Chicago and Movies in Prison
2 hrs
Explore a suburban Chicago prison used in movies and TV shows
About
Located about 30 miles outside Chicago, Old Joliet Prison has served for years as an Illinois state penitentiary and a movie set. Learn more about the prison's double histories on this two-hour (mostly) outdoor walking tour.
On the 1.25-mile guided walking tour with Chicago Movie Tours, wander through the former correctional center's barbed-wire gates and imposing 19th-century fortress-style walls. While inside, experience firsthand the prison's sally ports, cellblocks, chapel, cafeteria, yard, and solitary confinement.
Finally, take a seat in the darkened gymnasium to hear about Hollywood's century-long relationship with Old Joliet Prison, including cinema's role in Illinois prison reform.
Movies/TV Series Featured: Ghost Adventures (2019), Empire (2015-20), Public Enemies (2009), Let's Go to Prison (2006), Prison Break (2005-09), The Blues Brothers (1980), White Heat (1949)
What's Included
Expert tour guide commentary
Special access to buildings/areas used by Hollywood crews and casts
Demonstration featuring old and new media to bring the prison's history and stories to life
Plenty of Instagram opportunities
Free parking
Mini goodie bag! 💙
