Joliet Area Historical Museum: Crossroads of History
Discover Joliet's vibrant past: Route 66, space exploration, and industrial heritage come to life in this engaging 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
- +1815-723-5201
- Visit website
Local tips
- 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.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Visitors Center
0.0 km
Discover the vibrant history and culture of Joliet, Illinois at the informative Visitors Center, your gateway to local attractions and insights.
Renaissance Center
0.0 km
Experience timeless elegance at Joliet's Renaissance Center, a historic venue blending classic charm with modern amenities for unforgettable events.
Route 66 & Lincoln Highway Marker
0.1 km
Where two legendary American highways, Route 66 and the Lincoln Highway, meet in the heart of Joliet, Illinois, a tribute to the open road.
Louis Jolliet Statue
0.1 km
Honor the legacy of Louis Jolliet, a French-Canadian explorer, at this historical statue in Joliet Township, Illinois.
The Strange & Unusual Gallery
0.2 km
Explore the bizarre and beautiful at Joliet's Strange & Unusual Gallery, where unconventional art ignites imagination and celebrates the extraordinary.
Historic Louis Joliet Apartments
0.2 km
Explore the Historic Louis Joliet Apartments, a stunning architectural gem reflecting Joliet's rich history and culture, perfect for architecture enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Rialto Square Theatre
0.3 km
Experience the grandeur of a bygone era at the Rialto Square Theatre, a meticulously restored vaudeville palace in the heart of Joliet.
Will County Historic Preservation Commission
0.3 km
Explore Will County's architectural treasures and learn about its rich history at the Historic Preservation Commission in Joliet, Illinois.
Prison City Vintage
0.3 km
Explore the charm of vintage fashion at Prison City Vintage in Joliet, where every piece has a story waiting to be discovered.
Joliet Historical Preservation
0.4 km
Discover Joliet's vibrant history and architectural heritage at the Joliet Historical Preservation, a key cultural site for history enthusiasts.
McKee's Mill Historic Site
0.5 km
Explore McKee's Mill Historic Site in Joliet, Illinois, where history meets nature in a picturesque setting perfect for relaxation and discovery.
Joliet's First Sidewalks Historic Site
0.5 km
Step back in time on Joliet's original sidewalks, where history is etched in stone and the city's story unfolds with every step.
The Grand Ballroom
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Experience timeless elegance in a historic Beaux-Arts train station, perfect for weddings, corporate events, and special celebrations.
Joliet Slammers Baseball
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Catch exciting Frontier League baseball with the Joliet Slammers at Duly Health and Care Field in downtown Joliet. Affordable family fun!
Hiram B. Scutt Mansion
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Explore the historic Hiram B. Scutt Mansion in Joliet, IL: a Second Empire architectural gem with a fascinating past and rumored hauntings.
Unmissable attractions to see
Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66
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Explore the vibrant history of rock music at the Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66, where legends come to life in Joliet, Illinois.
Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park
0.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and vibrant cultural events at Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park in Joliet, Illinois, a perfect destination for relaxation and entertainment.
Jacob Henry Mansion
0.8 km
Discover the charm and elegance of Jacob Henry Mansion, a historic event venue in Joliet, perfect for weddings and special occasions.
Mayor Art Schultz Park
0.8 km
Experience the tranquility of nature at Mayor Art Schultz Park, a scenic oasis in Joliet, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and outdoor activities.
Joliet Iron Works Park
1.0 km
Discover the rich history and scenic beauty of Joliet Iron Works Park, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Joliet Iron Works Historic Site
1.3 km
Explore the historic Joliet Iron Works Historic Site, where nature and industrial history converge in a serene setting perfect for outdoor adventures.
Joliet Kicks on Route 66
1.4 km
Explore Joliet Kicks on Route 66, a vibrant park celebrating the iconic American highway through art, history, and community in Joliet, Illinois.
Route 66 Park
1.6 km
Experience the nostalgia of Route 66 at Joliet's beautiful park, where history meets nature in a picturesque setting.
Old Joliet Prison
2.0 km
Discover the haunting history and unique architecture of the Old Joliet Prison, a must-see attraction in Joliet, Illinois for history enthusiasts.
Haunted Trails Family Entertainment Center & Picnics
2.5 km
Discover family-friendly fun and thrills at Haunted Trails Family Entertainment Center in Joliet, Illinois - where excitement meets adventure!
Nowell Park
2.7 km
Experience the tranquility of Nowell Park in Joliet, Illinois, a perfect spot for families and nature lovers to unwind and enjoy outdoor activities.
Pilcher Park Nature Center
5.1 km
Explore the natural beauty and tranquility of Pilcher Park Nature Center in Joliet, Illinois, a perfect escape for outdoor lovers and families alike.
Blues Brothers Copmobile
5.4 km
Discover the Blues Brothers Copmobile in Joliet, Illinois – a nostalgic tribute to the iconic film that captures the heart of American pop culture.
Paul E. Briese Park
5.9 km
Explore the natural beauty and recreational offerings of Paul E. Briese Park in Joliet, Illinois, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and families alike.
Lake Renwick Heron Rookery Nature Preserve
11.0 km
Explore Lake Renwick Heron Rookery Nature Preserve: A haven for bird watchers and nature lovers seeking tranquility in Illinois.
Essential places to dine
YURA NUNA (formerly K Ribs BBQ)
0.1 km
Experience authentic Korean barbecue at YURA NUNA in Joliet – where flavor meets tradition in an inviting atmosphere.
Juliet's Tavern
0.1 km
Discover delicious American cuisine at Juliet's Tavern - where great food meets exceptional craft brews in Joliet.
Mousa
0.2 km
Discover the essence of Greek cuisine at Mousa in Joliet—where every dish tells a story and every meal is a celebration.
Arkas Restaurant Group
0.2 km
Discover exceptional dining at Arkas Restaurant Group in Joliet, where local flavors meet innovative cuisine for an unforgettable experience.
CUT 158 Chophouse
0.2 km
Discover unparalleled steak dining at CUT 158 Chophouse in Joliet—where quality meets flavor in every bite.
Azul Celeste Bar and Grill
0.2 km
Discover delightful Mexican flavors at Azul Celeste Bar and Grill in Joliet – where vibrant dishes meet a lively atmosphere.
Cross Street Grill
0.2 km
Experience delectable dining at Cross Street Grill in Harrah's Joliet - where taste meets hospitality amidst exciting entertainment.
El Camaleon Bar & Grill
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and welcoming atmosphere at El Camaleon Bar & Grill in Joliet – where every meal is a celebration.
The Reserve
0.3 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at The Reserve in Joliet – where classic flavors meet modern elegance.
Richardson's Downtown Sports Bar and Grill
0.3 km
Discover Richardson's Downtown Sports Bar and Grill: A vibrant dining hotspot in Joliet offering delicious food, sports entertainment, and lively atmosphere.
Chicago Street Pub
0.3 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine at Chicago Street Pub in Joliet - where great food meets warm hospitality in a lively atmosphere.
Sunshine Mexican Cafe - Restaurant & Catering
0.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Sunshine Mexican Cafe in Joliet - where every dish tells a story.
Vela’s Restaurant & Lounge
0.5 km
Discover culinary delights at Vela's Restaurant & Lounge in Joliet – where grilling meets elegance in a vibrant atmosphere.
El Primo Mexican Restaurant
0.5 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at El Primo Mexican Restaurant in Joliet – where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.
Stefanich's Restaurant & Lounge
0.5 km
Experience delightful dining at Stefanich's Restaurant & Lounge in Joliet, where local flavors meet exceptional hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Amalove Boutique
0.2 km
Explore unique fashion at Amalove Boutique in Joliet, where style meets personalized service and every visit promises a new discovery.
ARTESANO STORE LLC
0.3 km
Discover unique hats, bags, clothing, and shoes at Artesano Store LLC in Joliet, where fashion meets creativity for a delightful shopping experience.
It Is Amazing
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Explore 'It Is Amazing' in Joliet for a unique shopping experience featuring stylish clothing, exquisite jewelry, and charming souvenirs.
Dstylz n things
0.4 km
Explore Dstylz n Things in Joliet for the latest in women's fashion, combining style, quality, and affordability in one boutique.
Shop 1928
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Latino Illusion Cano
0.5 km
Explore Latino Illusion Cano in Joliet for vibrant, culturally-inspired clothing that adds a unique flair to any wardrobe.
The Juncture
0.6 km
Explore The Juncture in Joliet, a vintage clothing store offering unique pieces and sustainable fashion, perfect for style enthusiasts and collectors.
Western Grocery Store
0.6 km
Experience local flavors at the Western Grocery Store in Joliet, Illinois, where freshness meets community spirit in every aisle.
Ready Set Zoe
0.6 km
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Clothingus
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Explore the vibrant world of fashion at Clothingus, Joliet's top clothing store offering a diverse selection of stylish apparel for every occasion.
Greg Spiess Antiques
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Plaza Robles
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Western Wear
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Discover authentic western apparel at Western Wear in Joliet, Illinois - a unique shopping experience for tourists and fashion enthusiasts alike.
Joliet Jewelry Store
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Damaris Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Judge's Bar - Joliet
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Mid Town Tap
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Crybabies Tap
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Discover the lively ambiance and diverse drink selections at Crybabies Tap, the perfect bar for unwinding in Joliet, Illinois.
Johnny's On Hickory
1.6 km
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Steel City Saloon
1.8 km
Discover the lively Steel City Saloon in Joliet, Illinois - a top dart bar with a vibrant atmosphere, delicious drinks, and friendly competition.
Thirty-Buck
1.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of great drinks and nostalgic gaming at Thirty-Buck in Joliet, where fun and flavor meet!
Crow's Nest Tavern
2.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Crow's Nest Tavern, a local favorite in Joliet, Illinois, offering affordable drinks and a welcoming vibe for all travelers.
Eden Bar and Grill
2.5 km
Experience the delicious grill cuisine and vibrant atmosphere at Eden Bar and Grill in Joliet, Illinois, a local favorite for food and fun.
Bobby's Tap
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Bobby's Tap, Joliet's premier gay bar, known for its inclusive vibe and lively entertainment.
Izzy's LLC
2.8 km
Experience the thrill of sports at Izzy's LLC, Joliet's favorite sports bar with delicious food and a lively atmosphere for all!
Longshots
3.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Longshots, where delicious grilled dishes and refreshing drinks meet in Joliet's vibrant dining scene.
Saloon 2
3.9 km
Discover Saloon 2, Joliet's beloved bar, offering an inviting atmosphere, diverse drinks, and a perfect spot for relaxation and socializing.
Sidelines Sports Bar
4.2 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience at Sidelines in Joliet, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and lively entertainment await.
Industry Tap House
6.3 km
Discover the lively Industry Tap House in Joliet, offering an extensive craft beer selection and delicious food in a vibrant setting.
Double J Sports Bar
6.7 km
Discover Double J Sports Bar in Joliet, Illinois – where sports, great food, and local entertainment come together in a fun, friendly atmosphere.
