Discover McCormick Place: Chicago's Premier Convention Center
Explore McCormick Place, Chicago's largest convention center, where business meets culture in an iconic lakeside setting.
Situated along the picturesque shoreline of Lake Michigan, McCormick Place stands as the largest convention center in North America, with a staggering 2.6 million square feet of exhibition space. This architectural marvel not only hosts significant trade shows and conventions but also serves as a cultural gateway for tourists. Visitors can explore the center’s impressive design, which incorporates natural lighting and sustainable features, enhancing their experience in this dynamic venue. The center is conveniently located near the heart of Chicago, easily accessible by public transport and within close proximity to various attractions, restaurants, and hotels. It also hosts numerous events throughout the year, ranging from industry trade shows to public expos, allowing tourists to experience the vibrancy of Chicago's business and cultural scenes. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a guided tour, where you can learn about the center's history and its role in shaping Chicago's economy. Additionally, the surrounding area boasts a variety of dining options, perfect for unwinding after a busy day. Whether you are in town for a specific event or simply wish to explore one of the city's key landmarks, McCormick Place is a vital part of the Chicago experience that shouldn't be overlooked.
Local tips
- Check the event calendar on the McCormick Place website before your visit to see if any public events or expos are happening.
- Consider using public transportation such as the 'L' train to avoid parking hassles, especially during major events.
- Take advantage of the food courts inside for a variety of dining options, perfect for a quick bite between events.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking within the vast exhibition halls.
- Capture stunning photos of the skyline and Lake Michigan from the outdoor areas of McCormick Place.
A brief summary to McCormick Place
- 2301 S Martin Luther King Dr, Chicago, Near South Side, Illinois, 60616, US
- +1312-791-7000
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Getting There
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Public Transit
From Arlington Heights, head to the Arlington Heights Metra Station located at 45 W Northwest Hwy. Take a train on the Union Pacific Northwest Line towards Chicago. The journey takes about 40-50 minutes. Once you arrive at the Ogilvie Transportation Center in Chicago, follow the signs to transfer to the CTA 'L' train. Take the Pink Line from the Damen station towards 18th. Get off at the 18th station and transfer to the #21 Cermak bus towards 35th/Archer. Ride the bus until you reach the stop at Martin Luther King Drive and Cermak, which is a short walk to McCormick Place.
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Walking
If you are starting from a nearby hotel or location in Arlington Heights, walk to the nearest bus stop that services the Pace bus routes. Look for routes that connect to the Metra train stations. Take the Pace bus to the Metra station and follow the directions above for public transit. If you are near the train station, simply follow the station signage to board the Metra train to Chicago.
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Biking
For those who prefer biking, you can rent a bike from a local rental service in Arlington Heights. Head towards the nearest bike-friendly path that leads to the train station. Once at the Arlington Heights Metra Station, lock your bike securely. Then follow the public transit instructions above to reach McCormick Place.
Attractions Nearby to McCormick Place
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The Battle of Fort Dearborn Park
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Monument To The Great Northern Migration
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Chess Records
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Clarke-Ford House
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Glessner House
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Northerly Island Park
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Soldier Field
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Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island
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Chicago's Chinatown Gateway
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Chinatown Square Plaza
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Chinese American Museum of Chicago
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The Museum Campus
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Museum Campus
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Field Museum
Landmarks nearby to McCormick Place
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Elbridge G Keith House
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Second Presbyterian Church
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Americas' Courtyard
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Shedd Aquarium
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Pete Chicago Memorial Walkway
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Jewel-Osco
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The Blues Trail: Mississippi to Chicago
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Unity Hall
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St. Charles Air Line Bridge
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Camp Douglas State Historic Site
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Ludington Building
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S. R. Crown Hall (IIT College of Architecture)
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Chicago Defender Building
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Grant Park
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Douglas Tomb State Historic Site