Naper Settlement is located on 13 acres that was originally part of the George Martin estate. There were pine trees original to the site, hence the mansion and grounds originally were called "Pine Craig." The two buildings original to the site are an 1883 mansion and carriage house, which underwent a complete restoration from 2000-2003.

After the Naperville Heritage Society was founded in 1969, they moved a Civil War-era church to the site and also adapted a former popcorn stand into a stonecarver's shop. As buildings were moved to the site, volunteers planted trees and created gardens. Through the years, additional trees and perennials were added to the site, creating a lush, yet manicured look that enhances the historic nature of the 30 structures now on site.

On a continuing basis, several local gardening groups volunteer their efforts to follow the developments in the Master Landscape Plan, enhance the plantings and just add special gardening touches that create beautiful flowers, colors and textures all year long along the pathways of the village.