Naper Settlement — Attraction in Naperville

This place, as well as it's known, is still vastly underrated in terms of its historical value. I still vividly remember touring it for the first time as a young child on a field trip almost 30 years ago. We were introduced to log cabins and what life/survival was like for the very first settlers west of Chicago, out on the tall grass prairie. They were brave to keep going and bear the unknown territory without the safety of a fort, like the Chicagoans. But they wanted better more fertile land, not just swamp and wild onions.

It was a rainy, gloomy day that I visited, and I can still smell the smoke burning from the fire. I remember the loft of the cabin, the old rickety wood latter up to it, the threshold in the doorway holding in the hay used for "carpet" and the log cabin windows, with no glass - only shutters. We were served warm, authentic, hand made apple sauce by our guide and watched her, dressed in full 1830s attire, hand-churn butter in the middle of the dark, erie cabin. She rattled off information that drowned our imaginations in wonder, as well as appreciation - for those who endured the hardships of this land and pushed themselves to find harmony with it, and its the native peoples - all because they had a dream that we are now living on their behalf. A dream that has become a reality of its own.

I recently visited with my son for Civil War Days and was blown away by the vastness of the improvements that have occurred since that visit 3 decades ago. You owe it to yourself and those who went before us to check this place out. Before you go do yourself the favor of reading up a bit on the Fox Wars, Sac and Fox tribes, Saugenuk, and The Three Fire Confederacy, in particularly the real forgotten heros of peace that made Naperville possible, Chiefs Shobonna, Waubonsie, and Keokuk, (who refused Blackhawk's murderous invitation). Then read about the Naper family. Even if it's just on Wikipedia. I mean it. I'm not a huge history person. I had to do some research for reasons unimportant to you, and unexpectedly found myself in a rabbit hole that is still going. The conception of Illinois oldest Settlement west of Chicago and east of the Galena is a hell of a story, and this...

We went during a July 2017 weekday to this outdoor, living, history museum. 12 acres of buildings dated 19th century to the present, with costumed villagers and special exhibits that tells the story of daily life in Naperville as it changed from a simple frontier outpost to a bustling turn-of-the-century community. I love to expand my history knowledge and even better that i try to make it fun for my daughter.

My daughter especially love the playscape area that looks like a wooden fort. Theres: 1.) splashpad. Theres water cannons and groubd misters so bring towels! My daughter was able to cool down and play with water! 2.) playground. Consists of a twisting slide, talking tube pipes, and telescope/periscope. What kid not love to explore new playgrounds! 3.) trading post. Kids can role play trading goods. That only lasted a few minutes for my daughter and she ran around it. 4.) Conestoga wagon: For picture opportunity. 5.) animal tracks: kids can guess which animal belongs to the animal tracks. 5.) Sensory Prairie Garden: See plants the pioneers would be grown in a garden. 6.) activity cart, which we misses out on. 7.)ittle free library. Take a book or donate one!

I loved walking through time, sightseeing and going inside these buildings. There are 30 buildings and I especially love the colonial schoolhouse. We also borrowed a wagon for my daughter so she isn't too exhausted from walking and heat.

No restaurants or cafes here! People can bring outdoor picnic baskets and...

Naper Settlement offers a fascinating journey through the history of Naperville, providing visitors with a charming and educational experience. The meticulously restored buildings and period-appropriate exhibits transport you back in time, offering a glimpse into the community's past.

The variety of structures, from historic homes to a blacksmith shop, showcase the architectural evolution of the area. The knowledgeable staff, often dressed in period costumes, enhance the immersive experience by sharing engaging stories about the settlement's history.

The exhibits are well-curated, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of the early settlers. The Martin Mitchell Mansion, a Victorian-era marvel, is a highlight, showcasing the affluent lifestyle of the period.

While the settlement provides a rich historical experience, some areas could benefit from additional interactive elements to engage visitors more deeply. The availability of guided tours or informational materials would further enhance the overall experience.

The grounds are well-maintained, providing a pleasant environment for leisurely strolls. Naper Settlement frequently hosts events and festivals, adding vibrancy to the historical site.

Overall, Naper Settlement is a valuable stop for history enthusiasts and families looking to connect with the roots of Naperville. With a bit of enhancement in interactive features, it has the potential to evolve into a must-visit...