Exploring the Joliet Railroad Museum: A Journey Through Rail History in Illinois
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical fitness required; involves some stair climbing in the signal tower.
Overview
Step back in time at the Joliet Railroad Museum, where a preserved 1913 signal tower and immersive exhibits reveal the engineering marvels and local rail history that shaped Illinois. Explore how railroads transformed this city into a vital transportation hub.
Joliet Railroad Museum
Joliet Railroad Museum Tours
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About This Adventure
Discover the rich history of railroads at the Joliet Railroad Museum, housed in a preserved 1913 signal tower. Explore fascinating exhibits on local rail companies and the engineering marvels of the early 20th century. Experience the legacy of train travel at this unique intersection of history and innovation.
We hope you enjoy your visit to the Joliet Railroad Museum located at 90 E. Jefferson Street within the City’s Gateway Center Train Station.
The Railroad Museum is a former circa 1913 interlocking signal tower, known locally as Union Depot Tower, that was preserved and incorporated into the new Gateway Center Train Station.
The Joliet Railroad Museum features information on the railroad companies that operated lines through Joliet and their ensuing legacies. It presents the story of collaboration, cooperation and engineering that went into the 1910-1912 track realignment and elevation project, which included the construction of historic Joliet Union Station and Union Depot Tower.
The Railroad Museum also features the mechanisms and controls that coordinated the movement of trains through this critical intersection of east-west and north-south rail travel.
The Joliet Railroad Museum is operated by the Joliet Area Historical Museum. The Railroad Museum is ADA accessible. Parking is available in public lots surrounding the train station as well as street parking.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
Explore the historic signal tower and exhibits comfortably with sturdy, closed-toe footwear.
Visit during train activity hours
Catch live train movements near the museum for a dynamic viewing experience; check schedules if possible.
Plan for a guided tour
Join a volunteer-led tour to gain rich insights and stories behind the artifacts and rail history.
Check weather before your visit
Most exhibits are indoors, but signal tower access includes outdoor elements—dress accordingly.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Common urban birds such as pigeons and sparrows.
- Occasional sightings of river otters near the Des Plaines River, a short drive away.
History
Joliet’s rise as a railroad hub was pivotal in the early 1900s, influencing Midwest trade routes and industry growth.
Conservation
The museum actively promotes preservation of rail heritage and encourages sustainable tourism practices within Joliet's historic districts.
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Adventure Hotspots in Joliet
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Ideal for navigating the museum’s indoor and outdoor areas with ease.
Light jacket
Spring weather can be cool; a jacket ensures comfort, especially on tower access.
spring specific
Sun protection
Protect yourself during outdoor parts of the visit and walking around Joliet.
summer specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture detailed shots of historic artifacts and moving trains passing nearby.