If you’re looking for a low-pressure date night in downtown Naperville that’s more interactive than dinner but less intense than a full escape room, Naper Settlement’s Craft by Beer series might surprise you. These 21+ evenings combine themed hands-on activities, trivia, and a drink in a relaxed tavern setting — all for $20.
Each session includes one complimentary drink ticket with admission and features a different theme, ranging from science and history to crafts and seasonal celebrations. We attended the “Science Trivia and Test Tubes” session to see what it was all about, and left impressed by how thoughtfully the evening was structured.
Below, you’ll find details on how Craft by Beer works and what you can expect if you book a future date night.
Naper Settlement’s Craft by Beer Series
What to Expect
- 2-hour themed experience (7:00pm – 9:00pm)
- One drink included with admission
- Hands-on activities or trivia (varies by theme)
- Casual team competition with prizes
- $20 per person
- 21+ event
Each month features a completely different theme, so no two experiences feel the same.
Activities and Experiences
During our “Science Trivia and Test Tubes” session, we rotated through five hands-on science experiments paired with four rounds of trivia. Questions covered chemistry, astronomy, physics, and biology. Some were challenging, but most felt approachable and fun rather than intimidating.
The experiments used common household items and were fully hands-on. A few felt similar to activities offered at Camp Naper Summer Day Camps, but this time, the adults were the ones mixing, measuring, and experimenting.
As we completed each experiment, we earned bonus points to apply to our trivia total. It added just enough friendly competition without making the evening feel overly serious. At the end of the night, a winner was announced, but the overall vibe remained light and social.
There were eight tables set up throughout the Pre-Emption House Tavern, one for each participating group. For our session, each party had its own table. Depending on the theme and turnout, you may share the space with other groups, but the setup still feels intimate and relaxed.
Who Would Love This Event?
- Couples looking for an easy weeknight date
- Parents wanting something structured but low-pressure
- Friend groups who enjoy trivia without a loud bar scene
- Anyone who likes learning something new while having a drink
It’s more interactive than dinner and drinks, but far less intense than something like an escape room- a nice middle ground for a Thursday night out.
Food
No food is served during the event itself. However, Naper Settlement is located in the heart of downtown Naperville, surrounded by countless dining options. Many attendees choose to grab dinner before or after the event to make it a full night out.
Parking
Free street parking is available throughout all of downtown Naperville, with the most convenient being along Webster Street. If that space is full, the Water Street Parking Garage is a short walk away, as is a free parking lot just south of Naper Settlement.
Dates and Times
The Craft by Beer series runs almost monthly, with sessions on select Thursday evenings from 7:00pm – 9:00pm. With different offerings each month, no two experiences will be the same. The themes and dates are listed below:
- March 26: Mosaic Coasters (note: this date is already sold out!)
- April 23: Birdhouses
- May 28: National Treasure Escape Room
- July 2: America 250 History on Tap Trivia
- September 17: That Belongs in a Museum
- October 15: Mad Scientists
- November 12: Costal Holiday Trees
- December 10: Holiday Music Bingo
It’s important to book your ticket in advance to ensure participation, as nights will fill up. No matter the session, the pricing is the same.
Prices
Tickets are $20 per person and must be purchased in advance. Each ticket includes one drink (beer, wine, seltzer, or soda). Additional alcoholic beverages are available for $7, and sodas are $1. A valid ID is required at check-in.
For a two-hour interactive experience in downtown Naperville — including a drink — we felt the price point was very reasonable. Whether you’re planning a girls’ night, couples’ outing, or simply want to try something different, Craft by Beer offers a creative and affordable option.
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