Joliet, Illinois
City of Fun
Less than an hour from downtown Chicago, the city of Joliet is teeming with quality entertainment, exciting sports events, recreation and so much more!
Known as "The City of Champions," Joliet is a regional champion of tourism, culture and the arts. One of these gems is the spectacular Rialto Square Theatre. Considered one of the 10 most beautiful theaters in the nation, the theater sits proudly on Route 66 and is a destination for all who travel the Mother Road. Daily weekday tours of the theater are offered June through August at 10 a.m. and noon, beginning with a brief history of the Rialto and a walk through the grand Esplanade and Rotunda’s beautiful architecture and craftsmanship. At the end of the tour, you can take a seat and listen to the melodious sounds from the extraordinary Barton Grande Theatre Pipe Organ in the breathtaking auditorium (cost is $5 per person). The Rialto Square Theatre has long attracted celebrity headliners to its stage. Offering concerts, comedy, Broadway, dance and family events, the Rialto ensures you can always find the entertainment you are looking for.
At the Joliet Historical Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center, you can get the Route 66 experience without leaving Illinois. Chicago Street in downtown Joliet was once home to the original cross-country highway, and many remnants from that era are kept alive through the center's dynamic exhibitions and educational programs.
Downtown Joliet is also home to a thriving arts scene. Joliet's Friends of Community Public Art has created colorful murals all over the city. Gallery 7, specializing in art photography, shows the work of regional artists all year round.
Unique places of interest include the Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park, located along the Des Plaines River downtown, which celebrates the founding of Joliet in 1832. The Will County Forest Preserve has an extensive set of trails along the historic I & M Canal to explore, along with Joliet Iron Works Park where visitors can learn about the long history of Joliet’s steel production. And don’t forget to stop at the Joliet State Prison Park and learn about this historic site dating from the Civil War era. Explore the rich past of the “Silk Stocking District” by stopping at the unbelievable Jacob Henry Mansion Estate.
If you're looking for that adventurous day trip or weekend get-away, look no further than Joliet, the city of fun! For more information go to www.jolietkicks.com
