Moser Tower and Millennium Plaza | Naperville

Moser Tower and Millennium Plaza in Naperville, Illinois, is a prominent landmark and cultural centerpiece that celebrates the city’s spirit and marks the dawn of the new millennium. It is best known for its towering bell structure, the Millennium Carillon, one of the largest carillons in North America, and the beautifully landscaped plaza and Riverwalk area that surround it.

History and Background

Origin: The idea for Moser Tower and the Millennium Carillon arose in the late 1990s as a community project to commemorate the year 2000 and celebrate Naperville’s heritage.

Funding and Construction: The tower’s construction was made possible largely through a $1 million donation from Harold and Margaret Moser, along with funds from the city, local businesses, and residents. Groundbreaking took place in 1997, and the first phase was completed by June 2000. The entire project, including the plaza, was completed and opened to the public by 2007.

Renovations: In 2021, the tower underwent major structural repairs to address concrete cracking and steel corrosion, ensuring safety and extending its lifespan.

Moser Tower and the Millennium Carillon

Structure: The tower stands 160 feet tall and is constructed primarily from reinforced concrete. Its modernist design features clean lines and an open framework that reveals the massive bells inside.

Bells: The Millennium Carillon houses 72 bells, cast by the Royal Eijsbouts Bell Foundry in the Netherlands, making it a “grand carillon” with six octaves. The bells range from small, weighing 10 pounds, to massive, with the largest bell—known as the Captain Joseph Naper Bell—weighing 5.8 tons.

Functionality: The carillon can be played manually by a trained carillonneur using a keyboard-like baton system or automatically via computerized programming.

Performances: Regular public recitals occur during the summer, including Saturday noon and Sunday afternoon concerts, as well as Tuesday evening performances, showcasing a wide variety of musical styles and compositions.

Millennium Plaza and Surroundings

Location: The tower is situated at the base of Rotary Hill, alongside the Naperville Riverwalk, a scenic pedestrian path that follows the West Branch of the DuPage River.

Plaza Design: Millennium Plaza features well-maintained green spaces, walkways, benches, and interpretive signage explaining the carillon and local history. It’s designed to be both a peaceful retreat and a gathering place for community events.

Public Spaces: The plaza and surrounding Riverwalk area are often used for concerts, weddings, and festivals, supported by nearby amenities such as the Grand Pavilion and Riverwalk Amphitheater.

Visitor Experience

Tours: Visitors can tour the tower and climb 253 steps to the top observation deck, where panoramic views of Naperville and the Chicago skyline on clear days can be enjoyed. For those unable to climb, an elevator offers access to the Gallery Level Observation Deck.

Visitor Center: Located adjacent to the tower, the Visitor Center provides restrooms, educational exhibits, and a gift shop offering souvenirs related to the carillon and Naperville. It also serves as the starting point for guided tours.

Accessibility: The site is accessible to people with disabilities, including elevator access and ADA-compliant facilities.

Cultural and Community Importance

Symbolism: Moser Tower is a symbol of Naperville’s community pride and its commitment to cultural enrichment. It celebrates both the city’s past and its hopes for the future.

Lighting: The tower’s lighting system changes colors to mark holidays, awareness campaigns, and special events, enhancing its role as a vibrant community landmark.

Events: Besides musical performances, the plaza and tower host a variety of community events such as weddings, outdoor festivals, and educational programs.

Practical Information

Address: 443 Aurora Avenue, Naperville, IL 60540

Hours: Tours typically run on weekends and summer evenings, but times may vary seasonally.

Admission: A small fee (around $3) is charged for tower tours for visitors aged 5 and older; children under 4 enter free. Many events and the plaza itself are free to visit.

Parking: Ample parking is available nearby, including lots along the Riverwalk and downtown Naperville.

Summary

Moser Tower and Millennium Plaza offer visitors an extraordinary blend of history, architecture, music, and natural beauty. The soaring tower with its impressive carillon bells invites exploration and appreciation of the art of bell music, while the plaza and surrounding Riverwalk provide a serene setting for relaxation and community gatherings. This landmark stands as a testament to Naperville’s dedication to honoring its heritage and enriching its cultural landscape.