Joliet: Five Days of Family Fun and Adventure
Discover endless family fun in Joliet, where cherished memories come to life.
19 July 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
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.
Travel plan
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- Check into the retro-cool Hollywood Casino Hotel. It's not just for high rollers, but for stay-in-your-pajamas-and-watch-movies kinda people too.
- Kick off your Joliet adventure at the Museum of Broadcast Communications, where nostalgia meets pop culture with a side of vintage TV sets.
- Swing by Haunted Trails Family Entertainment Center for some mini-golf and go-karting. It's the perfect place to channel your inner Mario Andretti.
- Indulge in a juicy burger at the Chicago St. Pub. The walls are decked with relics from the city's Prohibition-era, making it feel like a speakeasy with a side of fries.
- Grab your glow sticks and boogie the night away at Joliet’s Rialto Square Theatre, a glamorous venue that hosts concerts, musicals, and the inevitable interpretive dance-off.
- Start your day with an adrenaline rush at the Chicagoland Speedway. As you watch the cars zoom by, you'll be dreaming of having the skills of a NASCAR pro.
- After the race, take a pitstop at the Joliet Area Historical Museum, where you'll uncover Joliet's past as the start line for Route 66. Embark on a road trip without leaving the building!
- Treat yourself to a delicious deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's Pizzeria. The cheesy gooey goodness will quench your hunger and fuel your need for speed.
- Gear up for the evening and head to the Emporium Arcade Bar. This adult playground boasts vintage arcade games and craft cocktails. Game on!
- Satisfy your need for speed once again with a trip to the Autobahn Country Club, where you can test your skills on a world-class kart racing track.
- Embark on a scenic adventure through the Pilcher Park Nature Center, a lush and picturesque haven filled with winding trails and serene lakes.
- Channel your inner artist at the Joliet Area Community Hospice Art Gallery. From mesmerizing paintings to eclectic sculptures, it's a visual feast for the soul.
- Indulge your taste buds at Charlie's Bar-B-Q, a local joint serving up mouthwatering ribs and finger-lickin' pulled pork sandwiches.
- Lose yourself in the melodies at Joliet's Rialto Square Theatre, where you can catch a captivating live performance or a side-splitting comedy show.
- Take a stroll through the stunning bird-filled grounds of Bird Haven Greenhouse & Conservatory, a hidden gem of tranquility nestled in the heart of Joliet.
- Dive into the enchanting world of fairy tales with a visit to the beautiful Rialto Square Theatre, often hailed as the "Jewel of Joliet". Popcorn sold separately.
- Test your luck at the Hollywood Casino, where neon lights, the sound of slot machines, and dreams of striking it rich beckon you into a thrilling evening of games.
- Savor the flavors of Italy at Juliet's Tavern, a charming spot that serves up mouthwatering pasta and delicate cannoli. Bellissimo!
- Transport yourself to a medieval realm at the Jacob Henry Mansion Estate, a grand castle-like mansion where echoes of a bygone era whisper in every corner.
- End the day on a high note with a visit to the chic Joliet Area Historical Museum Art Gallery, featuring intricate displays that will leave you pondering the essence of art.
- Immerse yourself in the thrilling world of puzzles and riddles at the Escape Joliet. Can you outsmart the cleverly crafted scenarios and escape before time runs out?
- Satisfy your hunger at the Heroes West Sports Grill, where heroes of the sandwich variety reign supreme. Indulge in a towering hero that's worthy of a comic book cover.
- Join a guided tour of the Old Joliet Prison and discover the history behind this imposing fortress. It's like stepping into a real-life episode of "Orange is the New Black."
- Wrap up your Joliet adventure on a spooky note with a thrilling Ghosts of Joliet Tour. Uncover tales of restless spirits and haunted spots that will send chills down your spine.
- Bid farewell to Joliet with a classic diner experience at the Route 66 Diner, where you'll savor a delicious milkshake and reminisce about the memories made in this quirky city.
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Type of trip
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.