Attractions and Places To See around New Lenox - Top 11
Best attractions and places to see around New Lenox offers a blend of natural beauty, community-focused spaces, and historical insights. This village, southwest of Chicago, features a picturesque downtown and small-town charm. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and biking, alongside cultural and historical exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around New Lenox
- The most popular attractions is Lock Number 1, a historical site and canal lock that is the first lock south of Chicago. It features a picnic area with views of the canal.
- Another must-see spot is Orland Grassland, a natural preserve with grasslands, wetlands, ponds, and woodlands. This site provides an ideal habitat for many rare grassland birds.
- Visitors also love Joliet Iron Works Historic Site, a historical site with a 0.7-mile trail through the ruins of a former steel mill. Information boards explain the area's industrial past.
- New Lenox is known for its natural preserves, historical sites, and community spaces. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from extensive hiking trails to significant landmarks.
- The attractions around New Lenox are appreciated by the komoot community, with 11 hidden gems waiting to be explored, featuring 9 photos and 3 upvotes.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Lock Number 1
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Joliet Prison
Highlight • Historical Site
During the American Civil War, prisoners of war and convicted criminals were imprisoned at the same time. In 1865 the first enforcement officer was killed, his name was Joseph Clark. In 1872 the prison population rose to 1,239, the highest number of prisoners in a single prison at the time.
A women's prison was added to the complex in 1896, but this was closed again in 1932. The modernization of the prison progressed slowly. Until 1910 there were neither toilets nor running water. The Stateville Correctional Center, built from 1917 to 1925, was supposed to replace the Joliet, but it never happened. Both prisons continued to operate.
The number of prisoners rose to a peak of 1300 in 1990. In 2000 there were still 1156 with a staff of 541 people.
Budget cuts and the dilapidated condition of the buildings led to the closure of the Joliet Correctional Center in February 2002. All inmates and most of the staff were transferred to the newly built portion of the maximum security Stateville Correctional Center at Crest Hill. The Joliet served as a temporary prison for new convicts until February 21, 2011.
Joliet Prison appeared in the following films:
1980 in John Landis' film Blues Brothers.
1988 in Walter Hill's film Red Heat.
2005 in the film Derailed with Clive Owen and Jennifer Aniston.
2005-2006 in the FOX series Prison Break.
2006 in the film Go to Prison by Dax Shepard and Will Arnett.
2017 in episode 9 of season 1 of the series Mindhunter.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Orland Grassland
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Hickory Creek Forest
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
Rialto Square Theatre
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around New Lenox.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Lock Number 1 is the first lock south of Chicago. It is in the town of Lockport and has a picnic area with views of the canal.
0
0
Lock Number 1 is the first lock south of Chicago. It is in the town of Lockport and has a picnic area with views of the canal.
0
0
This site is an ideal habitat for many rare grassland birds. The area was once farmland, then was transformed; now there are grasslands, wetlands, ponds and woodlands . Native grasses and wildflowers flourish here thanks to conservation work that began in the early 2000s.
0
0
This site is an ideal habitat for many rare grassland birds. The area was once farmland, then was transformed; now there are grasslands, wetlands, ponds and woodlands . Native grasses and wildflowers flourish here thanks to conservation work that began in the early 2000s.
0
0
This beautiful preserve protects forests, prairie, savanna and wetland habitats. You'll find lots of wildlife here such as woodpeckers. In winter, trails are open for cross-country and skiing. There are also plenty of picnic shelters – great if you get caught out in the rain on your bike trip.
1
0
This beautiful preserve protects forests, prairie, savanna and wetland habitats. You'll find lots of wildlife here such as woodpeckers. In winter, trails are open for cross-country and skiing. There are also plenty of picnic shelters – great if you get caught out in the rain on your bike trip.
1
1
Prison known from the film Blues Brothers, which operated from 1858 to 2002.
0
0
The prison was built just outside the city limits with the help of inmates and cost a total of $75,000. It could accommodate a maximum of 761 inmates. There was a limestone deposit right next to the prison, from which the stones for the building were extracted. In 1858 the reformatory was put into operation. It replaced Alton Prison, which was used from 1833 to 1860. The limestone buildings were designed by William W. Boyington, who also designed the Chicago Water Tower, the Hegeler Carus Mansion and the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield. At that time it was the largest prison in the United States and became a model for other new prison buildings. The first 33 prisoners arrived in May 1858. During the American Civil War, prisoners of war and convicted criminals were imprisoned at the same time. In 1865 the first enforcement officer was killed, his name was Joseph Clark. In 1872 the prison population rose to 1,239, the highest number of prisoners in a single prison at the time. A women's prison was added to the complex in 1896, but this was closed again in 1932. The modernization of the prison progressed slowly. Until 1910 there were neither toilets nor running water. The Stateville Correctional Center, built from 1917 to 1925, was supposed to replace the Joliet, but it never happened. Both prisons continued to operate. The number of prisoners rose to a peak of 1300 in 1990. In 2000 there were still 1156 with a staff of 541 people. Budget cuts and the dilapidated condition of the buildings led to the closure of the Joliet Correctional Center in February 2002. All inmates and most of the staff were transferred to the newly built portion of the maximum security Stateville Correctional Center at Crest Hill. The Joliet served as a temporary prison for new convicts until February 21, 2011. Joliet Prison appeared in the following films: 1980 in John Landis' film Blues Brothers. 1988 in Walter Hill's film Red Heat. 2005 in the film Derailed with Clive Owen and Jennifer Aniston. 2005-2006 in the FOX series Prison Break. 2006 in the film Go to Prison by Dax Shepard and Will Arnett. 2017 in episode 9 of season 1 of the series Mindhunter.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around New Lenox?
New Lenox offers several natural attractions. You can visit Orland Grassland, an ideal habitat for rare grassland birds with wetlands, ponds, and woodlands. Other options include Hadley Valley Preserve, which features hiking trails along the DuPage River, and Hibernia Park, known for its stocked lake for fishing and boating. The Forest Preserve District of Will County also provides numerous opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation.
Are there historical sites to visit near New Lenox?
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can explore Lock Number 1, the first lock south of Chicago, offering a glimpse into canal history. The Joliet Iron Works Historic Site features a trail through the ruins of a former steel mill with informative boards. Additionally, the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery near Elwood is a significant site for honoring veterans, and the historic Dickinson's Store in New Lenox provides insight into the village's early commercial past.
What are some family-friendly activities available in New Lenox?
Families can enjoy various activities. Hibernia Park offers a splash pad, a stocked lake for fishing, and boat rentals. Walker Country Estates Park is another great option with basketball courts, sports fields, a large pond, and a massive playground with age-specific equipment, plus a splash pad in summer. For indoor fun, the KidsWork Children's Museum provides interactive learning through play, being the only children's museum in Will County.
Where can I go hiking or walking in the New Lenox area?
The New Lenox area boasts several trails for hiking and walking. The Old Plank Road Trail is a 22-mile paved path suitable for hiking and biking, accessible from various points including the Village Hall. Hadley Valley Preserve offers extensive hiking trails through forests, and Hickory Creek State Nature Preserve has a 2.8-mile paved trail. For more options, check out the hiking routes around New Lenox, which include trails like the Red Loop at Orland Grassland.
Are there any unique cultural experiences in New Lenox?
Beyond historical sites, you can visit the Schmuhl School Museum, a historic one-room schoolhouse set to 1933, managed by the New Lenox Area Historical Society. For a different cultural experience, consider Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant for dining and wine tasting. Nearby, in Joliet, the Rialto Square Theatre, a beautifully restored 1925 theater, offers a glimpse into architectural and performing arts history.
What options are there for cycling enthusiasts around New Lenox?
Cyclists will appreciate the Old Plank Road Trail, a 22-mile paved path perfect for biking. The area also offers several road cycling routes. You can find detailed options like the 'Hickory Creek Forest – Old Plank Road Trail loop from Mokena' or 'Old Plank Road Trail loop from Frankfort' by exploring the road cycling routes around New Lenox.
Can I find places for a relaxing day outdoors, like picnicking or enjoying scenery?
Absolutely. The New Lenox Commons is a pleasant, landscaped space with a pond, pergola, benches, and picnic areas, ideal for relaxation. Lock Number 1 also features a picnic area with views of the canal. Hadley Valley Preserve and Hibernia Park both offer designated picnic spots amidst natural beauty.
What is the best time of year to visit New Lenox for outdoor activities?
The spring, summer, and fall months are generally ideal for outdoor activities in New Lenox, offering pleasant weather for hiking, biking, and enjoying parks. The New Lenox Commons hosts various community events, including outdoor concerts and food truck nights, during the warmer months. In winter, the Commons transforms into a winter wonderland with a skating rink and Santa visits.
Are there any unique landmarks or architectural sites to see?
Beyond the historical sites, the Joliet Prison, known from films like 'Blues Brothers,' is a significant architectural landmark that operated from 1858 to 2002. Its limestone buildings were designed by William W. Boyington, a prominent architect of the era. Dickinson's Store, an early commercial building, is also an official Will County landmark.
Are there any trails suitable for running in the New Lenox area?
Yes, New Lenox offers several trails popular with runners. The Old Plank Road Trail is a great option for longer runs. You can also find routes like the 'Hadley Valley Preserve loop via Spring Creek Greenway loop' or 'Joliet to Lockport via Illinois & Michigan Canal Trail.' For more detailed running routes, explore the running trails around New Lenox.
What kind of community events or gatherings can I expect in New Lenox?
The New Lenox Commons is the hub for community events throughout the year. These include outdoor concerts, car cruises, movie screenings, and food truck nights in the summer. During the Christmas season, it transforms into a winter wonderland with Santa visits and a skating rink, fostering a strong sense of community.
Are there any parks with specific amenities for children or sports?
Walker Country Estates Park is a premier recreation hub, featuring basketball courts, soccer and football fields, a large pond for fishing, and an extensive playground area with age-specific equipment. It also includes a splash pad during the summer months, making it ideal for active families and sports enthusiasts.
Most popular routes around New Lenox
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
