Joilet,IL 1896 Prison, Joliet Travel Guide

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Explore the infamous Old Joliet Prison, a historic landmark with imposing Gothic architecture and a rich, dark past, featured in movies and TV shows.

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Joilet,IL 1896 Prison

The Old Joliet Prison, also known as the Joliet Correctional Center, is a historic prison in Joliet, Illinois, that operated from 1858 to 2002. Known for its imposing Gothic architecture and appearances in popular films and TV shows like *The Blues Brothers* and *Prison Break*, it now offers guided tours, providing a glimpse into its storied past.

A brief summary to Joilet,IL 1896 Prison

401 Woodruff Rd, Joliet, Illinois, 60432, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Joilet,IL 1896 Prison.

Purchase tickets online in advance to ensure access and skip the gift shop line.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.
Dress appropriately for the weather, as tours are primarily conducted outdoors, rain or shine.
Note that large bags and backpacks are not allowed inside the prison; secure them in your vehicle before entering.

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Getting There

Walking

If you are near the Joliet Public Library at 150 N Ottawa St, walking to the prison is feasible. Head south on Ottawa St towards W Jefferson St, then turn right onto W Jefferson St. Continue until you reach Woodruff Rd, then turn left. Walk about 1 mile on Woodruff Rd, and the prison will be on your left at 401 Woodruff Rd.
Public Transport

Pace Bus provides fixed-route bus service throughout Joliet. Check the Pace website for routes and schedules to reach the prison. A single fare is typically around $1.75.
Ride Share

Utilize ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft from anywhere in Joliet. A short trip from downtown Joliet to the prison typically costs between $12 and $16. Verify the current rates and availability via the app.

Discover more about Joilet,IL 1896 Prison

The Old Joliet Prison, opened in 1858, is a significant landmark in Joliet, Illinois, known for its imposing architecture and long history. Built with convict labor and locally quarried limestone, the prison quickly became a model for correctional facilities across the United States.Originally known as the Illinois State Penitentiary, the prison housed both criminals and prisoners of war during the Civil War. Over the years, it gained notoriety for its harsh conditions and housed infamous criminals. A separate women's prison, designed as a mini-replica of the male prison, was built across the street in 1896 but closed in 1932.Despite plans to close it after the construction of the Stateville Correctional Center in 1926, Joliet Prison remained operational until 2002. Budget cuts and the deteriorating condition of the buildings led to its closure. The prison has been featured in numerous films and television shows, most famously *The Blues Brothers*.Today, the Old Joliet Prison is a historical site offering guided tours. Visitors can explore the cell blocks, cafeteria, and other areas, learning about the prison's history and its impact on the community. The Joliet Area Historical Museum manages the tours, providing insights into the daily lives of inmates and the prison's operational history. In 2023, the Old Joliet Prison was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.