Weekend Getaway: Joliet's Best Gems

Experience the charm and excitement of historic Joliet, Illinois.

22 April 2023

A trip to Joliet, United States promises to offer a deep dive into the city's history, attractions and culture. Tourists can explore the beautiful parks, museums and art galleries while also indulging in some delicious cuisine. Furthermore, they can experience the thrill of gambling and try their luck at the Harrah's Joliet Casino.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Joliet's Hidden Gems

  • Check-in at Harrah's Joliet Hotel and Casino, a luxurious hotel with an exciting casino, multiple dining options, and a fitness center.
  • Visit the Joliet Area Historical Museum, where you can learn about Joliet's rich history, including its railroad heritage, gangster era, and industrial growth.
  • Take a stroll at Pilcher Park Nature Center, a serene park with over 640 acres of trails, woods, and wildlife.
  • Enjoy a craft beer and delicious pub food at MyGrain Brewing Co., a cozy taproom with an outdoor beer garden, live music, and board games.
  • Catch a show or a concert at the Rialto Square Theatre, an ornate theater that opened in 1926 and has hosted famous performers like Frank Sinatra and B.B. King.
Day 2

Adventures in and around Joliet

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Al's Steakhouse, a local institution that's been serving sizzling steaks and buttery toast since 1959.
  • Drive to Starved Rock State Park, a breathtaking park with 18 canyons, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. Hike one of the trails or take a guided trolley tour.
  • Visit the Chicagoland Speedway, a world-renowned motor racing track that hosts NASCAR, IndyCar, and other events. Take a behind-the-scenes tour or even drive a race car yourself.
  • Have dinner at Cornerstone Cafe, a charming eatery with a menu of American classics and international flavors. Try their famous stuffed French toast or artisan pizzas.
  • End your night with a nightcap at Tin Roof, a lively bar with a rooftop patio, delicious cocktails, and live music on weekends.
  • No summary paragraph necessaryEnjoy your trip to Joliet!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Joliet by plane is to fly into Chicago Midway International Airport and then take a car or a bus from the airport to Joliet. The distance between Chicago Midway International Airport and Joliet is about 35 miles.

Car

The best way to get to Joliet by car is to take the I-55 South from Chicago to Joliet. It takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no train station in Joliet. The closest train station is in Chicago Union Station, which is about 40 miles away from Joliet.

Boat

Since Joliet is not a coastal city, it is not possible to get there by boat.

Bus

The best way to get to Joliet by bus is to take a Greyhound bus from Chicago Bus Station to Joliet Bus Station. The journey takes about an hour.

More travel plans

Adventure-packed weekend getaway in Joliet, US.

Joliet is a city located in the northeastern part of Illinois, United States. It is known for its many attractions, such as the Rialto Square Theatre, the Chicagoland Speedway, and the Joliet Historical Museum. Visitors can enjoy the city's rich culture, delicious food, and thrilling activities during their trip to Joliet.

Joliet, USA: 4 Days of Fun, History, and Flavor!

A trip to Joliet on a limited budget can still be enjoyable with its numerous free and low-cost attractions. Visitors can start by exploring the historic downtown area, which is home to beautiful architecture and vibrant street art. They can also visit the scenic Rialto Square Theatre and enjoy the beautiful view of the Des Plaines River from the Hammel Woods Forest Preserve.

Joliet: Five Days of Family Fun and Adventure

Joliet, located in the heart of United States, offers a fantastic family-friendly getaway. With something for everyone, the city has several attractions like the Chicagoland Speedway that hosts thrilling NASCAR races, the interactive Children's Museum where kids can unleash their creativity, and the scenic Pilcher Park Nature Center for outdoor adventures. Whether you prefer fast-paced excitement or peaceful nature exploration, Joliet promises an amazing experience for the entire family.

Joliet Jaunt: Explore on a Budget

Visiting Joliet on a limited budget is entirely doable. As an affordable destination, travelers can enjoy outdoor activities at the Haunted Trails Family Amusement Park or explore history at the Joliet Area Historical Museum. The town is also home to many affordable dining options, including local favorites like Chicago Street Pub and Jitters Coffee House.