Make the Drive: The 3 Best Museums Near Peotone, IL

The state of Illinois is full of historical landmarks, cultural institutions, and great museums where you can check out the best pieces of local art or learn about the history of the region. If you are planning a trip around the state in your 2022 Jeep Compass and are looking for the best museums to visit, here are three fantastic spots you can reach in less than one hour by car from the city of Peotone, IL.

1. Kankakee County Museum

Located in the heart of the city of Kankakee and about 20 miles south of Peotone, Kankakee County Museum is a large compound featuring multiple exhibits showcasing the heritage of the region. Founded in 1948, this is one of the oldest cultural institutions and historical societies in Illinois and a fantastic destination to visit while traveling around the region.

Kankakee County Museum is open to the public Tuesday through Friday between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm, and on Saturdays between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm. Some of the exhibits you can find here include a reconstructed family home from the mid-19th century, a gallery of artifacts and personal objects belonging to three former governors of Illinois, an African American heritage center, and a permanent exhibition on the American Civil War.

2. Joliet Area Historical Museum

Dedicated to showcasing and promoting the history of Will County, Joliet Area Historical Museum is another great spot for anyone wanting to learn more about the region. Located about 25 miles northwest of the Peotone city center, this place can be reached in less than 40 minutes by car via route US-52. Besides a series of permanent exhibits, this museum also provides guided tours of the former Collins Street Prison.

Occupying the building of an old Methodist church, Joliet Area Historical Museum first opened its doors to the public in 2002, with its main exhibition gallery providing an introduction to the history of the Joliet area and its people. Throughout the years, this cultural and educational complex has been expanded and enhanced with life-size models, audiovisual presentations, and interactive exhibits.

3. French Heritage Museum

Also located in downtown Kankakee, the French Heritage Museum is a great spot to learn about the history of the French heritage in the region and the influence of the many missionaries, explorers, and fur traders that came from France, Belgium, and French Canada, and still play a distinctive role in the local community´s identity. This place was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 and can be visited free of charge.

If you are planning to buy a new vehicle and are searching for the best local dealership around Peotone, the search is over! Visit us today at Pearl Chrysler Jeep Dodge and Ram today, explore the different models in our inventory, and learn more about the different financing opportunities available for our clients.

Tags: Day Trips, Museums Nearby, Pearl CJDR, Peotone IL
Posted in Attraction, Family Activities, Local Area, Museums, Peotone, IL | No Comments »