Joliet Iron Works Park: Relics of the Steel City
Step back in time at Joliet Iron Works Park, where industrial ruins meet natural beauty, revealing the story of America's steel-making past.
Explore the historic ruins of the Joliet Iron Works, once the second-largest steel mill in the U.S., now a preserved park with walking trails and interpretive signs detailing Joliet's industrial past. Wander through the foundations of blast furnaces and imagine the bustling activity of this once-thriving factory.
A brief summary to Joliet Iron Works Park
- Joliet Iron Works Historic Site, 31 Columbia St, Joliet, Illinois, 60432, US
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the paved trails and exploring the industrial ruins.
- Bring water, especially on hot days, as there is limited shade on the trails.
- Visit in the late afternoon for golden hour photography amidst the weathered textures and rusted remnants of the structures.
- Check out the nearby I&M Canal Trail for a longer hike and more historical scenery.
Getting There
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Driving
From I-80, take Exit 132 (Chicago Street) and head north. Follow the signs to the park, which is a few minutes from the interstate. Free parking is available at the trailhead.
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Public Transport
The Joliet Gateway Center is a multi-modal transportation hub with connections to Metra, Amtrak, and Pace bus services. From the Gateway Center, Pace bus routes such as the 501 West Jefferson may offer connections to the vicinity of the park. Check the latest Pace bus schedules for specific routes and stops. A single ride on Pace costs $2.00 with a Ventra card or $2.25 cash.
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Walking
From downtown Joliet, the park is accessible by foot, though it's a considerable walk (approximately 2 miles from the Joliet Gateway Center). Head east on Jefferson Street, then turn north onto Scott Street/Route 53. Turn east onto Columbia Street to reach the park. Sidewalks are available along the route.
Discover more about Joliet Iron Works Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
First Dairy Queen Location
0.4 km
Explore the iconic First Dairy Queen Location in Joliet, Illinois, where soft-serve ice cream was first served, a true piece of Americana.
Renaissance Center
0.9 km
Experience timeless elegance at Joliet's Renaissance Center, a historic venue blending classic charm with modern amenities for unforgettable events.
Visitors Center
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant history and culture of Joliet, Illinois at the informative Visitors Center, your gateway to local attractions and insights.
Bishops Hill
1.0 km
Experience award-winning wines in a historic castle setting at Bishops Hill Winery, Joliet's unique destination for wine tasting and events.
Route 66 & Lincoln Highway Marker
1.0 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
1.1 km
Honor the legacy of Louis Jolliet, a French-Canadian explorer, at this historical statue in Joliet Township, Illinois.
Historic Louis Joliet Apartments
1.1 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.
Will County Historic Preservation Commission
1.1 km
Explore Will County's architectural treasures and learn about its rich history at the Historic Preservation Commission in Joliet, Illinois.
The Strange & Unusual Gallery
1.1 km
Explore the bizarre and beautiful at Joliet's Strange & Unusual Gallery, where unconventional art ignites imagination and celebrates the extraordinary.
Rialto Square Theatre
1.2 km
Experience the grandeur of a bygone era at the Rialto Square Theatre, a meticulously restored vaudeville palace in the heart of Joliet.
Joliet Slammers Baseball
1.2 km
Catch exciting Frontier League baseball with the Joliet Slammers at Duly Health and Care Field in downtown Joliet. Affordable family fun!
Joilet,IL 1896 Prison
1.2 km
Explore the infamous Old Joliet Prison, a historic landmark with imposing Gothic architecture and a rich, dark past, featured in movies and TV shows.
Prison City Vintage
1.2 km
Explore the charm of vintage fashion at Prison City Vintage in Joliet, where every piece has a story waiting to be discovered.
The Old Joliet Haunted Prison
1.3 km
Experience the ultimate Halloween scare inside a real abandoned prison. Explore Joliet's haunted history, if you dare!
Hiram B. Scutt Mansion
1.3 km
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
Joliet Iron Works Historic Site
0.4 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
0.6 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
0.8 km
Experience the nostalgia of Route 66 at Joliet's beautiful park, where history meets nature in a picturesque setting.
Joliet Area Historical Museum
1.0 km
Explore the vibrant history of Joliet at the Joliet Area Historical Museum, where engaging exhibits bring the past to life for every visitor.
Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66
1.0 km
Explore the vibrant history of rock music at the Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66, where legends come to life in Joliet, Illinois.
Old Joliet Prison
1.1 km
Discover the haunting history and unique architecture of the Old Joliet Prison, a must-see attraction in Joliet, Illinois for history enthusiasts.
Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park
1.3 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
1.5 km
Discover the charm and elegance of Jacob Henry Mansion, a historic event venue in Joliet, perfect for weddings and special occasions.
Haunted Trails Family Entertainment Center & Picnics
1.6 km
Discover family-friendly fun and thrills at Haunted Trails Family Entertainment Center in Joliet, Illinois - where excitement meets adventure!
Mayor Art Schultz Park
1.7 km
Experience the tranquility of nature at Mayor Art Schultz Park, a scenic oasis in Joliet, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and outdoor activities.
Nowell Park
3.6 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
4.8 km
Explore the natural beauty and tranquility of Pilcher Park Nature Center in Joliet, Illinois, a perfect escape for outdoor lovers and families alike.
Paul E. Briese Park
5.9 km
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Blues Brothers Copmobile
6.3 km
Discover the Blues Brothers Copmobile in Joliet, Illinois – a nostalgic tribute to the iconic film that captures the heart of American pop culture.
Lake Renwick Heron Rookery Nature Preserve
10.6 km
Explore Lake Renwick Heron Rookery Nature Preserve: A haven for bird watchers and nature lovers seeking tranquility in Illinois.
Essential places to dine
Puerto Escondido
0.4 km
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Mariscos La Laguna
0.4 km
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Stefanich's Restaurant & Lounge
0.4 km
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El Primo Mexican Restaurant
0.4 km
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Sunshine Mexican Cafe - Restaurant & Catering
0.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Sunshine Mexican Cafe in Joliet - where every dish tells a story.
Azul Celeste Bar and Grill
0.7 km
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Luna Mexicana Restaurant
0.8 km
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La Villa Restaurant
0.9 km
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El Huichol De Don Memo
0.9 km
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YURA NUNA (formerly K Ribs BBQ)
0.9 km
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Juliet's Tavern
1.0 km
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Vela’s Restaurant & Lounge
1.0 km
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Mousa
1.1 km
Discover the essence of Greek cuisine at Mousa in Joliet—where every dish tells a story and every meal is a celebration.
CUT 158 Chophouse
1.1 km
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Taco Truck
1.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Joliet Jewelry Store
0.6 km
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Damaris Boutique
0.7 km
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Plaza Robles
0.9 km
Discover the charm of western fashion at Plaza Robles, your go-to store for boots, apparel, and essential financial services in Joliet, Illinois.
Western Wear
0.9 km
Discover authentic western apparel at Western Wear in Joliet, Illinois - a unique shopping experience for tourists and fashion enthusiasts alike.
Shop 1928
1.0 km
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Latino Illusion Cano
1.0 km
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Amalove Boutique
1.1 km
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Ready Set Zoe
1.1 km
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Dstylz n things
1.1 km
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ARTESANO STORE LLC
1.2 km
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It Is Amazing
1.2 km
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Western Grocery Store
1.3 km
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The Juncture
1.3 km
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Greg Spiess Antiques
1.5 km
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Clothingus
1.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Johnny's On Hickory
0.8 km
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Crybabies Tap
1.0 km
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Judge's Bar - Joliet
1.0 km
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Steel City Saloon
1.1 km
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Mid Town Tap
1.5 km
Discover the lively Mid Town Tap in Joliet, IL, a perfect bar for relaxation with great drinks and an inviting atmosphere.
Crow's Nest Tavern
1.7 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.
Thirty-Buck
1.7 km
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Izzy's LLC
2.1 km
Experience the thrill of sports at Izzy's LLC, Joliet's favorite sports bar with delicious food and a lively atmosphere for all!
Bobby's Tap
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Bobby's Tap, Joliet's premier gay bar, known for its inclusive vibe and lively entertainment.
Eden Bar and Grill
3.4 km
Experience the delicious grill cuisine and vibrant atmosphere at Eden Bar and Grill in Joliet, Illinois, a local favorite for food and fun.
Longshots
3.7 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Longshots, where delicious grilled dishes and refreshing drinks meet in Joliet's vibrant dining scene.
Saloon 2
4.0 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
4.7 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience at Sidelines in Joliet, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and lively entertainment await.
Industry Tap House
6.7 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
6.8 km
Discover Double J Sports Bar in Joliet, Illinois – where sports, great food, and local entertainment come together in a fun, friendly atmosphere.
