Part of our Illinois guide.
This Joliet travel guide covers historic sites, scenic hikes, unforgettable experiences, and local eateries. Each section highlights specific attractions and practical details.
Related travel guides: Secrets Of Illinois's Rock Island Civil War Prison Camp Walls and Historic Sites In Illinois.
10 Must-Visit Historic Sites In Joliet, Illinois
Joliet’s historic sites range from grand mansions to industrial landmarks. The Rialto Square Theatre, a 1926 vaudeville palace, features a rotunda and a Wurlitzer organ. The Joliet Area Historical Museum covers the city’s railroad history and the former Illinois State Penitentiary. The Gaylord Building, an 1838 limestone structure, houses a visitor center and gallery. The Joliet Iron and Steel Works preserves interpretive trails through the ruins. Bicentennial Park and the Route 66 Welcome Center document the city’s automotive heritage. Other sites include the Jacob Henry Mansion, the First Presbyterian Church, the Joliet Correctional Center (closed to the public), the Old Joliet Prison (visible from the outside), and the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus.
8 Scenic Hikes To Take In Joliet, Illinois
Joliet’s trails include the 12.5-mile Joliet Junction Trail, a paved path along the Des Plaines River. The 4.5-mile Rock Run Preserve trail loops through woodlands and wetlands. The 2-mile Hickory Creek Bikeway connects to the I&M Canal Trail system. The 3-mile Hammel Woods trail follows the DuPage River. The 1.5-mile McKinley Woods trail passes through old-growth forest. The 2-mile Four Rivers Environmental Education Center boardwalk offers birdwatching over the Kankakee River. The 5-mile Wauponsee Glacial Trail, a crushed-gravel path, runs through prairie and farmland. The 3-mile Channahon State Park trail follows the I&M Canal towpath. For more outdoor options, see our hiking and the outdoors in Illinois guide.
7 Unforgettable Experiences In Joliet, Illinois
Top experiences include a tour of the Old Joliet Prison, which appeared in The Blues Brothers (tours run seasonally). Attend a performance at the Rialto Square Theatre, which seats 1,944. Visit Joliet Slammers baseball games at Duly Health and Care Field. Explore the 1,100-acre Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, a restored prairie with bison herds. Take a boat tour on the Des Plaines River from the Heritage Corridor Transportation Museum. Sample craft beers at MyGrain Brewing or Joliet Brew Works. For a deeper look at the region’s prehistoric past, check out the secrets of Illinois's ancient Mound sites.
8 Best Local Eateries In Joliet, Illinois
Local favorites include the Chicken Basket, a Route 66 landmark serving fried chicken since 1946. The Joliet Family Restaurant offers classic diner fare. La Dolce Vita serves Italian dishes in a historic building. The Public Landing Restaurant, on the riverfront, specializes in seafood and steaks. The Chicago Street Pub & Grill features burgers and craft beer. The Baskin Robbins on Chicago Street has been a local fixture since the 1950s. The Tasty Kream Donut Shop, open since 1954, sells fresh donuts daily. The Sushi Pop restaurant offers Japanese fusion. For souvenirs and local flavors, see our guide to towns and Chicago souvenirs in Illinois.
