What Wonderful Changes Are Coming For The Naperville Riverwalk?
There Are Some Incredible Things Planned For ’The Crown Jewel’ Of Naperville
A 2031 Master Plan is in place and the city is expanding the river walk for the 50th Birthday of the Riverwalk and the 200-year celebration of our city.
**Learn more and see some renderings of what’s to come: https://www....-master-plan/
From its founding in 1831, through turbulent political times, a Civil War, and two World Wars, Naperville has retained its small town charm and continues to be a beacon for those looking for a Midwestern way of life, close to the amenities of a major metropolitan city like Chicago.
The flowing DuPage River is a continuum that runs through the timeline of Naperville. A water and energy source to the earliest settlers, today, the sparkling river is the centerpiece of Naperville's Riverwalk, which remains an attraction to residents and visitors alike.
Ranked as a top community in the United States to raise children, retire and start a home-based business, the city boasts nationally acclaimed schools, the best public library system in the country, an exceptionally low crime rate, and a lower unemployment rate than the state's average.
---> The History Of Riverwalk <---
Naperville’s rich history begins back in 1831 with Joseph Naper. Enjoy a walk-through time with us…
Joseph Naper is credited with founding Naperville along the DuPage River in 1831. He drew the first plat in 1842 and was elected the president of the board when the village of Naperville was incorporated in 1857. Early families like the Napers, Scotts, Hobsons, and Paines came primarily from the Northeast; by the 1840s they were joined by Pennsylvanians, Germans, English, and Scots. They built at least seven churches, four of which held most services in German.
Naperville became an important stop at the crossroads of two main stage routes that ran from Chicago to Galena and to Ottawa. By 1832, 180 residents had built sawmills, gristmills, stores, and the Pre-Emption House hotel and tavern. The town became the county seat when DuPage County was established in 1839.
Eight Naperville businesses contributed to the development of the Southwest Plank Road, the historic road that runs through Naperville and Chicago. (*It ran from Chicago to Naperville and then to Oswego. The road ran along what is now Ogden Avenue and then on what is now Plank Road.)
---> River Walk & Pinot's Palette <---
Why Do We, Here At Pinot’s Palette, Have Such A Profound Love For The Naperville Riverwalk?
Our studio is right across the Street from the Riverwalk in Downtown Naperville. We have been SO lucky to have such a fabulous (and scenic!) spot for our painting and wine studio, and we know our customers feel the same. From long-time residents who can always find us in such a classic and well-known spot, to newcomers who marvel at the beauty our town has to offer, we are always hearing about the sites and fun things to do before or after class!
JOIN US for a painting class!
https://www....rville/events
Here's What To Expect:
https://www....assesallabout
All About Our Team: https://www....abulous-team-
---> For The Newbies <---
New To The Area & Aren’t Aware Of This Incredible Place??
The Riverwalk is located along the DuPage River, close to several historic and central Naperville sites such as Downtown Naperville where you can find restaurants and shopping galore. The original section of the Riverwalk runs from Main Street west to Eagle Street and incorporates the Riverwalk Amphitheater, Labyrinth, Millennium Wall, Free Speech Pavilion, Dandelion Fountain, Exchange Club Veterans Plaza, and Exelon Garden. Two major expansions later, the 1.75-mile linear park is a haven for active residents, families, and visitors looking to walk off the delicious food offered in downtown Naperville’s restaurant scene.
On the Riverwalk, it’s likely almost everyone in Naperville would argue a specific spot to be perfect for a romantic stop during an evening walk, or maybe even a short history lesson. The Millennium Carillon in Moser Tower – a bell tower standing 158 feet tall with 253 steps and 72 bells – was constructed as a tribute to the third millennium. Situated next to the tower is the Visitor Center, where guests can learn about the Carillon as well as Naperville history thanks to different interactive exhibits. Here, visitors can also purchase tickets to tour the tower. It’s a hot spot for pictures with loved ones and friends, and a wonderful spot to stop while traveling on the Riverwalk.
Any given day, you’ll find the Riverwalk attracts lunchtime strollers, families, and early morning joggers. There’s a good reason for that, given the accessibility of the pathways and runner-friendly 1.75-mile length. A favorite for active parents with even more active children, a nice walk can be capped off with a visit to Jaycees Playground. This well-loved, ADA-accessible play spot offers fun for children of all ages and abilities. Playground amenities include Braille and sign language panels, climbers, a wiggle ladder, a centipede climber, slides, swings, and more. If you want to stay active but look for more thrills, skating enthusiasts can test their inline skating or skateboarding skills at Centennial Skate Park, located adjacent to the Riverwalk and Centennial Beach, a favorite for those looking to go for a warm summer swim. For more water fun, enjoy a Riverwalk paddle boat ride and explore part of the historic Naperville quarry. Four-person paddle boats are available for rental on all non-school days from mid-May to mid-September.