SPLENDID WATERFRONTS
Wow on the Waterfront
BY HEATHER MUNDT
Illinois is rich in venues that showcase the breathtaking poetry of water
10 Meeting Notes
Take your meetings from drab to fab with the help of these products, places, and inspiring ideas
14 Meet + Eat Chicago’s top chefs engage all the senses when cooking for groups
16 Destination Flock to Schaumburg for convenient suburban comfort and big-city amenities
24 Industry Update
Discover the latest updates and Illinois news
28 People Profile
Jodi Wolf prepares meticulously so her elaborate events seem to run themselves
16 Schaumburg’s Schweikher House
20 Shoreline Sightseeing boat tour and the Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier in Chicago
bring more
(including more savings)
Book your next meeting in Lake County, Illinois and you not only get an amazing location with world-class shopping, dining and entertainment, you can also enjoy significant savings with qualifying group bookings. Make your next meeting a success in Lake County. Discover how you can save at VisitLakeCounty.org/Incentives.
LEGENDARY Meeting Incentives
Hyatt Regency Deerfield
Doubletree Mundelein
Illinois Beach Hotel Cuneo Mansion & Gardens
Outdoor Fun on the Field
» WITH SUMMER ON THE HORIZON , staffers at Greenspring Media are starting to think about the company’s Minnesota Monthly GrillFest in late May and early June at CHS Field in St. Paul, Minnesota, the home of minor league baseball’s St. Paul Saints. I have worked multiple Greenspring events along the ballpark’s concourse, delivering ice on demand to vendors, checking IDs, and handing out gift bags. The St. Paul ballfield is well-suited for corporate and nonprofit gatherings.
meetingsmags.com/illinois meetingsmags
Things are no different in Illinois—including in the Chicago area. The state is home to many minor league baseball teams with large-capacity stadiums that feature sprawling, gathering-worthy concourses and expansive fields to host on. With an often eclectic vibe and versatile meeting options, minor league baseball stadiums embrace private events, both on the field and in designated event spaces.
The Chicago Dogs play in suburban Rosemont at Impact Field, with a capacity of 10,000 and a 360-degree concourse—planners might ask for an appearance by Ketchup, the team’s condiment-centric mascot. Similarly, the Schaumburg Boomers play at the city’s Wintrust Field, offering space for up to 175 in the Schaumburg Club and more room in a catered picnic tent next to the baseball diamond (see the article about Schaumburg on page 16). There also are suburban minor league stadiums in Crestwood and Joliet. Downstate, teams take the field in Alton, Galena, Normal, Peoria, and Sauget. Northwestern Medicine Field, home to the Kane City Cougars in Galena, is the only minor league stadium in the state with a conference center and an amphitheater. The stadiums often have catchy names, including the Corn Crib in Normal and The Hop in Alton.
I grew up going to minor league and major league stadiums in Wisconsin. I still get goosebumps thinking of going to the then-home of the Madison Muskies at Warner Park (home to the Madison Mallards today) and the Milwaukee Brewers original ballfield in Milwaukee County Stadium; the team now plays in the retractabledomed American Family Field. I can still picture clearly in my mind the alligatorchop arm movement Muskies fans tauntingly directed at opposing players who struck out, and the Milwaukee crowd erupting when first baseman Cecil Cooper dropped a run-scoring single to center.
Illinois’ minor league ballparks might well evoke these same warm memories in attendees convening at these widespread gathering spaces. As the season heats up and you are on the hunt for outdoor venues, keep Illinois’ laid-back and playfully fun minor league baseball stadiums in the mix.
TODD R. BERGER Editor-in-Chief tberger@greenspring.com
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INDY AT THE CROSSROADS
Sitting 90 miles east of the Illinois border, Indianapolis, Indiana, is ‘tripling down’ on its capacity for events
BY TODD R. BERGER
he city of Indianapolis, Indiana, just had its best year ever in almost every major tourism metric last year, including attendance at conventions, meetings, and trade shows. Chris Gahl, executive vice president and chief marketing officer of Visit Indy, notes, “We’re tripling down on the convention industry and its infrastructure. We’re amid $3 billion in new tourism-related development.” In addition, the Indiana capital city is going big in promoting itself as a mecca for sports events, including the Indianapolis 500 and basketball in all its forms. As Gahl notes, “Sports are in our DNA.”
VIBE: “Indy’s vibe is ‘approachable,’” adds Gahl. “‘Hoosier hospitality’ is a mantra that is used to describe Indy—this idea that we’re quick to welcome and authentic in our desire to help others. We’re incredibly approachable as a city.”
TRANSPORTATION: With 87 daily international and domestic nonstop flights into Indianapolis International Airport and a central location, Indianapolis is easy to get to. IndyGo public bus service travels from the airport to downtown (about 50 minutes) and elsewhere, and private bus companies spider out between the airport and Ball State University in Muncie, the University of Indiana in Bloomington, and Purdue University in Lafayette and West Lafayette. Uber, Lyft, and taxi companies also can give you a ride in the Indianapolis area. The city is 180 miles southeast of Chicago and 210 miles east of Springfield. Amtrak runs between Chicago and Indianapolis.
HOTELS: Downtown Indianapolis harbors 4,700 hotel rooms across 12 properties, all connected to the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium via climate-controlled skyways. The art deco Omni Severin Hotel relaunched in December after a $24 million revamp with 17,000 square feet of meeting space. The 33-story JW Marriott Indianapolis has 54 meeting rooms. After a $120 million remodeling of the historic Illlinois Building on Monument Circle, the InterContinental Indianapolis opened in February. An 800-room Signia by Hilton hotel will open next year.
VENUES: The Indiana Convention Center is adding 143,000 square feet to its 566,000-square-foot facility, with the new portion slated to open next year. Home to the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts, Lucas Oil Stadium is connected via skyway to the convention center. Gainbridge Fieldhouse, home to the NBA’s Indiana Pacers and the WNBA’s Indiana Fever (Caitlin Clark’s team), completed a $450 million renovation last year. The 15,000-square-foot Grand Hall at Historic Union Station seats up to 1,800 in Gilded Age glamour. The stucco-and-red-tile Indiana Roof Ballroom flaunts open-air space reminiscent of European town squares.
MUST-SEES & -DOS: The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum reopened in April after a major renovation; has unique, Indy car-filled spaces; and offers tours of the speedway itself. In the heart of downtown near the convention center and many hotels, White River State Park boasts 250 acres of green space (much of it available for rentals), four amphitheaters, the NCAA headquarters and the NCAA Hall of Champions museum, three additional museums, an IMAX theater, the Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens, and two stadiums offering seating for 12,000 to 14,000 event attendees.
visitindy.com
PHOTOS
(FROM ABOVE)
Visit Indy, Cliff Ritchey, Jesse Faatz, Cody Bailey
(OPPOSITE) Shedd
Aquarium
From above: Indianapolis skyline at dusk; JW Marriott Indianapolis; Everwise Amphitheatre at White River State Park; Monument Circle downtown
LAKE-FORWARD GATHERINGS AT SHEDD AQUARIUM
» CHICAGO’S SHEDD AQUARIUM along Lake Michigan and next to the Field Museum offers a slew of aquatic experiences and notable meeting spaces. The building is constructed in a beaux arts design with a neoclassical temple of white marble and terra cotta as an homage to the aquatic life it houses, from the marine fossils in its limestone to Neptune’s trident atop the glass dome.
“Shedd Aquarium partners with people on the Great Lakes and around the globe to help build a world thriving with aquatic life, sustained by people who love, understand, and protect it,” explains Stefanie Rowe, director of venue marketing for Sodexo Live, a Shedd Aquarium restaurant and catering partner. “From caring for animals in need to reducing single-use plastics, Shedd shares knowledge to empower conservation, sets a sustainable example, and commits to protecting the blue planet.”
Shedd features diverse meeting spaces. Its Aquarium Galleries display classical Greek architecture with space for 450 reception-style or 360 seated. The Abbott Oceanarium and Rice Foundation Amphitheater offer attendees access to view whitesided dolphins, beluga whales, sea otters, California sea lions, and more—with room for 680 seated. Seasonal outdoor spaces include the Skyline Experience and the City View Experience. sheddaquarium.org –Amanda Christensen
Lisa Van Bortel, CMP Director of Sales and Marketing
Snakes & Lattes—Plus Cocktails
Whether attendees harbor deep-seated desires to bankrupt colleagues, have inexplicable hankerings to flamboyantly play the role of Colonel Mustard, or remember fondly their days of being a trivia ringer in high school, Snakes & Lattes Chicago has everything a planner needs to stoke team-building competition and creativity among meeting-goers. With over 800 board games in its game library (including games from area creators), evocative decor, and a full bar and catering menu, Snakes & Lattes is an immersive venue for groups. Have attendees who don’t know how to play? The venue has game experts on hand with vast knowledge of board games—they even can help you decide which game to play. “We have something for everybody,” says Anaïs Guilbert, director of marketing for Snakes & Lattes Inc. snakesandlattes.com/chicago
LOVELY SCENTS FOR A GOOD CAUSE
» IF YOU’RE LOOKING for something special to gift to your attendees, Chicago-based Bright Endeavors is a nonprofit that hires new moms 24 years old or younger to make soy candles, bath salts, and reed diffusers. The work helps them build experience and develop transferable skills—such as time management, task initiation, emotional regulation, and metacognition—for future
ROYAL TEAM BUILDING IN SPRINGFIELD
» WACKY WALKS , which offers app-based team building, is an interesting option for Springfield groups. It elevates group activities to the level of nobility with its royalty-themed scavenger hunt activity that transforms the capital city into a life-size board game with participants as the playing pieces. The Wacky Walks app selects a king or queen from your group, and your new overlord commands the other players digitally to search the kingdom (Springfield, in this case) to find items and complete challenges. The walks are on foot and last roughly two hours. Groups of all sizes are welcome, and large group rates are also offered. Multiple teams can play simultaneously if desired. You can book your scavenger hunt adventure online on the Wacky Walks group events webpage.
wackywalks.com
employment. The company’s products, which can be purchased in bulk or gift sets, have scents including Coffee & Cashmere, Argentine Lemon, and Woody Bergamot. “Evoking a sense of warmth and comfort, our candles and home fragrance items make great gifts for both grand and intimate events,” says Nika Vaughan, Bright Endeavors director of social enterprise. brightendeavors.org
Make Plans to Make Memories in Middleton, Wisconsin
is home to Dane County’s largest convention hotel, as well as eight more quality properties that range in size and meeting space—all nestled against the backdrop of Lake Mendota and Pheasant Branch Conservancy, and along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.
Madison West/Middleton has 1,860 square feet. Middleton also has six additional hotels, all within minutes of each other.
The largest convention and meetings hotel in Dane County— the Madison Marriott West—is located next to Greenway Station, a 46-acre outdoor shopping center. The Marriott has 60,000 square feet of meeting space with 19 conference rooms and has hosted everything from steampunk conventions to opulent galas. The Hilton Garden Inn Madison West/ Middleton is the city’s second-largest conference hotel with 3,600 square feet of meeting space, and the Courtyard
Plan off-site tours, team building, and board meetings at one of Middleton’s many restaurants or spaces, including the National Mustard Museum, X-Golf Middleton, Capital Brewery, Hidden Cave Cidery, and more.
Middleton is truly at the heart of it all. It is located within an hour of multiple area attractions, from breweries and the International Crane Foundation to the Circus World Museum and so much more. Visit Middleton staff can assist with information and provide suggestions on how to expand a meeting’s experience with organized trips—just ask! It’s the “middle things” that make Middleton special.
plans for making memories.
Whether traveling with colleagues or family, Middleton, Wisconsin, offers plenty to do outside the extraordinary convention experience. Enjoy 80 restaurants, wine tastings, brewery tours and more. Take the board room to unexpected spaces like the National Mustard Museum!
for yourself the middle things.
Meetings & Events Grant Program 9 Hotels 1,150+ Hotel Rooms 66,000+ Square Feet of Conference Space
Madison Marriott West-Middleton
Hidden Cave Cidery
Lake Mendota
PHOTOS
The Juices Are Flowing
The Windy City’s foremost chefs discuss what fires their culinary passions and how they feed a full house for meetings and events
» WHILE MANY CHEFS helm boutique restaurants and cook for a handful of tables each night, some have mastered the art of cooking for many all at once, in spaces that hold hundreds or even thousands. Whether it’s a hotel brimming with ballrooms or North America’s largest convention center, putting all that care and attention into food for groups is a craft all its own.
Enter the state’s top chefs, many of whom are found in Chicago. These culinary leaders
BY SHELBY DEERING
didn’t learn to cook for sizable groups overnight—far from it. In fact, Michael Kingsley, director of culinary innovation for Denverbased Oak View Group, managing company of Chicago’s McCormick Place, has been journeying in the culinary world for more than two decades. His storied career began at Chicago’s Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts (now closed), blossoming into leadership roles, including executive chef for Sodexo at the Chicago Botanic
Gardens and leading the culinary program at McCormick Place—all while committing himself to creating culinary experiences that will delight and inspire diners.
Charles Gillis, executive chef for Loews Chicago O’Hare Hotel and its The Ashburn restaurant, got his start in his grandmother’s kitchen in the Texas Panhandle, where he watched her meticulously plan and prepare elaborate feasts during the holidays. He eventually meandered over to Hawaii, where he spent nearly 25 years immersed in a “diverse culinary landscape,” as he calls it. Then, two years ago, he relocated to Chicago, noting that “it has been an exciting journey working in one of the greatest food cities in the world.”
Ivan Roa, executive chef at the Omni Chicago Hotel, grew up in the city, and was thus exposed to a diverse variety of cuisines ranging “from neighborhood taquerias to Mediterranean restaurants, which shaped my appreciation for food,” he says. He adds that his mother further spurred his desire to become a chef. “I remember waking up to the smell of tortillas frying on the comal and chiles roasting on the stove,” he says. “Seeing the way food created moments of connection made me realize its power.”
Although their backgrounds are varied, all three chefs share one big thing in common: Their palpable love for food can be tasted in every dish they create.
CULINARY PHILOSOPHIES
Even when Kingsley is cooking for a large gathering, his primary focus is always to create a personalized and memorable dining experience. “Whether it is a small
Avocado toast from the Omni Chicago Hotel;
Right: Omni’s Chef Ivan Roa
gathering of 10 or a grand event for 20,000, I strive to go beyond simply providing sustenance,” he reflects. “I want to engage all the senses, spark conversation, and create a lasting impression.” And even though he is whipping up meals for so many, Kingsley always invites clients to actively participate in the menu-creation process, offering suggestions and modifications along the way until the ultimate vision is realized.
Gillis’ approach is all about getting organized when it comes to cooking for myriad people. He knows that if organization is lacking, things can unravel quickly. “I live by the rule: count, count, and count again. You need to know exactly how many guests you’re feeding and have a solid plan in place,” he notes. Gillis also believes that uncompromising quality shouldn’t be tossed by the wayside simply due to the sheer number of people who are being served, noting that consistency is key for success. “Whether it’s a plated dinner for 500 or a breakfast buffet for a corporate retreat, every dish should meet the same high standard,” he says.
In the same spirit, Roa’s philosophy is to create bespoke food experiences that are tailored to each attendee. “We strive to create unique culinary experiences for our groups by incorporating personalized touches that showcase the heart and soul of Chicago,” he says. “A strong, motivated team
produces better food, so I emphasize teamwork, respect, and a shared goal of delivering an outstanding dining experience to showcase Omni’s dedication to hospitality.”
CROWD-PLEASING EATS
Through their years of experience, these culinary extraordinaires know exactly what tempts the palates of attendees and what makes their mouths water. And they aren’t shy about sharing their most popular dishes.
For instance, Gillis focuses on seasonality when it comes to how he approaches food that appeals to the masses. He says that during the winter, people crave rich, warming dishes like slow-braised meats and hearty stews. In summer, the energy shifts, and he welcomes lighter, brighter flavors savored through crisp vegetables and citrus-driven dishes. “Some of the most well-received offerings are those that balance comfort and sophistication— dishes that feel approachable but still have an element of surprise,” he shares.
By keeping it simple while also honoring attendees’ unique dietary needs (gluten free, vegan, etc.), Kingsley gravitates naturally toward three primary areas: elevated comfort food (lobster grilled cheese), plant-based options (hummus bowl), and globally inspired cuisine. “Mushroom and pea arancini and Korean barbecue chicken are always popular,” he says of the latter category.
Roa sums up his approach to cooking for events with one that will resonate with fellow chefs: “When the team is engaged and cooking with purpose, that energy translates into the food,” he says. When the juices are flowing, this manifests as braised lamb shank with Mediterranean spices, saffron-infused couscous, and roasted vegetables. All that is left to say is: What time is dinner?
loewshotels.com mccormickplace.com oakviewgroup.com omnihotels.com
Clockwise: Colorful salad from The Ashburn at Loews Chicago O’Hare Hotel; Executive Chef Charles Gillis; Shrimp cocktails from McCormick Place; Michael Kingsley, director of culinary innovation at Oak View Group
See You in Schaumburg
The northwest Chicago suburb blends an urban-chic style and easy accessibility for top-tier meetings and events
BY PAMELA DITTMER
» THE CITY OF SCHAUMBURG is a former farming community that transformed into a thriving economic center in the mid-1950s with the construction of Interstate 90 and the launch of passenger service at Chicago O’Hare International Airport. Today, most of the buzz is clustered near Woodfield Mall, one of the country’s largest indoor shopping centers, which opened in 1971.
Meeting planners can find a wealth of opportunity in this newer community (Chicago was incorporated in 1837, while Schaumburg wasn’t incorporated until 1956, more than a century later), especially in the areas of modern hotels, exceptional dining, outdoor recreation, specialty museums, and designer and outlet shopping.
“The really neat thing about Schaumburg is it provides a blend of suburban
PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE) James Caulfield, Tom Anson, Meet Chicago Northwest, Eaglewood Resort & Spa
Eaglewood Resort & Spa’s Golf Club at Eaglewood in Itasca; Above: Schweikher House in Schaumburg
MCKUEN
“The really neat thing about Schaumburg is it provides a blend of suburban comfort with big-city amenities.”
—PAMELA HAILEY, DIRECTOR OF SALES, MEET CHICAGO
NORTHWEST
comfort with big-city amenities,” says Pamela Hailey, director of sales for Meet Chicago Northwest, a destination marketing organization that represents Schaumburg and seven other nearby cities. “We are also an ideal location outside the city of Chicago and super accessible to Chicago O’Hare International Airport.”
Schaumburg is a northwest suburb of Chicago conveniently situated for attendees arriving by air or roadway. The city is 12 miles from Chicago O’Hare International Airport and 26 miles from downtown Chicago, and it is bisected by interstates 290 and 90. And there also is plenty of free parking for cars and buses throughout Schaumburg.
“We have tons of repeat business, and we are happy to have it,” Hailey says of the city’s steady schedule of events. “But we always want new groups to experience us as well.”
CENTER STAGE
At the heart of Schaumburg’s meeting and events trade is the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel, a one-stop shop with 500 luxury guest rooms and suites and 160,000 square feet of event space. Everything is under one roof, so weather— hot, cold, or rainy—is never an issue.
“We are definitely a year-round destination,” Hailey says. “Even though we have snow—and sometimes we have a lot of it—it doesn’t scare off our Midwestern meeting planners. We have a lot of indoor and outdoor venues that can accommodate weather fluctuation.”
The Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel is the city’s largest property and exudes a vibe of contemporary elegance, lavished with indoor trees, sculptural details, conversation nooks, and a massive open fireplace. Attendees can get their workouts in at the on-site fitness center and saltwater swimming pool before, after, or in between meetings.
The convention center’s function spaces can be configured to host gatherings of
12 to 6,000 attendees, depending on the event. That flexibility is advantageous “for events that are growing in nature and need more space, or for events that are downsizing and need less space,” says Keith Kehl, director of sales and marketing at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel. The convention center was extensively renovated last year, with guest rooms being completed later this year.
PLEASANT DREAMS
Elsewhere in Schaumburg, some 30 branded hotels, such as the Courtyard Chicago Schaumburg/Woodfield Mall and the Hilton Garden Inn Schaumburg, entice meeting planners for their groups. All are in proximity to area attractions and restaurants, so your attendees won’t be required to spend additional time traveling from one venue to the next.
Schaumburg Boomers at Wintrust Field; Below: Trickster Cultural Center
Another option is the Hyatt Regency Schaumburg, Chicago, a luxe 470-room hotel with a contemporary ambience. Noteworthy amenities include a spacious lobby appointed with workstations, a fitness center, and indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
Eaglewood Resort & Spa in neighboring Itasca is a woodsy enclave that combines business, recreation, and privacy in one scenic location. The 295-room resort’s prairie-style architecture nests seamlessly into 106 acres of land to create a nature-inspired atmosphere. The on-site Leisure and Recreation Center is home to the Spa at Eaglewood, which presents a robust menu of facials, massages, and
body treatments, plus a tranquility lounge for peaceful relaxation before and after spa appointments. The center also has an indoor swimming pool and a hot tub, fitness suite, and bowling lanes.
At the sprawling Golf Club at Eaglewood, the par-72, 18-hole, PGA-certified championship golf course winds through lakes, contoured bunkers, and centuryold oak trees. The pro staff can assist planners in customizing golf outings, as well as private and group lessons.
The award-winning Lynfred Winery in nearby Roselle has four luxurious bed-andbreakfast suites, each designed to represent a different wine region in the world, in a
beautiful and intimate setting. Planners can book private tastings and tours, and catered dining is available for up to 60 people.
DINE & PLAY
More than 700 restaurants offer American, regional, and global cuisines in both casual and elevated settings throughout the Schaumburg area. Check out Chicagoland’s iconic eats, especially Lou Malnati’s and Giordano’s deep-dish pizza, Portillo’s hot dogs and plant-based garden dogs, and Garrett Popcorn (try the sweet and savory Chicago Mix, a blend of caramel and cheese flavors). Weber kettle grills and Sweet Baby Ray barbecue sauce were
Coming Soon
» ALWAYS A TRAILBLAZER, Schaumburg continues to break new ground to appeal to even broader audiences. Under construction is Andretti Indoor Karting & Games, the first phase of a new entertainment district attached to the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel. Co-founded by Mario Andretti of car-racing royalty, the venue will feature electric go-karting, racing simulators, a bowling alley, laser tag, a 7D motion theater, food and beverage service, and private function space. Completion is scheduled for next year.
So much goes on in Schaumburg that planners might be challenged to maximize tight schedules. This is where Meet Chicago Northwest comes in, Hailey says. Her staff is ready to assist with recommendations and connections. “We are the keepers of all things in the community that will make people’s lives easier and more fun,” she says. “We can tie it all together.”
Right: Lobby seating at Eaglewood Resort & Spa; Below: The Diver sculpture by Jerry Peart at the Chicago Athenaeum International Sculpture Park
both invented in Chicago, and the brands have restaurants in the area. Entertainment venues like Topgolf, Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, Enterrium, and Chicago Improv comedy club also have dining and imbibing menus.
“There are so many different types of food, not just chains but also independent places, where you have the opportunity to experience some authentic cuisine in the area,” Hailey says. “Schaumburg is a compact area, so it’s not like you have to drive 12 miles to get somewhere.” A typical dining schedule for multiday gatherings could be a banquet at the host hotel one night, small group dine-arounds on the second night, and a “free” third night, so attendees can explore their individual tastes, she adds.
After long days of meetings, education, and decision-making, groups will find diverse excursions and attractions close at hand. One of the most popular outings is rooting for professional baseball’s Schaumburg Boomers, four-time Frontier League champions. The Boomers play during the summer at Wintrust Field, where recent renovations have drawn groups with its indoor and outdoor luxury suites, a left-field party deck, and reserved picnic seating space.
The Boomers’ name honors the endangered greater prairie chicken—the species’ mating dance is called “booming.” The team mascot is a larger-than-life costumed avian character named Coop.
The Game Show Experience and Game Show Gurus deliver the fun and excitement of classic television quiz shows, complete with lights, sound, props, and a host at your hotel or its own high-tech 30-seat studio. Quiz and trivia questions and other content can be customized to the clients goals and culture, so the games become a team-building or training event.
Murrell Karsh, president and co-founder at Windy City Fieldhouse Events in Chicago, says Schaumburg’s easy access from any direction makes the village a popular meeting spot for his clients. Recent events in the Windy City Fieldhouse Events
portfolio include team-building exercises at Eaglewood Resort & Spa and casino nights at Maggiano’s Little Italy. A favorite outdoor playground for company picnics is Busse Woods, a 3,500-acre nature preserve with 13 trail miles, boat rental options, and a resident elk herd. Scavenger hunts and problem-solving challenges are also popular activities at the preserve.
“A trend we are seeing is adding a charitable component to a picnic or teambuilding program,” Karsh says. “They can build bicycles, assemble personal hygiene kits, or pack backpacks with school supplies for those in need.”
THE CULTURAL BEAT
On 20 acres of meadow, forest, and natural prairie sits The Chicago Athenaeum International Sculpture Park, an outdoor gallery of monumental, mostly abstract works by acclaimed international and American artists. The 16 sculptures stand along a paved trail that meanders through the Schaumburg Municipal Complex. The sprawling
park is open daily from sunrise to sunset and serves as a relaxing strolling option.
The Schweikher House is the home and studio of midcentury-modern architect Paul Schweikher. The elongated singlestory home, completed in 1938 and considered progressive for its time, is composed of wood, brick, and glass, integrating the structure with the surrounding natural landscape. Its distinctive interior appointments include a massive brick fireplace, furniture built-ins, a Japanese soaking tub, and redwood shower. An area landmark, the Schweikher House is the only Schaumburg listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The Schweikher House offers group tours upon request.
Two more specialty museums to consider are the Trickster Cultural Center, an arts center focusing on contemporary Native American culture, and the Wood Library–Museum of Anesthesiology, an interactive museum and rare book collection dedicated to the history and advances of putting people under.
boomersbaseball.com chi-athenaeum.org chicagonorthwest.com eaglewoodresort.com enterrium.info gameshowexperience.tv gameshowgurus.com garrettpopcorn.com giordanos.com hilton.com improv.com/chicago loumalnatis.com lynfredwinery.com marriott.com medievaltimes.com schweikherhouse.org topgolf.com tricksterculturalcenter.org visitschaumburgvillage.com windycityfieldhouse.com woodlibrarymuseum.org
The lobby at Hyatt Regency Schaumburg, Chicago
ON THE WATERFRONT WOW
Waterfront destinations offer up spectacular views that double as memorable backdrops for events
BY HEATHER MUNDT
ILLINOIS IS MORE THAN JUST A FRIENDLY MIDWESTERN DESTINATION boasting a convenient central U.S. location and multiple convenient airports, as well as an exceptional mix of history and culture, soaring skyscrapers, and welcoming vibes. The state also is home to some of the country’s most distinctive waterfront event venues.
“Chicago has two major bodies of water—Lake Michigan and the Chicago River—with a range of dynamic venues along each,” says Mallory Yepez, associate director of client services for Choose Chicago. “Our two unique waterfronts offer energies that are as distinct and vibrant as Chicago itself.”
Looking for sandy lakeside beaches? Head to Shore Club Chicago, located on the city’s famous North Avenue Beach, for unobstructed views of Lake Michigan and convention space accommodating up to 1,200. Or plan a dinner event on the balcony of the upscale RPM Seafood Chicago to experience the Chicago Riverwalk energy as pedestrians and boats pass by while you’re dining.
“You can even hold [dinner cruise] events on the water via companies like Odyssey Chicago River or the Anita Dee Yacht Charters on Lake Michigan,” says Yepez. If your event is better suited to smaller venues away from bustling city life, just head out to quieter hamlets like Geneva, situated between Aurora and Schaumburg.
The European-inspired enclave offers visitors a relaxed atmosphere with easy access to shopping and dining spots, says Lisa Van Bortel, director of sales and marketing at The Herrington Inn & Spa in Geneva. Situated along the Fox River, the hotel has ample opportunities for outdoor adventure, including kayaking or running and biking along riverside trails. “We offer wonderful outdoor space that is really hard to find in the Chicago area,” she says.
SUPERLATIVE CITY SETTINGS
Pick a stunning spot in big cities throughout the U.S., and odds are that it features a body of water in the backdrop. Chicago is no exception. “Lake Michigan is truly an emblematic part of Chicago, from its poignant place in Chicago’s skyline to its borders of beautiful, urban beaches and the iconic Lakeshore Drive,” says Mark McLaughlin, director of sales and marketing at Sable at Navy Pier Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton.
The city’s blend of architecture, history, and entertainment along its expansive waterfronts is ideal for planning engaging, memorable events of any size. “I feel like that’s what makes Chicago stand out the most,” says Jermissia Evans, owner of Joliet-based JSSEvents. “Because it’s already beautiful, and the water always gives a nice touch.”
For gatherings along the Chicago River, groups might enjoy spectacular views from one of six avail able spaces at River Roast—a restaurant and event venue. City Winery Chicago Riverwalk has an expansive riverfront patio. For the grandest of events, check out the Shera ton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, home to the city’s largest ballroom at over 125,000 square feet of event space with a capacity of 4,600.
Along Lake Michigan, groups wanting some of the most iconic waterfront experiences will find it at Chicago’s Navy Pier. From outdoor attractions at Pier Park like the towering Centennial Wheel—featuring lofty views 200 feet up—and photo
opportunities at the Wave Wall, to many lodging, entertainment, and dining options, Navy Pier is also considered a cultural hub for guests to explore local art, music, food, and festivals.
At the Aon Grand Ballroom, part of the pier’s original 1916 construction, planners can craft a timeless event for groups up to 1,100 beneath the building’s stunning 80-foot domed ceiling. (There’s additional seating for 300 in the balcony.) Enjoy dazzling views from the world’s largest rooftop bar at Offshore Rooftop & Bar, available for events as large as 750 people. Or book an event for up to 175 guests in the Sable at Navy Pier Chicago’s Great Lakes Ballroom, built with floor-to-ceiling, south-facing windows to showcase the best of Lake Michigan and the city skyline. “Being on the water and having access to the unbelievable views from our unique vantage on Navy Pier is an experience itself,” McLaughlin says.
Clockwise from opposite: Chicago River in downtown Chicago; Boat tour with Anita Dee Yacht Charters; Offshore Rooftop & Bar, near Sable at Navy Pier Chicago
“LAKE MICHIGAN IS TRULY AN EMBLEMATIC PART OF CHICAGO.”
–MARK MCLAUGHLIN, DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING, SABLE AT NAVY PIER CHICAGO
SUBURBAN & DOWNSTATE SOLITUDE
While waterfront events cultivate a good balance between professional development and accessible recreation, some groups prefer conference experiences away from the hubbub of city life. Illinois delivers in the Chicago suburbs and downstate.
Andrea Roiniotis, chief operating officer at Skokie-based Northwestern Mutual (a financial-planning and investment-services company) says she feels like she’s on vacation every June during her work group’s annual retreat in Geneva, located about 40 miles west of Chicago. Set along the Fox River, the quieter town—with unique event and meeting venues—is known for its preserved 19thcentury architecture, cobblestone streets, and natural beauty.
Roiniotis plans her work event each year at The Herrington Inn & Spa, a riverfront boutique AAA Four-Diamond property that first
opened as a dairy creamery in the 1870s. Today, it offers 60 guest rooms and more than 13,000 square feet of meeting and event space.
“The Herrington Inn & Spa offers guest rooms with balconies and patios that connect our guests to nature, lush gardens, and river views,” says Van Bortel. “It automatically evokes calmness and relaxation.” She adds, “There’s no better way to start the day than to open up the curtains and look right over the water. Sometimes there’s wildlife, whether it be ducks, geese, or something in the water. It’s just a really nice way to spend a workday.”
Roiniotis says her group often takes lunch breaks on the patio to hear the calming sound of rushing water, or with a walk along the banks of the Fox River. Attendees might also unwind at the on-site spa or take a short stroll through the historic downtown filled with antique shops, restaurants, breweries, and wine-tasting rooms. “Our serene setting and our service levels are what bring our corporate event planners back year after year,” Van Bortel says.
If you’re seeking an even more remote event setting, look roughly 80 miles south in Nebo, where Harpole’s Heartland Lodge offers attendees a level of natural beauty, privacy, and adventure with views of the Mississippi River. Surrounded by rolling hills, peaceful forests, and open pastures, the property provides the perfect place to disconnect and focus on the meeting agenda.
“Unlike urban venues, our setting provides exclusive access to nature and outdoor activities,” says Zach Jumps, director of marketing at the lodge. “Attendees can step outside their meeting space and immediately experience the great outdoors.”
The lodge offers activities like birdwatching, hiking, all-terrain vehicle riding, and spring mushroom hunting. The property also completed an update of its lodging and conference facilities in April. “The slower pace and breathtaking scenery foster better team building, creativity, and relaxation,” Jumps says. “Planners looking for a truly immersive, nature-based event will find that our location delivers a one-of-a-kind experience that blends adventure, relaxation, and Midwestern charm.”
Clockwise from left: City Winery Chicago Riverwalk; Waterfall on the grounds of Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center; One of five waterside conference rooms at Sable at Navy Pier Chicago; Outdoor space along the Fox River at The Herrington Inn & Spa in Geneva; Chicago Seadog Extreme Thrill Rides
ALLURING ASPECTS
Some of the most important functions of society have always been centered on bodies of water, providing valuable resources and transportation methods to sustain local economies. In other words, waterfront event spaces are typically located in the heart of the action, whether it’s within a booming metropolis or smaller suburb.
“It’s always easy to find stuff for people to do in Chicago, and you don’t necessarily need to drive,” says Evans of JSSEvents. “[Waterfront venues] get more people outside, and they bring the community together more with the good weather and fun events.”
If your meeting or event would benefit from a pastoral setting, you will find plenty of small-town charm downstate. Options include Moline—situated on the western bank of the Mississippi River about 165 miles west of Chicago—which features the revitalized historic waterfront district of Rock Island Boatworks, lined with popular shops and eateries.
Alternatively, take a short drive north from the city to Lake County’s Chain O’Lakes State Park, home to a series of interconnected lakes that are popular for recreation like boating, fishing, birdwatching, and swimming from a sandy beach. The county also boasts several event venues, including the Genesee Theatre and the Cuneo Mansion and Gardens, among others.
Waterfront events present attendees with easy access to a city’s best amenities, both professional and social, whether at an elegant Chicago lakefront or a babbling brook in the wilderness. To borrow a phrase from 19th-century naturalist and conservationist John Muir: “The sound of water is worth more than all the poetry.” Illinois offers many waterfront venues to reap its benefits.
anitadee.com choosechicago.com citywinery.com heartlandlodge.com herringtoninn.com hilton.com
marriott.com navypier.org offshorerooftop.com riverroastchicago.com rpmrestaurants.com shoreclubchi.com
SETTING SAIL
TOURS
CHICAGO’S FIRST LADY CRUISES Topping many “best of” lists, the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise along the Chicago River is a great way to learn about the city’s buildings while enjoying open-air, 360-degree river and city views. architecture.org
CHICAGO SEADOG EXTREME THRILL RIDES
Prepare for splashes as groups depart from Navy Pier for a full-throttle, 30-minute speedboat ride on Lake Michigan. cityexperiences.com
LAKE GENEVA CRUISE LINE Bring your team aboard the vintage Grand Belle of Geneva or Lady of the Lake boats that ply the waters of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, 80 miles northwest of Chicago. The cruise line caters to groups of two to 225-plus. cruiselakegeneva.com
ONE “BELLE” OF A CELEBRATION
Hop aboard the Celebration Belle in Moline for an evening dinner-and-dance cruise on the Mississippi River. celebrationbelle.com
WILD AND WONDER Set about 90 miles southwest of Chicago in Utica, Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center wows nature lovers with a boatand-land tour of the Illinois River and Ottawa Canyon via boat and guided hike, or a 60-minute ride in search of river waterfowl. starvedrocklodge.com
Cariño Earns Michelin Star
Cariño in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood is the city’s newest Michelinstarred eatery, having been awarded one star on Dec. 9 of last year during a ceremony at The Glasshouse in New York City. Although owner and Executive Chef Norman Fenton received an invitation to the event, he did not know beforehand if the restaurant would be honored. He notes, “I was sweating in my palms, man.” But the host did indeed call out “Cariño,” and Fenton went to the stage to receive his Michelin chef’s jacket with one star.
The cozy Latin American cuisine restaurant uses heirloom corn from Mexico to make masa, the dough for tortillas, an ingredient that also touches many of the dishes on the menu. Cariño is best suited to small group dinners of up to 10 people, and you need to call ahead. It also offers full buyouts for up to 22.
“The Michelin star validates the quality and the standard of excellence that we have instilled in the culture and program of our concept,” Fenton says. “Prior to receiving that Michelin star, we were about a month out on reservations, but the Michelin star put us to being three months out on reservations.” He adds, “We’re just going to keep progressing, trying to get better and better, and keep reaching for the stars, right?” carinochicago.com
ILLINOIS BANS SMALL PLASTIC BOTTLES AT HOTELS
» THE STATE OF ILLINOIS PASSED the Small Single-Use Plastic Bottle Act last year to ban mini bottles of toiletries at hotels with more than 50 rooms, and the ban will go into effect on July 1.
A prohibition at smaller hotels rolls out Jan. 1 of next year. Although guests still can request small bottles at the front desk, the law aims to motivate hotel owners to install refillable containers in guest rooms. Penalties for a hotel going astray of the ban range from a written warning to a $1,500 fine. illinois.gov
Black cod from Cariño Executive Chef Norman Fenton
CHOOSE CHICAGO PUBLISHES 2025 VISITORS GUIDE
» CHOOSE CHICAGO RELEASED its 2025 Visitors Guide. The 68-page comprehensive guide highlights festivals, concerts, attractions, amenities, restaurants, and activities happening throughout the year. The resource can be requested in hard copy via mail or viewed digitally on the Choose Chicago website.
“The greatest asset of Chicago is our people, and the warmth and hospitality they extend
to all who visit,” says Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. “I hope travelers will use this Visitors Guide to engage with our residents in an authentic and meaningful way, and to enjoy seeing the greatest city in the world.”
The 2025 edition includes feature articles focusing on Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods, LGBTQ+ culture, waterfronts, culinary scene, and winter holiday attractions. choosechicago.com
Apple Wallet IDs Coming to Illinois
The Illinois Secretary of State’s office will bring mobile driver’s licenses and other state IDs to Apple Wallet for Illinois residents, with the goal of launching by the end of the year, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias says. This will enable residents to securely add and present their driver’s licenses and state IDs in person and in apps using their iPhone or Apple Watch.
“We’re excited to have kickstarted our work with Apple—a company that shares our commitment to data security—to provide IDs in Apple Wallet that will offer convenience and privacy for Illinoisans,” says Giannoulias, whose office pushed for the legislation enabling the development of mobile driver’s licenses and other IDs in the state. Giannoulias also expects to bring mobile driver’s licenses and state IDs to additional types of digital wallets, such as Google Wallet for Android users, in the future.
Along with 10 other states and territories, the Transportation Security Administration in Illinois will accept Apple Wallet mobile driver’s licenses and state IDs—which will be Real ID-compliant— from passengers moving through airport security.
ilsos.gov/mdl
SOPHIA STEAK OPENS IN GOLD COAST DISTRICT
» IN MARCH, BALLYHOO HOSPITALITY of Chicago opened Sophia Steak Chicago in the city’s Gold Coast neighborhood. Downstairs from Petit Pomeroy on North State Street, Sophia Steak serves a fresh neighborhood approach to the classic steakhouse destination. The concept offers a polished, yet approachable experience that features premium steaks, seafood, and comforting sharable plates. Sophia Steak Chicago is the third Sophia Steak location, and marks Ballyhoo Hospitality’s 12th restaurant. The concept was created in collaboration with legendary restaurateur Glenn Keefer, known for his iconic contributions to the Chicago steakhouse scene.
The menu features signature dishes like its New York strip, crispy lobster and shishitos, and Meatballs Pomodoro. Lighter, vegetable-forward options such as the Super Green Vegetable Salad with kale, avocado, broccoli, asparagus, pepperoncini, olives, pistachios, lemon vinaigrette, and parmesan add variety.
The Queen’s Table at Sophia Steak Chicago is an elegant private dining space—with a custom wood table and high-backed dining chairs—designed for intimate gatherings and events for up to 12 attendees. A stunning grand crystal chandelier hangs from the ceiling above and adds a touch of sophistication to the atmosphere. Large curtains can be drawn to create a more intimate setting, enhancing the exclusive feel of the room. With its flexibility, this space offers a cozy, yet refined environment perfect for special occasions.
ballyhoohospitality.com | sophiasteak.com
Choose Chicago Appoints Reynolds
Choose Chicago selected Kristen Reynolds, a highly respected leader in the travel and tourism industry, to serve as the organization’s president and CEO, and she began work in early May. Reynolds joined Choose Chicago after an effective tenure as president and CEO of Discover Long Island in New York, where she spearheaded transformative growth in the region’s visitor economy.
“Kristen Reynolds is a proven leader in the tourism industry, and we welcome her to Chicago,” Mayor Brandon Johnson says in a prepared statement. “Kristen’s leadership will be instrumental in strengthening Chicago’s position as a top destination for visitors, conventions, and business investment.”
Reynolds brings 27 years of experience in destination marketing, strategic partnerships, and tourism advocacy to her new role. She is also a Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME), a credential bestowed by Washington, D.C.-based Destinations International.
“Chicago is a world-class city with unparalleled cultural, culinary, and business assets, and I am honored to take on this leadership role at Choose Chicago,” Reynolds says. “I look forward to working with the incredible team, city officials, and industry partners to continue elevating Chicago’s global reputation, attracting visitors, and driving economic impact across Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods.” choosechicago.com
•Unique
•Small
•Opening
•Prime
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The Loft at Gray Goose Historic 1840s building • 30-foot vaulted ceilings • Space for up to 160 guests
A Whole Lot of Respect
Jodi Wolf of Paulette Wolf Events handles everything—from shepherding former presidents to putting on a show for hundreds of pregnant attendees BY TODD
R. BERGER
Jodi Wolf, CEO of Chicago’s Paulette Wolf Events, sees the world through events-filtered eyeglasses. “Events are in my blood,” she notes. “I grew up on them. When I was 10 years old, I was wrangling entertainers for my mom, Paulette Wolf. I learned from the best.”
By the age of 21, Jodi Wolf thought it was important to work in nearly every area of the events and hospitality industries. She labored at a hotel front desk, a caterer to get her mind around food and beverage, and a tent company to understand outdoor events. She also worked at The Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, where she grasped entertainment riders, production, and VIP meet-and-greets. She says of those days, “[By doing all these things,] I wanted to make sure [people didn’t say,] ‘Oh, that’s Paulette’s daughter.’ I wanted people to respect me for who I was and what I had learned.”
Today, she leads a company that produces 35 to 50 major events a year, with specialties in groundbreakings, grand openings, product launches, and big-name entertainment production. She has served as executive producer of grandopening campaigns for pavilions at Chicago’s Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Northwestern Medicine Prentice
Women’s Hospital, the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, The Art Institute of Chicago, Fort Lauderdale’s Air & Sea Show in Florida, and MLB’s Chicago Cubs. She has brought in musical acts such as Imagine Dragons, Stevie Wonder, and Sting for events, and she has arranged keynote presentations by former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton.
With so many moving parts for complex events, things must go wrong sometimes, right? She replies, “We pride ourselves on meticulous preparation and flawless execution. We plan for every possible scenario, so if there is a problem, our response is turnkey and quick, and it is never something that the client has any idea happened. The perfect event is when you have anticipated and communicated everything, so the event almost runs itself with just our watchful eyes on it once it starts.”
When pressed to share an event that was outside of the norm, she has a ready answer about her experience working with The Oprah Winfrey Show for a live broadcast in 2004. She says, “It was shot at Fort Campbell [a U.S. Army Base in Kentucky], and it was called the ‘World’s Largest Baby Shower.’ The audience was 640 soldiers or military wives who were pregnant and due within 30 days of each other. It was just wild.”
PHOTO Sheri Whitko Photography
DISCOVER HOLLAND
Whether you’re planning a corporate retreat, a team-building event, or a conference, Holland offers a variety of inspiring venues that combine modern facilities with the character of a historic downtown. The city’s welcoming atmosphere and diverse venues provide the perfect setting for creative and collaborative meetings. Within a walkable four-block radius, you’ll find three luxury hotels and a wide array of versatile spaces designed to suit any occasion.
Host your event at the Tulyp Hotel, where floor-to-ceiling windows and a rooftop patio offer stunning views of downtown, Lake Macatawa, and a centuries-old windmill. The Haworth Hotel blends Italian design with local heritage across 13 flexible meeting spaces, while the Courtyard features an intimate boardroom and wrought iron balconies overlooking 8th Street. For larger events, combine all three venues for a seamless experience.
Beyond these options, Holland’s downtown is home to 15 additional venues, including the scenic Celebration Pavilion at Windmill Island Gardens, Port 393, and the Civic Center Place. Unique spaces like the Cellar at Butch’s, 205 Coffee Bar, and Warehouse 6 inside Cento Anni’s artisan woodworking shop are just steps away from over 100 bistros, boutiques, and breweries, offering a vibrant setting for your event.
The Holland Area Convention + Visitors Bureau is your dedicated partner, handling everything from accommodations to entertainment and transportation, ensuring your event is a success. Discover how small-town warmth and big-city convenience come together in Holland.
78 E. 8th Street • Holland, MI 49423 • 616.394.0000 meetings@holland.org • holland.org
