McCormick Place: The Heart of Chicago's Convention Scene
Discover the vibrant hub of McCormick Place, the largest convention center in North America, where innovation meets culture in the heart of Chicago.
McCormick Place is a monumental convention center located on the Near South Side of Chicago, offering a vibrant hub for events, exhibitions, and gatherings. With its impressive size and modern facilities, it attracts millions of visitors each year, making it a top destination for tourists and business travelers alike.
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
- Check the event calendar on McCormick Place's official website before your visit to see if there's a convention or expo that interests you.
- Consider using public transportation, as parking can be limited during large events and might incur additional costs.
- Make reservations at nearby restaurants in advance, especially during busy convention weeks, to secure your dining plans.
- Take advantage of the walking paths along Lake Michigan for scenic views and a pleasant stroll before or after your event.
- Explore the nearby attractions, including the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium, which are just a short distance away.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From any location in Gary, head to the nearest bus stop and take the Gary Public Transportation Corporation (GPTC) bus to the South Shore Line station. From there, take the South Shore Line train towards Chicago, which will take you to the Millennium Station in downtown Chicago. Once you arrive at Millennium Station, transfer to the CTA Red Line subway at the State & Lake station. Board the train heading towards 95th/Dan Ryan. Get off at the 35th-Bronzeville-IIT stop. From the station, walk east on 35th Street for about 10 minutes until you reach Martin Luther King Drive. Turn right and walk south until you reach McCormick Place at 2301 S Martin Luther King Dr.
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Taxi or Rideshare
If you prefer a more direct route, you can request a taxi or rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) from your location in Gary. Provide the driver with the address: 2301 S Martin Luther King Dr, Chicago, IL 60616. The journey will take approximately 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Be sure to confirm with the driver that they are headed towards Chicago, and enjoy the ride!
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Bicycle
For the more adventurous, consider biking to McCormick Place. Start at the Gary South Shore RailCats Stadium and follow the bike-friendly roads heading southeast towards the South Shore Line train station. From there, you can take the South Shore Line train to Millennium Station in Chicago, then bike through Grant Park to reach McCormick Place. Be mindful of the bike lanes as you navigate through the city streets.
Discover more about McCormick Place
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Elbridge G Keith House
0.6 km
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Second Presbyterian Church
0.8 km
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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
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Camp Douglas State Historic Site
1.9 km
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Ludington Building
2.0 km
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S. R. Crown Hall (IIT College of Architecture)
2.4 km
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Chicago Defender Building
2.4 km
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Grant Park
2.4 km
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Douglas Tomb State Historic Site
2.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Battle of Fort Dearborn Park
0.6 km
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Monument To The Great Northern Migration
0.7 km
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Chess Records
0.7 km
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Clarke-Ford House
0.7 km
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Glessner House
0.7 km
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Northerly Island Park
1.0 km
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Soldier Field
1.1 km
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Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island
1.3 km
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Chicago's Chinatown Gateway
1.3 km
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Chinatown Square Plaza
1.4 km
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Chinese American Museum of Chicago
1.5 km
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Museum Campus
1.5 km
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The Museum Campus
1.5 km
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Field Museum
1.5 km
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Essential places to dine
The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
1.4 km
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Mercat a la Planxa
2.4 km
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Exchequer Restaurant & Pub
3.0 km
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The Berghoff Restaurant
3.1 km
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Hot Woks Cool Sushi
3.2 km
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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
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Cherry Circle Room
3.3 km
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The Village
3.3 km
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Kindling | Downtown Cookout & Cocktails
3.4 km
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Double Clutch at Millennium Hall
3.4 km
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Millennium Hall
3.4 km
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Casa Bonita at Millenium Park
3.4 km
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Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar at Millennium Hall
3.4 km
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Remington's
3.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gifts R Us
1.4 km
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The Sue Store
1.5 km
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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
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The Symphony Store
3.1 km
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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
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Chicago Athletic Association Gift Shop
3.3 km
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Buddy
3.5 km
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YoGoe
3.5 km
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After School Matters Gift Shop
3.6 km
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I Love Chicago
3.9 km
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Kyrgyzstan
4.1 km
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PRIMITIVE
4.2 km
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Souvenir City Chicago
4.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Best Bar
1.3 km
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Kasey's Tavern
2.5 km
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Panchos Rooftop Cantina
2.9 km
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2Twenty2 Tavern
3.0 km
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The Game Room
3.3 km
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Cindy's Rooftop
3.3 km
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Drawing Room
3.3 km
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The Milk Room
3.3 km
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Adamus Lounge
3.3 km
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Vol. 39
3.4 km
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MBar - Millennium Station
3.6 km
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Emerald Loop Bar & Grill
3.8 km
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Bar Pendry Chicago
3.9 km
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RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar
3.9 km
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Slightly Toasted
3.9 km
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