Joliet, Illinois: A Route 66 Destination Rich in History and Culture
Joliet, IL: The Gateway to Route 66 Adventures
As one of the first major cities Route 66 travelers encounter after leaving Chicago, Joliet, Illinois offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and classic Americana. It’s a city that honors its past while continuing to grow, with iconic landmarks, museums, and plenty of small-town charm.
If you’re planning a Route 66 road trip, Joliet deserves a solid spot on your itinerary—not just as a pass-through town, but as a destination in its own right.
Joliet, Illinois, serves as a vibrant gateway to the historic Route 66, offering travelers a rich tapestry of Americana and cultural landmarks. One of the city’s premier attractions is the Joliet Area Historical Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center, located at 204 Ottawa Street. Housed in a repurposed 1909 church, the museum features the “Route 66 Experience” exhibit, which delves into the history of the Mother Road and its impact on Joliet. Visitors can also explore exhibits on local history and notable figures from the area. (Joliet Area Historical Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center, Joliet Area Historical Museum)
Another iconic site is the Old Joliet Prison, famously featured in the 1980 film The Blues Brothers. Fans of the movie can visit the prison’s entrance, where Jake Blues was released, and even see statues of the Blues Brothers at the museum’s entrance. For a nostalgic treat, the Rich & Creamy ice cream stand offers classic soft-serve delights, and nearby, the “Joliet Kicks on 66” shield sign provides a perfect photo opportunity. (Joliet, Route 66 Illinois, Fun Photo Spots Along the First Stretch of Route 66 in Illinois)
Music enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66, which celebrates the state’s rich musical heritage and its contributions to rock and roll history. With its blend of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and unique attractions, Joliet offers a memorable experience for anyone journeying along Route 66. (Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66)
A Brief History of Joliet and Route 66
Joliet’s history stretches back to the early 1800s, when it became a hub for industry and transportation thanks to its location on the Des Plaines River and the Illinois & Michigan Canal. The city grew rapidly with the arrival of railroads and steel mills, earning it the nickname “City of Steel.”
When Route 66 was established in 1926, Joliet became one of the first cities along the legendary highway. The road brought travelers, tourists, and truckers alike, sparking a boom in diners, motels, theaters, and gas stations that gave the city a new kind of energy.
Today, Joliet remains a key stop on the Route 66 journey, with its roots still visible in the architecture and attractions throughout the city.
Top Attractions in Joliet, Illinois
Rialto Square Theatre
Nicknamed the “Jewel of Joliet,” this stunning 1926 vaudeville theatre is a must-see. With its elegant architecture and lavish interior, the Rialto Square Theatre offers concerts, comedy, and cultural events year-round. Even if you don’t catch a show, a tour of this ornate venue is worth your time.
Route 66 Raceway and Chicagoland Speedway
For adrenaline lovers, Joliet is home to NASCAR racing events and drag races at these two massive venues. Even outside race days, the facilities are great to tour if you’re into motorsports.
Route 66 Welcome Center (at the Joliet Area Historical Museum)
This museum is one of the best places to get immersed in Route 66 history, offering interactive exhibits, memorabilia, and a life-size Blues Brothers statue on the roof! It’s a perfect spot to kick off your Route 66 adventure.
Joliet Route 66 River Park
Stop by to grab an ice cream treat and stroll through the park for many great photo opportunities. The Rich and Creamy Ice Cream stand is the highlight of Route 66 Park, having served travelers for years. Be sure to look up and see Jake & Elwood Blues dancing on the roof top! As you walk through the park see the giant Joliet Kicks on Route 66 sign and overlook to the historic Joliet Prison featured in “The Blues Brothers.”
Check out Jake and Elwood Blues dancing on the roof top of the Rich and Creamy Ice Cream stand in Route 66 Park.
Dick’s on ’66
Right across the street from the Joliet Route 66 Park, Dick’s on 66 is an operating automotive towing service known as Dick’s Towing, in a funky old building adorned with an old tow truck on the roof and a black 1950s Pontiac Silver Streak with “California of Bust” written across the doors. There are old car parts, oil drums, tools, hubcaps, signs, and an old police car sitting in the parking lot.
More than just a kitschy roadside stop, Dick’s on 66 plays a role in preserving the spirit of Route 66 itself. The property, with its old tow truck and police cars, reflects the enduring cultural significance of the Mother Road. For many, it’s a perfect photo-op location and a great pit stop before continuing on a journey through Illinois’s stretch of the historic highway. Whether you’re cruising in a classic car or just taking a detour off the interstate, Dick’s on 66 is a memorable slice of Americana you won’t want to miss.
Dick’s on 66 Towing Service Website
Old Joliet Prison
Famous for being featured in The Blues Brothers and Prison Break, the Old Joliet Prison offers tours that give a fascinating (and slightly eerie) look into its storied past. A unique and unforgettable experience!
Places to Stay in Joliet, IL
Whether you’re looking for modern amenities or Route 66 nostalgia, Joliet has a variety of lodging options:
Harrah’s Joliet Hotel & Casino
Located downtown, Harrah’s offers comfortable rooms, dining options, and entertainment all in one place. Great for travelers looking for excitement without leaving the hotel.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott
A reliable and comfortable option just minutes from key Route 66 attractions. Clean, modern rooms and a free breakfast make this a solid choice for road-trippers.
Campgrounds and RV Parks
For travelers cruising Route 66 in an RV, nearby parks offer affordable and scenic options to stay overnight while staying close to the action in Joliet.
Where to Eat in Joliet, IL
Joliet’s food scene is a mix of comfort food, old-school diners, and international flavor. Here are some top picks:
The Route 66 Diner
Located downtown, this retro-themed spot is a local favorite, known for classic American breakfasts, burgers, and milkshakes. It’s an ideal pitstop for any Route 66 traveler.
Merichka’s Restaurant
Famous for its Poorboy sandwiches and hearty meals, this family-owned restaurant has been serving Joliet since 1933. A Route 66 classic in its own right!
Chicago Street Pub
A local institution with a great selection of craft beers, Irish-inspired dishes, and live music events. A laid-back stop with plenty of character.
Planning Your Visit to Joliet
- Location: About 45 miles southwest of Chicago
- Ideal Season to Visit: Spring through fall (best weather for walking tours and outdoor attractions)
- Nearby Route 66 Stops: Wilmington, Braidwood, and Dwight make for an easy day-trip loop
More Information about Joliet Illinois & Route 66
- VisitJoliet.com
- City of Joliet, Illinois website
- Joliet Area Historical Museum
- Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce
- Joliet Park District
- Rialto Square Theatre
- Will County Illinois
- Joliet Weather at WeatherUnderground
- Joliet Travel Guide at TripAdvisor – Hotels & More
- Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway
- Route 66 Association of Illinois
Final Thoughts: Joliet is a Route 66 Must-See
Whether you’re in it for the racing, the retro diners, the haunted prison, or the Blues Brothers photo ops, Joliet is a Route 66 destination with something for everyone. It’s more than just a pitstop—it’s a vibrant city that celebrates the past while still feeling very much alive.
So next time you hit the road on America’s most iconic highway, make Joliet one of your first great memories.
