Some places are known for their history and some historical places are known for being haunted. Many have wondered, is Joliet Prison Haunted? The Old Joliet Prison is an abandoned prison with a notorious history and residents who never seemed to have left long after they were gone. Considered one of the most haunted places in the world, the Old Joliet Prison is a spooky, haunted abandoned prison in Illinois. If you’re brave enough, let’s explore the history of this frightening place together.

In 1858, the Illinois State Penitentiary, as it was called then, first opened in what would later become the City of Joliet.

This prison in Joliet started with just 53 prisoners who were put to work constructing additional prison buildings. By 1878, over 2,000 inmates lived at the prison and it was filled over capacity.

Over time, conditions became rather unsanitary and even dangerous, and calls to close the prison were eventually made. However, it continued to house inmates until 2002 when it was finally abandoned.

During its tenure, the prison housed some notorious offenders including John Wayne Gacy, James Earl Ray, Baby Face Nelson, and Richard Speck. Executions were also performed onsite.

With its lengthy history, notorious residents, executions, onsite cemetery, and violence over the years, it may come as no surprise that this prison, now known as the Old Joliet Prison, is one of the most haunted places in the world.

Among the paranormal activity experienced here over time is a singing ghost on the property. Maybe when you visit, you'll encounter this fascinating spirit.

The best way to experience the haunting at the Old Joliet Prison is to take a tour. Of course, there is the Self-Guided Tour on which you can take yourself around the property and read interpretive signs along the way.

But if you would rather be in a group setting and led by a tour guide, take the Haunting History, Guard, or Photography Tour of the incredibly spooky, haunted Old Joliet Prison.

Want an in-depth history of this haunted prison in Illinois? Watch this YouTube video by IT'S HISTORY telling you more information about Old Joliet Prison.

https://youtu.be/-1Tl2ja5Htc?si=6sxTKs8JocsruSbW

Have you ever been to this haunted abandoned prison in Illinois? Have you ever wondered, "is Joliet Prison haunted"? What are some of your favorite abandoned or haunted places around the state? Let us know in the comments and feel free to join our Abandoned States of America Facebook group.

If you would like to visit several haunted places in one trip, visit Alton, one of the most haunted places in Illinois. Also, if you wanna experience this haunted prison for yourself, check out this incredible tour of Old Joliet that we recommend.