Crest Hill IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Crest Hill, Illinois.
1. Chaney Pool
SEASONAL PUBLIC SWIMMING
Chaney Pool is a popular summer destination for residents and visitors looking to cool off with family-friendly fun. The facility offers a large outdoor swimming pool, a separate shallow area for younger children, and a relaxing sunbathing area. The pool's vibrant community atmosphere and affordable admission make it a staple of Crest Hill's warmer months.
2. Prairie Bluff Preserve
SCENIC NATURE TRAILS
Prairie Bluff Preserve offers expansive natural landscapes with miles of walking and biking trails that wind through prairies and wetlands. Wildlife spotting is common, with native bird species and seasonal wildflowers creating a tranquil setting. The preserve is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful escape close to the city.
3. The Book Market Sales and Trading Center
USED BOOKSTORE TREASURE
The Book Market Sales and Trading Center delights bibliophiles with its vast collection of used books covering every genre imaginable. Visitors can trade in old books for store credit, making every trip a new adventure in reading. The store's welcoming staff and cozy corners create a perfect environment for browsing and discovery.
4. Brent Hassert Park
NEIGHBORHOOD RECREATION AREA
Brent Hassert Park is a well-maintained city park featuring open green spaces, playgrounds, and picnic shelters ideal for family outings. Its walking paths and sports courts cater to visitors of all ages looking for outdoor activity. The park often hosts community events and is a favorite gathering place for local residents.
5. St. Joe's Park
HISTORIC COMMUNITY PARK
St. Joe's Park is a tranquil, wooded park known for hosting festivals, picnics, and parish events throughout the year. The spacious grounds and covered pavilions make it a go-to location for group gatherings and celebrations. Its longstanding presence ties it closely to the area's cultural and social traditions.
6. Serenity Wellness Center LLC
HOLISTIC HEALTH RETREAT
Serenity Wellness Center LLC offers a variety of alternative therapies, including massage, detox treatments, and relaxation sessions in a serene setting. The center focuses on holistic approaches to health and wellness, ensuring privacy and comfort for every guest. Many visitors praise its calming environment and dedicated staff.
7. Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail
HISTORIC TOWPATH BIKING
The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail is a scenic multi-use path tracing the historic canal route, connecting several nearby towns. Cyclists and hikers enjoy miles of well-maintained trail, which features interpretive signs about the canal's legacy and natural beauty. The trail is a popular day trip destination from Crest Hill and surrounding communities.
8. Centennial Trail – Schneider's Passage Entrance
CYCLIST-FRIENDLY TRAILHEAD
Centennial Trail's Schneider's Passage Entrance is a welcoming spot for cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts, complete with seating, restrooms, and parking. The trail connects to a larger network of regional paths and is a favorite for group rides and solo adventures alike. Its convenient facilities make it a perfect stop between Joliet and Lemont.
9. Stateville Correctional Center
HISTORIC PRISON LANDMARK
Stateville Correctional Center is a notable site in Crest Hill, constructed in the 1920s as a maximum-security prison with a unique architectural design. Although not a traditional tourist attraction, its history—featuring infamous inmates and significant legal events—draws interest from history buffs. The facility's imposing exterior can be viewed from surrounding public roads.
10. Lockport Prairie Nature Preserve
RARE PRAIRIE ECOSYSTEM
Lockport Prairie Nature Preserve protects one of Illinois' rarest landscapes, featuring high-quality prairie, wetlands, and endangered plant species. Visitors can explore hiking trails and enjoy birdwatching, especially during migration season. Its commitment to conservation and natural beauty make it a hidden gem near Crest Hill.
11. Dellwood Park
SPRAWLING FAMILY PARK
Dellwood Park is a beloved community park offering playgrounds, athletic fields, and scenic walking trails within a tree-lined setting. The park hosts seasonal events such as concerts and outdoor movie nights that attract visitors from throughout the region. Its picturesque landscape and amenities make it perfect for a day outdoors.
12. Joliet Prison
FAMED HISTORIC PRISON
The Joliet Prison, known for its imposing gothic architecture and starring role in films, now offers guided tours exploring its storied past. Visitors can walk the corridors once inhabited by notorious criminals and learn about the facility's cultural impact. The site is a must-see for fans of history and true crime.
13. Pilcher Park Nature Center
INTERACTIVE NATURE CENTER
Pilcher Park Nature Center provides hands-on exhibits and live animal displays for visitors of all ages. The surrounding park offers woodlands, trails, and a tranquil atmosphere ideal for nature enthusiasts. Educational programs and events further enrich the visitor experience throughout the year.
14. Hollywood Casino Joliet
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT HUB
Hollywood Casino Joliet delivers Las Vegas-style excitement, with a wide range of slots, table games, and entertainment options under one roof. Dining venues and live shows round out the experience for visitors seeking a fun night out. The casino's convenient location near the Des Plaines River makes it a regional attraction.
15. Rialto Square Theatre
OPULENT HISTORIC THEATER
The Rialto Square Theatre is a beautifully restored vaudeville palace that hosts concerts, Broadway shows, and community events throughout the year. Its ornate architecture and grand interior provide a memorable backdrop for live performances. The theater is an anchor of Joliet's cultural and entertainment scene.