Joliet Area Historical Museum, Joliet Travel Guide

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Discover Joliet's vibrant past: Route 66, space exploration, and industrial heritage come to life in this engaging historical museum.

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Joliet Area Historical Museum

The Joliet Area Historical Museum, housed in a former church, showcases the diverse history of Joliet and Will County. Exhibits feature Route 66, space exploration, and the area's industrial past, offering an engaging experience for all ages.

A brief summary to Joliet Area Historical Museum

204 N Ottawa St, Joliet, Illinois, 60432, US
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Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
Thursday 10 am-5 pm
Friday 10 am-5 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Joliet Area Historical Museum.

Check the museum's website for updated hours, special events, and temporary exhibits to make the most of your visit.
Take advantage of the free parking available at the corner of Ottawa and Webster Streets.
Joliet residents receive a discount on general admission.
Explore the museum's gift shop for unique souvenirs, including Route 66 memorabilia.

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Explore Joliet Area Historical Museum on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Joliet Area Historical Museum, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Joliet Gateway Center, head north on N. Ottawa Street for approximately 0.2 miles. The museum will be on your left, at 204 N Ottawa St. Metered parking is available curbside. Walking is free.
Public Transport

Pace Bus provides fixed-route service throughout Joliet. Check the Pace Bus website (pacebus.com) for routes and schedules to the museum. The fare is approximately $1.75 for a single ride. Seniors and people with disabilities may be eligible for Dial-A-Ride services for $2 per ride.
Taxi/Ride-share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Joliet. From the Joliet Gateway Center, a taxi or ride-share to the museum will cost approximately $12-$19.
Driving

From I-80, take the exit for US-52/Chicago Street and head north. Continue on Chicago Street, then turn left onto E. Washington Street, followed by a right onto N. Ottawa Street. The museum will be on your left at 204 N Ottawa St. Free parking is available in the museum lot on the corner of Ottawa and Webster Streets. Metered parking is available curbside.

Discover more about Joliet Area Historical Museum

Step into the Joliet Area Historical Museum and embark on a journey through time, exploring the rich tapestry of Joliet and Will County's history. Housed in the beautifully repurposed Ottawa Street Methodist Church, a Neoclassical building dating back to 1909, the museum offers a dynamic and interactive experience for visitors of all ages.The museum's exhibits delve into various aspects of the region's past. The Route 66 Experience transports you back to the golden age of the Mother Road, highlighting its significance to Joliet as the "Crossroads of Mid-America". See a restored Economy Buggy Car, manufactured in Joliet in the early 1900s, and a replica 50s Corvette in a replica drive-in. The Soaring Achievements of John C. Houbolt exhibit celebrates the Joliet-raised NASA engineer who conceptualized the lunar orbit rendezvous for the Apollo program.Explore exhibits dedicated to the area's industrial heritage, including the I&M Canal, the city's role in stone and steel production, and its diverse cultural influences. The museum also features temporary exhibits and educational programs, ensuring a fresh and engaging experience with each visit. Don't miss the new exhibit dedicated to The Blues Brothers, the seminal comedy that was filmed in Joliet.With its blend of historical artifacts, interactive displays, and themed exhibits, the Joliet Area Historical Museum offers a captivating glimpse into the past and its impact on the present.