Coming to McCormick Place in Chicago for a Trade Show? Here are Edd’s top 5 things to do near McCormick Place
2023 will mark my 20th year in Chicago and I have spent ALOT of time at McCormick place performing at and visiting trade shows. When I first moved here the area around the convention center was almost empty. Now it is a thriving and bustling area! Here are my top 5 things to do when you are taking a break from a trade show at McCormick Place.
Visit the Art Institute of Chicago: Located just a few blocks away from McCormick Place, the Art Institute is a world-renowned museum that houses an impressive collection of art from around the world. Highlights include the Impressionist collection, the Modern Wing, and the Thorne Miniature Rooms. I sometimes just pop in to see Nighthawks by Edward Hopper or A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte
by Georges Seurat.
Take a stroll along the Lakefront Trail: McCormick Place is located right along Lake Michigan, so be sure to take advantage of the beautiful views and walk or bike along the Lakefront Trail. You can also rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and get out on the water. If you're not the athletic type, there are many companies offering 1 to 3 hour tours on the water in an airconditioned boat with a bar! You can find the docks for the companies at the river and Michigan Ave or on Navy Pier.
Explore the Field Museum: Another popular attraction located near McCormick Place is the Field Museum, which is home to a wide range of exhibits on natural history and anthropology. Be sure to check out the T. Rex skeleton and the Ancient Egyptian tombs. I didn’t appreciate diamond jewelry until I saw museum quality diamonds in amazing lighting. Now it get it!
Visit the Shedd Aquarium: The Shedd Aquarium is home to over 32,000 animals, including sharks, dolphins, and penguins. It's a great activity for families and kids of all ages. The Shedd is one of the largest aquariums in the world and the immersive design is amazing.
Try some local cuisine: Chicago is known for its delicious food, so be sure to try some of the local specialties while you're in town. Deep dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches are all must-tries. Every Chicagoan has their favs. Ask at your own peril! (We’re a passionate food bunch).
Bonus! Wintrust Area is right next to McCormick place and is the homecourt of the DePaul basketball teams and hosts other events like concerts and combat sports.
Do you need a man in Chicago? Is Edd your guy? Find out. Hit the contact link or schedule a call at http://www.calendly.com/wizardofsorts