Guided General History Tours at Old Joliet Prison
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Requires basic mobility to walk and stand for an extended period with some stairs.
Overview
Step inside the Old Joliet Prison on a 90-minute guided walking tour and uncover stories from over a century of history. Explore key parts of the prison while hearing expert insights that bring the past to life.
Guided General History Tours
A 90-minute walking tour of the Old Joliet Prison
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 90-minute walking tour of the Old Joliet Prison, guided by knowledgeable docents from the Joliet Area Historical Museum. Discover the prison's rich history from its opening in 1858 to its closure in 2002, while exploring key areas like the West Cell House and Cafeteria at your own pace.
Enjoy your tour led by our amazing guides!
Duration
1.5 hours
About your Tour
A 90-minute walking tour of the Old Joliet Prison lead by docents and trained tour guides from the Joliet Area Historical Museum. This tour talks about the general history of the site from when it was first opened in 1858 till its closure in 2002. This historic tour is a great introduction to the Prison and its history. This tour takes you into the West Cell House, North Segregation, Cafeteria and other buildings as available.
Adventure Tips
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The tour includes walking on uneven surfaces and stairs, so sturdy footwear will keep you comfortable.
Bring a Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the 90-minute tour, especially in warmer weather.
Plan for Weather Changes
Parts of the tour are outdoors, so dress in layers and check weather conditions beforehand.
Photography Allowed
Feel free to bring a camera to capture the historic prison architecture and exhibits.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Squirrels commonly seen around the prison grounds
- Various songbirds frequent the trees surrounding the property
History
Old Joliet Prison was a major correctional facility for Illinois for nearly 150 years and housed many notable inmates throughout its operation.
Conservation
The site is maintained with care to preserve its architecture and minimize impact, encouraging visitors to respect the grounds and artifacts.
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Adventure Hotspots in Chicago
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Necessary for navigating uneven floors and stairs during the tour.
Reusable Water Bottle
Helpful to stay hydrated, especially on warm days.
summer specific
Light Jacket or Layered Clothing
Recommended for changing temperatures and outdoor sections of the tour.
spring specific
Camera or Smartphone
For capturing the prison's historic architecture and your tour memories.