Attractions and Places To See around Joliet - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Joliet, Illinois, offer a diverse range of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. The city is situated along the historic Illinois & Michigan Canal and the Des Plaines River, providing both historical significance and outdoor opportunities. Joliet's industrial past and its connection to Route 66 are central to many of its points of interest. The area provides various options for those interested in history, trails, and local heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Joliet
- The most popular attractions is Schneider's Passage Entrance, Centennial Trail – Romeoville Prairie Nature Preserve, a facilities point that offers seating, restrooms, parking, and bike tools. It serves as a convenient break point along the trail between Joliet and Sag Quarries.
- Another must-see spot is Historic I & M Canal lock, a historical site. This is one of the well-preserved historic locks along the Illinois & Michigan Canal.
- Visitors also love DuPage River Bridge, a bridge along a cycleway. The cycleway offers views of the DuPage River before continuing along the canal.
- Joliet is known for its historical sites, extensive trails, and industrial heritage. Visitors can explore landmarks like the Joliet Prison and the Illinois & Michigan Canal Trail.
- The attractions around Joliet are appreciated by the komoot community, with 19 upvotes and 9 photos shared.
Last updated: August 12, 2026
Historic I & M Canal lock
Highlight • Historical Site
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Schneider's Passage Entrance, Centennial Trail – Romeoville Prairie Nature Preserve
Highlight • Rest Area
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Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail
Highlight • Trail
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DuPage River Bridge
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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 •
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Tips from the Community
The cycleway only cruises past the DuPage River briefly, so enjoy the view while you have it! The trail will spend more time along the canal that shoots off from the river.
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One of the historic locks on the Illinois & Michigan Canal. There are 15 in total on the canal, but this is one of the most well-kept on the canal.
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Nature lovers and sports enthusiasts will be delighted with this bike path. It stretches for more than 96 miles. Along its shores are numerous state parks, restored historical sites and an abundance of wildlife and beautiful lanscapes. You can really spend several days exploring the surroundings.
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Prison known from the film Blues Brothers, which operated from 1858 to 2002.
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The path is closes at this bridge till 2 July 2021
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There is seating, restrooms, parking, and bike tools located at this highlight. It is a good place to break between Joliet and Sag Quarries.
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Nice historical point to stop and see along the I&M canal trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Joliet?
Joliet is rich in history. You can visit the iconic Joliet Prison, famous from movies, or explore the well-preserved Historic I & M Canal lock along the Illinois & Michigan Canal. Other notable historical sites include the Rialto Square Theatre, the Joliet Area Historical Museum, the Joliet Iron Works Historic Site, and the elegant Jacob Henry Mansion Estate.
Where can I find hiking and biking trails in Joliet?
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail offers over 96 miles for biking and hiking, with abundant wildlife and historical sites. Pilcher Park Nature Center and Rock Run Preserve also provide extensive trails for hiking and biking. For more specific routes, you can find various cycling and gravel biking tours around Joliet, including routes like the I&M Canal and Waterfall Glen Trail Loop, or easy hikes such as the Spring Creek Greenway Loop. You can explore these routes on the Joliet guide page.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Joliet?
Yes, Joliet offers several family-friendly options. The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail is great for walks and bike rides. Pilcher Park Nature Center provides educational exhibits and outdoor exploration. For summer fun, Splash Station Waterpark is a popular choice. The Joliet Area Historical Museum also features interactive displays suitable for families.
What can I experience related to Route 66 in Joliet?
Joliet is a significant stop on historic Route 66. You can delve into its legacy at the Joliet Area Historical Museum's 'Route 66 Experience,' visit the Route 66 Raceway for motorsports, or stop by the nostalgic First Dairy Queen Location, a classic Route 66 landmark. The Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66 also preserves the legacy of Illinois rock and roll.
What unique cultural experiences does Joliet offer?
Joliet boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The opulent Rialto Square Theatre hosts diverse performances and offers guided tours. You can also discover over 100 murals, mosaics, and sculptures throughout the city created by Friends of Community Public Art. For entertainment, there are two casino/hotels, Hollywood Casino Joliet and Harrah's Casino Joliet, and you can catch a Joliet Slammers baseball game at Duly Health and Care Field.
Are there any nature preserves or parks for outdoor exploration?
Absolutely. Pilcher Park Nature Center is a premier woodland known for its spring wildflowers, old-growth trees, and hiking trails. Within Pilcher Park, you'll also find the Bird Haven Greenhouse & Conservatory. Rock Run Preserve offers trails for hiking and biking, along with opportunities for fishing and birdwatching. The Romeoville Prairie Nature Preserve, accessible via Schneider's Passage Entrance, is another excellent spot for nature lovers.
What facilities are available along the Centennial Trail near Joliet?
At Schneider's Passage Entrance, Centennial Trail – Romeoville Prairie Nature Preserve, you'll find convenient facilities including seating, restrooms, parking, and bike tools. It serves as an ideal break point along the trail connecting Joliet and Sag Quarries.
Can I find wheelchair accessible parks or attractions in Joliet?
Yes, the Schneider's Passage Entrance, Centennial Trail – Romeoville Prairie Nature Preserve is noted as wheelchair accessible, offering facilities for all visitors. Many of Joliet's parks and trails, such as sections of the Illinois & Michigan Canal Trail, are designed with accessibility in mind, though specific accessibility features can vary by location.
What kind of outdoor activities are available around Joliet?
Beyond hiking and biking, Joliet offers diverse outdoor activities. You can explore the historic Illinois & Michigan Canal, which is popular for walking, running, and cycling. Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park, situated along the Des Plaines River, features a riverwalk promenade. Rock Run Preserve provides opportunities for fishing and birdwatching. For detailed routes, check out the Joliet guide page for gravel biking, cycling, and easy hikes.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Joliet?
Visitors appreciate the blend of history and nature. Many enjoy stopping at historical points like the Historic I & M Canal lock along the I&M Canal Trail. The scenic views along cycleways, such as those near the DuPage River Bridge, are also highly rated. The extensive network of trails, like the Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail, is a favorite for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts.
Are there any attractions along the water in Joliet?
Yes, Joliet is situated along the Des Plaines River and the historic Illinois & Michigan Canal. You can enjoy the riverwalk promenade at Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park, or explore the Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail, which runs alongside the canal and offers scenic views, including those from the DuPage River Bridge.
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