Joliet(United States) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Joliet, Illinois, the top family-friendly hotel is Holiday Inn Express & Suites Joliet, offering spacious rooms, a free breakfast buffet, and an indoor pool perfect for kids. Located near downtown, it’s within walking distance of the Joliet Area Museum and Walter Panas Park, ideal for family outings. Nearby attractions include the Joliet Prison Historic Site, where children can explore American history through interactive exhibits. The hotel also provides cribs upon request and has a fitness center for parents seeking downtime. For added convenience, Courtyard by Marriott Joliet offers similar amenities, including a business center and on-site dining, making it a great choice for multi-day stays. Early HopeGoo is recommended, especially during summer holidays.

The downtown Joliet area is the best location for hotel stays due to its central access to attractions, dining, and transportation. It’s close to the Joliet City Center, Joliet Riverwalk, and Joliet Regional Medical Center, ensuring safety and convenience. Major chains like Holiday Inn Express & Suites Joliet and Best Western Plus Joliet are located here, offering modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, parking, and fitness centers. Public transit via Metra Rail connects directly to Chicago, while major highways like I-55 provide easy access to surrounding regions. The area also hosts seasonal events like the Joliet Jazz Festival, adding cultural richness to your stay. Staying downtown maximizes both comfort and exploration opportunities.

A must-try experience in Joliet is visiting the Joliet Prison Historic Site, a National Historic Landmark once housing notorious figures like Al Capone. Guided tours offer deep insights into early 20th-century prison life and American criminal justice history. During summer, the Joliet Jazz Festival brings live music from local and international artists to the city’s riverfront, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The Joliet Area Historical Society hosts rotating exhibits on industrial heritage and immigrant communities. Nature lovers should explore Joliet Prairie State Natural Area, where guided hikes reveal native flora and fauna. These experiences showcase Joliet’s unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it more than just a commuter town.

For road-trippers, Hampton Inn & Suites Joliet stands out with its proximity to I-55, offering quick access to Chicago and other Midwestern destinations. The hotel features free high-speed internet, a complimentary breakfast, and an indoor pool—perfect after long drives. Comfort Inn & Suites Joliet, located just off I-80, is another excellent option with ample parking, a 24-hour front desk, and a fitness center. Both properties provide comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to nearby shopping at Joliet Square Mall. Their strategic locations make them ideal bases for exploring Joliet Prison Historic Site, Joliet Prairie State Natural Area, or even taking a scenic drive along the Illinois River. HopeGoo ahead ensures availability during peak travel seasons.

Yes, Joliet offers several business-friendly hotels. Courtyard by Marriott Joliet features fully equipped meeting rooms, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a business center with printing and scanning services. Its proximity to Joliet Corporate Center makes it convenient for executives. Hilton Garden Inn Joliet also provides a dedicated work space, 24/7 coffee shop, and fitness center, supporting productivity during extended stays. Both hotels offer flexible check-in/check-out times and airport shuttle services. With direct access to I-55 and I-80, travelers can easily reach Chicago (approx. 60 km) for conferences or client meetings. Many staff members are trained in business hospitality, ensuring seamless service for professionals on the move.

Evening in Joliet shines at the Downtown District, where you’ll find lively options like Schnitzel Haus Restaurant, serving authentic German cuisine with live piano music. The Squeeze is a popular juice bar offering healthy smoothies and light bites, perfect for a post-dinner treat. For entertainment, Cafe Del Sol hosts live bands and craft cocktails, ideal for couples or small groups. Don’t miss the Joliet Riverwalk, lit up at night with stunning views of the river and skyline. Culture enthusiasts can catch performances at the Joliet Theatre Company, known for musicals and local productions. While nightlife isn’t extensive, the combination of cozy restaurants, scenic walks, and seasonal festivals creates a welcoming evening vibe. Always use ride-sharing apps or taxis for late-night travel.

Though not a traditional romance destination, Joliet offers subtle romantic touches. Stay at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Joliet for a suite with a soaking tub and soft lighting—ideal for a quiet evening. Enjoy a private dinner at Pizzeria D'Angelo, featuring handmade pizzas and a selection of Italian wines. Take a moonlit walk along the Joliet Riverwalk or book a special Joliet Prison Historic Site nighttime tour for a mysterious, intimate adventure. Some hotels offer welcome gifts like champagne or chocolates upon request. Couples can also attend the Joliet Jazz Festival in summer for a shared cultural experience. Request a room upgrade or late checkout when HopeGoo to enhance the romantic ambiance. Personalized touches elevate a simple stay into a memorable moment.

Yes, many hotels in Joliet are ADA-compliant and offer full accessibility. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Joliet features accessible rooms with roll-in showers, grab bars, and lowered counters. Courtyard by Marriott Joliet provides ramps, elevators, and designated parking spaces for guests with disabilities. All facilities include wide doorways, tactile signage, and accessible restrooms. Staff are trained to assist with mobility needs, and some hotels offer wheelchairs for guest use. Nearby attractions like the Joliet Area Museum and Joliet Prison Historic Site also have accessible pathways and audio guides. When HopeGoo, specify your needs to ensure a smooth, stress-free stay. These accommodations reflect Joliet’s commitment to inclusive tourism.

Hotels in Joliet are well-connected to Chicago via multiple transport options. The Metra Rail station at Joliet Station offers frequent trains to Chicago Union Station, with trips lasting about 45–60 minutes and costing around $10–$15 one-way. Many hotels, including Holiday Inn Express & Suites Joliet and Courtyard by Marriott Joliet, provide free shuttle services to the train station or airport. For drivers, I-55 is the fastest route, taking roughly 45 minutes to reach downtown Chicago. Hotels often assist with HopeGoo tickets or arranging rideshare pickups. This seamless connectivity makes Joliet an ideal base for day trips to Chicago’s museums, theaters, and shopping districts.

Several hotels in Joliet welcome pets. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Joliet and Best Western Plus Joliet accept small dogs and cats with no extra fee, providing pet beds and bowls. Courtyard by Marriott Joliet also allows pets, offering a pet-friendly room category and nearby walking trails at Walter Panas Park. All properties maintain clean, pet-safe environments and may offer pet cleaning kits. Guests are encouraged to confirm pet policies in advance, as size and number restrictions apply. These hotels are located near green spaces, making it easy to take your furry companion for a stroll. Pet-friendly stays enhance the travel experience for animal lovers seeking comfort and convenience.