Joliet Iron Works Historic Site
Joliet Iron Works Historic Site things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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While the fall setting might be a distraction for some ,there was so much to see. Prarie grasses and native grasslands abounding. Foundry remains with walkways and placards describing foundry times made the walk informative to the history buffs and fun with the finely graveled path. Route markers abounded on the clearly marked trails. Bike trails looked very inviting and well-maintained. Most of the foundry trip highlights were the bricked smelting type areas that remained from the past . The rusted landscaped buildings were fenced off ( probable because of the spray paint afficianados who should be ,,,,) because of all the spray cans tossed on the sides of the rail tracks. The rusted landscapes make for interesting backdrops for the photographer. A beautifully maintained grass on the sidewalk path with natural foliage alongside made for a burr free walk. I liked the placards and the wide path for walking . There are also portapots at the beginning of the walkways.
Jeffrey OConnellJeffrey OConnell
30
Great trail to explore. Historical markers were good generalized info. Would like to have read more specific info about each of the buildings we looked at, as it was hard to figure out their functions, but overall it was interesting. If you have small children, keep them on the walkway or close by as the ruins can be a safety issue. There is also a fair amount of broken glass from kids partying. Trains went by a few times, which was fun to see and hear. There was a police officer patrolling, but would not go alone as it is isolated. Old jail in the distance. We didn't go any farther than the ruins, which was approximately just over 2 miles there and back.
Sherry L Brinser-DaySherry L Brinser-Day
30
Thought this place was really cool to walk around and explore . Was cool to think of all the history there . After exploring the main part of this place it leads to trails you can walk to through the woods . Little ponds are the side of you as you walk . Was cool to see the old Joliet Prison in the back ground ofcourse you are not allowed past that fence without permission . Liked exploring all the remnants of the old buildings . I’d watch your steeping while walking through . a lot of nails and uneven surfaces .
Daisy flowerDaisy flower
60
Ruins from a long closed iron plant. The Joliet Iron works closed in 1936,the US Steel Plant across closed in the early 1980's. There is a lot to see in this well maintained city park and it is fascinating. It appeared they hold regular Farmers Market in the parking lot weekly. Located near the Old Joliet Prison, another fascinating location!
bill alberbill alber
20
This was a really nice area. I wish the sign posts told you more about what was there where you are looking when reading them. There is a couple that say but a lot more that give you information about the area and factory at a whole. It is still very cool to go check the area out though. Well worth the stop by if you're in the area.
A PiperA Piper
10
Free! Awesome trail to explore and learn. Parking lot on site. Picnic pavilion also on site. Paved/stroller friendly trail. It was really cool to see the ruins and read the placards. I recommend this trail for a family friendly thing to do without needing to spend money. It really is a cool trail!
Clementina GarciaClementina Garcia
30
Nearby Attractions Of Joliet Iron Works Historic Site
Old Joliet Prison
The Old Joliet Haunted Prison
Route 66 Park
Gonzalez Fresh Produce
Joliet Iron Works Park
Carniceria Rio Grande
Delgado Jewelry
San Diego Mall
Joliet Jewelry Store
La Michoacana Platinum

Old Joliet Prison
4.6
(910)Click for details

The Old Joliet Haunted Prison
4.2
(573)Click for details

Route 66 Park
4.3
(267)Click for details

Gonzalez Fresh Produce
4.1
(220)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Joliet Iron Works Historic Site
Taqueria Los Comales Joliet
El Primo Mexican Restaurant
Niko's Pizzeria
El Huichol De Don Memo
Mariscos La Laguna
Taqueria Los Paisanos
Luna Mexicana Restaurant
La Pupusera
Sunshine Mexican Cafe - Restaurant & Catering
Las Gorditas De Don Angel #2

Taqueria Los Comales Joliet
4.1
(939)Click for details

El Primo Mexican Restaurant
4.2
(444)Click for details

Niko's Pizzeria
4.3
(430)Click for details

El Huichol De Don Memo
4.2
(460)$$
Click for details
Basic Info
Address
31 Columbia St, Joliet, IL 60432
Map
Phone
(815) 727-8700
Call
Website
reconnectwithnature.org
Visit
Reviews
Overview
4.5
(229 reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
outdoor
family friendly
pet friendly
Description
The Joliet Iron and Steel Works was once the second largest steel mill in the United States. Joliet Iron Works was initially run from 1869 to 1936. Joliet Steel Works eventually became unprofitable, and all operations were ceased by the early 1980s.
attractions: Old Joliet Prison, The Old Joliet Haunted Prison, Route 66 Park, Gonzalez Fresh Produce, Joliet Iron Works Park, Carniceria Rio Grande, Delgado Jewelry, San Diego Mall, Joliet Jewelry Store, La Michoacana Platinum, restaurants: Taqueria Los Comales Joliet, El Primo Mexican Restaurant, Niko's Pizzeria, El Huichol De Don Memo, Mariscos La Laguna, Taqueria Los Paisanos, Luna Mexicana Restaurant, La Pupusera, Sunshine Mexican Cafe - Restaurant & Catering, Las Gorditas De Don Angel #2
