When you live in a big city but need an escape, where do you go? Luckily, those of us who live in and around the Chicago area have plenty of options. Not only are there plenty of small towns in Illinois but one place outside of Chicago makes a perfect day trip destination with all it has to offer. Let’s take a look at Naperville and what makes it an ideal escape from Chicago.

Welcome to Naperville, Illinois! This city, located in DuPage and Will Counties, is home to nearly 150,000 people but has all the charms of the best small towns in Illinois. It also boasts plenty to see and do, making it picture-perfect for a day trip!
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At the center of town is the Naperville Riverwalk, which meanders 1.75 miles along the DuPage River. Along the way, you will encounter bridges, sculptures, fountains, memorials, and recreational facilities, among other amenities.
Naperville Riverwalk, Naperville, IL 60540, USA
David Jakes/Wikimedia Commons
You will encounter a quaint covered bridge, so be sure to bring a camera. This is such a lovely place to visit and explore.
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One attraction along the Riverwalk is the Millennium Carillon at Moses Tower. During the season, you can take a tour and climb the 253 steps to the top where you can take in the views of the Chicago city skyline in the distance.
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Right by the river is Centennial Beach, an incredible swim spot in Naperville. Once a quarry, families can enjoy swimming, diving, and using the slides on a hot summer's day. Here you can also play volleyball and grab a bite to eat at the grill.
Centennial Beach, Naperville, IL 60540, USA
Diego Rivadeneira/Google
Visit the Centennial Beach website for more.
Learn some history with a trip to Naper Settlement, a 13-acre, 19th-century outdoor living history museum. Explore the grounds and its 30 buildings while costumed interpreters bring history to life!
Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St, Naperville, IL 60540, USA
Naper Settlement/Google
Visit the Naper Settlement website for more.
If you bring kids to this kid-friendly city, make sure to take them to the DuPage Children's Museum. It's a wonderful place where the littles can use their creativity and imagination through a variety of interactive exhibits and displays.
DuPage Children's Museum, 301 N Washington St, Naperville, IL 60540, USA
DuPage Children's Museum/Google
Visit the DuPage Children's Museum website for more.

Wouldn’t you love to visit Naperville, a city that offers so much to visitors? It’s the perfect day trip destination in Illinois! What are some of your favorite day trip destinations around the state? Is it one of the small towns in Illinois? Tell us in the comments! And if you need a place to stay while you’re in town, check out the Hotel Indigo Naperville Riverwalk, an IHG Hotel.

If you’re looking for some unique day trip destinations around Illinois, check out these affordable destinations.

Need a small-town getaway in Illinois? Take a look at this YouTube video on Galena from OnlyInYourState:

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