Old Joliet Prison Guided History Tour
Explore the Old Joliet Prison's history, inmate stories, and surviving cell blocks
Duration
90 mins
Includes
Guided tour, self-guided access
Highlights
Step inside the Old Joliet Prison with trained guides from the Joliet Area Historical Museum. Explore the site's history from its 1858 opening through its 2002 closure.
- Explore the West Cell House, North Segregation, Cafeteria, and other available buildings
- Hear stories of prison life, notable inmates, escapes, and the site's evolution
- Discover an introduction to the prison's history and atmosphere
- Follow trained docents and tour guides through the historic site
What's Included
- Guided walking tour
- Self-guided site access after the guided tour
Important details
- Ages under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian throughout the tour
- Wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes for the flat 16-acre site and its considerable walking distance
- Dress for the weather; the tour is outdoors, the site is not temperature regulated, and tours run rain or shine
- A clear bag policy applies
- Acknowledge the site waiver and enter at your own risk; the vacant property has disrepair and potential slip, trip, fall, debris, environmental, and pest hazards
- Site conditions may not suit impaired mobility; uneven pavement, slight inclines, and no transportation from parking to the interior are available
- Bring service animals only inside the prison walls
Cancellation Policy
No refunds or exchanges for special events or specialty tours. For other cancellations, rescheduling requests made at least 24 hours before the visit may be accommodated based on availability. No-shows forfeit tickets. Full refund or rescheduling if the operator cancels due to severe weather or unforeseen circumstances.
Product ID: 4FN272
FAQs
Take photos for personal use, provided they do not interfere with other visitors' experience.
Access to buildings and areas in the prison yard may change during the season because stabilization work is ongoing.
Only service animals are permitted inside the prison walls.
Meeting details
East Gate, 1125 N. Collins Street, Joliet, IL 60432
