About Old Joliet Prison

The Old Joliet Prison is probably best known in as a Pop Culture reference today for its most popular, albeit fictional inmate – “Joliet Jake” Blues from the 1980 film “The Blues Brothers.” Since then, the Prison has made a number of appearances in films in television, including as the character of “Fox River State Penitentiary” in the critically acclaimed Fox series “Prison Break,” and in smaller scenes in Derailed, Let’s Go to Prison, and recently, Empire.

Know Before You Go

Currently, tours of the Prison are primarily conducted outdoors, rain or shine. Visitors are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather conditions and wear comfortable, closed-toe footwear conducive to walking. While the majority of the tour is accessible, due to the age and condition of the site, certain areas of the tour may not be fully compliant with ADA standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where am I able to go?

For self-guided tours, guests are able to enter the North Segregation building, East Cell house, and Cafeteria (Inmate dining room. On our guided tours, guests are taken into these buildings as well as the Chapel and West Cell House.

Am I allowed to take photos and video?

We encourage all of our guests to take photos and videos; we just ask that it not interfere with other guests' experience and is for personal use only.

Are there age limits on tours?

We do say that our Prison After Dark tours are not for small children. As well as our Guard tour contains adult themes and language.

Are pets allowed?

Service animals only are permitted inside the prison walls.

How do I cancel my tour?

Email Victoria at victoria@jolietprison.org for any rescheduling or cancellations.

How accessible is the site?

With the historic nature of the site, we are not fully ADA compliant but will make every effort to accommodate our guests while onsite. Both our self guided and guided tours are outside and approximately 90 minutes in length. The site has several benches for guest convenience.

Do you offer field trips and group tours?

We do! Please email Victoria at victoria@jolietprison.org.

Do I need reservations?

Yes, reservations are required. Tickets can be purchased here.

About Mad Hatchet Brewing

We are a family-owned business that started as home brewers 15 years ago in the garage. The quality of our beer and your experience in our taproom are all equally our top priorities. We enjoy bringing our latest experiments to you, all while bringing our community together over a friendly pint. Cheers to you for supporting us. WE. ARE. GRATEFUL.

Hours

Sunday: 12-7 PM

Monday: Closed

Tuesday: Closed

Wednesday: 3–9 PM

Thursday: 3–9 PM

Friday: 3–11 PM

Saturday: 12–11 PM

About The Forge

The Forge is an intimate venue hosting live rock bands & other acts for all ages, with drinks & pub grub available.

Tickets

Event tickets can be purchased via the venue's TicketWeb page here.

About The Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66

The Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66 is a public charity 501c3 nonprofit organization that exists to preserve the history of musicians and bands with ties to Illinois while educating visitors about our rich music history. Our mission will meet our goals through its operation of a world-class museum that collects, preserves and exhibits artifacts of artists who have reached national and international recognition, and by providing enlightening educational programs.

About Hollywood Casino & Hotel Joliet

Our sister property located down the road in Joliet, Illinois, means more for our valued guests. More winning, with 2,200 of the latest slot machines that award over $7,000,000 in jackpots every month. More dining, with 7 dining options ranging from quick & casual to an unforgettable meal in one of our steakhouses.

Hours

7:30 AM – 5:30 AM Daily