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In Chicago, experience the unrivaled architecture, the beautiful lakefronts and the plentiful shopping venues!  This city is the home to world-championship sports teams, an internationally acclaimed symphony orchestra, and award-winning theater, to name a few! 

Here is a list of special events taking place in Chicago around the Summer Conference dates:

Buddy Guy’s Legends
http://buddyguy.com
This nightclub is owned by the legendary blues guitarist, Buddy Guy.  Talented musicians such as Eric Clapton, David Bowie and the Black Crowes have all performed on this stage.  Visit the Buddy Guy’s Legend website to see who will be playing in July!

Chicago Cubs (July 14-20, July 22-24)
http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com
Although the Chicago White Sox are out of town, grab some cracker jacks and take a seat at Wrigley Field, to watch the Chicago Cubs play ball against the Florida Marlins, Philadelphia Phillies or the Houston Astros.

Chicago Symphony Orchestra (July 5-24)
http://www.ravinia.org
At the Ravinia Festival, just outside downtown Chicago, musical director Daniel Barenboim performs alongside his Orchestra at this incredible musical destination!

Local Attractions:

The Art Institute of Chicago
http://www.artic.edu/aic
With collections dating from 3,000 B.C., through the present, this museum has great works of famous French Impressionist paintings and drawings to textiles and architectural works from around the world.

Chicago Architecture Foundation
http://caf.architecture.org
Known for its architecture, Chicago itself is truly a museum of modern works.  In the city which is the birthplace of the “skyscraper,” the Foundation offers tours, lectures and several exhibits year long.

Chicago Botanical Garden
http://www.chicagobotanic.org
A world- renowned landmark has 385 acres of scenic landscaping and elegant structures, including 23 specialty gardens set throughout islands and lakes. 

Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio
http://www.gowright.org
In Oak Park, this has served as the Wright Family’s private residence, studio and architectural laboratory for twenty years from 1889 to 1909.

John Hancock Center
http://www.hancockobservatory.com
This 94 floor observatory is over 1,000 feet above Chicago and features an open-air Skywalk with a personal audio tour of Chicago’s remarkable sights and history.  Don’t miss the revolving restaurant with incomparable 360 degree views of the city.

Millennium Park
http://explorechicago.org/city/en/millennium.html
Located in the heart of Chicago’s downtown, this park is a compilation of monumental sculptures and landscape design.  The 24.5 acre park has become the crowning achievement and a well enjoyed park during the summer months.

Navy Pier
http://www.navypier.com
This Chicago landmark opened in 1916 and is home to a collection of restaurants, shops and entertainment.  You will find the Chicago Children’s Museum, an IMAX Theater, an indoor botanical park called Crystal Gardens as well as the Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows.

River Boat Cruise
http://www.chicagoline.com
Tour Chicago’s world-renowned architecture aboard the Architectural River cruise or experience the city’s rich culture on the Historical Lake & River Cruise

Willis Tower Skydeck
http://www.theskydeck.com
Enjoy the view from one of the world’s tallest buildings.  Throughout the deck you will find touch and tell computers featuring interactive entertainment about Chicago’s history as well as the new glass ledge where you can stand out over the city!

The Field Museum
http://fieldmuseum.org
Enjoy several interactive exhibits including a bug’s-eye view in an underground adventure, or watch glowing lava flow.  Discover Sue, the largest most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex ever found!

The Magnificent Mile
http://www.themagnificentmile.com
Within these eight city blocks, you will find over 450 stores including restaurants, full services salons and spas and a state-of-the-art fitness facility.