Unlock The Secrets of The Old Joliet State Prison

The famed Old Joliet State Prison is widely regarded by movie and gangster buffs alike. The filming location of the cult classic comedy ‘THE BLUES BROTHERS’, this historic prison continues to draw in tourists, film and television crews year after year.

Originally constructed in 1858, this gigantic limestone penitentiary remained in operation until 2002, and has famously been featured in movies like The Blues Brothers. This facility isn’t just steep in fascinating pop-culture history; in its early years, Joliet held a mixture of regional offenders and Civil War POWs.

Infamous for housing inmates such as Richard Speck, John Wayne Gacy, James Earl Ray and Babyface Nelson, you can spend ‘A Night Behind Bars’ if you dare.

After it’s closure, operation of the vacant facility was taken over by the Joliet Area Historical Museum, who now offer a series of special guided tours at the famed correctional facility. Particularly fascinating are the Guard Tours, led by retired prison employees, who share the ins and outs, and first hand accounts, of life inside this famed prison! Tours are strongly recommended for guests age 16+, all minors must be accompanied by a guardian.

To see a full listing of tours, visit jolietmuseum.org

Call The Rt 66 Welcome Center At 815-723-5201For Tickets

Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12pm-5pm

Old Joliet State Prison

1125 Collins St, Joliet, Ill