25 Best & Fun Things to Do in Joliet (IL)

Joliet is located in Will and Kendall counties in Illinois, United States. It is the county seat of Will County. 

Whether you are visiting alone, as part of a family, or as a couple, there lots of things to do in Joliet, IL, that will suit any traveler’s interest.

There are many historic sites, excellent shopping venues, entertainment centers, cultural events, historical museums, lovely theaters, and sports activities. 

Outdoor lovers will have a great time in the city, as it has numerous parks, green areas, and large water bodies offering diverse outdoor activities. Regardless of what your preferences are, this city has got you covered.

Here are the best things to do in Joliet, IL.

Things to Do in Joliet, IL

1. Des Plaines River

Des Plaines is a large river that flows southward, spanning 133 miles through northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin in the Midwestern United States, before finally meeting the Kankakee River located west of Channahon to produce the Illinois River.

The Des Plaines River covers a vast area that allows for many recreational opportunities. This part of the river near Juliet has significantly been developed, with numerous damming projects close to the city’s central area.

There are other structures on the river along the Dams, such as some spectacular bridges ideal for snapping landscape pictures. 

Aside from urban development, the upriver brims with rich vegetation and wildlife. The Des Plaines River is also an ideal spot for kayaking, boating, or even fishing.

Address: Joliet, Illinois, United States

2. Hollywood Casino Joliet

If you are having this feeling of luck to gamble in Joliet, then you should drop by the Hollywood Casino, a state-of-the-art casino and one of the best in the city.

It is always fun at night in the casino, with live entertainment to add to your experience. Their top-notch customer service will give you the best treatment with exciting promotions.

Place a wager to win fantastic cash while you are inside the Casino. There are over a thousand slot machines and video poker games to choose from. You can play poker and blackjack at the gaming tables, including other casino games.

Aside from gambling, this place has a restaurant onsite where you can enjoy different delicious meals. The Casino also has a hotel with spacious rooms where you can stay for a night or throughout your vacation in Joliet.

Address: 777 Hollywood Boulevard, Joliet, IL 60436, United States

3. Rock Run Preserve

The Rock Run Preserve is open to the public. It is a beautiful vast green space situated in the geographic center of the city of Joliet, making accessibility to the preserve relatively easy.

This Preserve features 320 acres of land filled with various habitats, making it a primary destination for research and wildlife encounters.

While exploring the area, you will find riparian habitats, vast swaths of forests, wetland areas, prairies, and riparian habitats. There are numerous trails in the preserve to guide you to these particular areas, many of which begin at the Black Road Access.

The preserve also features parking areas, picnic shelters, and several modern facilities for your pleasure and enjoyment. Be on the lookout for animals like river otters, waterfowl, owls, and many others.

Address: Black Rd, Joliet, IL 60431, United States

4. Rialto Square Theatre

Rialto Square Theater is a performing art venue in the downtown area of Joliet, IL. Since its inception in 1926, the Theater has been committed to providing quality entertainment to its guests.

The Theater is famous for hosting some prominent performers in the country on its stage. There are a variety of shows to expect from this Theater, including musical concerts, stand-up comedy dance recitals, broadway receptacles, and many others.

The Theater has gone through numerous renovations to accommodate the many constantly changing trends that each era has since its opening. If you are a fan of theater performances, this place should be a must-see for you.

Rialto Square Theater is also famous for its Neo-Baroque architecture which earned it a place on the list of “150 great places in Illinois” by the American Institute of Architects.

Address: 102 N Chicago St, Joliet, IL 60432, United States

5. Pilcher Park Nature Center

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, one of the best places to visit in Joliet, IL, is the Pilcher Park Nature Center. It is also an excellent spot to stay with the family and have great moments together.

The primary geographic features of this Park include a vast green space, a woodland, and Hickory Creek. The Nature Center covers more than 640 acres of land that serves as a habitat for wildlife and an ideal environment for various outdoor recreation activities.

Pilcher Park has playground areas with play structures, picnic spaces, hiking trails, and cross-country skiing and biking trails. Rentals for cross-country ski gear are available in the Park. You can also hire skis, boots, and poles with children’s sizes.

Address: 2501 Highland Park Dr, Joliet, IL 60432, United States

6. Grim Joliet Correctional Center

Grim Joliet Correctional Facility, originally known as the Illinois State Penitentiary, earned several names throughout its history, including Joliet Prison, Collins Street Prison, Joliet Penitentiary, and the Old Joliet Prison.

The prison began operations in 1858, and in 2022 it shut down due to budgetary cuts and the outdated and menacing state of the buildings. It is a famous landmark in the city and has been featured in many popular Television series and movies.

Joliet Prison was used as a setting for the famous film TV series “Prison Break,” Let’s Go to Prison, and the motion picture The Blues Brothers. It was even used as the setting for the James Cagney movie White Heat and many others.

The prison attained stardom due to these many shows, which made the government open the prison for tours in 2018. The prison offers various tours, including photography, historical, and private tours.

Address: 1125 Collins St, Joliet, IL 60432, United States

7. DuPage River

The DuPage River is one of the two primary waterways that pass through Joliet. It is a 28.4-mile-long tributary of the Des Plaines River in Illinois, United States.

The river starts as two separate streams; its west branch, about 35 miles long, begins at CampanellI Park in Schaumburg inside Cook County.

The river flow continues in the south through the many counties in Dupage and the towns of Warrenville, Wheaton, Naperville, Bartlett, Winfield, and Wayne.

The East branch, which is 25 miles, starts in Bloomingdale and then flows south through Glendale Heights, Woodridge, Lisle, Glen Ellyn, and parts of Bolingbrook and Naperville. Both branches come together at the southern corner of Knoch Knolls Park, between Naperville and Bolingbrook.

There are numerous activities and fine attractions to see within this area. You can go canoeing or kayaking to see attractions like the Hammel Woods. If you would like to go fishing, you can hire a mini boat or charter.

Address: Illinois, United States

8. Gamma VR

When you visit Gamma VR, you should expect an immersive VR experience as you will be transported from one realm to another. It is one of the fun things to do in Joliet, IL.

Gamma VR is open to everyone, not minding if it is your first time with VR or you are a seasoned gamer. They have a broad selection of games, adventures, and simulations for you to choose from and play.

The gaming stations in this place allow you to explore the latest technological developments in the virtual reality industry. There are over 196 games available for you to enjoy.

The atmosphere at Gamma VR is exciting, and their services are top-notch, courtesy of their helpful and super-friendly staff.

Address: 2419 W Jefferson St, Joliet, IL 60435, United States

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9. Joliet Area Historical Museum

Learn about the fascinating backstory of the city of Joliet and how it transformed into the vibrant community it is currently at the Joliet Area Historical Museum. It is one of the top things to do in Joliet, IL.

The historical Museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing Joliet’s rich and diverse history with whoever is interested. 

The Joliet Area Historical Museum is housed in the space that the Ottawa Street Methodist Church once occupied at the meeting point between Cass and Ottawa downtown.

The Museum was opened in the fall season of 2002. Since then, the main exhibition gallery of the Museum has been used as an introduction to tell the numerous history of this city and even the people.

While there, take your time to browse the many items on exhibition at the Museum, such as photographs, documents, and artifacts. that tell the city’s history.

Address: 204 N Ottawa St, Joliet, IL 60432, United States

10. Chicagoland Speedway

Stop by the Chicagoland Speedway to see cars race to the finish line. If you are a fan of race cars or like to listen to the roaring sounds of race cars, this attraction should be a must-see for you.

The Chicagoland Speedway features a 1.5-mile-long track and 47,000 seats, making it one of the largest racetracks in this region.

As a prime attraction in the US state of Illinois, the Chicagoland Speedway hosts high-rated events, such as the NASCAR championship cups. Therefore, if you have always wanted to see professional car racers compete with these high-class automobiles, do well to see their calendar.

Near this Chicagoland Speedway is a smaller track known as the Route 66 Raceway, which features a broad range of automobiles, from pro-stock cars to motorcycles. It also allows you to ride a NASCAR vehicle and get a firsthand racing experience.

Address: 500 Speedway Blvd, Joliet, IL 60433, United States

11. Harrah’s Joliet

Harrah’s Joliet is a casual casino hotel on the Des Plaines River. This hotel is located close to various attractions, such as the Chicagoland Speedway, which is just 4.7 miles from the hotel, and the Joliet Prison, which is 1.8 miles away.

They offer the best deals for lodgings. The warm rooms (with some offering river views) are well-equipped with everything you need to stay comfortable throughout your stay.

You can check out the casino in the hotel, which comprises a poker room, table games, 200 video poker rooms, and over 1,100 slot machines.

There are restaurants onsite, such as the buffet restaurant and informal Steakhouse, including diner and the Starbuck coffee shop. The hotel also has a full-service cocktail bar, a concert venue, and 6,000 square feet of meeting space.

Address: 151 N Joliet St, Joliet, IL 60432, United States

12. Jacob Henry Mansion Estate

The Jacob Henry Mansion Estate is a famous landmark in Joliet. It is also considered as part of the most magnificent Victorian Estates in this part of the country. It is one of the best places to visit in Joliet, IL.

This structure has existed since 1873, making it an important landmark for the past years. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Estate is currently used as a location for wedding celebrations, public occasions, and private events. The first thing to notice when you visit is the magnificent architecture of this mansion and its beautiful landscaped environment.

The house’s interior is also beautiful and well-furnished. It has walnut or polished black oak on many rooms and furnishings. Visitors are always welcome to enjoy a tour of the house to check out its elegant furniture and items.

Address: 20 S Eastern Ave, Joliet, IL 60433, United States

13. Haunted Trails Family Entertainment Center

Haunted Trails Family Entertainment Center is a go-to attraction for anyone looking to spend quality time with their family or friends. Their services are top-notch, and their staff are accommodating and friendly.

This Entertainment Center has been in the business of providing fun since 1975 at affordable rates. It is also ideal for birthday celebrations, private/company events, and family or friends get-togethers.

There is always something to do for everyone, as this facility comprises numerous fun attractions, such as a top-notch miniature golf course, amusement rides, batting cages for older children and younger ones, and a laser tag arena to keep you busy and active throughout your stay.

Address: 7759 S Harlem Ave, Burbank, IL 60459, United States

14. Inwood Golf Course

Are you a professional golfer? If yes, you wouldn’t want to miss exploring the Inwood Golf Course. The golf course is owned and managed by the Joliet Park District.

The golf facility was opened in 1931 and is designed to accommodate professional players. In 1989, the front nine of the course was renovated, with water being added to all six of the nine holes.

Inwood Golf Course was well designed to conform with the flat landscape in Joliet so that golfers can relish the spectacular vistas to add to their experience. 

This 18-hole golf course also features verdant fairways, patches of woodlands, and strategically positioned hazards that require excellent circumventing skills. 

Address: 3200 W Jefferson St, Joliet, IL 60431, United States

15. Route 66 Raceway

The Route 66 Raceway is owned and operated by the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) and is located near the Chicagoland Speedway,

This drag race facility features a 25-mile-long dragstrip. It is an abode to rave events held by the National Hot Rod Association, Dirt Oval 66, and Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series.

Like Speedway, this facility is a perfect place to visit with your family. It also hosts some family-inspired events all year round. The kids will have fun going up close to see the race track, including pro stock cars, and also run elbows with racers. Visiting this Raceway is among the fun things to do in Joliet, IL.

For tickets, races, private events, and upcoming races, you can always call their office for better information. However, you can get their tickets online for every recently announced race event.

Address: 500 Speedway Blvd., Joliet, IL 60433, United States

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16. Nowell Park

Nowell Park is close to major highways and the downtown area of this city, making it one of the most accessible parks in Joliet, IL. It is one place to visit to escape the noisy city.

Norwell Park is a 20-acre park packed with numerous fun attractions and state-of-the-art amenities to provide a worthwhile experience.

If you enjoy sports, this Park has you covered, as it has a volleyball, pickleball ball, baseball, and basketball court.

The Park also has exercise trials for running, jogging, or strolling. There is a playground as well for the kids to enjoy. Do not forget to check out the Nowell Park Recreation Center, a center for various indoor activities like dance lessons, seasonal events, and art.

Address: 199 Mills Rd, Joliet, IL 60433, United States

17. Inwood Athletic Club

Stay fit while on vacation in Joliet by visiting the Inwood Athletic Club, be rest assured of the perfect fitness routine to stay healthy throughout your stay in the city.

The Inwood Athletic Club was established in 2007 and features a 65,000 square feet space packed with a large selection of fitness facilities for everyone to enjoy.

An interesting thing about the Inwood Athletic Club is that you do not have to be a member before checking them out. There are day passes for non-members; therefore, you can stop by to dip in their 25-yard indoor pool, not minding if your vacation in Joliet is just for a short while.

In addition, this fitness center has 10,000 square feet of fitness area with fineness equipment, including a steam room and whirlpool for relaxation after an exercise.

Address: 3000 W Jefferson Street, Joliet, IL 60435, United States

18. Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park & Theatre

This ten-acre Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park & Theatre is located along the Des Plaines River. It provides panoramic vistas of its surrounding, including views of downtown Joliet.

It is the only Park managed by the city of Joliet rather than Joliet Park District, which oversees the operations of numerous parks and the conservation of areas. This Park has plenty of amenities for your fun and enjoyment, including a historic hiking trail and picnic sites.

You can enjoy a self-guided tour through the historic trail to see Joliet’s most notable historical attractions. You can tour the Park all by yourself or book a guided tour by calling them beforehand.

Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park & Theatre is also the venue of a vibrant community theater program that features several shows and events, including a kiddies program all year round. These events and performances include musicals, improv shows, vocal performances, and so much more.

Address: 201 West Jefferson St., Joliet, IL 60432, United States

19. Louis Joliet Mall

If shopping is important to you while you are on vacation, visiting the Louis Joliet Mall should be a must-add to your bucket of what to do in Joliet, IL.

The Louis Joliet Mall has more than 90 individual stores that provide customers with different types of goods to shop for. The Mall is a single-level enclosed mall located near Interstate 80.

This Mall is a one-stop destination for all your shopping needs, whether daily essentials, an excellent gift, or something special for an occasion.

You can check out goods from your favorite brands or the dining court in the Mall, which features eateries such as KFC, Sbarro, Taco Bell, and others. You can also visit the 14-screen all-digital Cinemark Movie Theatre to watch the latest movies.

Address: 3340 Mall Loop Dr, Joliet, IL 60431, United States

20. Hadley Valley

The Hadley Valley is an 854-acre land purchased between 2000 and 2014. The Spring Creek Preservation System manages the preserve, which spans over 2,000 acres.

Three areas provide access to the preserve, including Bruce Road in Homer Glen, Route 6 in Joliet, and Gougar Road in Joliet. Hadley Valley preserves various habitats, such as the savanna, forest, a part of Spring Creek, and a wetland.

There are different species of animals, such as birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, aquatic invertebrates, fish, and insects. In addition, the nature preserve is an abode to different species of plants, such as great angelica, tall swamp marigold, shingle oak, yellow avens, and wahoo.

The three areas that provide access to the preserve are all connected to a 5.01-mile-long Spring Creek Greenway Trails, perfect for hiking, running, biking, snowshoeing, and horseback riding. There are also two picnic shelters available in the preserve for picnicking. 

Address: 18304 Gougar Rd, Joliet, IL 60432, United States

21. Autobahn Country Club

Besides being an abode for a race track over five miles long, the Autobahn Country Club is also a meeting place for driving aficionados across Chicagoland.

As earlier stated, this private race club features over five miles of race track built for high-performance driving. The Autobahn course was designed by a prominent track architect named Alan Wilson.

Autobahn Country Club is a unique location where members can ride their cars to their limits. In addition, the club is a home track to the Continental AutoSports Ferrari, and its racing garage is maintained onsite.

Joel and John Weinberger were Autobahn Country Club founding members in 2004. You can find the building of the Continental AutoSports Ferrari on the North Track.

While there, you can check out the double apex bends, the smooth race track surfaces, and elevation changes. There are some viewing spots for guests and a full-service cafe onsite.

Address: 3795 Centerpoint Way, Joliet, IL 60436, United States

22. Joliet Slammers Baseball

The Joliet Slammers Baseball is a team of professional baseball players in Joliet, IL, that feature in the Frontier League.

The home ground of this team is known as the Duly Health and Care Field, formerly called the Joliet Route 66 Stadium or Silver Cross Field. The stadium was constructed in 2002 and has a capacity setting of 6,016.

You can visit the stadium to see a baseball game. If you are a baseball enthusiast, visiting this attraction should be a must-add to your bucket list of top things to do in Joliet, IL.

If you are interested in seeing the Joliet Slammer play, you should see the local listings when you visit the town to know when they will have a game.

Address: 1 Mayor Art Schultz Dr, Joliet, IL 60432, United States

23. Heroes West Sports Grill

After long hours of touring through different attractions in Joliet, you will surely be famished and in search of a place to relax and eat a delicious meal. That one place to visit is the Heroes West Sports Grill.

Its first branch ever was opened in 2007. This expansive bar and restaurant is ideal for hanging out with your partner or friends and family.

They have an excellent food menu featuring homemade cuisines to enjoy and 38 tap drafts. You can watch your favorite sports on any of their 45 high-definition TVs and play live video games. 

You will enjoy every bit of your stay there, and you can choose to dine inside or outside, have your party catered by them or host a party in any of their private rooms.

Address: 1530 Commerce Ln, Joliet, IL 60431, United States

24. Bird Haven Greenhouse and Conservatory

The Bird Haven Greenhouse and Conservatory is nestled on a land area of about three acres that is within a 660-acre land, made up of Pilcher Park and Higginbotham Woods.

The Greenhouse and Conservatory have maintained their current location since construction in the early 1900s. The facility features Italian Renaissance-style architecture, which Lord and Burnham Company designed. 

This facility has magnificent floral displays, including seasonal motifs during spring, winter, and fall. They also offer other attractions throughout the year, including a cacti room, show house, and tropical house. This place is open all through the week from 8 am to 4:30 pm. They are usually closed on holidays.

Address: 225 Gougar Rd, Joliet, IL 60432, United States

25. Joliet Iron Works Historic Site

The Joliet Iron Works Historic Site features 52 acres of land packed with amenities and many fun things to keep you active and busy throughout your visit.

This historical site was previously a location for an iron manufacturing company whose history goes far back as the late 1800s. This site helps to protect the heritage resources and history of Joliet.

While there, you can check out the 59-mile-long paved trails to enjoy a self-guided educational tour that unveils the historical importance of this site.

There is also a 7.57-mile trail built with crushed limestone known as the I&M Canal Trail. It provides pathways for running, hiking, and biking during summer, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing in winter. You can also enjoy picnicking, as a shelter that can accommodate 100 people is available for rent.

Address: 31 Columbia Street, Joliet, IL 60432, United States

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Plan Your Trip to Joliet

With the many attractions in the city to explore, you are sure never to run out of ideas of where to visit or what to do in Joliet, IL.

Our carefully-curated list of the best things to do in Joliet, IL, will ensure you enjoy your stay whenever you visit. Do visit!