The Grand Ballroom, Joliet Travel Guide

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Experience timeless elegance in a historic Beaux-Arts train station, perfect for weddings, corporate events, and special celebrations.

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The Grand Ballroom

Step back in time at the Grand Ballroom, a beautifully restored event space within the historic Joliet Union Station. Built in 1912, this elegant ballroom features soaring ceilings, arched windows, and crystal chandeliers, offering a unique and sophisticated setting for weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings.

A brief summary to The Grand Ballroom

50 E Jefferson St, Joliet, Illinois, 60432, US
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Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Grand Ballroom.

Consider the season when booking, as the ballroom's large west-facing windows can make it warm in the late afternoon sun.
Explore the station's architecture and historical features, including the grand staircase and original ticket office.
Check for events at the nearby Hollywood Casino Joliet or other downtown attractions to enhance your visit.

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Explore The Grand Ballroom on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near The Grand Ballroom, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Joliet Gateway Center (90 E Jefferson St), walk west along Jefferson Street towards the Grand Ballroom at 50 E Jefferson St. The walk is short, approximately 5 minutes, and straightforward.
Public Transport

Pace buses serve Joliet Union Station. Check Pace bus schedules for routes and times. A single-ride fare is typically around $2. Dial-a-Ride services are available in Joliet and surrounding townships for eligible seniors and disabled riders, with fares around $2.00 one-way.
Driving

From I-80, take exit 132 for Chicago Street/IL-53 toward Joliet. Follow Chicago Street into downtown Joliet. Turn right onto E. Jefferson Street. The Union Station will be on your right. Several parking lots are available near the station. The Union Station Lot (24 Lincoln Hwy) charges $1 per hour. Other nearby options include the Chicago/Marion Street Lot, with daily rates around $1.50.

Discover more about The Grand Ballroom

The Grand Ballroom at Joliet Union Station offers a unique glimpse into the past, housed within a landmark Beaux-Arts train station dating back to 1912. Designed by architect Jarvis Hunt, the station itself is a historical treasure, constructed from Bedford limestone and featuring distinctive Romanesque windows. The Grand Ballroom, once a bustling hub for travelers, has been transformed into a versatile event space that blends old-world grandeur with modern amenities.The ballroom boasts soaring high ceilings, exquisite crystal chandeliers, and a veranda that offers panoramic views of downtown Joliet. The space retains many of its original architectural details, including stunning stonework and a traditional-style ticket office, providing a memorable backdrop for any occasion. The Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 200 seated guests, making it ideal for wedding receptions, corporate events, and social gatherings. Ceremonies can be hosted at the station entrance, framed by symmetrical stone pillars and arched windows.Joliet Union Station's location has a rich history, with the Chicago and Rock Island Railroad commencing service to the city in 1852. By 1885, Joliet was a major rail hub served by four trunkline railroads. The station, strategically located at the intersection of the Rock Island and Alton main lines, played a vital role in the city's development. Today, Joliet Union Station continues to serve as an active transportation hub, with Amtrak and Metra train lines providing service to Chicago and beyond.