2022 Old Joliet Prison Tours

The Old Joliet Prison tour program is primarily managed by the Joliet Area Historical Museum, a 501(c)3 not-for-profit entity, in partnership with the City of Joliet. The proceeds from activities will be used to expand the Museum’s mission to preserve and disseminate the history of Joliet, as well as to fund much-needed measures to secure and stabilize the site to allow expanded activities.

“Self-Guided Prison Tour”

Walk the site at your own pace. Informational signs are stationed throughout the grounds providing historical information and photos. The North Segregation Building is open to walk through. Tour hours between 10am and 5pm

• General Public: $20
• Museum Members: Free
• Children (ages 3-12): $10
• Children under the age of 3 are free

“General History Prison Tour”

• General Public: $30
• Museum Member: $25

A 90-minute walking tour of the Old Joliet Prison lead by docents and trained tour guides from the Joliet Area Historical Museum. This tour talks about the general history of the site from when it was first opened in 1858 till its closure in 2002. This historic tour is a great introduction to the Prison and its history. This tour takes you into the East and West Cell Houses, North Segregation Bldg., Cafeteria, Chapel, and the Honor Dorm

“Haunting History Prison Tour”

• General Public: $40
• Museum Member: $35

A 90-minute walking tour covering the darker side of the Prison. This historical tour will cover some of the more macabre stories as you walk through the site at dusk. This tour takes you into the East and West Cell Houses, North Segregation Bldg., Cafeteria, Chapel, and the Honor Dorm

Disclaimer: This tour does not involve ghost hunting or paranormal activity and is not recommended for small children.

“Prison Guard Tour”

• General Public:  $40
• Museum Member:  $35

A 90-minutes walking tour led by two docents who worked at the Prison while it was still in operation until its closing in 2002. You will hear about the daily life at the Prison during their time there – a more personal take on the site’s history. This tour takes you into the East and West Cell Houses, North Segregation Bldg., Cafeteria, Chapel and Honor Dorm

Disclaimer:  Adult themes and language used.

“Prison Photography Tour”

• General Admission:  $50
• Museum Member:  $45

For photography enthusiasts these tours allow a two-hour time window to capture unique shots of the Prison and its limestone. Tours in the West Section include the following areas: West Cell House, Cafeteria, Commissary (back portion), North Segregation Bldg., Yard Area, Burnt District and Cistern Area. Tours in the East Section include the following areas: East Cell House, Solitary basketball court, Chapel, North Segregation, Yard Area, Burnt District and Cistern Area.