Joliet, Illinois

History

Joliet, Illinois, has a rich history rooted in industry, transportation, and cultural growth. Established in the early 19th century, the area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes before French explorers, including Louis Jolliet, after whom the city was named, passed through in the late 1600s. By the 1830s, settlers arrived, and Joliet quickly grew due to its location along the Des Plaines River. The development of the Illinois and Michigan Canal in 1848 positioned Joliet as a major transportation hub, facilitating trade and commerce between Chicago and the Mississippi River. This growth was further accelerated by the expansion of the railroad, which connected the city to the broader Midwest economy.

By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Joliet became a powerhouse of industry, particularly in steel production, earning it the nickname "City of Steel and Stone." The Joliet Iron and Steel Works played a critical role in supplying materials for infrastructure projects nationwide. The city's limestone quarries also contributed to its development, with local stone used in buildings across Illinois, including the iconic Joliet Prison, built in 1858. Over time, as heavy industry declined in the late 20th century, Joliet reinvented itself with a focus on tourism, entertainment, and revitalization efforts, including the transformation of the downtown area, the rise of casinos, and the preservation of historic sites. Today, Joliet continues to blend its industrial legacy with modern cultural and economic development, making it a key city in Illinois’ history and future.

Top Experiences

Explore the legendary Old Joliet Prison, famous from movies and TV.

Catch a show at the breathtaking Rialto Square Theatre.

Discover hands-on exhibits at the Joliet Area Historical Museum.

Walk along the scenic Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park on the Des Plaines River
 

Food & Dining

• Cut 158 Chophouse – Ideal destination for steak and cocktails

• Hamburgerseria – A must-visit for creative and juicy burgers

• Juliet's Tavern – From sandwiches and pizza to fish, pasta, and steak

Where to Stay

• Harrah’s Joliet Casino & Hotel – A top pick for entertainment and gaming lovers

• Wingate by Wyndham Joliet – Comfortable and affordable with great amenities

• Home2 Suites Hotel – Spacious suites near Louis Joliet Mall

Projects

Gigantar

As part of the $1.5 million IL DCEO Route 66 Grant that Heritage Corridor Destinations was awarded last year, a giant guitar sculpture was commissioned from the artist Shannon MacDonald. The sculpture, nicknamed Gigantar, is the largest hand-made guitar sculpture ever created, measuring 24 feet tall.
 

Mural in Rialto
As part of the $1.5 million IL DCEO Route 66 Grant that Heritage Corridor Destinations was awarded last year, a mural representing both Route 66 and the Rialto Square Theatre was unveiled.