involve maneuvering a few stairs). Honestly, this would be a five star review--and probably will be at some point in the future when I end up updating it accordingly--but the construction noise was intense. I get it's a necessary evil but if you're looking for a peaceful, meditative walk, you might want to hold off just a bit. Maybe we just visited during an unusually loud time, but man...the construction across from the Riverwalk lot is hot and heavy right now. And honestly...once we go away from the construction, it was lawn care everywhere all the time. Not complaining--the grounds are beautifully and meticulously maintained but, well, yeah. It was a few miles of loud. Even still, we would--and will!--return. The trees are changing and the leaves are falling and just...yes. Worth a trip to Naperville again for sure. :) read more

It was nice; a little crowded these days, but still pretty. I used to go for frozen yogurt & walk along the wooded area. Because it's surrounded by good restaurants & pubs, it made for a great date night read more

You know, over the years, I have struggled to find a single good thing about the city of Naperville. I think I have found several thanks to the downtown area and this little area of the city. It is very easy to forget that you are in the heart of a sprawling urban area when you take a little walk down here for some relaxation! read more

I really like this place. Although there's typically a lot of people here. It never really feels like it to me. I love the breathes you feel when walking around. And all the people watching that you could imagine. Last year, every Saturday morning and evening (when the weather was nice) they had a bunch of guitar players out in one of the pavilions. They go by the name of Naperville Riverwalk Pickers and they have a can out for tips... but these tips don't go to them for their hard work. They go to the local chapter of Loaves and Fishes to help feed the needy. What an awesome idea. I even got out there a couple of times and played myself. I didn't want to play to much because these people really need the money. I don't wanna be a charity killer. read more

A very fun and nice trail along the river and through downtown! There several different levels that you can walk on either right by the river or up higher and fun status and fountains to check out! read more

Went to Naperville's riverwalk today for the first time. It was such a beautiful day outside to begin with, but then to add a gorgeous and serene setting of the riverwalk made the day excellent. We had a nice walk and also opted to do the paddleboat. I haven't done that since I was a kid and it was such a great price. Even though we didn't visit the pool, we did walk by and wow, what a pool! I was pretty impressed and would be more than happy to return. read more

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So tranquil and beautiful. I came here after lunch and really enjoyed my walk. It leads to a huge park where there is also a kids playground. Come here when the sun is out, guarantee you'll love it! read more

Naperville Riverwalk - Parks Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

Beautiful. I love that the downtown area is so close by with so many yummy restaurants and little shops you can go in to. I had so much fun walking down the river. I loved seeing the ducks floating along the river especially when they had little ducklings with them. It was a good time. read more

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