Everything You Need to Know About McCormick Place

Colonel Robert R. McCormick once had a vision fulfilled in the form of McCormick Place; under Colonel McCormick, the state funded the construction of a permanent exhibition hall to host the most glamorous trade shows and conventions. However, Colonel McCormick never saw his vision become a reality, as it was only in 1960, five years after his death, that the convention center was established in his honor. This world-class structure is the largest convention center in North America, situated in the city of Canada. Thus, McCormick Place, Chicago has a rich history of its own. In 2020, this facility became home to a civilian field hospital to combat the surge of the COVID-19 pandemic. During this heroic act, several first responders built the largest of its kind in modern history in just a matter of weeks.

The McCormick Place is committed to diversity when it comes to business. Their inclusion extends beyond the employment policies to business practices. McCormick Place aims to establish and maintain an inclusive supplier diversity program to provide elevated opportunities for small and diverse businesses to become vendors. OVG forges economic inclusivity and ensures a positive impact by providing local, small and diverse business opportunities in places where they operate. The supplier diversity program acts as the catalyst for creating an inclusive economic environment in the ever-evolving entertainment industry. McCormick Place is also a hub for unique sponsorship and advertising opportunities. These opportunities include:

• Exterior Digital Marquee Advertising
• Permanent Fixed Signage & Displays
• Business & Entertainment Lounge Entitlements
• Sustainability Programs
• Art Gallery and Guest Amenity Presenting Sponsorships
• Food and Beverage Integration
• Corporate Hospitality
• Website, Email, Wi-Fi, and Social Media Advertising

Offering completely customizable facility-wide sponsorship and advertising opportunities, they offer creative and integrated methods to get your brand and company in front of McCormick Place attendees. To satisfy its unique promotional and marketing goals and to provide the brand with the most visibility possible to improve the visitor experience, McCormick Place collaborates with its clients to create comprehensive partnership programs. Being a partner of McCormick Place offers your business the exceptional chance to develop brand affinity through direct association with the biggest convention center in North America, which hosts a diverse range of events all year round.

What is McCormick Place?

McCormick Place is a convention center that is experienced in organizing various events. Be it a trade fair or a corporate meeting, the convention center McCormick Place is one of the most suitable venues. It is located in Chicago, Illinois. The structure is spread over a 2.6 million sq. feet area, making it the perfect place for exhibits. If you are looking for a leading exhibit booth provider in the US, we are here to help. With the help of the most skilled designers, we will create the most impactful exhibit booth design by keenly analyzing the brand's needs.

The facility has four interconnected buildings: the North, South, East, and West buildings. Depending on your transportation and the location of your event, you can choose to enter from whichever building. This facility also consists of one indoor area on and near Lake Michigan's shore.

The current CEO of McCormick Place is Larita Clark, who is the first African American woman to hold this position of responsibility. MPEA (Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority) owns the McCormick Place. It is managed by the OVG 360.  

Why should I choose McCormick Place for my next event?

The McCormick Place Convention Center has many facilities in store for you if you plan to be a part of any convention here.

PLANNERS

If you are the planner of the brand's event, McCormick Place will provide you with the best sales and marketing strategies. You can also avail yourself of the services of their skilled event management team. This includes an Event Planning Guide, which will help you to get acquainted with the policies and procedures of McCormick Place. The Rate Sheet for Equipment will help you to plan your budget (Pro Tip: Contact McCormick Place's event manager to get a discount on the standard price of the telecommunication services) the standard facility cleaning services as a part of their GBAC STAR accreditation. With the help of their partner company, Scanalytics, Inc., you can rest assured about handling your company's data, analytics and tools to offer your audience the best possible experience.

EXHIBITORS

Being an interested exhibitor, your priority concern would be booking the services for your event in McCormick Place. With the enhanced online service provided, you can easily choose your event services without the hassle of traveling. The online ordering will be available the day before you move in. (Pro Tip: Save money by choosing your event services at least 14 days before your first show day). They also provide on-site skilled technology services for you, including internet, telecommunications and television. The IT team promises to be professional, efficient and user-friendly. As an exhibitor, you can choose to participate in the Automobile and Small Utility Vehicle (ASUV) Program. This program shall help you with facilities to facilitate your exhibit stand's personal loading and unloading. What’s the catch? If you are a first time exhibitor, the McCormick place takes extra efforts to plan your first exhibit experience. The guidelines and other details are mentioned on their website.

ATTENDEES

The McCormick Place website provides detailed information, from driving directions and public transportation to parking and rates. The ADA Accessibility standards are being diligently enforced on the premises. Check out the Arie Crown Theatre and Wintrust Arena sections to learn about the events happening there. You can also book tickets to these events online on their website.

The extensive range of food and beverages in the premises during events are being organized by the OVG hospitality. Other amenities include atm machines, bicycles, business center, coat check, first-aid, gift shop, information desks, infant nursing area, internet, show shine service, U.S. mailbox, visitor information center, visitors with disabilities, and a 24-hour convenience center.  

How to Plan a Visit to McCormick Place?

Plan your visit to McCormick Place Chicago Convention Center by choosing the exquisite options McCormick offers. With McCormick, you will enter into an experience that pleases all your senses. Make your stay the most memorable and comfortable by choosing from various options. These include accommodations and gourmet dining at prominent landmarks.

HOTELS NEAR MCCORMICK CONVENTION CENTER CHICAGO

Hyatt Regency McCormick Place

Address: 2233 S Martin Luther King Dr, Chicago, IL 60616, United States

Contact No: +1 312-567-1234

Within approximately 1 km, Hyatt Regency McCormick Place has been redefining the convention center hotel experience for years. Their legacy promises excellence, making them one of the best places to stay.

The Wheeler Mansion

Address: 2020 S Calumet Ave, Chicago, IL 60616, United States

Contact No: +1 312-945-2020

Next, we have the Wheeler Mansion, located 1 km from the McCormick Convention Center, to give you luxury and comfort in the gourmet sense. With fine art and dining, this place is sure to awaken your artistic expression.

Mariott Marquis Chicago

Address: 2121 S Prairie Ave, Chicago, IL 60616, United States

Contact No: +1 312-824-0500

This hotel is directly connected to McCormick Place and provides state-of-the-art facilities to its customers during their stay. The Marriott Marquis Chicago creates a unique experience with iconic landmarks.

Hilton Garden Inn Chicago

Address: 123 E Cermak Rd Suite 300, Chicago, IL 60616, USA

Contact No: +1 312-791-1121

Connected to McCormick Place via a sky bridge, Hilton Garden Inn Chicago provides the most breathtaking view of Chicago and Lake Michigan from its VU Skyward Rooftop Bar.

The Blackstone Autograph Collection

Address: 636 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605, United States

Phone: +1 312-447-0955

With premier hospitality service and modern amenities, The Blackstone, Autograph Collection promises an exhilarating stay.

RESTAURANTS NEAR MCCORMICK CONVENTION CENTER CHICAGO

Connie's

Address: 2373 S Archer Ave, Chicago, IL 60616, United States

This place is Chicago's best-kept secret. And honestly, who doesn't like a good slice of pizza? Therefore, try Connie's Deep Dish Pizza when you're in McCormick.

Third Star

Address: Hyatt Regency McCormick Place,  2233 S Martin Luther King Dr, Chicago, IL 60616, United States

The Third Star restaurant in Hyatt McCormick Place was inspired by the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Thus, it promises to give you the most spectacular fine dining experience.

La Cantina Grill

Address: 1911 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60616, United States

This place serves one of the most delectable authentic Mexican cuisine in Chicago. So, if you like traditional Mexican food, drop by La Cantina Grill at McCormick Place.

Lips

Address: 2229 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60616, United States

This is the place if you are looking for the most amazing LaCage drag show experience in Chicago. When in McCormick Place, remember to visit this place for their Sunday brunches, which are a lip-smacking experience. But always remember to make a reservation!

Chicago Oyster House

Address: 1933 S Indiana Ave, Chicago, IL 60616, United States

This place is the venue for all seafood lovers. Chicago Oyster House has been a classic favorite of not only the locals but also people around the world. A tip: When you're there, remember to try their freshest made-to-order sashimi, sushi, and rolls.