Elks Lodge is a association or organization in Joliet, IL. Open: Mon, Wed, Thu 4:00 – 10:00 PM; Tue Closed; Fri–Sat 4:00 – 11:00 PM; Sun 12:00 – 5:00 PM. Phone: (815) 744-3355. Average rating is 4.7 stars from 47 reviews. Website: https://www.elks.org/lodges/home.cfm?lodgenumber=296.
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks emblemJoliet, IL Elks Lodge #296
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Interior setup for an event at Elks Lodge.
4.7 47 reviews Today 4:00 – 11:00 PM

Brotherhood, Community, and Cold Drinks in Joliet

Elks Lodge 296 has been the gathering place for Joliet neighbors who believe in giving back and showing up.

Charity

Giving without expectation

Justice

Fairness for every person

Brotherly Love

Fellowship above all

Fidelity

Faithful to our word

About Us

A blue truck parked near the Elks Lodge.
A blue truck parked near the Elks Lodge.

At 250 SE Frontage Rd, Joliet Lodge #296 has been earning its reputation one handshake at a time. The room is cozy, not cavernous, and that is exactly the point. You will know the bartender's name by the end of your first visit, and odds are good someone will pull up a stool and strike up a conversation before your drink hits the counter. A 4.7-star rating from real members says everything a brochure cannot.

The Lodge runs the full spectrum of what a fraternal organization should be. Kids' events fill the calendar alongside member dinners that have become the stuff of local legend. Ask any longtime member about the crab leg nights and watch their eyes light up. The kitchen turns out handcrafted burgers that regulars rave about, and the staff keeps things running with a professionalism that makes guests feel like they belong from day one.

This is a place where a son can get married in the same hall where his father-in-law has been a proud Elk for years. That kind of continuity does not happen by accident. It happens because Lodge 296 takes its mission seriously: charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity are not just words on the wall here.

What We Offer

Lodge 296 offers members a full slate of amenities anchored by a welcoming bar and lounge, a well-equipped event hall for weddings, receptions, and milestone celebrations, and a kitchen that punches well above its weight for a fraternal club.

Beyond the food and drink, the Lodge runs youth programs and family events that draw members' kids and grandkids into the fold. Community fundraisers, holiday gatherings, and charitable drives round out a calendar that keeps the doors open and the parking lot busy year-round. Membership grants access to all of it, plus reciprocal privileges at Elks Lodges nationwide.

Prospective members can visit as a guest of a current member to get a feel for the space before applying. The process is straightforward, the dues are reasonable, and the return on investment, measured in friendships and community impact, is hard to beat.

Gallery

Take a look at our space and what we have to offer

“My father-in-law is a member. Son got married there. The kid events are great . I miss the crab legs though”

— Chris Hyland

What Our Guests Say

Don't just take our word for it - hear it from our members & guests

Click to Rate & Review This Business ✍️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
a year ago
"This lodge is small but cozy, full of fun, a great and professional staff. Highly recommend you visit if you are just passing through or looking to relocate. Tell em Debbie recommended you!!!"
— Deborah Joyner
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
8 years ago
"My father-in-law is a member. Son got married there. The kid events are great . I miss the crab legs though"
— Chris Hyland
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3 years ago
"They make great Hamburgers but you have to be a member to eat one. De-lish"
— Laura Klouda
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
8 years ago
"Clean place, reasonably priced drinks, our party was catered so don't know about food."
— Carol Melfi
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3 years ago
"The staff if very helpful and informative. Great place to have your party"
— Ace Fleet

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a member to visit Elks Lodge 296?

Most Lodge amenities, including the bar, kitchen, and events, are reserved for members and their guests. The best way to experience the Lodge is to come as the guest of a current member. If you are interested in joining, that visit is a great first step toward applying.

How do I become a member of Lodge 296?

Membership is open to U.S. citizens who believe in God and are of good moral character. You will need a sponsor who is already a member. Visit the national Elks website at elks.org or stop by the Lodge to connect with a member who can guide you through the application process.

Can I rent the event hall for a wedding or private party?

Yes. The Lodge hall is available for member events including weddings, receptions, birthday parties, and family gatherings. Contact the Lodge directly through the elks.org Lodge 296 page to inquire about availability and pricing.

What kind of food does the Lodge serve?

The kitchen is known for its burgers, which members describe as genuinely delicious. The Lodge has also hosted specialty dinner nights in the past, including crab leg events that drew strong attendance. Menu offerings can vary, so check with the Lodge for current kitchen hours and specials.

Are there events for kids and families?

Absolutely. Lodge 296 runs youth and family programs throughout the year. These events are a big draw for member families and reflect the Elks' national commitment to supporting young people in the community.

Where exactly is Lodge 296 located?

The Lodge is at 250 SE Frontage Rd in Joliet, IL 60431. It is accessible from the frontage road and easy to find whether you are coming from within Joliet or traveling through the area on a nearby highway.

What are the Lodge's hours?

Hours can vary based on events and the season. For the most current schedule, visit the Lodge 296 page on elks.org or reach out through the website's contact feature. Showing up as a member's guest during a posted event is always a reliable way to experience the Lodge at its best.

Hours of Operation

Open Now · Closes at 11:00 PM
Monday 4:00 – 10:00 PM
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday 4:00 – 10:00 PM
Thursday 4:00 – 10:00 PM
Friday Today 4:00 – 11:00 PM
Saturday 4:00 – 11:00 PM
Sunday 12:00 – 5:00 PM
78° Cloudy Joliet
Fri 78° 71°
Sat 80° 72°
Sun 85° 72°
Mon 79° 65°
Tue 81° 64°
Wed 80° 68°
Thu 70° 60°
The Order · Since 1868

Community. Friendship. Charity.

Every Elks lodge belongs to one of America's oldest and largest fraternal orders. Through the Elks National Foundation, the Order has given more than $481 million to college scholarships, veterans, and neighbors in need.

Join the Elks
A Proud Heritage

The Elks gave America
Flag Day.

Long before it was a national observance, the Order set aside June 14th to honor the flag. Patriotism has always been one of our cardinal principles, and every lodge meeting still closes the same way it has for over a century.

“To our absent members.” — the Eleven O’Clock Toast

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Community · Friendship · Charity

Who are the Elks?

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is one of America's oldest and largest fraternal orders, founded in 1868. Every lodge is a home for fellowship, service, and patriotism in its own hometown.

$481M+given through the Elks National Foundation for scholarships, veterans, and community programs.

What the Order does

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