The historic city of Joliet, Illinois serves as an ideal spot for those eager to embark on a journey down Route 66. Situated next to the impressive Des Plaines River, this picturesque town lies within the initial stretch of America’s renowned highway, approximately one hour away from Chicago. Known fondly as a tree-lined suburb of Chicago, Joliet has earned itself the moniker “the City of Stone and Steel,” thanks to its past prominence in limestone quarrying and production of iron and steel during its industrial era. After the completion of the 96-mile-long Illinois and Michigan Canal around the middle of the nineteenth century, Joliet’s strategic position near the river turned it into a bustling hub for trade and commerce connecting Chicago with the Mississippi River. Nowadays, Joliet distinguishes itself through its quintessential American small-town appeal, deep historical roots, and remarkably budget-friendly lifestyle.
Based on the information provided by the financial site
The Motley Fool
Joliet is ranked seventh on its 2025 list of the top 10 most budget-friendly cities in the U.S., with this ranking largely controlled by
low-cost-of-living cities in Texas
Joliet stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking affordable living in the picturesque and historically rich center of America. With a median household income of $86,054—5% higher than the national average—and an estimated cost of living at $68,881, it offers great value.
Forbes’
It turns out that the typical price of a house in Joliet is 43% lower compared to the nationwide average, making it evident that Joliet provides its inhabitants with an exceptionally good value for their money.
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Unmissable Americana In Joliet
Plunge directly into Americana at the Joliet Area Historical Museum. The museum’s Route 66 Welcome Center will provide all the necessary information about Joliet’s significant position along the Heritage Corridor, which comprises
significant attractions along Route 66
Between Chicago and Santa Monica, California lies an area where exhibits showcase information on how Joliet was established in the late 1600s by the French explorer for whom the city is named—Louis Joliet. Additionally, these displays highlight the prosperous era of the Joliet Iron and Steel Works, which supplied the nation with iron and steel throughout its pinnacle period in the 20th century.
Contemporary preservation efforts have turned various historic structures into must-see attractions for visitors. The rehabilitated Old Joliet Prison, constructed using local limestone sourced from the town’s quarries by inmates during the mid-1800s, serves as a favored backdrop for movies and television series such as “Prison Break” and “Empire.” Statues depicting the Blues Brothers engaged in dance above Joliet’s renowned Rich and Creamy ice cream parlor reference the 1980 film “The Blues Brothers,” which similarly showcases the Old Joliet Prison. Additionally, this prison provides numerous fascinating guided tours.
Philadelphia’s deserted Eastern State Penitentiary
, during October, the prison provides eerie nighttime tours where intrepid participants explore the facility with only flashlight illumination leading their way.
The luxurious Rialto Square Theatre is celebrated as the Jewel of Joliet for serving as the cultural and architectural centerpiece of the city. Constructed in 1926 with the purpose of functioning as a vaudeville theatre, the design of the Rialto blends impressive elements from Greek, Roman, and Byzantine architectures, drawing significant inspiration from iconic European structures such as the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles and Paris’ Arc de Triomphe. Nowadays, this venue frequently presents top-tier live performances and gatherings within Joliet. Tourists have the opportunity to arrange visits here, which might include enjoying a buffet luncheon or experiencing an awe-inspiring pipe organ recital.
Where to Shop and Have Fun in Picturesque Joliet
Joliet falls slightly short of claiming
elegant retail options you can explore in downtown Chicago
However, you’ll come across some eclectic mom-and-pop shops there. Trendy boutiques celebrate the town’s heritage, such as Prison City Vintage for clothing, or they might evoke an older era, like Audiphile’s Records, where you can sift through piles of vinyl records. Should you wish to bring home something modern from Joliet, stop by The Strange & Unusual Gallery, showcasing works by local artists. Feeling inclined towards mainstream treats? Head over to Louis Joliet Mall, a vast one-level shopping complex with over 120 stores.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Joliet’s many paths, weaving through picturesque historical reserves. The I&M Canal Trail, an almost 8-mile woodland route beginning at the Joliet Iron Works Historic Site, and the 4.3-mile Jolie Junction Trail—both surfaced with Joliet’s native limestone—are perfect for delightful treks into yesteryears’ landscapes. Similarly, the Historical Walk down Bluff Street, Joliet’s original thoroughfare within Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park, features vibrant murals and bronze markers honoring key locations and structures such as old stagecoach routes, the ancient Old Sac Indian path, and Joliet’s inaugural dwelling constructed around the early 1830s. For those seeking quintessential American experiences, attending a baseball match fits right in; thus, securing seats to watch the Joliet Slammers, the city’s professional team competing in the Frontier League, should not be missed.
Several ways exist for traveling from Chicago to Joliet, such as by car, train, bus, or taxi. Driving time using Highways 57 and 80 can be less than one hour when taking the quickest route to Joliet from Chicago. However, those who prefer a more picturesque and historically significant journey should consider following Route 66 instead.
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