Old Joliet Prison, Northern Illinois Travel Guide

The Old Joliet Prison, also known as the Joliet Correctional Center, stands as a stark reminder of Illinois's penal history. Built in the 1850s with locally quarried Joliet limestone, the prison's imposing castellated Gothic architecture, complete with turrets and battlements, has made it a recognizable landmark. For nearly 150 years, from 1858 to 2002, it housed thousands of inmates, including notorious criminals like Leopold and Loeb, Richard Speck, and John Wayne Gacy.Originally intended to replace the overcrowded and inhumane Alton Prison, Joliet was initially hailed as a state-of-the-art penitentiary. However, it soon faced its own challenges with overcrowding, unsanitary conditions, and a reputation for cruelty. Despite calls for its closure as early as 1905, the prison remained in operation until budget cuts forced its closure in 2002.After its closure, the prison fell into disrepair, suffering from vandalism and neglect. However, in recent years, the City of Joliet and the Joliet Area Historical Museum have spearheaded efforts to preserve and restore the site. Today, the Old Joliet Prison offers a variety of tours, allowing visitors to explore its cell blocks, chapel, and other areas while learning about its history and impact.The prison has also gained fame as a filming location for movies and TV shows like "The Blues Brothers" and "Prison Break". Visitors can explore areas that were once off-limits and learn about the prison's influence on Illinois prison reform. The site is not fully ADA compliant due to its historic nature, but efforts are made to accommodate guests. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather, as tours are primarily conducted outdoors.