Frequently Asked Questions

Event Planner | Exhibitor | Visitors | Facilities

Frequently Asked Questions - Visitors

How do I get to the convention center?
There are several options available; for detailed information go to the Visitor pages and click on driving directions for directions as well as public transportation information.

If you are attending a specific event, we suggest that you contact the event organizer for shuttle information that may be offered connecting selected hotels to the convention center.

How can I get to/from the airport?
The Airport Express shuttle service provides transportation to/from the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Hotel (which is connected to the convention center) at a service fee. For more information please contact Airport Express at 888-284-3826 or on the web at www.airportexpress.com.

You can also use public transportation via train or bus. For more information contact the RTA of Chicago at 312-836-7000 or on the web at www.rtachicago.org.

Is there parking at the convention center?
McCormick Place has 2 parking garages, one located nearby the South Building and one located in Lakeside Center. The current charge is $19 per day regardless of the length of stay.

The Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Hotel which is connected to the convention center also has a parking garage with an hourly rate. You may contact them at 312-567-1234 for details.

What services are available for disabled visitors?
We have made every effort to accommodate people with disabilities. Throughout the complex, you will find entrances, elevators, restrooms and services that offer the accessibility that is required. Accessible parking is available in Lot A for events in South, North or West Buildings and in Lot C for events at Lakeside Center. McCormick Place also offers onsite rentals of mobility scooters, wheelchairs, PowerChairs and oxygen equipment through its preferred mobility service partner, Scootaround Inc. Mobility equipment can be reserved in advance and will be waiting for you at McCormick Place during your event or can be delivered to your Chicago area hotel. Daily and weekly rates are available with operators on call 24/7 at 888-441-7575 or visit their website at www.scootaround.com/rentals/m/mccormickplace.

What hotels are close to McCormick Place?
The Hyatt Regency McCormick Place is connected to the convention center; you can contact them at 312-567-1234.

Additionally, the city commuter train service, METRA links many of the downtown hotels with the facility; you can get further information by going to www.metrarail.com.

For area hotel listings contact The Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau at 877-244-2246, or visit their web site at www.choosechicago.com.

Finally, if you are attending an event, contact the organizer that is hosting your event. Many organizers provide shuttle service connecting hotel groups in the downtown area to the facility.

Is there a restaurant at McCormick Place where I can have a sit-down meal or plan a business luncheon?
The Hyatt Regency McCormick Place which is connected to the convention center has a restaurant call Schor. For hours of service and reservations, you may contact them at 312-567-1234.

If you are interested in a private catered event, contact our onsite food service provider, Chicago Restaurant Partners at 312-791-7252.

For a complete listing of area restaurants, contact The Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau at 877-244-2246, or visit their web site at www.choosechicago.com.

Is there coat check and baggage storage available at the convention center?
Permanent coat checks areas are located at Gate 4 in the South Building and at the Transportation Center in the West Building. During events, several coat and baggage check locations may be added in other locations to accommodate event attendees. For specific information about an event and service locations, please contact Shirley Jackson at 312-791-6147.

Is there a private area where I can nurse my baby?
The First Aid Offices on level 2.5 of the Grand Concourse (South Building), on level 1 of the West Building and on Level 1 of the Lakeside Center (East Building) are setup to facilitate breast feeding/pumping needs. For further information you may contact the First Aid office at 312-791-6009.

How can I ship a package to McCormick Place?
If you are attending a convention or tradeshow, contact the Official Service Contractor who has been selected to manage shipments into and out of the convention center.

If you do find it necessary to ship something direct to the Center, please address items using this format:

McCormick Place
2301 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60616
FOR: (Name of the Show, followed by the booth number)
(Name of the Company)
LOCATION: (Name of the Building and Hall where the Show is located)

The package will be directed the appropriate dock area where the Official Service Contractor will deliver it to your booth.

If you are attending an event at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, please contact their Convention Services Department at 312-567-1234.

Am I allowed to bring my bicycle to McCormick Place?
Yes, you can bring your bicycle to McCormick Place. However, you are not allowed to ride it inside the building.

If you are going to Lake Michigan, you are allowed to enter the South Building and walk the bike through Level 1 and Level 2.5. At that point, you can access the outdoor sky bridge that leads to the Lakeside Center and then onto Lake Michigan itself.

Are there bike racks available?
Bike racks are located at Gate 3 of the South Building (on Martin Luther King Drive), at Gate 40 of the West Building (on Indiana Avenue), at Gate 38 of Lakeside Center and on the walkway beside the sky bridge connecting the South Building and Lakeside Center (East Building). Bicycle racks are provided to accommodate our visitors. McCormick Place is not responsible for bikes left unattended.

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McCormick Place
2301 S. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois 60616
Phone:312-791-7000
Fax:312-791-6543
TTY:312-791-6505