Overview
On this riveting 2-hour guided walking tour led by a Ph.D. in film and knowledgable museum staff, you'll step inside a former correctional center's barbed-wire gates and imposing 19th-century fortress-style walls. While inside, you'll experience firsthand the prison's sally ports, cellblocks, chapel, cafeteria, yard, and solitary confinement.
Finally, you'll take a seat in the darkened gym to hear about Hollywood's century-long relationship with Old Joliet Prison, including cinema's role in Illinois prison reform.
LOW ATTENDANCE POLICY
This speciality tour, offered only a few times per year, needs at least 20 guests to run. In the event we must cancel because of low ticket sales, we will notify you via email and then refund you in full.
WAIVERS
Guests must sign to 2 general waivers of liability: 1 with the Joliet Area Historical Museum and 1 with Chicago Movie Tours. Guardians must sign waivers for children under the age of 18.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Free parking
Special access to buildings/areas used by Hollywood crews and casts
Expert tour guide commentary led by a Ph.D. in film and knowledgeable museum staff
Mini goodie bag!
30-minute interactive movie/program to bring the prison's history and stories to life
Private transportation
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
IMPORTANT: Arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour is scheduled to begin. Tours leave promptly. You must check in at the Welcome Center of Old Joliet Prison, at the west end of the parking lot across from the prison.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Good to know
IMPORTANT: Arrive 15 minutes before the tour is scheduled to begin. Tours leave promptly. You must check in at the Welcome Center of Old Joliet Prison, at the west end of the parking lot across from the prison. Aerial map: https://www.jolietmuseum.org/uploads/1/4/2/1/142193283/check-in-map_orig.jpg
What to expect
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Old Joliet Prison
2 hours
Learn about Old Joliet Prison's history as a penitentiary and a Hollywood set on our two-hour walking tour, offered May through October.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (America/Chicago).
Additional Information
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
FAQs about Movie and TV Walking Tour of Old Joliet Prison
Can I cancel Movie and TV Walking Tour of Old Joliet Prison for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 2 hours.
Where does it start?
IMPORTANT: Arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour is scheduled to begin. Tours leave promptly.
What's included?
- Free parking
- Special access to buildings/areas used by Hollywood crews and casts
- Expert tour guide commentary led by a Ph.D. in film and knowledgeable museum staff
- Mini goodie bag!
- 30-minute interactive movie/program to bring the prison's history and stories to life
What's not included?
- Private transportation
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
What fitness level is needed?
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness.
Operated by Chicago Movie Tours
