Naperville

Naperville is a suburb in DuPage and Will Counties in Illinois, about 28 miles (45 km) west of downtown Chicago. Residential areas alternate with shopping centers and parks that spread along the DuPage River and the surrounding plains.

Joseph Naper founded the settlement in 1831 at a ford on the DuPage River, which later became the seat of DuPage County. After 1868 the county center moved to Wheaton, while the town continued to grow through railroad connections and farming.

The name comes from founder Joseph Naper and locals often shorten it to "Naptown". The historic downtown with its brick storefronts along the main street serves as a gathering point for festivals and weekend markets.

The public library with its three branches offers programs and reading materials for visitors, while Edward Hospital is one of the region's largest employers. Many trails and green spaces are freely accessible and can be explored on foot or by bicycle.

The Moser Tower houses the Millennium Carillon with 72 bronze bells, which rings during concerts and special occasions. From the tower you can overlook the surrounding neighborhoods and the river course toward Chicago's western suburbs.

Location: Will County

Location: DuPage County

Inception: 1831

Founders: John Murray, Joseph Naper

Elevation above the sea: 214 m

Shares border with: North Aurora

Website: https://naperville.il.us

GPS coordinates: 41.74826,-88.16585

Latest update: December 14, 2025 23:01