Stateville Correctional Center

Stateville Correctional Center is a maximum security facility for adult male offenders in Crest Hill, Illinois. The complex sits southwest of Chicago and consists of multiple cell blocks surrounded by high concrete walls and guard towers.

The facility opened in 1925 and was considered a model institution of its time, featuring a circular cellhouse known as F-House. This round structure with a central armed tower remained operational until 2016 and was the last of its kind in the United States.

The facility served as one of three execution sites in Illinois, transitioning from electrocution methods to lethal injection before capital punishment ended in 2011.

The grounds are not open to the public and can only be viewed from the outside along surrounding roads. Visitors should be aware that this is an active correctional facility with strict security measures in place.

The complex served as a filming location for movies and television series requiring prison scenes, including classics like The Blues Brothers. The distinctive roundhouse attracted filmmakers because of its unusual architecture before it was taken out of service.

Location: Will County

Inception: 1925

Official opening: 1925

GPS coordinates: 41.57880,-88.09410

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:00