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Joliet LGBTQ City Guide

Joliet is a beautiful city that stretches across the DuPage River and the Des Plaines River in the northeastern part of Illinois, about 40 miles away from Chicago. Its ideal location makes it close enough to the larger city to allow residents the opportunity to enjoy all that there is to see and do, while still offering a friendly, smaller-town feel. Joliet is by no means small, though. In fact, it's one of the five largest cities in the state, and one that offers much to see, do and enjoy in its own right. Even better, it is a city with a welcoming LGBT community where all can feel welcome and at home. If you’re thinking of finding your next home in Joliet, chances are, you’ll find plenty about it to love!

A Look at Joliet's History

The town’s name was most likely chosen as a variation of the name of French-Canadian explorer Louis Jolliet, who in 1673, along with Father Jacques Marquette, rowed up the Des Plaines River and established a campground in the area a few miles south of present-day Joliet. The area began as an important trading post, but as more and more people came through the area, and as railroads began to cross the country, many other industries were established as well. As it grew, it became an important center of industry and innovation, and it remains so to this day. It also became increasingly diverse and today it is a thriving, welcoming, vibrant city where all can find their place and feel at home.

A Few Fun Facts About Joliet

  • One of Joliet's nicknames is the "City of Champions" – a name that refers to the many state and national titles won by its high school and grade school bands over many decades.
  • Joliet is a city that loves fast cars. It's home to the 1.5-mile Chicagoland Speedway racetrack, which hosts a variety of events each year, as well as to Route 66 Raceway and the Autobahn Country Club.
  • The first Dairy Queen restaurant in the country opened in Joliet in 1906.
  • Singer Lionel Richie is from Joliet.

Read more fun facts about Joliet here.

Joliet’s LGBTQ Community                                              

Joliet is a city with a thriving and diverse LGBTQ community that is supported by various resources, including:

PFLAG Joliet

PFLAG Joliet is the city’s local chapter of the national PFLAG organization. PFLAG is the largest grassroots organization of its kind in the country and has 500 chapters with more than 200,000 members in the United States. PFLAG plays a critical role in providing advocacy, support, and resources to the LGBTQ community, and offers monthly support meetings, as well as resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities for the LGBTQ community, friends, and allies.

What's the Weather Like in Joliet?

Those who live in Joliet can expect to experience the beauty of all four distinct seasons each year. Summers in Joliet can be warm, but not oppressively so, with highs in July reaching around 84°F in July. Winters can be quite cold and often snowy, with the temperature reaching lows of around 16° in January. Spring and fall are generally mild and pleasant and are wonderful times to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. Joliet receives about 39 inches of rain each year, and around 28 inches of snow.

Can’t-Miss Events in Joliet

Joliet PrideFest

Joliet PrideFest is the area’s annual celebration of its LGBTQ community and all that it adds to the city. The festivities include a parade, parties, family-friendly activities, and many other events. It’s one party that you'll definitely want to put on your calendar.

Joliet Farmers' Market

Every Friday from June through September, residents of Joliet look forward to visiting this bustling farmer’s market to shop from a variety of excellent vendors. Whether you’re looking for fresh produce, soaps, pastries, flowers, or any number of other unique items, there’s a wonderful selection here. 

The Best Neighborhoods in Joliet

If you’re thinking of making a move to Joliet, you will find that the entire city is very welcoming. Unlike some cities that tend to have one specific “gayborhood,” the LGBTQ community in Joliet is sprinkled throughout the city, so there are many neighborhoods that would make wonderful places to call home. It is always advised to contact a Joliet gay realtor who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find the perfect home in the ideal neighborhood. The current median list price of homes for sale in Joliet is around $250,000.

Arts and Entertainment

Rialto Square Theatre

Often called the “Jewel of Joliet,” the stunning Rialto Square Theatre is widely thought of as one of the top ten most beautiful theatres in the country. It’s the perfect place to enjoy an excellent performance – and options are available throughout the year in a wide variety of genres. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a show for yourself!

Joliet Area Historical Museum

For those who want to learn more about the rich history of Joliet and be entertained and educated with a wide variety of stunning exhibits, a visit to the Joliet Area Historical Museum is well worth putting on your agenda.

Parks and Recreation

Chicagoland Speedway

For those who love fast cars and plenty of fun, a visit to the Chicagoland Speedway is a must. This 1.5-mile track hosts a variety of NASCAR events throughout the year, and always draws lots of enthusiastic, excited crowds.

Haunted Trails Family Entertainment Center

For those looking to have some fun with family and friends, the Haunted Trails Family Entertainment Center should definitely be on the list of must-try spots. The center has two miniature golf courses, batting cages, 3 go-kart tracks, laser tag, a variety of indoor and outdoor rides, and plenty of games.

Joliet Nightlife

Bobby's Tap

Bobby’s Tap is a relaxed, laid-back spot that’s perfect for relaxing and having fun with friends. Offering strong drinks, friendly crowds, and plenty of fun, it’s a good place to put on your list for a night out in Joliet.

On the Rocks Bar

For those looking for a cozy atmosphere, great live events, friendly crowds, and strong drinks look no further than On the Rocks Bar. Though not specifically an LGBTQ bar, it's friendly and welcoming to all.

Contact a Joliet Gay Realtor Today

If you're ready to make a move to Joliet, at www.gayrealestate.com, we're here to help you take the first step toward finding an agent who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find a home and a neighborhood you'll love. We're proud to have a network of excellent realtors in Joliet, and we would love to help connect you with the right one. Contact a Joliet gay realtor today for a free, no-obligation consultation!