Our first summer adventure was a trip on Naperville Trolley! Ding! Ding! If you have never toured Naperville via trolley, I highly recommend the adventure! Of course, how could you resist after seeing this adorable trolley roaming around town?
Owner and trolley guide Annette Wehrli is a lifelong resident of Naperville, Her family originally settled in Naperville in 1846, so her family history is truly entwined with that of Naperville. In addition having an incredible wealth of knowledge and personal family stories, Annette has a fun and engaging personality making her the perfect guide for our trip through Naperville history!
Seeing Naperville through the trolley windows was a novel experience and one sure to delight adults and kids alike! Traveling throughout Naperville, we noticed quite a collection of outdoor art pieces. Each tells part of the story of Naperville. Annette introduced us to a sampling of the art pieces and gave us the stories behind each. When you aren't on the trolley, Naperville has an art walk so you can see the other pieces! The mural above tells the history of Naperville. Members of Annette's family are even in it -- pretty cool!
I love, love, love historic homes! This home was the town residence of some of the early residents of Naperville. The Scott family lived further out but built this one to be closer to town. Gorgeous!
We also learned about Kroehler Furniture Company that once manufactured upholstered furniture in Naperville, The former factory has since be repurposed and now houses businesses. On the tour, you will learn more about Kroehler's role in Naperville history.
One of Naperville's most iconic spots is Centennial Beach. Centennial Beach was actually a gift for to the people of Naperville for Naperville's 100th anniversary. The swimming hole is in one of the city's former limestone quarries. A lot of history in such a fun spot!
The Millennium Carillon is another iconic Naperville structure built as a gift to the city. The Carillon holds 72 bells and has an observation tower. Visitors can take a tour and enjoy an amazing view -- so put the Carillon on your Naperville bucket list!
We also saw some sites that you may overlook while in Naperville including Safety Town. The Safety Town in Naperville is quite impressive and a great way for kids to learn about safety. It was nice to see elements like this on the tour!
We loved our Naperville Trolley Tour and learned so much about the city! Annette's in depth knowledge, personal anecdotes and exuberant personality make for a thoroughly enjoyable tour! Not to be missed! On your next trip to Naperville consider a tour and then savor some of the treasures like the Riverwalk, Millennium Carillon and more!
This summer, Naperville Trolley has both the One Hour Historic Trolley Tour of Naperville that we experienced and a 30 Minute Children's Trolley Tour. Also, be on the lookout for the Halloween Lights Tour and the December Lights Tour! The tours do get booked, so make a reservation ahead of time.
**Disclosure: We did receive a complimentary tour in order to bring you a review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.
What a charming visit!
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