Welcome to the Riverwalk - the "crown jewel" of Naperville!
The Riverwalk was built and dedicated in 1981 as a celebration of Naperville’s Sesquicentennial (150th) anniversary. Embraced as a gathering place, it has become a focal point of the community, drawing visitors from far and wide to take in its beauty; it is recognized as one of the most picturesque spots in the Midwest. Its covered bridges, fountains, lush landscaping and distinctive shepherd’s crook light poles aptly tie Naperville’s historic past as the oldest settlement in DuPage County to the city’s present. There also are many historic aspects of the Riverwalk that honor individuals and families for their contributions to the building of the community.
To make the Riverwalk dream a reality, residents donated their time, money and materials to turn the once forgotten DuPage riverfront into a beautiful park that has won many state and national honors. Most recently, the Riverwalk’s east extension was completed, extending it from Hillside Road on the east to Jefferson Avenue on the west. The operations and maintenance of the Riverwalk is overseen by the Naperville Park District.
Virtually any time of year, there is something happening on the Riverwalk. From the early spring all the way through fall, there are art and craft fairs, walk-a-thons, festivals and special events. Even throughout the holidays, the Park District hosts its Santa House on the Riverwalk.
There is so much to see, do and experience. We invite you to come and experience the beauty of this place any time of year.
