Experience the Grandeur of McCormick Place: Chicago's Premier Convention Center
Discover McCormick Place, Chicago's leading convention center, where innovation meets hospitality in the heart of the city.
McCormick Place, located in the vibrant Near South Side of Chicago, is the largest convention center in North America. It hosts a myriad of events, from trade shows to exhibitions, attracting tourists and professionals alike. With its striking architecture and expansive exhibition space, it's a must-visit for anyone in the area.
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
Local tips
- Plan your visit during a major convention or exhibition for a bustling atmosphere and unique experiences.
- Take advantage of nearby public transport options for easy access to downtown attractions.
- Explore the dining options within McCormick Place for a variety of local and international cuisines.
- Check the McCormick Place website for upcoming events and exhibitions to make the most of your visit.
- Consider staying at one of the hotels connected to the convention center for convenience and comfort.
Getting There
-
Public Transit - Train
From Palatine, head to the Palatine Metra Station located at 137 W Wood St. Purchase a ticket for the Union Pacific Northwest Line towards Chicago. Board the train and travel approximately 40 minutes to the Ogilvie Transportation Center in downtown Chicago. Once you arrive, exit the station and head to the nearby Clinton Station on the Green Line. Take the Green Line train towards Cottage Grove and ride it for about 6 stops until you reach the 35th-Bronzeville-IIT Station. From there, you can walk south along Martin Luther King Jr. Drive for about 15 minutes to reach McCormick Place at 2301 S Martin Luther King Dr.
-
Public Transit - Bus
From Palatine, make your way to the nearest bus stop that services Pace buses. Take the Pace Route 696 bus towards the Arlington Park Station. After about 15 minutes, transfer to the Metra train at Arlington Park Station, taking the Union Pacific Northwest Line towards Chicago. Get off at Ogilvie Transportation Center and transfer to the Green Line at Clinton Station. Take the Green Line towards Cottage Grove, disembark at 35th-Bronzeville-IIT Station, and walk south for approximately 15 minutes to McCormick Place.
-
Walking/Combination
If you prefer to walk, start from Palatine’s downtown area and make your way to the nearest Metra station to board a train to Chicago. Once you arrive at Ogilvie Transportation Center, transfer to the Green Line at Clinton Station. From there, take the train towards Cottage Grove and get off at 35th-Bronzeville-IIT Station. Walk south along Martin Luther King Jr. Drive for about 15 minutes to reach McCormick Place. This journey will take several hours, so plan accordingly.
Discover more about McCormick Place
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Elbridge G Keith House
0.6 km
Explore the Elbridge G. Keith House, a historic gem in Chicago's Prairie District, showcasing stunning architecture and rich history from the 19th century.
Second Presbyterian Church
0.8 km
Explore the beauty and tranquility of Second Presbyterian Church, a historic gem in Chicago's Prairie District, offering spiritual solace and architectural splendor.
Americas' Courtyard
1.6 km
Explore America's Courtyard in Chicago, a tranquil escape with stunning city views and lush landscapes near top attractions.
Shedd Aquarium
1.7 km
Immerse yourself in the aquatic wonders at Shedd Aquarium, a historical landmark in Chicago, featuring diverse marine life and engaging educational experiences.
Pete Chicago Memorial Walkway
1.7 km
Explore the Pete Chicago Memorial Walkway in Grant Park, a serene historical landmark celebrating the legacy of a beloved figure in Chicago's vibrant history.
Jewel-Osco
1.8 km
Experience the best of Chicago's grocery scene at Jewel-Osco in the South Loop, where fresh produce, baked goods, and local flavors await.
The Blues Trail: Mississippi to Chicago
1.8 km
Explore the rich history of blues music along the Blues Trail from Mississippi to Chicago, celebrating iconic musicians and vibrant culture.
Unity Hall
1.8 km
Discover the charm of Unity Hall, a historical landmark in Chicago that showcases the city's rich cultural heritage and architectural beauty.
St. Charles Air Line Bridge
1.8 km
Explore the St. Charles Air Line Bridge in Chicago, a historical landmark showcasing the city's engineering brilliance and rich transportation heritage.
Camp Douglas State Historic Site
1.9 km
Explore Camp Douglas State Historic Site in Chicago, a poignant reminder of the Civil War era and the stories of those who lived through it.
Ludington Building
2.0 km
Discover the historic Ludington Building in Chicago's South Loop, a stunning architectural gem that reflects the city's rich heritage.
S. R. Crown Hall (IIT College of Architecture)
2.4 km
Explore the architectural brilliance of S. R. Crown Hall, a historical landmark at IIT showcasing modern design and rich educational heritage.
Chicago Defender Building
2.4 km
Discover the historic Chicago Defender Building, a landmark of African American journalism and a symbol of social justice in Chicago.
Grant Park
2.4 km
Discover the beauty and culture of Grant Park, Chicago's iconic urban oasis featuring stunning landscapes, historic landmarks, and vibrant events.
Douglas Tomb State Historic Site
2.4 km
Explore the Douglas Tomb State Historic Site, where history meets serenity in the heart of Chicago, honoring the legacy of Stephen A. Douglas.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Battle of Fort Dearborn Park
0.6 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of The Battle of Fort Dearborn Park, a peaceful retreat in the heart of Chicago's Prairie District.
Monument To The Great Northern Migration
0.7 km
Discover the Monument to the Great Northern Migration in Chicago, a powerful celebration of resilience and hope in American history.
Chess Records
0.7 km
Explore the iconic Chess Records in Chicago, where music legends were born and the sounds of blues and rock 'n' roll echo through history.
Clarke-Ford House
0.7 km
Explore the rich history of Chicago at the Clarke-Ford House, a beautifully preserved museum showcasing 19th-century domestic life.
Glessner House
0.7 km
Discover the architectural brilliance and historical charm of Glessner House, a must-visit museum in Chicago's Prairie District, rich in cultural significance.
Northerly Island Park
1.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Northerly Island Park in Chicago, offering stunning lake views and lush landscapes for a perfect urban retreat.
Soldier Field
1.1 km
Experience the thrill of live events at Soldier Field, Chicago's iconic stadium, blending history, sports, and music in one unforgettable venue.
Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island
1.3 km
Discover the Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island, Chicago's premier outdoor venue for live music, stunning views, and vibrant community events.
Chicago's Chinatown Gateway
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant culture and rich history of Chicago's Chinatown Gateway, a stunning entryway into a world of culinary delights and cultural experiences.
Chinatown Square Plaza
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and rich heritage of Chinatown Square Plaza in the heart of Chicago's historic Chinatown.
Chinese American Museum of Chicago
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant history and contributions of Chinese Americans at the Chinese American Museum of Chicago, a cultural gem in the heart of the city.
Museum Campus
1.5 km
Explore Museum Campus: A stunning blend of history, culture, and nature along Chicago's beautiful lakefront.
The Museum Campus
1.5 km
Discover the cultural heart of Chicago at The Museum Campus, where world-class museums meet stunning lakefront beauty.
Field Museum
1.5 km
Discover the wonders of natural history at the Field Museum in Chicago, home to dinosaur fossils, cultural artifacts, and engaging science exhibits.
Essential places to dine
The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
1.4 km
Experience fine dining at The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant - where historic charm meets culinary excellence in the heart of the South Loop.
Mercat a la Planxa
2.4 km
Experience exquisite Spanish tapas at Mercat a la Planxa in Chicago's South Loop – where tradition meets innovation.
Exchequer Restaurant & Pub
3.0 km
Experience Chicago's vibrant dining scene at Exchequer Restaurant & Pub - where delicious pizza meets welcoming pub vibes.
The Berghoff Restaurant
3.1 km
Experience the taste of tradition at The Berghoff Restaurant - where authentic German flavors meet American hospitality in Chicago.
Hot Woks Cool Sushi
3.2 km
Experience culinary bliss at Hot Woks Cool Sushi in Chicago's Millennium Park – where fresh sushi meets vibrant Asian flavors.
The Gage
3.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at The Gage in Chicago's Loop—where great food meets lively atmosphere.
Acanto
3.3 km
Discover Acanto: An upscale Italian restaurant and cocktail bar in Chicago Loop offering authentic cuisine and an extensive wine selection.
Cherry Circle Room
3.3 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at Cherry Circle Room in Chicago's Loop, where every dish tells a story of flavor and artistry.
The Village
3.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine blended with American flavors at The Village in Chicago's Loop – a culinary delight you can't miss!
Kindling | Downtown Cookout & Cocktails
3.4 km
Experience downtown Chicago's vibrant culinary scene at Kindling - where innovative American dishes meet expertly crafted cocktails.
Double Clutch at Millennium Hall
3.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Chicago at Double Clutch in Millennium Park, where every meal is a celebration of local culinary artistry.
Millennium Hall
3.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Chicago at Millennium Hall - where culinary creativity meets local charm.
Casa Bonita at Millenium Park
3.4 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Casa Bonita in Millennium Park - where vibrant flavors meet cultural ambiance.
Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar at Millennium Hall
3.4 km
Experience the taste of Italy at Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar, where artisanal pizzas meet a vibrant atmosphere in Millennium Park.
Remington's
3.4 km
Experience Chicago's vibrant culinary scene at Remington's – where American classics meet fine dining in an inviting atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gifts R Us
1.4 km
Explore the charm of Gifts R Us in Chicago, where unique finds and local treasures await every visitor.
The Sue Store
1.5 km
Explore The Sue Store for unique dinosaur-themed gifts and souvenirs at the Field Museum, celebrating the legacy of Sue, the iconic T. rex.
Roosevelt Collection Shops
2.2 km
Explore the Roosevelt Collection Shops for a unique shopping experience in Chicago, blending local boutiques with popular brands in a lively atmosphere.
Bye Bye Chicago
3.0 km
Discover the charm of Chicago at Bye Bye Chicago, your go-to gift shop for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
The Symphony Store
3.1 km
Explore The Symphony Store in Chicago for unique gifts and musical treasures that celebrate the city's vibrant music culture.
Feelings Gift Shop
3.2 km
Explore Feelings Gift Shop in Chicago Loop for unique souvenirs and handcrafted gifts that capture the heart of the Windy City.
My Chicago!
3.3 km
Discover a unique blend of clothing and souvenirs at My Chicago! – your go-to destination for capturing the spirit of the Windy City.
Chicago Athletic Association Gift Shop
3.3 km
Discover unique Chicago souvenirs at the Chicago Athletic Association Gift Shop, where local culture meets exquisite gifting.
Buddy
3.5 km
Explore Buddy Gallery in Chicago Loop – a unique boutique and art gallery showcasing local craftsmanship and creativity.
YoGoe
3.5 km
Explore YoGoe Gift Shop in Chicago Loop for unique, locally sourced gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of the Windy City.
After School Matters Gift Shop
3.6 km
Explore the After School Matters Gift Shop: A unique Chicago destination for handcrafted gifts that support local youth programs.
I Love Chicago
3.9 km
Discover unique Chicago gifts and souvenirs at I Love Chicago, the ultimate destination for local treasures and memorabilia.
Kyrgyzstan
4.1 km
Explore the heart of Kyrgyzstan through its unique gifts and handcrafted treasures at this charming shop, perfect for every traveler.
PRIMITIVE
4.2 km
Explore PRIMITIVE in Chicago’s West Loop for exquisite antiques, vintage furniture, and unique art pieces that embody timeless elegance.
Souvenir City Chicago
4.2 km
Explore Souvenir City Chicago for unique gifts and authentic Chicago memorabilia, perfect for tourists seeking to capture the spirit of the Windy City.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Best Bar
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails at Chicago's Best Bar, a top destination for cocktail lovers and tourists alike.
Kasey's Tavern
2.5 km
Discover Kasey's Tavern, a beloved pub in Chicago's South Loop, offering delicious food, a welcoming atmosphere, and a wide selection of drinks.
Panchos Rooftop Cantina
2.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine and stunning skyline views at Panchos Rooftop Cantina in the heart of Chicago.
2Twenty2 Tavern
3.0 km
Experience Chicago's nightlife at 2Twenty2 Tavern, a lively bar offering craft beers, cocktails, and delicious cuisine in the heart of the Loop.
The Game Room
3.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Chicago at The Game Room, where great drinks and games create unforgettable moments.
Cindy's Rooftop
3.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite dining at Cindy's Rooftop, a premier bar and restaurant in the heart of Chicago's Loop.
Drawing Room
3.3 km
Discover chic elegance at The Drawing Room, Chicago's premier lounge for American cuisine and signature cocktails.
The Milk Room
3.3 km
Experience the epitome of luxury at The Milk Room, Chicago's exclusive bar offering innovative cocktails in an intimate setting.
Adamus Lounge
3.3 km
Adamus Lounge: A Chic American Dining Experience in the Heart of Chicago's Loop.
Vol. 39
3.4 km
Discover the sophistication of Vol. 39 in Chicago, where exquisite cocktails and an elegant atmosphere await your next visit.
MBar - Millennium Station
3.6 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Chicago at MBar - a modern bar offering unique cocktails and a lively atmosphere in Millennium Station.
Emerald Loop Bar & Grill
3.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of American cuisine and Irish pub charm at Emerald Loop Bar & Grill in the heart of Chicago's Loop.
Bar Pendry Chicago
3.9 km
Discover the elegance of Bar Pendry in Chicago Loop, where innovative cocktails meet a stylish atmosphere for a memorable night out.
RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar
3.9 km
Discover RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar in Chicago Loop for stunning views, handcrafted cocktails, and vibrant social atmosphere.
Slightly Toasted
3.9 km
Discover Slightly Toasted, a lively gastropub in Chicago's West Loop, offering innovative dishes and a vibrant atmosphere for food lovers.
