When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
McCormick Place
Why McCormick Place is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
McCormick Place in Chicago stands as the largest and most flexible convention center in North America, offering an expansive 2.6 million square feet of exhibition space across four interconnected buildings—the North, South, West Buildings, and Lakeside Center. This premier venue attracts approximately 3 million visitors annually, hosting some of the world's most prestigious conventions, trade shows, and meetings. Located just minutes from downtown Chicago and accessible via major transportation hubs, including two international airports and public transit, McCormick Place provides exceptional convenience for attendees. Its facilities feature 173 meeting rooms with a total of 600,000 square feet of event space, four grand ballrooms ranging between 21,000 and 100,000 square feet, and assembly seating for up to 18,000 people. The campus also includes the Wintrust Arena with 10,000 seats, the Arie Crown Theater seating 4,249 guests, a network of pedestrian sky bridges connecting nearly 3,000 hotel rooms, and diverse on-site dining options. Beyond its size and amenities, McCormick Place is committed to sustainability, being one of North America's largest green-certified convention centers. It offsets 100 percent of its electricity use with wind energy and boasts a LEED-certified West Building featuring the region's largest rooftop farm-to-fork garden, supporting its catering operations. These attributes make McCormick Place an iconic and attractive destination for business professionals and visitors looking to meet up for events, networking, or conferences in Chicago.
Here's what people think of McCormick Place
As of recent, McCormick Place holds a 4.5-star rating based on 14158 reviews.
Visitors frequently praise McCormick Place for its massive size, convenience, and professional atmosphere, elevating it as a top venue for conventions and large-scale events. Positive reviews often highlight the spaciousness of the venue, including the wide variety of meeting rooms and large ballrooms that can accommodate diverse event needs. Attendees appreciate the excellent accessibility, ample parking, and direct connection to numerous nearby hotels via skybridges, enabling a seamless experience. The inclusion of large-capacity entertainment venues such as the Wintrust Arena and Arie Crown Theater is also commonly noted as a valuable asset. Additionally, many reviewers recognize McCormick Place's commitment to sustainability and innovative efforts in reducing energy consumption, which adds to its appeal. However, some negative feedback mentions issues related to specific on-site conveniences, such as the perceived monopoly of a single coffee provider leading to long lines. Concerns have also been raised about the environmental impact of the building on migratory birds, prompting calls for enhanced bird-friendly measures such as reducing nighttime lighting. Despite these critiques, most guests find McCormick Place to be an impressive and efficient facility that meets the needs of various exhibitors and attendees. Overall, the reviews reflect a strong consensus that McCormick Place remains a vital and well-managed center for large events in Chicago, with ongoing opportunities for improvement in guest amenities and environmental safeguards.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jesse Vega
What a great convention center! Wear comfortable shoes and if attending a large convention know your transportation routes, busses etc. before you arrive. I encountered many helpful employees throughout the building. Convenient business center and plenty of food and beverage options! I had an amazing experience attending the National Restaurant Association 2025 Trade Show!
Jennifer Vachon
What a stunning facility! I'm so glad I got to come to the ADLM conference in Chicago. The lecture rooms were comfortable and the view from most windows was beautiful
Tim Sulo
I remember when the Auto show was so much bigger. There were a lot of nice new cars and Trucks. Subaru got the attention from the audience with a nice set up for the new Outback! Always look for a GERALD owned dealer! You have locations pretty much every direction!
Kay G. Erkmann
Nice Location, we were here for the ProMat Show. Everything seems to be well arranged. We came with a Shuttle Bus from Downtown and it was a quick ride beside the common roads. Restaurants are quite good, the staff is always friendly.
Nicole Pratt
I came here for the Ace show. Parking was super easy, staff was very helpful in helping me find where registration was and the signage was also super nice. Thanks for a great visit!
How to reach McCormick Place
None
Website: None
Why McCormick Place may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at McCormick Place with your friends? McCormick Place stands out as an exceptional venue to gather with friends or family for a memorable meetup, offering unmatched scale, versatility, and vibrant atmosphere. Situated along Chicago's breathtaking lakefront with stunning city skyline views, it combines urban excitement with ease of access—making it a perfect central hub for groups of any size. As North America’s largest convention center, it boasts over 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space, ensuring there is never a shortage of activities or events to explore together. Whether your group is interested in attending world-class trade shows like the Chicago Auto Show or the International Home and Housewares Show, or simply enjoying the architectural grandeur and diverse dining options, McCormick Place transforms any gathering into an engaging experience. Its array of theaters, meeting rooms, ballrooms, and entertainment arenas offers something for everyone, from interactive exhibits to live performances, making it an inspiring place to reconnect, collaborate, or celebrate with your friends in an energetic yet welcoming setting.
What kinds of activities can I do at McCormick Place with a group?
McCormick Place is designed to accommodate a vast spectrum of activities to suit any group’s interests and preferences. The centerpiece is its expansive exhibition halls filled with rotating trade shows, conventions, and special events that draw millions annually. Your group can immerse in major industry showcases like the National Restaurant Association Annual Show, where food lovers can taste innovations, or the International Manufacturing Technology Show for those fascinated by emerging tech. Beyond exhibitions, the venue features two colossal theaters—the Arie Crown Theater seating 4,188 and the Wintrust Arena with 10,000 seats—where you can catch concerts, sports, and live performances that make group outings culturally rich and exciting. For smaller, more intimate gatherings, the 173 meeting rooms and numerous private ballrooms provide flexible spaces perfect for workshops, seminars, or private celebrations. With on-site catering and world-class dining options, groups can enjoy everything from casual bites to upscale meals without leaving the facility. Additionally, the 2.5-acre rooftop garden, the largest in the Midwest, offers a scenic retreat ideal for relaxing breaks or photo opportunities, creating a multi-faceted setting for lasting memories.
Why is McCormick Place perfect for group meetups and events?
McCormick Place’s reputation as the premier convention center in North America comes from more than just its size—it is the perfect environment for groups because of its thoughtful design, logistical advantages, and comprehensive amenities. The campus includes four interconnected state-of-the-art buildings that ensure ease of movement across events, which is invaluable when navigating with friends or family. It is strategically located just minutes from downtown Chicago, accessible via major transit hubs, including two international airports, making travel hassle-free no matter where your group comes from. Accessibility is a priority with ADA-compliant facilities throughout the campus, ensuring inclusivity for all group members. The facility offers nearly 3,000 attached hotel rooms, allowing your entire party to stay steps away from the action, eliminating the stress of commuting. With over 5,500 parking spaces and seamless Wi-Fi connectivity, you can stay connected and coordinated effortlessly. Whether you want to host a private party, a large-scale reunion, or a team-building event, the on-site concierge service and professional event staff provide expert assistance to tailor the experience to your group’s needs, creating a personalized, smoothly executed gathering.
What dining and entertainment options enhance group experiences at McCormick Place?
One of the standout features of McCormick Place for group activities is the variety and quality of dining and entertainment options available right on campus. Groups can indulge in an array of culinary delights offered by multiple world-class restaurants, which cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences, from casual meals to more formal dining experiences. The presence of on-site catering also means events can be customized with food and beverage options suited perfectly to your group's style and schedule. For entertainment beyond the convention floor, the adjacent theaters and arena host concerts, sports events, and theatrical performances, providing ample opportunities for your group to unwind and be entertained after a day of meetings or exhibits. The 4,249-seat Arie Crown Theater is renowned for its acoustics and atmosphere, ideal for enjoying live music or comedy shows together. Seasonal and special events often add unique programming to the McCormick calendar, allowing groups to experience something new and memorable each visit. These amenities make McCormick Place not just a convention center, but a dynamic social venue where friends and family can share great food, exciting entertainment, and perfect moments.
How accessible and convenient is McCormick Place for coordinating group visits?
McCormick Place excels in providing convenience critical for organizing group meetups with minimal stress. Located just about one mile from Chicago’s bustling Loop downtown, it ensures a short and scenic journey for visitors staying in the heart of the city or exploring iconic attractions nearby. The center’s proximity to two major international airports—O’Hare and Midway—supports arrival from across the globe and within the United States, streamlining travel arrangements for attendees coming from different locations. The complex is crafted for easy navigation with efficient signage, multiple entrances and exits, and interconnected buildings that minimize the time groups spend transitioning from one event or meeting to another. With more than 5,500 parking spaces and accessible public transportation options, your group can choose the most suitable way to arrive and depart. Technology-friendly features such as comprehensive Wi-Fi, in-house A/V support, and digital concierge services enhance communication and coordination, essential for groups to stay connected. This blend of accessibility and convenience helps transform planning into a smooth experience, leaving more energy for fun and engagement.
What makes McCormick Place a unique venue compared to other event spaces?
Several factors elevate McCormick Place beyond just being a large convention center, making it a uniquely appealing venue for groups statewide and nationwide. Its unparalleled size allows the hosting of multiple large-scale events simultaneously without crowding, so your group enjoys a spacious feel even during peak times. With ceiling heights reaching up to 50 feet and massive ballrooms, the architectural design creates an impressive and open ambiance rarely matched by other facilities. The venue’s location on Chicago’s lakefront provides breathtaking views and a refreshing urban-natural blend, making visitor downtime delightful whether indoors or outdoors. Its diversity of spaces—from massive exhibition halls to intimate meeting rooms and grand ballrooms—enables an unmatched range of event possibilities under one roof. The presence of adjunct venues like the Wintrust Arena and Arie Crown Theater offers multi-dimensional experiences, blending business, entertainment, and community events seamlessly. Through comprehensive services like on-site catering, parking, lodging, and concierge support, McCormick Place is not only a place to meet but a destination that elevates every occasion, fostering connection and celebration in a remarkable setting.
How can I plan and book a group event at McCormick Place?
Planning a group meetup or event at McCormick Place is straightforward thanks to their professional event management services and flexible booking options. Given its popularity and expansive calendar, it is recommended to start the booking process at least 18 months in advance to secure ideal dates and spaces, especially for large groups or special events. The center offers a dedicated platform to submit Requests for Proposals (RFPs) where event planners can specify their needs for meeting rooms, ballrooms, catering, technology support, and more. McCormick Place’s experienced sales and coordination teams work closely with planners to tailor event components, ensuring all technical and hospitality requirements are met seamlessly. With 173 meeting rooms, six ballrooms, and versatile exhibit spaces, planners can customize layouts to fit unique group sizes or event purposes. The availability of on-site accommodations, entertainment venues, and dining options support comprehensive event experiences that make coordination easier for organizers and enjoyable for attendees. Engaging McCormick Place for your group event ensures professional support every step of the way, transforming planning complexities into a smooth, rewarding process.
What kind of atmosphere and crowd can I expect at McCormick Place?
At McCormick Place, the atmosphere is dynamic and vibrant, infused with the energy of diverse visitors from around the world. Attendance averages around three million people annually, drawing professionals, hobbyists, tourists, and locals to events ranging from industry conventions to cultural exhibitions. This mix creates a cosmopolitan crowd that sparks interaction and networking opportunities within a welcoming environment. The spaciousness of the venue prevents feeling overwhelmed, even during major shows, enabling groups to move comfortably and enjoy their chosen activities fully. The design of the campus—featuring modern architecture along with green spaces like the rooftop garden—contributes to an open, inspiring setting conducive to both professional and social engagements. Whether your friends are event enthusiasts, culture seekers, or simply looking for a lively spot to reconnect, the atmosphere at McCormick Place encourages exploration, discovery, and connection. This unique blend makes it more than just a meeting spot; it becomes a memorable experience shared collectively.
By choosing McCormick Place for your group meetup, you tap into a premier venue perfectly crafted to balance scale, convenience, and diversity of experiences. Whether attending a major event, hosting a private gathering, or simply exploring with friends, McCormick Place offers everything necessary to forge lasting memories within one of Chicago’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a destination that truly shines when visited with friends, delivering grand event spaces, thoughtful amenities, and an enviable location, all combining to create an exceptional gathering place.