Are you considering a trip to Joliet, Illinois, and wondering where the greatest sights are to see? Look no further! We’ll show you the best places to visit in Joliet, Illinois, from historical sites to natural wonders. Joliet has something to offer everyone, whether they are history buffs, nature enthusiasts, or simply seeking an enjoyable day trip. Therefore, let’s get began and uncover the city’s concealed treasures.
The Chicagoland Speedway
Are you a fan of motorsports and fast cars? Then the Chicagoland Speedway is a must-visit attraction for you. This 1.5-mile triangular circuit, which is located outside of Joliet, holds IndyCar and NASCAR races in addition to other racing competitions all year long. The speedway also offers guided tours of the facilities, where you can see the garages, pit road, Victory Lane, and even stand on the track itself.
The Rialto Square Theatre
The Rialto Square Theatre is the ideal location if you want to engage in some cultural activities. With its elaborate interior, complex architecture, and breathtaking paintings, this historic location, constructed in 1926, is one of the nation’s most beautiful theaters. The theater hosts a variety of performances, from concerts and comedy shows to Broadway plays and ballets. You may still take a guided tour of the theater and discover its history and restoration even if you are not going to a performance there.
The Joliet Area Historical Museum
For history enthusiasts, the Joliet Area Historical Museum is a must-see attraction. The museum in downtown Joliet displays the city’s extensive history, from its earliest Native American inhabitants to the present. The exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including the city’s industrial heritage, the famous Route 66, and the life of the legendary Joliet resident, John L. Lewis. A recreation of a 19th-century street featuring a general shop, a post office, and a bar is another element of the museum.
The Forest Preserve District of Will County
The Forest Preserve District of Will County is the ideal site to escape the clamor and congestion of the city and immerse yourself in nature. This vast natural area covers over 22,000 acres of land, including forests, wetlands, prairies, and lakes. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy here, such as hiking, fishing, camping, and picnicking. Throughout the year, the forest preserve conducts educational programs and events, such as birdwatching excursions, nature treks, and astronomy sessions.
The Joliet Prison Park
The Joliet Prison Park is a unique attraction that combines history and art in an unusual way. This former state prison, which operated from 1858 to 2002, has been transformed into a public park, with its imposing walls and guard towers serving as a backdrop for graffiti art and murals. The park also features a museum, where you can learn about the prison’s history and infamous inmates, such as Leopold and Loeb, who inspired the novel “Compulsion.” The prison park is a popular spot for photography, film shoots, and urban exploration.
The Pilcher Park Nature Center
The Pilcher Park Nature Center is another great place to experience the beauty of nature in Joliet. This 640-acre park features a diverse range of habitats, including woodlands, wetlands and prairies, as well as a lake and a creek. The park’s nature center offers interactive exhibits, educational programs, and live animal displays, such as turtles, snakes, and birds of prey. The park also has several hiking trails and picnic areas, where you can enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by nature.
The Joliet Iron Works Historic Site
The Joliet Iron Works Historic Site is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into Joliet’s industrial past. This 52-acre park is located along the Des Plaines River and features the ruins of a former iron and steel factory, which operated from 1869 to 1936. The site has been transformed into a public park, with interpretive signs, hiking trails, and picnic areas. You can explore the remnants of the blast furnaces, the machine shop, and the railroad tracks, and imagine what life was like for the workers who toiled here over a century ago.
The Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park & Theatre
The Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park & Theatre is a community hub that offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities. The park features a 200-seat outdoor theater, where you can enjoy concerts, plays, and movies under the stars. The park also has a playground, a splash pad, and a labyrinth, as well as several picnic areas and gardens. The park hosts several events throughout the year, such as the Taste of Joliet, the Shakespeare in the Park festival, and the Haunted Trails of Joliet.
The Joliet Route 66 Visitors Center
Route 66, the legendary “Mother Road,” passed through Joliet on its way from Chicago to Los Angeles, and the city has preserved many of its historic landmarks and attractions. The Joliet Route 66 Visitors Center is a great place to start your journey along the road. The center offers maps, brochures, and information about the city’s Route 66 sites, such as the Route 66 Welcome Center, the Joliet Area Historical Museum, and the Old Joliet Prison Park. The center also has a gift shop, where you can buy souvenirs and Route 66 memorabilia.
The Joliet Public Library
The Joliet Public Library is not just a place to borrow books; it is also a cultural and educational center that offers a wide range of programs and services for all ages. The library has several branches throughout the city, each with its own unique collections and programs. The main library, located in downtown Joliet, features a genealogy and local history room, a makerspace, and a café. The library also hosts several events throughout the year, such as author talks, book clubs, and children’s storytimes.
The Jacob Henry Mansion Estate
The Jacob Henry Mansion Estate is a stunning example of Victorian architecture and design, located in the heart of Joliet. The estate was built in 1873 by Jacob A. Henry, a wealthy businessman and philanthropist, and has been restored to its original grandeur. The mansion features ornate woodwork, stained glass windows, and period furnishings, as well as several gardens and fountains. The estate also has a museum, which showcases Henry’s life and legacy, as well as a gift shop and a tea room.
The Silver Cross Field
The Silver Cross Field is a minor league baseball stadium, located in downtown Joliet, and home to the Joliet Slammers. The stadium, which opened in 2002, can seat up to 6,000 fans and offers a fun and affordable family-friendly atmosphere. Besides baseball games, the stadium hosts several events throughout the year, such as concerts, fireworks shows, and craft fairs. The stadium also has a kids’ zone, a picnic area, and a variety of food and beverage options.
The Joliet Area Farmers Market
If you are looking for fresh, locally grown produce and handmade goods, the Joliet Area Farmers Market is the place to be. This vibrant market takes place every Saturday from May to October, in downtown Joliet, and features over 50 vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to baked goods, flowers, and crafts. The market also hosts live music and entertainment, as well as cooking demonstrations and workshops.
Conclusion
Joliet, Illinois, may not be as well-known as its larger neighbor, Chicago, but it has plenty of attractions and activities to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. From historic landmarks to natural wonders, from cultural venues to recreational areas, Joliet has something for everyone. So, whether you are a local or a tourist, take the time to explore this hidden gem of a city and discover its many treasures.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Joliet, Illinois?
The best time to visit Joliet is from late spring to early fall when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are in full swing.
Is Joliet, Illinois, a safe place to visit?
Like any city, Joliet has its share of crime and safety concerns. However, if you exercise common sense and take precautions, you should have a safe and enjoyable visit.
Are there any free attractions in Joliet, Illinois?
Yes, many of the attractions in Joliet are free or have a low admission fee, such as the Forest Preserve District of Will County, the Joliet Iron Works Historic Site, and the Joliet Public Library.
Can I bring my dog to the Joliet Area Farmers Market?
Yes, well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome at the Joliet Area Farmers Market. However, please be mindful of other vendors and customers and clean up after your pet.
Where can I find more information about Joliet, Illinois, attractions and events?
You can visit the Joliet Area Convention & Visitors Bureau website or stop by one of the visitor centers in the city for more information and recommendations.
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