WELCOME TO
Chicago
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Discover the vibrant energy of Chicago, a city where iconic architecture, rich history, and world-class culture come together on the shores of Lake Michigan. Marvel at landmarks like Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Willis Tower Skydeck. Stroll along the Magnificent Mile, explore diverse neighborhoods filled with music and art. Enjoy the city’s renowned culinary scene, from deep-dish pizza to Michelin-starred dining. With its lively festivals, lakefront trails, and unmatched arts and theater district, Chicago offers unforgettable experiences for every visitor!
Further information about places to eat, things to do, and interesting finds in the area will be shared closer to the conference to help you plan your stay.
Conference Venue
Palmer House Hilton
17 East Monroe Street, Chicago, IL, 60603, United States
A block of rooms has been reserved for ACR 2026 conference delegates. The block of rooms are available at a discounted rate for delegates attending the Association for Consumer Research congress until September 15, 2025, or until the rooms are sold out.
Getting to Chicago
Traveling to Chicago is simple, thanks to its central location and excellent transportation links. Whether by air, rail, or road, the city is accessible from across the country and around the world.
By Air
Chicago is served by two major airports:
O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
One of the busiest airports in the world, offering extensive domestic and international flights, with CTA Blue Line train service to downtown.
Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)
Convenient for domestic travel and low-cost carriers, with easy access to downtown via the CTA Orange Line.
By Train
Chicago’s historic Union Station is a central hub for Amtrak services, with connections to cities across the U.S., including high-speed service to Milwaukee and regional routes throughout the Midwest.
By Bus
Long-distance bus services such as Greyhound, Megabus, and FlixBus connect Chicago to destinations nationwide, with arrivals in the downtown area.
By Car
Chicago is easily reached via major interstates, including I-90, I-94, and I-55. Parking downtown can be limited and expensive, so consider using public transit once in the city.
Getting Around Chicago
Exploring Chicago is seamless with a variety of transportation options designed for convenience and accessibility. Whether you prefer the speed of the “L train”, the flexibility of bus routes, the ease of biking, or the charm of walking through historic neighborhoods, the city offers a mode of transport to fit your needs.
CTA ‘L’ Train & Buses
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates an extensive network of buses and the elevated “L” train system, serving the city and surrounding neighborhoods. The Red, Blue, Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, and Purple Lines connect visitors to key destinations, including downtown, the airports, and cultural attractions. Riders can pay with a Ventra Card or contactless payment.
Metra Commuter Rail
Metra provides fast and reliable train service from downtown Chicago to the suburbs, ideal for regional commuters and visitors.
Biking
Chicago is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the U.S., with more than 200 miles of bike lanes and the Divvy bike-share program for quick rentals across the city.
Walking
Downtown Chicago, especially the Loop and lakefront areas, is best explored on foot. From the Art Institute to Millennium Park, many attractions are within easy walking distance of the Palmer House.
Recommendations from our Social Chairs
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Local Info
Late September in Chicago is crisp and colorful, with average highs in the upper 50s°F (14°C) and lows in the mid-40s°F (7°C). Light jackets are recommended, as lake breezes can add a chill.
American currency is the US Dollar.
Visitors to Chicago can expect a few different taxes while spending time in the city:
- Sales Tax: The sales tax in Chicago is 10.25%.
- Hotel Tax: When staying at a hotel or other lodging, visitors will be subject to approximately 17.4% hotel tax.
- Restaurant Tax: Food and beverage purchases are subject to the sales tax plus a 0.5% restaurant tax in the downtown area.
In case of emergency: 911
Non-emergency police/fire/city services: 311
The United States uses 120-volt, 60 hertz.
Smoking as well as “vaping” or the use of e-cigarettes, vape pens, and e-hookahs is prohibited in enclosed public places, and within 15 feet of the entrance of these establishments.
Passport and Visa
Delegates should check the specific visa requirements based on their nationality and the event’s details to ensure smooth entry into the U.S.
A citizen of a foreign country who seeks to travel to the United States generally must first obtain a U.S. visa. Certain international travelers may be eligible to travel to the United States without a visa if they meet the requirements for visa-free travel. Find out if you need a visa to enter the United States here. More information about visitor visas and traveling to the U.S. can be found here.
Letters of Invitation
Podium Conference Specialists will provide assistance in obtaining visas in the form of support letters once registration is confirmed and fully paid for, or once a speaker/presenter has confirmed their presentation.
To request a visa support letter or letter of invitation once you have been accepted as a speaker, presenter or fully paid and registered delegate, please complete the visa invite request form.
Childcare Options
For attendees in need of childcare during ACR 2026, we’ve provided a list of recommended local childcare options below. Please note that the Association for Consumer Research does not endorse or guarantee the quality of the listed childcare resources and does not maintain a list of preferred providers. We strongly recommend that individuals interested in these services vet and check references for any provider they consider.
The Association for Consumer Research is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all attendees of the Annual Conference. Infants and young children are welcome in sessions, and designated spaces for nursing and pumping will be available.
