Chicago, one of the most popular convention cities in the United States, is home to McCormick Place, the largest exhibition center in North America. Set on the edge of Lake Michigan, McCormick Place contains more than 2.2 million square feet of exhibit space. The complex also features the 4,249-seat Arie Crown Theater, three 345-seat theaters, 112 meeting rooms, assembly seating for 10,000 people, and 8,000 parking spaces. The addition of the adjoining McCormick Place West, expected to be completed in 2008, will add approximately 470,000 square feet of exhibition space and 250,000 square feet of meeting room space to the facility. Chicago is known for its mix of gracious dowager hotels and modern glass towers with spectacular views of Lake Michigan.
Navy Pier offers space for mid-size events with 170,000 square feet of exhibit space and 36 meeting rooms. Special meeting facilities are available at museums, theaters, stadiums, corporations, and colleges and universities in the Chicago area.
Convention Information: Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau, 2301 South Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60616; telephone (312)567-8500