McCormick Place

McCormick Place Complex has grown to become the largest convention facility in the nation consisting of three state-of-the-art buildings— Lakeside Center, North and South Buildings. The vision for McCormick Place began when Colonel Robert R. McCormick noticed Chicago's need for a permanent convention facility. The facility first opened for business in 1960 as a single building. After increasing volume indicated the need for expansion, subsequent buildings were constructed. Improvements include a Grand Concourse connecting the entire complex that houses retail shops and visitor attractions, and a climate-controlled pedestrian walkway that provides protected passage from the North Building, located across Lake Shore Drive, to the rest of the complex. Managed by the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority, future expansion is being planned for the West Building.

For the first time, Mid-Am will hold its annual show in the Lakeside Center of McCormick Place as it offers sufficient space and amenities to provide a superior environment. Significant improvements were made in 1997 to Lakeside Center making the available space flexible to accommodate a variety of uses for the exhibit hall area.

High volume and multi-purpose usage call for a wide range of services. Annually, more than four million visitors from trade and public shows use the facilities.

McCormick Place Complex provides space for exhibit halls, meetings rooms, ballrooms and theatres. The renowned Arie Crown Theatre is among the attractions. While visiting the facilities, attendees can enjoy popular restaurants, gift shops, specialty stores, as well as services to make the visit productive and enjoyable.

Meals at McCormick Place

Many dining options are available at McCormick Place offering a variety of choices.

Lunch Express returns to Mid-Am offering an assortment of tasty fare including sandwiches, pizza, and salads to satisfy almost anyone's appetite. Lunch Express is located near the registration area at The Lakeside Café.

For a quick snack, there will be Concessions set up throughout the show floor for your convenience. Stop by and grab a refreshing beverage or snack to satisfy your hunger.

Various restaurants located throughout McCormick Place will be open during Mid-Am for dining convenience. Bistro 23, just opened and located in the lobby on level 2 of the Lakeside Center, offers fine dining in a bar-type atmosphere.

Starbucks Coffee is located on Level 2 of the Lakeside Center. Connie's Pizza featuring Chicago-style pizza, along with a variety of other Italian favorites, salads, and sandwiches is located on level 2 in the North Building (carry-out or eat-in). McDonald's Express is located on Level 2 of the North Building (carry-out or eat-in). Note: The Plate Room Food Court is undergoing remodeling and will not be open during Mid-Am.

In addition, the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Hotel offers the Networks Restaurant serving Continental cuisine and Perks Deli serving your favorite delicatessen delights. Both restaurants serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner