Naperville's Riverwalk Offers Reflection, Respite

A visit to Naperville would not be complete without a stop to the Riverwalk.

Hailed as the village's "crown jewel," the Riverwalk was created in 1981 as a permanent commemorative to honor Naperville's 150th anniversary.

Features include nearly two miles of brick paths, fountains, bridges, meeting and event places, outdoor sculpture and artwork, recreational facilities, and celebratory memorials, at 500 W. Jackson Ave.

Riverwalk highlights include Fredenhagen Park with its landmark clock tower, the Dandelion Fountain, Paddleboat Quarry where four-person paddleboats are available for rental on all non-school days from mid-May to mid-September, the historic Centennial Beach, and Centennial Park’s inline skating/skateboarding facility.

Visitors will find many events taking place year-round at Rotary Hill near Aurora Avenue at the Riverwalk, such as the Last Fling. In the winter months, it's a favorite sledding spot.

Adjacent to Rotary Hill is the Millennium Carillon in Moser Tower, which was built to commemorate the third millennium. The bell tower stands 158 feet tall with 253 steps and 72 bells. The largest bell is nicknamed “Big Joe” for Joseph
Naper, and weighs in at six tons. Visitors can learn more about the Carillon and area history through interactive exhibits at the Visitor Center directly adjacent to the tower. Tickets to tour the tower are also available for purchase at the Visitor Center.

Look down while walking near the Exchange Club Memories Fountain and you'll glimpse the commemorative bricks and stones with messages including personal milestones, celebration of loved ones and even invitations of marriage.

The Jaycee Playground at the Riverwalk has an ADA-accessible recreational area with Braille and sign language panels, climbers, a wiggle ladder, centipede climber, slides, swings and more.

For those who have worked up an appetite, the Naperville Park District’s Riverwalk Eatery located near Rotary Hill is a convenient stop for a variety of food and snacks. Visit www.napervilleparks.org for menu and hours of operation.

Free public parking lots are located adjacent to the Riverwalk.

For more information about the Riverwalk, click here.