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Old Joliet Prison

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Review Highlights

“ on. The Prison was featured in 'The Blues Brothers' movie and in the first season of TV's 'Prison B ” in 5 reviews

“ The tour is an hour and a half so make sure you have your walking shoes on. ” in 3 reviews

“ Zach made the Old Joliet Jail come alive with many facts, stories and his great knowledge of the area and jail . ” in 3 reviews

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1125 N Collins St

Joliet, IL 60432

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This was on our bucket list so we took the General History Tour, we are so glad we did! There are signs everywhere for the self guided tour but you get into some of the other areas through the tour so I highly recommend it! From start to finish, our tour guide was amazing! He was so full of information and was genuinely interested in the history of the prison and all the operations of it. It didn't seem like just a job to him, he was very knowledgeable about every aspect. We toured the grounds, several of the cell blocks, two different solitary confinements, the cafeteria and the chapel. Getting to go into the areas and really feel the history made a big difference rather than just walking around. You can see into everything though so if you don't have time for a guided tour, definitely do a self guided one. The gift shop has very minimal offerings, mostly Route 66 and Blue's Brothers items but we managed to find a giant brass key souvenir to add to our collection as we tour the country!

See all photos from Cindy P. for Old Joliet Prison

First time coming here. I'm a person that loves history and nostalgia. This place offers alot when it comes to tours from daytime tours, flashlight tours and I suppose a ghost tour. For only $28 we got the flashlight tour and you only have access to a few buildings because alot of them are too dangerous to enter.... It is an abandoned building after all and it definitely looks beaten up.... I hope my money here and all the other local events featured here go toward fixing this place up. Please wear some heavy shoes because you might step into broken glass or a Puddle of water. Staff here doesn't bother you but there are plenty of things to read to get information. It's a shame that when this place got abandoned, it had plenty of graffiti.

What a cool experience! They offer a variety of tours from self guided, to haunted history, to paranormal investigations (upon special request!). This place has not been fancied up. A lot of it is in shambles still so the entry fee is going to help make more areas safe for visiting. They explained that when it closed down they just locked up and left. There are old artifacts everywhere here, definitely showing that! But unfortunately being abandoned for a while also led to a lot of theft and graffiti. We paid for the haunted history tour and got to check out a bunch of different spots in the jail. I would say the area that felt most unusual to me was the chapel- the air was so thick and still in there. Nothing crazy happened to me during the tour but some other people claimed to have heard voices. Our tour guide was funny but knowledgeable and is confident this place is extremely haunted. The prison now hosts events on the grounds as well to raise money. It's worth a stop to check out this historic and haunted location!

See all photos from Suzanne B. for Old Joliet Prison

Still beyond cool. You have total freedom to walk the entire outer areas, around all buildings and walls. Going inside depends on your tour and the time of that tour. A little damp inside the prison with standing water, so dress accordingly. Not accessible for those who need level ground. I took about 2 hours wandering the huge prison. Make sure to switch to B and W for some old school vibes. Free parking btw. Check in at the Visitor Center at the end of the parking lot (it has the only inside plumbing!)

See all photos from Bob L. for Old Joliet Prison

$20 admission to this old prison We walk around Taking pictures & videos My only complain is they don't have sm or lrg sizes on the blues brothers shirts

See all photos from Araceli C. for Old Joliet Prison

What happened to the Guard Tours? They were awesome! Mike and Ron were the best! Now, you just have some lame guided tour or ones with people who don't even know how to open the cell doors. Really sad. Wanted to bring some out of town friends here, but the staff is now super unfriendly. Guess they fired the good ones. Bad management, I hear.

Well this was a bucket list to visit since I discovered they turned this into a museum. I discovered they opened it last year since the other part of the prison which historically was the women's side for Joliet prison was now turned into a walk through haunted house venue for Halloween. I was invited or had gotten free admission from my elite privileges that October 31st that I attended and discovered when parking on the other side of the building that they also was giving regular historical tours. Moving a almost see your forward I decide to make this a bucket list. Although not as big as the other prisons that I've been to such as Alcatraz or Eastern State penitentiary it was worth learning about. Especially if you're into the paranormal stuff. Zack and Christine really facilitated explaining about the prison history. A lot of emphasis on the old movie with Dan aykroyd and Jim Belushi The blues Brothers which was filmed there back in the 80s and they actually use prisoners as extras. it was built prior before the civil war and it was interesting how they got a cistern or well water to provide clean water if not potable water for prisoners in the early times of the prison. Certain prison cells that they mentioned did give me the willies or heebie jeebies but then again it was getting close to darkness outside. Another TV or movie series which they use this building was called prison break so if you're a big prison break fan this is a bucket list to go through. Otherwise a good historical tour I wouldn't want to be the guides doing this but then again I wouldn't be doing this in any prison in general that's been abandoned or not being used

See all photos from Art J. for Old Joliet Prison

For us the top thing to do in Joliet is the Old Joliet Prison. It's worth the ticket price of $20 for a self-guided tour/roam around the entire prison. You can pretty much go in and explore all of the old buildings and jail cells. And they have some interesting signs posted with the history and information so you know what you're looking at. This prison held inmates from 1858 to 2002. It was also the filming location for the prison where Jake was released at the beginning of the The Blues Brothers!

I very much enjoyed this visit. We took the self-guided tour. I'm sure the guided tour was nice also, but we preferred walking around on our own. There are informational signs posted everywhere. The staff were so nice and informative about everything also. I Would for sure recommend stopping by here. You don't have to have a reservation. You can buy tickets at the gate.

See all photos from Sarah R. for Old Joliet Prison

A fundraiser and (one-year delayed) 40th anniversary of the Blues Brothers movie was held over the weekend at the Old Joliet Prison which was built in 1858. The facility gives tours and has been working to raise money to restore it as an historical place. The Blues Brothers was filmed there in 1980. Great to see Jim Belushi and the Sacred Heart Band along with Dan Ackroyd and two original band members - Steve Cropper and Tom "Bones" Malone. Around 6,000 people turned out.

See all photos from Gregory W. for Old Joliet Prison

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The Night Tour! - Old Joliet Prison

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The Night Tour!

I tried to get over to the Joliet Prison a few months ago, but had to cancel all of that due to a quarantine scare (all fine). So, now I had a credit and had to go alone instead of with my daughter, who is in school. I decided it would be fun to take a night tour since most things I was doing are during the day. It opened up an afternoon to see other things. It started at 8:00 PM. I arrived at 7 to take some pictures before it got dark. For this tour, you park around the back of the prison. It was explained well on the email they send you, but still, half the people went to the wrong lot and had to be called and told directions. Everyone that got tickets for this were told online that this is more of a rated PG13-ish experience and not really for little kids. Of course, we had a 2-3 year old with blinking pink light up ears and flashing shoes in our group, which was very annoying when you are trying to create atmosphere on a night tour. I hate when people only think of themselves. Eventually the kid fell asleep and all the blinking was shut off. Back to the real tour. It was excellent. The woman that was our guide had some interesting stories to tell and I'm glad she didn't tone it down because someone decided to bring a kid. The lights in the prison were all off. We had a few flashlights and phone lights and then moon light and lights in the distance. It was great. We made stops to look into the chapel, one of the cell blocks, a small area that was for inmates that were segregated outside, which was the size of half a basketball court. We made our way along the main cell block, stopping for stories. She would shine her flashlight on different parts of the buildings where certain things happened. We then made it to the hospital, which we got to go into. Again, no lights. The guide and her 2 helpers had lights and made sure we didn't wander into places that were off limits and to count us all as we went in and came back out, so we didn't lose anyone. The hospital was genuinely creepy and I would go into rooms and shut off my light, just to see it with dim lights from other's flashlights in other rooms. It was cool. Once we were back outside, we made out way over to Death Row. We got to see the outside cell and then went in and could wander around and even go into cells. Again, I really didn't use my light much as it was cooler in the dark. There is a recreation of the electric chair there for a display. The real one is apparently now at Stateville (on being used). More good stories in this building. We then worked our way back to the gate we came in. I got a hoodie for my daughter and a book and magnet for myself. It was an excellent tour. I even mentioned that it was a better night tour than the Alcatraz Night Tour I did a few years ago. Our guide was genuinely happy with that compliment.

Very neat piece of history to check out. The only downside is because of vandals the majority of the prison interior is off limits. Still worth checking out, they have informative billboards placed all around so you know what you are looking at.

Went to the prison for a visit. All reservations online, with timed entry. Liz, reservation person, information person, gift shop person, helpful, lovely person greeted us by name when we arrived. She was pleasant and engaging. Gave us the lay of the land and sent us on our way. We did the self guided tour. It was great, with lots of information scattered about posted at each of the buildings. The downside is it’s limiting in that the guided tour allows you to access a few places we weren’t able to check out more closely. We thought we’d have a bit more up close sights. Didn’t need to worry much about social distancing since the day we visited, only one guided tour was ongoing. They do limit visitors in each time slot. I wanted to buy a tee shirt that had some catchy phrase on it about escaping the prison or something, but right now only a few items to purchase. Liz did tell us new merch is coming. Pretty nice activity for a daycation!

As keen Blues Brothers and Prison Break series fans whilst staying in Chicago we had to visit this place. It is an hour and a half by train from Chicago then a 5 minute bus ride. Train was $16 return and $2.25 on the bus per person. Disappointed we could only view the exterior but well worth the trip.

It is a very old building we only toured the Outside since it wasn't opened the day we were there. maybe next time.

We only came here to take some photos of the outside, but when taking a few snaps at the side gate (I'm a big fan of the Blues Brothers, so had to get a few snaps where Jake was released) a guy from the inside came up and spoke to us. We told him why we were there and he proceeds to open the gate to let us in and give us our own personal tour of the prison, highlighting where each short scene from the Blues Brothers was filmed. It was amazing for me, who has loved the film since I was kid. There is so much history in this place and it is a wonderful old place to see in real life. We didn't book an official tour as we had a long drive ahead of us and were just passing, but the guy that took us on our 'unofficial tour' (so sorry, I didn't get his name) absolutely made our day, and our holiday! We even got to meet the Mayor of Joliet (Bob O'Dekirk) who was walking around inside. He came over and introduced himself to us, asked us where we were from and when we told him we were from Birmingham England, thought it was pretty cool that we came from the same place as Ozzy Osbourne, haha! Apparently, he's a huge Sabbath fan! So I highly recommend that you do one of the official tours of this place - you will not be disappointed. I hope they they manage to get the prison back up to scratch and get Dan Aykroyd involved in helping them out with it in 2020, which will be the 40th anniversary of the Blues Brothers movie. Thanks again to our tour guide - you are a credit to Joliet prison and we can't thank you enough for what you did for us.

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Old Joliet Prison Tours

1125 N. Collins Street, Joliet, IL 60432

State Parks & National Forest

The castle-like Prison was built with Joliet limestone, with over 20 buildings inside its four walls. Take the hour-long tour on specific days of the week, and learn more about Joliet Correctional Center ... which is more known as Old Joliet Prison.

The Old Joliet Prison was built in the 1850's, housing infamous criminals like Leopold, Loeb and Gacy. The prison also housed some famous characters, including Joliet Jake Blues (The Blues Brothers) and Michael Scofield and Lincoln Burrons (Prison Break).

Pre-scheduled, guided tours are offered via the Joliet Area Historical Museum for select areas of the Prison “campus” from the months of April – October. Walking tours last approximately 90 minutes. Visitors should please note that because the site has been abandoned for over fifteen years, certain areas of the facility are off limits to the general public.

At the current time, tours are not ADA approved. 70% of the tour is accessible for all patrons.

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Historical Tours Resume At Old Joliet Prison

Famed site along route 66 opens for 2023 season.

Old Joliet Prison.

Guided and self-guided tours are back at the Old Joliet Prison. The legendary penitentiary turned historical site, managed by the Joliet Area Historical Museum in partnership with the city of Joliet, has kicked off the 2023 season with a variety of tours suitable for various interests and age groups.

The Old Joliet Prison is without a doubt one of the most widely photographed sites along The First Hundred Miles, and for good reason. The palatial former penitentiary has been featured in dozens of popular films and television shows, including the classic movie comedy “The Blues Brothers” and the first season of Fox’s “Prison Break.” Prior to its closing in 2002, the towering neoclassical compound housed its share of notorious inmates as well, including Richard Speck, John Wayne Gacy, James Earl Ray and Baby Face Nelson.

Originally constructed in 1858, the gigantic limestone prison remained in operation for nearly a century and a half. After its closure, operation of the vacant facility was taken over by the Joliet Area Historical Museum, which now offers guided, self-guided and specialty themed tours throughout the year. Tours currently booking include:

(Shaw Media)

Prison After Dark Tours

General public: $40, museum member: $35

A 90-minute walking tour explores the darker side of the prison. The historical tour will cover some of the more macabre stories as you walk through the site at dusk. The tour takes you into the East and West Cell Houses, North Segregation, Cafeteria, Chapel and the Honor Dorm.

Disclaimer: This tour does not involve ghost hunting or paranormal activity, and is not recommended for small children.

Guard Tours

A 90-minute walking tour is led by two docents who worked at the prison while it was still in operation until its closing in 2002. You will hear about daily life at the prison during their time there, gaining a more personal take on the site’s history. The tour takes you into the East and West Cell Houses, North Segregation, Cafeteria, Chapel and Honor Dorm.

Disclaimer: Adult themes and language are used.

General History Tour

General public: $30, museum member: $25

A 90-minute walking tour of the Old Joliet Prison is led by docents and trained tour guides from the Joliet Area Historical Museum. The tour talks about the general history of the site from when it first opened in 1858 until its closure in 2002. The historic tour is a great introduction to the prison and its history. The tour takes you into the East and West Cell Houses, North Segregation, Cafeteria, Chapel and the Honor Dorm.

Self-Guided Tours

General public: $20, children (ages 3-12): $10; free to children younger than 3 and museum members

Walk the site at your own pace. Informational signs are stationed throughout the grounds providing historical information and photos. The North Segregation Building, Cafeteria and East Cell House are open to walk through. Are you a photographer looking to take photos up close of this famed historic site? For a $10 photography tripod fee, you bring your equipment along on your self-guided tour.

For more information and to reserve your tour, visit JolietPrison.org/About-Our-Tours .

Follow the Old Joliet Prison and Joliet Area Historical Museum on Facebook.

https://www.thefirsthundredmiles.com/2023/03/10/historical-tours-resume-at-old-joliet-prison/

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2023 Old Joliet Prison Tours

March 25, 2023 @ 10:00 am - october 27, 2023 @ 5:00 pm.

The Old Joliet Prison tour program is primarily managed by the  Joliet Area Historical Museum , a 501(c)3 not-for-profit entity, in partnership with the  City of Joliet . The proceeds from activities will be used to expand the Museum’s mission to preserve and disseminate the history of Joliet, as well as to fund much-needed measures to secure and stabilize the site to allow expanded activities.

“Self-Guided Prison Tour”

Walk the site at your own pace. Informational signs are stationed throughout the grounds providing historical information and photos. The  North Segregation Building  is open to walk through.  Tour hours between 10am and 5pm

• General Public: $20
• Museum Members: Free
• Children (ages 3-12): $10
• Children under the age of 3 are free
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This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

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2023 flashlight tours at the old joliet prison, flashlight tours start friday, sept. 22nd at the old joliet prison, mike b , community contributor.

Starting Friday, Sept. 23rd, we will be offering Flashlight Tours at the Old Joliet Prison 7 days a week from 5pm to 9pm. All tours include a souvenir Flashlight!

Admission is $30 for adults and $10 for children ages 3 to 10 years of age. Children under age of 3 are free. Reservations are recommended. Please visit www.jolietprison.org to book your tickets today!

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Haunted Tours At The Old Joliet Prison

This Fall season, explore the sixteen-acre grounds of the iconic Old Joliet Prison with a variety of new evening tour experiences. The true stories and historic accounts of those who lived and worked at “America’s Toughest Prison” come to life, offering a narrative far more chilling than fiction. 

Haunted History: The Prison’s popular tours return nightly. A Joliet Area Historical Museum Staff Member will guide you through the Prison, accessing rarely seen buildings and cellblocks while relaying the true stories of the people, places and things that have left a haunting legacy at the Old Joliet Prison. 

Flashlight Tours: New this year, a self-guided journey that gives guests the opportunity to explore the grounds of the Prison behind its 25-foot high limestone walls at their own pace. Included with admission is a limited-edition Old Joliet Prison flashlight to light your way (while supplies last) while Illuminated interpretative signage illustrating the history of the Prison with dozens of historic photos and firsthand accounts guides your journey.

Captain’s Court Beer Garden: On selected evenings, included with all admissions is access to the “Captain’s Court” Beer Garden, featuring a specialized selection of local craft beers and adult beverages (for guests 21 and over). 

All tours and pricing is subject to availability and due to high demand, pre-booking is strongly encouraged. 

• Sunday-Wednesday, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM, last admission sold at 7:00 PM 
• Thursday-Saturday 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM, last admission sold at 8:00 PM
• Haunted History Guided Tours (Nightly, through October 31 st , subject to availability, pre-booking required at www.jolietmuseum.org )
• Thursday, October 28 th , 
• Friday, October 29 th , 
• Saturday, October 30 th ,
• Sunday October 31 st  

All tours and pricing are subject to availability and due to high demand, pre-booking is strongly encouraged. The Old Joliet Prison tour experience is akin to an outdoor hike and all guests are recommended to dress for outdoor conditions suitable to traverse approximately one mile. To book your tour, visit www.jolietmuseum.org , www.jolietprison.org or phone 312-978-1282.  

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Explore a ‘haunting’ legacy with special tours at the Old Joliet Prison

Museum says narratives are ‘more chilling than fiction’.

The old Joliet prison as seen on Wednesday, July 11, 2018 in Joliet, Ill. The Joliet Area Historical Museum is offering two special tours of the prison through the end of October. (Eric Ginnard)

Grab some last-minute Halloween scares by registering for a haunted history guided tour or a self-guided flashlight tour at the Old Joliet Prison.

Both tours of the 16-acre grounds and the areas behind the 25-foot high limestone walls will run nightly through Sunday. Registration is required for the haunted history guided tour, which is “guided” by a staff member from the Joliet Area Historical Museum, according to a news release from the museum.

Patrons will access cellblocks and buildings that are rarely seen and hear true stories about the prison’s people, places and things, a narrative that is “far more chilling than fiction,” the release said.

Or patrons can set out on their own with a limited-edition Old Joliet Prison flashlight (while supplies last, included with admission) to explore the prison at their own pace. The “guide” in this case will be “Illuminated interpretative signage illustrating the history of the prison” along with “dozens of historic photos and firsthand accounts,” the release said.

On selected evenings, patrons 21 and up can visit the “Captain’s Court” beer garden, which is available from 5 to 9:30 pm. Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday and features local craft beers and adult beverages. The beer garden is included in the admission price, the release said.

Patrons should dress for outdoor weather and be able to walk at least one mile.

For times and to register for a tour, visit jolietmuseum.org or call 312-978-1282.

Prefer a more traditional Halloween experience? The Old Joliet Haunted Prison still has a few openings. To see a trailer and event times, purchase tickets and for information, visit hauntedprison.com .