Things To Do
in Joliet
Joliet is a city located in Illinois, United States. It is the third largest city in the state and serves as the county seat of Will County. Joliet is known for its historic downtown district, which features a mix of charming architecture and modern amenities.
The city also boasts cultural attractions, parks, and a vibrant community with a diverse population.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Joliet Area Historical Museum, where you can learn about the city’s rich past. Enjoy a coffee break at a local cafe nearby.
Spend the afternoon at the stunning Joliet Riverwalk, taking in the picturesque views along the Des Plaines River. Consider a relaxing picnic or a casual stroll along the scenic path.
Dine at a local restaurant featuring home-style cuisine, experiencing the warm hospitality of the city. Cap off the night by catching a show at the Rialto Square Theatre.
Begin your morning at the Joliet Farmers Market, exploring fresh produce and local goods. Grab breakfast from one of the food stalls to fuel your day.
Visit the Chicagoland Speedway for an exciting afternoon of racing or check their schedule for any special events. Experience the thrill of live motorsports action.
Head to the Joliet Area Historical Museum for their evening events. Enjoy a dinner at the nearby restaurants serving eclectic cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable housing options compared to neighboring cities.
- Rich historical significance and numerous cultural attractions.
- Proximity to Chicago provides access to a major urban center.
- Active community with various local events and festivals.
- Growing job market and educational opportunities.
- Higher crime rates compared to national averages in some areas.
- Public transportation options are limited.
- Weather conditions can be extreme, particularly in winter.
- Some neighborhoods may face economic challenges.
- Traffic congestion can be a problem during peak hours.
Best Activities in Joliet
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails and wildlife at Hammel Woods Forest Preserve, offering a serene outdoor experience just a short drive from Joliet.
Enjoy scenic biking along the historic I&M Canal Trail, which stretches for miles and provides a picturesque route for outdoor enthusiasts.
Cast a line and enjoy peaceful fishing opportunities at Rock Run Rookery Preserve, known for its tranquil lakes and abundance of fish.
Tours
Uncover the best of Joliet with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Joliet
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the water and cliffs, perfect for photography
Beautiful natural setting with scenic trails and picturesque spots for photography
Scenic park with river views, gardens, and a striking performance pavilion, great for photography
Offers picturesque views of bridges, trees, and natural beauty, suitable for photography
Food in Joliet
Joliet Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish in Joliet, this iconic pizza features a thick crust, generous amounts of cheese, and a chunky tomato sauce. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria and Giordano's are popular spots to indulge in this local favorite.
Must-Try!
This flavorful sandwich is a local delight, featuring thinly sliced roast beef, sweet peppers, and giardiniera on a crusty Italian roll. Portillo's and Jimbo's are recommended for savoring this classic dish.
Named after the local baseball team, this juicy burger is a beloved specialty. Look for it at the Joliet Route 66 Diner for an authentic taste of the city.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Joliet better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market offers a wide array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local culinary delights. Visitors can sample diverse street food while exploring the market stalls.
A popular food truck known for its delicious array of street food offerings, from gourmet tacos to flavorful kebabs. Keep an eye out for its locations around the city.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Joliet, it is important to maintain a respectable distance from others and be mindful of personal space when interacting with people.
Politeness and courtesy are valued in Joliet, so it's important to use polite language and manners when engaging with others.
Punctuality is highly regarded in Joliet, so it's respectful to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and social engagements.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Joliet with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Joliet
Ensure a smooth experience
In Joliet, United States, tipping is customary in the service industry. It is common to tip around 15-20% at restaurants, bars, and for other services such as haircuts, taxis, and hotel staff.
Payment in Joliet, United States, is primarily done through cash, credit/debit cards, and digital payment methods such as mobile wallets and online transfers. Most establishments accept major credit cards, and cash is widely used for smaller transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Joliet.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Joliet, with pleasant weather and blooming flowers. It's a good time for outdoor activities and enjoying the scenic beauty of the region.
Summer in Joliet is warm and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor events, festivals, and water activities. Expect crowded attractions and lively atmosphere.
Fall offers beautiful foliage and comfortable temperatures for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. It's also a popular time for fall festivals and harvest events.
Winter can be cold in Joliet, but it's a good time for indoor activities, holiday events, and festive decorations. Snowfall can add a charming touch to the city.
Joliet at Night
Hiking in Joliet
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about an hour from Joliet, Starved Rock State Park offers beautiful trails along the Illinois River and stunning vistas of waterfalls and canyons.
Adjacent to Starved Rock, Matthiessen State Park features scenic trails and unique geological formations, perfect for a day hike.
Just a short drive from Joliet, Midewin offers a variety of hiking trails through restored tallgrass prairie landscapes.
Located just south of Joliet, the Palos Forest Preserve has numerous trails for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature.
A popular destination for hikers in the DuPage County area, Waterfall Glen features a scenic loop trail and views of a waterfall.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Joliet through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Joliet by plane.
Located approximately 40 miles northeast of Joliet, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world and a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
Situated about 30 miles northeast of Joliet, Midway primarily serves domestic flights but also offers some international connections.
Located around 25 miles east of Joliet, this airport serves a variety of regional and limited international flights.
Approximately 70 miles northwest of Joliet, this airport offers a mix of commercial and cargo flights, including some international services.
Located about 90 miles east of Joliet, this airport offers a range of domestic flights with some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of Joliet's population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, contributing richly to the city's culture and community.
The White non-Hispanic demographic remains one of the foundational groups in Joliet, representing a substantial part of the population.
The Black or African American community plays an essential role in Joliet, providing diverse perspectives and cultural contributions.
The Asian demographic, though smaller in number compared to others, adds to the multicultural fabric of Joliet with various cultural influences.
An increasing number of residents identify as being of two or more races, reflecting the growing diversity in Joliet.
The Native American community in Joliet, while relatively small, is an integral part of the city's history and culture.
Though a minor demographic, the Pacific Islander population contributes to the diversity of Joliet’s community.
The Soul of Joliet
Discover the essence of Joliet through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Joliet has a rich baseball history, home to the Joliet Slammers, a minor league team that attracts many local fans.
High school and college football are popular, with local teams competing and drawing large crowds during the season.
Basketball enjoys significant popularity in Joliet, with numerous local leagues and youth programs.
Soccer has been growing in popularity in Joliet, with many youth clubs and recreational leagues available.
Ice hockey is also popular, with various local teams and youth programs providing opportunities for players.
Rugby is gaining traction in Joliet, with clubs forming to promote the sport at various levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Joliet.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Joliet offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, catering to diverse dietary preferences. Notable options include the falafel wrap at Nelly's Restaurant and the vegan tacos at Urban Counter.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities will find accommodating options at various eateries in Joliet. The gluten-free pizza at Juliet's Tavern and the quinoa salad at Flavors the Buffet are excellent choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Joliet with these cultural adventures.
