10 Bucket List Things To See And Do In Joliet

The third largest city in Illinois, Joliet is a hidden gem that should not be overlooked by visitors to the area. First incorporated in 1837, Joliet began its growth as a limestone quarrying town, supplying limestone to nearby construction. Now, Joliet is known for its historical architecture, incredible arts, sports, and culture, and beautiful nature. Learn more about 10 things to see and do on your visit to Joliet, Illinois.

1. See A Show At The Rialto Square Theatre

Known as the "Jewel of Joliet," the Rialto Square Theatre is one of the most historic venues in the nation. Built in 1926 as a vaudeville theater, it is now home to concerts, plays, musicals, and stand-up comedy. The theater itself is a wonder. Built in the Neo-Baroque architectural style, it is considered one of "150 great places in Illinois" by the American Institute of Architects. Fans of history or architecture can sign up for a behind-the-scenes tour of the theater every Tuesday. These tours take visitors through the Esplanade, or inner lobby, designed after the Hall of Mirrors in the palace of Versailles, the Rotunda, and even include a trip to the theater's green room and stage.

2. Catch A Ballgame At The Joliet Route 66 Ballpark

There is nothing quite like the charm of minor league baseball, and Joliet's Route 66 Ballpark exudes that charm in spades. Home to the Joliet Slammers of the Frontier League, the park allows baseball lovers to enjoy an evening at the ballpark without the cost or hassle of a major league game. An expansive grass area allows families to stretch out with, and the field's small footprint and excellent sightlines are a great way to enjoy a ballgame. 

3. Explore The Area's Rich History At The Joliet Area Historical Museum

Few areas can come close to Joliet's storied local history, and the Joliet Area Historical Museum provides visitors with a unique opportunity to learn more about the area's colorful and lively past. Visitors can learn more about Joliet through "state-of-the-art audio-visual presentations, life-size models, award-winning touch screen visuals, and even a step-in Lunar Lander Simulator." The museum is also host to educational exhibits on a number of subjects, including musical history and holiday programs. 

4. Test Your Luck At Harrah's Casino

Located in the heart of historic downtown Joliet on the DuPage river, Harrah's Joliet Hotel & Casino includes poker, slots, and table games for gamblers, as well as luxury river-view hotel accommodations, upscale and casual dining options, and nightlife options.

5. Visit A Joliet Friends Of Community Art Mural

Located around Joliet, murals sponsored by the Friends of Community Public Art depict slice-of-life scenes on themes like arts, culture, history, theater, sports, and more, showing off the unique charm of each of Joliet's neighborhoods. 

6. Enjoy The Sights Of Joliet's Pilcher Park

Fans of the outdoors will enjoy Joliet's Pilcher Park. The park is perfect for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing in the winter, playing on the playground with little ones, or just relaxing with a picnic. The park's more than 640 acres of land provide a habitat for wildlife, and visitors should not miss the park's nature center.  

7. Bird Haven Greenhouse And Conservatory

Near Pilcher Park, the Bird Haven Greenhouse and Conservatory is a gorgeous landmark, designed in the Italian Renaissance style and built in the early 1900s. The Conservatory features a tropical house, cacti room, show house and outdoor gardens. With its flowers, bridges, and ponds, the Greenhouse and Conservatory is a great place to get away from it all and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature year-round.

8. Old Joliet Prison

No trip to Joliet is complete without a tour of the Old Joliet Prison. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour behind the prison's castle-like imposing stone walls, or opt for a self guided trip through the prison's history, which has included such infamous inmates as John Wayne Gacy and Baby Face Nelson. Movie fans will appreciate the opportunity to visit the prison, which has been a filming site for such films as Natural Born Killers and the Blues Brothers.

9. Appreciate Joliet's Stunning Historical Mansions

Joliet, like all of Illinois, is home to a number of gorgeous historical mansions, which can be viewed by visitors from outside. The Hiram B. Scutt Mansion is a beautiful three-story, Italianate/Second Empire style house built in 1882. Fans of architecture will enjoy the home's massive tower and historical details, and fans of the paranormal will appreciate the opportunity to see for themselves whether the building is as haunted as it is said to be.

The Jacob Henry Mansion Estate, similarly, is a stunning example of the Renaissance Revival style of architecture. Built in 1878, this mansion now only hosts private events, but fans of architectural history can admire the largest example of the Renaissance Revival style in the State of Illinois.

10. Hit The Links At A Joliet Golf Course

Joliet is home to a number of beautiful golf courses that will challenge the skill of any golfer. Inwood Golf Course, built in 1932, features 6,196 yards and a par of 71. The course demands excellent iron play and deft putting on its quick greens. Woodruff Golf Course, established in 1926, makes for a similarly challenging round of play, with spectacular elevation changes and demanding greens. Interested in learning more about Joliet? Be sure to read up on this wonderful community's housing and market stats using our handy guide to Joliet real estate, available here. Want to talk to an agent who knows Joliet inside and out? You can get in touch with the talented associates of Baird & Warner Joliet here.