Joliet Area Historical Museum | Joliet

The Joliet Area Historical Museum is a key cultural institution located in downtown Joliet, Illinois, dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of Joliet and its surrounding communities. The museum serves as a gateway to understanding the region’s industrial, social, and cultural development through a wide range of exhibits and educational programs.

Location and Contact

Address: 204 N. Ottawa Street, Joliet, IL 60432

Phone: (815) 723-5201

The museum is situated in the heart of Joliet’s historic downtown area, easily accessible by car and public transit, with parking available on-site.

Hours of Operation

Monday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

The museum is closed on major holidays such as Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.

Admission

Adults: $10

Seniors (60+): $9

Full-time Students (with valid ID): $7

Youth (ages 4–12): $5

Children under 3: Free

Museum members: Free

Group rates are available for groups of 15 or more with advance reservations.

Exhibits and Collections

The museum features a diverse range of permanent and rotating exhibits that highlight the history and culture of Joliet and the surrounding region:

Illinois & Michigan Canal and Industrial Growth: This exhibit explores the city’s early development centered around the Illinois & Michigan Canal, which played a vital role in transportation and commerce. It details Joliet’s transformation into an industrial hub with steel mills, manufacturing, and railroads.

Apollo 11 and Dr. John C. Houbolt: A special exhibit dedicated to Joliet native Dr. Houbolt, who was instrumental in advocating for the Lunar Orbit Rendezvous method that made the Apollo moon landings possible.

Route 66 Welcome Center: This section celebrates the history and culture of the famous U.S. Highway Route 66, which runs through Joliet. It features artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia, including items related to the iconic 1980 movie The Blues Brothers.

Gerlach-Barklow & P.F. Volland Companies: Displays focus on these historic Joliet-based calendar and greeting card manufacturers, showcasing their artistic contributions and local significance.

Martin & Emma Planinsek Grocery & Meat Market Museum: A recreated 1920s–1930s grocery store environment that offers insight into local commerce and everyday life in early 20th-century Joliet.

Temporary Exhibits: The museum also hosts rotating exhibits on topics ranging from local history and cultural heritage to art and community stories.

Additional Sites Operated by the Museum

In addition to the main museum building, the Joliet Area Historical Museum operates several historic properties and related sites:

Old Joliet Prison: One of the most famous historic landmarks in Joliet, tours are offered Thursday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, showcasing the prison’s history and architecture.

Joliet Railroad Museum: Located nearby, it is open Friday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, highlighting the city’s railroad heritage with model trains, artifacts, and exhibits.

Planinsek Grocery & Meat Market Museum: Open Friday through Sunday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, this site recreates a historic grocery store experience.

Gemini Giant Visitor’s Center: Located in Wilmington, IL, this Route 66 icon and visitor center is open Thursday through Monday, 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Special Programs and Events

The museum hosts a variety of educational programs, workshops, and community events designed to engage visitors of all ages. These include school field trips, lectures, heritage celebrations, and family days tied to local history and culture.

Free Admission Days

The museum offers several free admission days throughout the year, sponsored by Old National Bank, including:

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

President’s Day

Red Carpet Corridor Day

Mother’s Day

Star Wars Family Day

Columbus Day

Light Up the Holidays Celebration (Friday after Thanksgiving)

Accessibility and Visitor Information

The museum is fully accessible to visitors with disabilities.

Parking is available in the lot at the corner of Webster and Ottawa Streets.

Group tours and educational visits can be arranged with advance notice.

Summary

The Joliet Area Historical Museum is a comprehensive institution dedicated to preserving the stories and heritage of Joliet and its surrounding communities. It offers engaging exhibits, educational opportunities, and access to several historic sites, making it a vital cultural resource in the region. Whether interested in local industry, Route 66 nostalgia, or space exploration history, visitors will find meaningful and diverse experiences here.