7 running and walking events in Joliet, Illinois

Join us on Saturday, April 11, 2026, for a one‑of‑a‑kind 5K loop around the historic Joliet Prison. We’ll start and finish at Crybabies Tap in Joliet, then head out for a scenic, flat route that circles the iconic limestone walls of the old Joliet Correctional Center. This run is part of the Spirits Run – Illinois Adventure Series, our quest to complete a themed 5K in all 102 counties of Illinois.

This event is fun, relaxed, and open to all paces. Walkers, runners, strollers, and first‑timers are welcome. Every participant receives a medal, shirt, and swag, plus a drink ticket to enjoy back at Crybabies after the run.

The Joliet Prison loop is a perfect 5K with great visibility, wide streets, and unforgettable views of one of Illinois’ most famous landmarks. Come celebrate history, community, and a little bit of adventure with us.

Run first. Celebrate after. Explore Joliet.

Experience Route 66 like never before with an expanded adventure that blends athletic challenge, rich history, and roadside Americana. The Historic Highway Hustle – Rt. 66, a one-of-a-kind series of 6.6K races set along some of Illinois’ most iconic Route 66 landmarks, invites runners to step into the past as they take on a trio of immersive events, each celebrating a legendary stop along the Mother Road. Feel the adrenaline as you weave through the imposing grounds of the Old Joliet Prison, where towering limestone walls echo with stories of another era. Let your stride fall in rhythm with the quirky, retro charm of the Gemini Giant in Wilmington—one of the highway’s most photographed icons. Then soak in the vintage ambiance of Ambler’s Texaco Gas Station in Dwight, an immaculately preserved slice of Americana that transports you to the golden age of American road travel.

Every race offers participants collectible swag, lively local entertainment, and the chance to explore three communities that proudly keep the spirit of Route 66 alive. Join fellow runners, history lovers, and adventure seekers as you journey through time, town by town. The Historic Highway Hustle isn’t just a series of races—it’s a celebration of culture, endurance, and the open road. Lace up and make your mark on history!

Lace up and run where history still echoes. The 6.6K Run at Old Joliet Prison takes you through one of Illinois’ most iconic landmarks, blending gritty prison history with the spirit of Route 66. This uniquely distanced race celebrates the legendary “double six” with an unforgettable course, bold atmosphere, and a setting unlike any other. Whether you’re chasing a PR or just soaking in the scenery, this run is all about grit, nostalgia, and crossing the finish line with a story to tell.

Be sure to follow our event on Facebook for the latest information and announcements including after party details.

Register today for the annual BeActive NAMI Will-Grundy 5k! This fun, certified, and chip-timed 5k loop will start/finish at the Joliet Regional Airport located at 4000 West Jefferson Street in Joliet, IL. Proceeds benefit NAMI Will-Grundy to provide education, support, advocacy, and public awareness, so that all individuals and families affected by mental illness can build better lives. Start times for runners begin at 8am, and for walkers/families begin at 8:15am. A 100m Kids' Fun Dash will follow post race at 9am (children 9 years old and under). Awards will be provided to the top M/F finishers from each age group. Dri-FIT shirts are included in the registration fee until April 18th.

January 1st - April 18th $35 and guarantee your shirt size

Apr 19th - May 9th: $40 and no guarantee on shirt size

May 10th - race day: $50 and no guarantee on shirt size

Race packets can be picked up at 7:00 am on the day of the race. We look forward to seeing you then!

Awards: Top 3 M/F Overall. Age Groups 9 and under, 10-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70+

Please join us in supporting the George Werden Buck Boys & Girls Club of Joliet by participating in our Inaugural 5K Run/Walk.

The Mission Statement of the Boys & Girls Club: “To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.”

At no cost to our members, the Club provides educational programming and tutoring, health and life skills, sports, fitness, and recreation, and meals through the Northern Illinois Food Bank. All in a safe place to learn and grow.

With your support, we cannot only continue to provide our members with vital services and opportunities but can grow our membership and provide services to a larger portion of our community. Donations in any amount are a great way to support the G W Buck Boys & Girls Club even if you can’t take part in the event. To donate, please visit our website. https://www.bgcjoliet.com/

This is a non-profit event. All proceeds and donations go directly to the G W Buck Boys & Girls Club.

Start your day by running or walking the 5K on the main Campus of Joliet Junior College

Packet Pick-up:

• Friday, May 30, 10 am - 1 pm and 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm, at the G W Buck Boys & Girls Club, 226 E Clinton Street, Joliet, IL 60432. While you're picking up your packet, you can take a tour of the Club and get an idea what we do!

• Saturday May 31, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00, at the Law Offices of Rathbun, Cservenyak & Kozol LLC, 3260 Executive Drive, Joliet, IL 60431

Race Morning Packet pickup begins at 7:30 am. Race begins 8:30 (runners first, then walkers) followed by awards and snacks.

We hope to see you there.

Back by popular demand..... all proceeds benefitting the Pat Clark Cancer Foundation.

This 5K is a chance to help us raise funds to support local cancer patients in our communities. Come join us for a beautiful run/walk through Rock run Greenway Trail, starting and ending at Cemeno's, 1630 Essington road.

All monies raised will go directly to local cancer patients and their families. the PCCF is a 501 (c)(3) organization, completely run by volunteers.

All age groups welcome. Sign up now for the early bird discount price and secure your spot. Limited to 175 runners.

Help us help others and have some fun at the same time.

"Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much."

Helen Keller

Registration Includes:

• Race Entry

• T-Shirt

• Finisher Medal