The Old Joliet Haunted Prison, Joliet Travel Guide

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Experience the ultimate Halloween scare inside a real abandoned prison. Explore Joliet's haunted history, if you dare!

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The Old Joliet Haunted Prison

Brave the haunted cells of the Old Joliet Prison, a chilling Halloween attraction set within the walls of a real, abandoned penitentiary. Experience intense scares and ghostly encounters in this unique and historic setting.

A brief summary to The Old Joliet Haunted Prison

401 Woodruff Rd, Joliet, Illinois, 60432, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Old Joliet Haunted Prison.

Book tickets in advance online to secure your spot and potentially save time.
Consider a Fast Pass or Skip the Line ticket to minimize wait times, especially on weekends.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven surfaces and climbing stairs.
Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as parts of the experience are outdoors.

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Explore The Old Joliet Haunted Prison on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near The Old Joliet Haunted Prison, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

The Old Joliet Haunted Prison is located at 401 Woodruff Rd, Joliet, IL 60432. From I-80, take the Collins Street exit and head south. Turn left onto Woodruff Road. The prison will be on your right. Free parking is available on site; follow the parking signs upon arrival.
Public Transport

The Joliet Union Station is the nearest train station, served by Metra and Amtrak. From the station, the Old Joliet Haunted Prison is accessible via a short bus ride or taxi. Pace bus routes 832 and 834 stop near the prison. A single bus fare is typically around $1.75. A short taxi or rideshare from the station to the prison will cost approximately $10-$15.

Discover more about The Old Joliet Haunted Prison

The Old Joliet Haunted Prison offers a terrifyingly unique experience, capitalizing on the prison's naturally eerie atmosphere and historical significance. Once the Illinois State Penitentiary, opening in 1858, the imposing gothic architecture, designed by W.W. Boyington, immediately set an ominous tone. Overcrowding and unsanitary conditions plagued the prison throughout its operation, contributing to its haunted reputation. Notorious criminals, including John Wayne Gacy and Baby Face Nelson, were once inmates, adding to the prison's dark history.Today, the Old Joliet Haunted Prison features multiple haunted attractions within the prison walls. Explore cell blocks, navigate through eerie corridors, and face terrifying characters. The haunted house utilizes the actual prison cells and cat walks, enhancing the spine-chilling atmosphere. Beyond the scares, visitors can appreciate the historical context and perhaps even encounter paranormal activity, with many reporting strange occurrences over the years. The site also offers concessions, a bar, and merchandise.