Member Spotlight: Illinois Rock & Roll Museum & Audiophil’s Records –
A Music Lover’s Must-Visit in Joliet
Music has always been a big part of Illinois’ identity. Some of the most influential rock, blues, and jazz artists have roots here, and Joliet has two standout spots that celebrate that history. The Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66 tells the stories of the musicians who shaped the industry, while Audiophil’s Records keeps the vinyl experience alive for collectors and casual shoppers.
Honoring Music Legends
The Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66 honors the musicians, bands, and industry professionals who shaped Illinois' music scene. Through exhibits and the Hall of Fame, the museum preserves the stories of legendary artists, recognizing their impact on rock, blues, and beyond.
The museum showcases artist exhibits featuring bands like REO Speedwagon, Cheap Trick, and Train, along with memorabilia that offers a deeper look into their legacies. Items such as original stage gear, instruments, and rare recordings make the experience immersive for visitors.
Beyond rock & roll, the museum highlights the history of radio broadcasting through its Radio Lane’s exhibit, named after Lane Lindstrom, a dedicated radio professional recognized by the 101st Illinois General Assembly. The exhibit includes elements from Studio A at WAJP, paying tribute to the role radio played in shaping Illinois' music culture.
Inductions into the Hall of Fame celebrate artists like Muddy Waters, REO Speedwagon, The Buckinghams, and Dan Fogelberg. The museum gives fans a space to learn about their journeys and influence on the industry.
By combining interactive exhibits, artist memorabilia, and historical storytelling, the museum offers a must-visit experience for anyone passionate about music
More Than Just a Record Store
A record shop is more than a place to buy music—it’s a meeting ground for collectors, music lovers, and those searching for something they didn’t even know they needed. That’s exactly what Audiophil’s Records brings to downtown Joliet.
For the owners, opening the shop wasn’t just a business decision; it was about contributing to the community. “We live here, this is our community, and what’s a downtown without a record store?” That passion for keeping music alive is what makes Audiophil’s special. Unlike many record stores that have shifted to online sales, they chose to remain strictly in-person because they believe in the thrill of the hunt. The joy of flipping through bins, getting your hands a little dirty, and stumbling upon a hidden gem is an experience that can’t be replicated with a search bar and a shopping cart.
The vinyl resurgence has helped the shop grow in ways they never expected. “This intergenerational resurgence has allowed us to really thrive and dig our roots in. As well as keep us up on new music—there is a lot out there and it’s a challenge,” they shared. Keeping up with the latest releases is just as important as stocking the classics, and their selection reflects that. Customers walk out with stacks that might include Willie Nelson, Pink Floyd, and Doechii all in one go.
Some truly incredible records have passed through Audiophil’s doors. One of the rarest was an original pressing of John Coltrane’s “A Love Supreme,” a legendary jazz album that hadn’t been reissued since 1964 at the time. A collector from Minnesota, in town for the holidays, snagged it for a three-figure price. The rarest record still in their store? A numbered original pressing of Prince’s “The Gold Experience” from 1995—#217 in existence.
Running the shop as a family-owned business comes with challenges. “As first-time business owners, you can underestimate the time it takes; especially for us being family-owned and operated. If we're open, one of us is here. We’ve still not overcome it—LOL!” Even with long hours, their love for music and the local community keeps them going.
There’s something special about a store like Audiophil’s. Every visit brings the possibility of finding that elusive album, a new favorite, or a great conversation. The store is a reminder that vinyl collecting is as much about the experience as it is about the music itself.
A Perfect Pair for Music Enthusiasts
The Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66 and Audiophil’s Records offer different ways to experience music, but together, they create a well-rounded trip for any music lover. The museum preserves and honors the artists who built Illinois’ music scene, while Audiophil’s keeps that music accessible through vinyl.
Both locations are just a 7-minute walk from each other, making it easy to visit both in a single trip. Spend time exploring the history behind Illinois’ biggest artists, then stop by Audiophil’s to take home a record and bring that history to life.
FREE VISITORS GUIDE
FREE VISITORS GUIDE
