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Centennial Beach: Naperville's Historic Swimming Hole

Experience a unique aquatic adventure at Centennial Beach, Naperville's historic former quarry turned community swimming hole.

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Centennial Beach in Naperville, Illinois, is more than just a swimming pool; it's a historic landmark. Originally a limestone quarry, it was transformed in 1931 into a public aquatic park for the city's centennial. Today, visitors enjoy its sandy beach, zero-depth entry, and deep-water areas, making it a unique and cherished community gathering place.

A brief summary to Centennial Beach

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the beach can reach capacity.
  • Bring your own folding chairs and beach umbrellas, as available seating is limited.
  • Take advantage of the discounted admission rates after 5:00 PM.
  • Check the Naperville Park District website for the most up-to-date schedule and special events.
  • Consider purchasing a membership for unlimited access and early entry benefits.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Centennial Beach is located in downtown Naperville, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby points of interest. From the Naperville Metra station, head south on Washington Street, then turn west onto Jackson Avenue. The beach is a few blocks down on your right. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. No cost is involved.

  • Public Transport

    Pace Bus route 530 connects various parts of Naperville to the vicinity of Centennial Beach. Check the Pace Bus website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and stops. From the Naperville Metra station, the 530 bus can drop you off close to the beach. A single ride fare is $1.75.

  • Driving

    Centennial Beach is located at 500 W. Jackson Avenue, Naperville, IL 60540. From I-88, exit at Naperville Road and head south. Turn east onto Diehl Road, then south onto Washington Street. Finally, turn west onto Jackson Avenue. Parking is available near the Centennial Beach Bathhouse. Free parking is available at the Naperville Park District—Riverwalk Park (192 spots, max 2 hours), the Municipal Center Parking Deck (357 spots, max 3 hours), and Rotary Hill (56 spots, max 3 hours). Be aware of the parking time limits.

Unlock the Best of Centennial Beach

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Discover more about Centennial Beach

Centennial Beach isn't your typical swimming pool; it's a unique aquatic park with a rich history, located in the heart of Naperville. What began as a limestone quarry in 1883 was transformed into a community treasure in 1931 to commemorate Naperville's centennial. The beach spans almost 6 acres and holds 6.2 million gallons of water sourced from Lake Michigan, offering a refreshing escape during the summer months. Centennial Beach offers a distinctive swimming experience with its expansive, open-water environment. The swimming area gradually deepens from a zero-depth entry point to 15 feet, accommodating swimmers of all skill levels. A sandy beach at the shallow end provides a relaxing space for sunbathers and families. Water play features add to the fun, while certified lifeguards ensure a safe environment. Beyond swimming, Centennial Beach provides a range of amenities, including a bathhouse, lockers, and a grill for refreshments. Visitors can also enjoy sand volleyball, picnic areas, and open grass spaces. The adjacent skatepark and nearby Riverwalk offer additional recreational opportunities. Centennial Beach is more than just a place to swim; it's a vibrant hub for community events and activities throughout the summer.

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