By air:
Chicago is served by two major airports: O’Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW). When searching for flights, many sites allow you to search both airports simultaneously using the city code CHI.
From O’Hare: You can take the CTA Blue Line train into the city (towards Forest Park). The fare is approximately $5 from the airport. Get off at UIC–Halsted, which is adjacent to the UIC campus. A taxi or ride-share from O’Hare to downtown typically costs around $45 before tip.
From Midway: Take the CTA Orange Line (fare approximately $2.50) toward the Loop. You can either walk from Harold Washington Library to transfer to the Blue Line, or continue into the Loop and take a short taxi or ride-share to campus or the hotel. A taxi from Midway to downtown typically costs around $25 before tip.
CTA trains from both airports are generally reliable and avoid traffic delays, but can be crowded during peak hours.
By train:
UIC is close to Chicago Union Station, which is served by Amtrak trains from many regional and national destinations. From Union Station, campus is easily reachable by CTA, taxi, or ride-share. A taxi fare should be under $10.
By car.
UIC is located just off Interstates I-90/94 and I-290. Conference parking is available at the Halsted Parking Structure (northeast corner of Taylor St. and Halsted St.). If you plan to park there, take a ticket upon entry and bring it to the workshop for validation. Note that parking privileges do not include in-and-out access. Parking at the Crown Plaza is more expensive and is not recommended if campus parking is available.
Participants whose travel arrangements are handled through UIC will be staying at the Crown Plaza Chicago Metro, located just under a mile from campus. The walk to UIC follows Halsted Street and takes approximately 15–20 minutes.
Chicago has an extensive public transportation system operated by the CTA, consisting of trains (“L” lines) and buses. The Blue Line and Pink Line serve the UIC area directly, and multiple bus routes run along Halsted, Taylor, and Roosevelt. Ride-share services and taxis are widely available and are often the easiest option late at night.
Chicago offers a wide range of cultural, architectural, and recreational activities. For visitors with a free afternoon or evening, we especially recommend:
The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise, often considered one of the best ways to experience the city’s architecture.
The Art Institute of Chicago, one of the premier art museums in the world.
Millennium Park and Cloud Gate (“The Bean”).
Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), offering panoramic views of the city from one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere.
Buckingham Fountain and the nearby lakefront.
Walking along the Chicago Riverwalk or the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Exploring neighborhoods such as West Loop, Pilsen, and Chinatown.
Visitors staying through Wednesday evening may also enjoy the free summer fireworks at Navy Pier, which begin at 9:00 PM and are visible from many locations along the lakefront.
For visitors with limited time, the Architecture River Cruise and the Art Institute are especially highly recommended.
Chicago is a highly walkable city, and most attractions are easily accessible via the CTA train and bus system.
A number of popular lunch destinations are within walking distance of UIC, including:
Lotus Banh Mi — Vietnamese sandwiches, rice bowls, coffee, and bubble tea.
Fontano Subs — a longstanding Chicago favorite for Italian-style sandwiches.
Al’s Beef.
Mario’s Italian Lemonade.
I Dream of Falafel — Mediterranean and Middle Eastern fare, including vegetarian and vegan options.
Additional dining options can be found nearby in several well-known Chicago neighborhoods. Taylor Street (Chicago’s historic Little Italy) and Greektown are both within walking distance of campus. Visitors willing to take a slightly longer walk or short ride may also enjoy the restaurants of the West Loop, particularly along Randolph Street, one of Chicago’s most prominent dining corridors.
Chicago’s food scene is exceptionally diverse, and participants are encouraged to ask local attendees for additional recommendations.
Chicago offers an exceptionally diverse dining scene, with options ranging from casual neighborhood restaurants to internationally recognized fine dining. Visitors may wish to explore:
The West Loop, particularly along Randolph Street and Fulton Market, one of Chicago’s premier dining districts.
Greektown, within walking distance of campus.
Chinatown, located a short train ride from UIC.
Pilsen, known for its Mexican restaurants, galleries, and murals.
The Chicago Riverwalk and downtown area, which offer numerous dining options with views of the Chicago River.
Participants are encouraged to ask local attendees for recommendations based on cuisine, budget, and location.
There will be an optional conference banquet on Thursday at Giordano's Greektown (815 W Van Buren St, Chicago, IL 60607); see here for more information.
Chicago is a large city, and standard urban precautions apply. During the day, the UIC area and public transit are generally busy and safe. At night, participants are advised to stay on well-lit streets, travel in groups when possible, and use ride-share or taxis rather than walking long distances. Keep personal belongings secure, especially on public transportation and in crowded areas.