Business & Events in Chicago.

Chicago’s thriving business environment, enhanced by its diversity of culture, arts and recreation, make it one of the most exciting, influential cities in the world. Third largest city in the nation, Chicago is a seat of commerce with a powerhouse economy, a burgeoning business district, top Fortune 500 companies, and the largest merchandise mart on the planet.

McCormick Place Convention Center. The nation's largest convention and event center, Chicago's McCormick Place is the center of business in Chicago. Comprised of the state - o f- the - art South and North buildings and Lakeside Center, McCormick Place features 2.2 million sq. ft. of exhibit halls, 112 meeting rooms, assembly seating for 10,000 people, three 345 - seat theaters, the largest ballroom in Chicago, and the 4,249 - seat Arie Crown Theater. McCormick Place is linked by the Grand Concourse, a massive pedestrian promenade with diverse retail shops, restaurant and Chicago attractions. Visit www.mccormickplace.com.

Merchandise Mart. The world’s largest commercial office building, Chicago Merchandise Mart is a private exhibit center that produces world - class trade shows, conferences, and special events in over 4.1 million sq. ft. of permanent and temporary showrooms. The Mart is home to the world's largest Contract Furnishing Show - Neocon - the country's largest Casual Furniture Market, Chicago’s Antique Fair, the Chicago Design Show, two Gift and Home Markets and 10 clothing shows a year. The Mart also houses a bank, a U.S. Post Office, an "EL" train stop, currency exchange, a food court and several retail shops. Visit www.merchandisemart.com.

“The Loop” (Chicago’s Business District). The historical center of downtown Chicago, The Loop is the second largest downtown business district in the country. Bordeered by Lake Michigan, Chicago River, and Roosevelt Road, The Loop District is characterized by architecturally unique high - rises and many historic buildings, such as Sears Tower, the tallest skyscraper in the country, and the Home Insurance Building, the first skyscraper built.