ILLINOIS MEETING GUIDE - Meetinillinois.com

Transcription

ILLINOIS
MEETING GUIDE
WELCOME TO ILLINOIS
Dear Meeting and Event Planner:
As Governor it is my pleasure to welcome you to the great state of Illinois and
thank you for your interest. Whether you’re planning a small gathering or a large
event, Illinois is the place to meet. Thousands of planners choose Illinois each
year. From major tradeshows in our world- class convention centers to small
business meetings in hotels and everything in between, we have the amenities
you are looking for and more.
The Illinois Meeting Guide is a useful tool designed to make planning even easier
in Illinois. This valuable guide contains information about destinations and
facilities statewide. You can use it as a reference or in conjunction with convention
and visitor bureau professionals who are happy to assist with your planning.
For further information, please visit the Illinois meetings and conventions
website, meetinillinois.com. The comprehensive and easy-to-use site is a resource
filled with detailed listings and a request for proposals section.
In Illinois we take pride in our exceptional facilities, and I invite you to host your
next meeting in the land that Lincoln called home.
Sincerely,
Bruce Rauner
Governor, State of Illinois
COME EXPLORE
We encourage you to explore this guide to find a meeting space
offering a variety of world-class accommodations and settings for
any group. You can submit an RFP online at www.meetinillinois.com
that can be distributed quickly to our sales professionals to help you
execute your meeting or event.
If you would like to speak with someone directly, please contact:
ERIC C. WAGNER
Illinois Office of Tourism
James R. Thompson Center
100 West Randolph Street, Suite 3-400
Chicago, IL 60601
Phone: 312-793-2369
Fax: 312-814-6175
Email: eric.wagner@illinois.gov
The hospitality industry in Illinois takes pride in all of the meeting/
convention facilities we have to offer, and we look forward to
exceeding expectations as your meeting planning destination.
meetinillinois.com
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
CHICAGO & BEYOND
Aurora Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Blackhawk Waterways. . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Chicago . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Chicago’s North Shore. . . . . . . . . . 11
Chicago Northwest . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Chicago Southland. . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
DeKalb County. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Downers Grove. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
DuPage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Elgin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Freeport/Stephenson County . . 18
Heritage Corridor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Kankakee County. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Lake County. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Lisle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
McHenry County. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Oak Park Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Rockford Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Rosemont . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
St. Charles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
LAND OF LINCOLN
Abraham Lincoln. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Bloomington-Normal Area. . . . . 30
Champaign County. . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Decatur Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Effingham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Springfield. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
GREAT RIVERS COUNTRY
Alton Regional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Galena/Jo Daviess County. . . . . . 37
Galesburg Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Henry County. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Macomb Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Peoria Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Quad Cities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Quincy Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Tourism Bureau ILLINOISouth . . 44
TRAILS TO ADVENTURE
Carbondale. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Mt. Vernon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Southernmost Illinois . . . . . . . . . . 48
Williamson County. . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
CONTACT YOUR ILLINOIS EXPERT:
Our local Convention and Visitors Bureaus!
WHAT IS A CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU (CVB)?
HOW CVBs DO WHAT THEY DO…
Convention & Visitors Bureaus are not-for-profit organizations
sharing the mission of enticing visitors to the destination
each serves. In addition to individuals seeking a vacation,
weekend getaway or simply a day away from home, visitors
are also attendees of conventions, meetings, sports events and
motorcoach trips.
Though CVBs have existed since the late 1800s, many planners
don’t know they exist! The services provided by each bureau vary
somewhat; however, resources typically include the following:
THINK OF CVBs AS A LOCAL “ONLINE DIRECTORY”!
A CVB’s staff of hospitality professionals is trained to maintain
existing and establish new relationships with event planners for the
purpose of providing them with unbiased destination and support
service information. CVB services – almost always complimentary
– are designed to match planner and attendee needs to the
destination’s amenities and resources, resulting in streamlined,
time-saving efficiencies for the planner and enhanced ROI for the
organizations hosting their event.
• Destination Expertise – RFP distribution, site inspections,
provision of print and web-based marketing materials
• Bid Development – competitive analysis, liaison with
convention center, hotels, meeting venues
• Convention Planning – welcome letters, local media contacts,
street signage, identification of support services
• Attendance Building – media release creation, dedicated web
landing pages, attendance boosters and telemarketing services
• On-site Support – supply visitor’s guides, city maps,
registration booths and support, name badges, welcome
banners, attendee “goodie bag” materials
For more information on meeting facilities in Illinois, visit www.meetinillinois.com
HOW DO PLANNERS BENEFIT?
CVBs CAN BE MISUNDERSTOOD! CVBs…
Meeting and event planners oversee hundreds of tasks and, by
reaching out to the Illinois CVBs listed within these pages, they will
receive help with the following:
• Are NOT “middle men” who increase costs – CVBs receive no
commission or client fees for booking business
• Time Savings – identifying the appropriate venue, rates and
availability within planner’s time frame and budget
• Financial Savings – complimentary products and services,
maximizing value dates/meeting patterns, individual CVB
promotions designed to enhance event bottom lines
• Simplicity – gathering bids from hotels in standardized
formats. CVBs can receive all RFPs on behalf of the planner.
• Unbiased Expertise – providing a wide range of updated
information on existing facilities and activities, and education
regarding new hotels/meeting venue locations and off-site
activities
• Unique Destination Perspective – providing information on
airlift, weather, city-wide meetings and community events
• Do NOT serve city-wide conventions only – Most bureaus
have sales professionals dedicated to meetings for 200 or
fewer attendees
• Do NOT distribute leads to everyone – CVBs have the flexibility
to send RFPs only to those venues requested BY THE
PLANNER. Additionally, CVBs will, upon request, maintain the
planner’s anonymity by collecting, on behalf of the planner, all
initial proposals
• Absolutely ARE accountable – CVBs are funded with public
dollars – and, in some cases, membership dollars – and are
responsible to document the impact their activities have
on the economic health of the destination they serve. Bureaus
track the number of potential pieces of business they identify,
the number of hotel room nights they book and the number
of people they touch with their services.
The CVBs listed in this guide have been sorted by Illinois’ four distinct tourism regions, and planners interested in bringing meetings to the
Midwest and a particular Illinois region are encouraged to use this guide to find the CVBs located within the desired region. Planners also can
submit an RFP online at www.meetinIllinois.com which can be distributed quickly so that the appropriate CVB sale professionals can be in
touch with you to help execute the meeting or event.
CHICAGO & BEYOND
The cultural heart & soul of Illinois, Chicago and its suburbs are home
to world-class museums, restaurants and entertainment. Beyond the
city limits lies a wealth of meeting destinations among zoos, gardens,
amusements parks, shopping malls and outlet centers.
Brookfield Zoo
Shopping in Oak Brook
The Chicago Theatre
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Aurora Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Blackhawk Waterways Convention & Visitors Bureau
Website: enjoyaurora.com
Phone: 630.256.3190 Fax: 630.256.3199
E-mail: sales@enjoyaurora.com
Website: visitnorthwestillinois.com
Toll-Free: 800.678.2108 Phone: 815.946.2108
E-mail: office@bwcvb.com
Find it
Find it
• 37 miles west of Chicago
• Convenient to I-88
• Easy access by Metra rail system and major highways
• Also accessible via US 52 / IL 64 and I-39
Fax: 815.946.2277
• 30 minutes from Midway International Airport and 45 from O’Hare International Airport
At-a-Glance
Farnsworth House
At-a-Glance
• Total number of guest rooms in area: 1,200
• Largest Meeting Facility:
Best Western Timber Creek Inn & Suites
Convention Center, Sandwich, IL
Days Inn
• Size of Largest Meeting Facility:
Seating for 500
28,385 sq. ft. (Timber Creek)
Savanna-Sabula Bridge
The Aurora area – just 37 miles from Chicago – is ideal for small- to medium-size unique meetings. Imagine meeting in the oldest
The Blackhawk Waterways region is rich in historical attractions, state parks, outdoor recreation, unique shopping and
roundhouse in North America or in a restored 1930s movie palace. The award-winning gardens surrounding Mies van der Rohe’s
local community events & festivals. We offer accommodations that range from chain hotel to B&Bs and cabins. Looking for
“Glass House” create atmosphere. As the second largest city in Illinois, Aurora is an exciting blend of the best of both the urban and
something different? We offer unique facilities for corporate retreats and small- to medium-size conventions. We’ll cater each
the suburban. A must-stop: premier discount designer shopping at Chicago Premium Outlets.
event to your specific needs. And we’re an easy 90- to 120-minute drive from Chicagoland, with most of our destinations
within 30 minutes of an airport.
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Choose Chicago
Chicago’s North Shore Convention & Visitors Bureau
Website: choosechicago.com
Website: visitchicagonorthshore.com
Phone: 312.567.8500
Phone: 847.763.0011 ext. 23
Fax: 312.567.8472
Fax: 847.763.0022
Find it
• O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport offer more than 3,000
flights with daily non-stop or direct global gateway flights to 200 cities worldwide
Find it
• Public transportation via, train, bus, taxi – and even water taxi – makes getting to
and around the city simple
• Along the shores of beautiful Lake Michigan
McCormick Place
• Bordering the city of Chicago – just 20 minutes from downtown
• Approximately 59.5 million people live within a one-day drive
• Only 20 minutes east of O’Hare International Airport
At-a-Glance
At-a-Glance
• Total number of guest rooms in area: 33,000+ downtown and 110,000+
in greater metropolitan area
McCormick Place
2.6 million sq. ft.; 100,000 sq. ft. ballroom
• Total number of guest rooms in area:
3,775
Holiday Inn North Shore – Skokie
14,000 sq. ft.
Baha’i House of Worship
Bordering Chicago along amazing Lake Michigan, Chicago’s North Shore represents the most scenic communities in the
As the official sales and marketing organization for Chicago & McCormick Place, our team is dedicated to successfully planning
Midwest that are also home to state-of-the-art meeting and event facilities. The picturesque shoreline is rich in performing
your next meeting or convention. You may know us for the larger shows, but we are also an invaluable resource for smaller
arts, cultural attractions, recreational activities, award-winning restaurants and five-star shopping. Area attractions include the
meetings and events. Our membership allows us access to Chicago’s hotels, restaurants and special event venues, as well as
Chicago Botanic Garden, North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center
cultural and entertainment options such as museums, sporting arenas, sightseeing boats, photographers, caterers and more.
and the only Baha’i House of Worship in the Western Hemisphere. Premier shopping is available at Westfield Old Orchard,
Let us be your partner in success – MAKE IT CHICAGO!
Northbrook Court, the Glen Town Center and downtown Evanston and Winnetka. Area hotels have completed more than
$65 million in renovations recently, and can host groups from 20 to 1,000 people.
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Chicago Northwest – It’s Better on the Edge
Chicago Southland Convention & Visitors Bureau
Website: ChicagoNorthwest.com
Website: MeetChicagoSouthland.com
Toll-Free: 888.895.8233 Fax: 708.895.8288
E-mail: sales@VisitChicagoSouthland.com
Toll-Free: 800.847.4849
Phone: 847.490.1010
Fax: 847.490.1212
Find it
Find it
• 15 minutes from O’Hare International Airport
• Nearest Airport: Midway International Airport (properties within 4 miles)
• 45 minutes to downtown Chicago
• Nearest City: Chicago (30 minutes from downtown)
• At crossroads of major highways and interstates
• Accessible via I-55, I-57, I-80, I-94, I-294 and I-394
At-a-Glance
At-a-Glance
• Total number of guest rooms in area: 6,000+
Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel
Tinley Park Convention Center
148,624 sq. ft.
70,450 sq. ft.
Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel
Tinley Park Convention Center
The Chicago Northwest region, where business blends with style, is located on the edge of O’Hare Airport. This sophisticated
Chicago Southland – Chicago’s 62 south/southwest suburbs – is the affordable, accessible meeting location, with 5 full-service
area features 62 hotels, state-of-the-art conference centers, a stunning high-tech convention center, and a luxurious resort
hotels plus the 70,450-square-foot Tinley Park Convention Center, all with FREE parking. Unique meeting places abound, with
combining productivity and relaxation – all with FREE parking. Affordability is the bottom line. Exciting entertainment and
golf courses, historical buildings and Iron Oaks Environmental Learning Center, the only corporate team-building facility in the
shopping options for meeting attendees and families include: Woodfield Mall, IKEA, Mitsuwa Japanese Marketplace, Arlington
Midwest. The CSCVB assists with site selection, bids/proposals, transportation coordination, registration and more. Ask about
International, Medieval Times, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, and TopGolf. Choose from more than 500 restaurants offering
our current incentive campaign at sales@VisitChicagoSouthland.com.
every type of cuisine. For seamless events in a cosmopolitan and vibrant destination, contact our sales professionals.
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DeKalb County Convention & Visitors Bureau
Downers Grove Visitors Bureau
Website: dekalbcountycvb.com
Toll-Free: 877.335.2521 Fax: 815.756.5164
E-mail: darmstrong@dekalbcountycvb.com
Website: visitdg.org
Find it
Find it
• Conveniently located off Interstates 88, I-39 and I-90
• 25 minutes to the city of Chicago
• Easy access from I-355, I-88 and I-55
• US Route 38, Illinois Lincoln Highway runs through DeKalb County
• Conveniently located between O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport
At-a-Glance
At-a-Glance
Toll-Free: 800.934.0615
Phone: 630.729.0380
Fax: 630.729.0381
• Total number of guest rooms in area: 751
Convocation Center at Northern Illinois University
Esplanade Conference Center
215,000 sq. ft.
35,000 sq. ft.
NIU Convocation Center
Downers Grove Friday Night Classic Car Show
The perfect destination for your next event awaits you in DeKalb County. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city to experience
A perfect place to stay in, play in, dine in and shop in! Downers Grove boasts a variety of recreational, shopping, dining and
our contemporary culture and countryside charm. Only 60 miles west of Chicago, DeKalb County has more than 360,000 square
cultural activities. Highlights include a historic nine-hole golf course, and an authentic downtown with unique boutiques,
feet of meeting space, state-of-the-art facilities, and a variety of restaurant and catering options to choose from. Our affordable
specialty shops and a variety of restaurants. Downers Grove is also home to some of Chicagoland’s best festivals, including a
venues and Midwestern hospitality keep groups coming back time and time again. We offer many amenities to meeting and
National Ice Sculpture Festival, Friday Night Classic Car Shows, Concerts in the Park, the Annual Fine Arts Festival and much more.
event planners, including RFPs, site inspections and more! Whether you are planning indoor or outdoor, large or small, formal
or casual, be sure to put DeKalb County at the top of your list for your next event. It’s truly something special!
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DuPage Convention & Visitors Bureau
Elgin Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Website: discoverdupage.com
Toll-Free: 800.232.0502 Fax: 630.575.8078
E-mail: meetings@discoverdupage.com
Website: northernfoxrivervalley.com
Find it
Find it
• Convenient to O’Hare International Airport, Midway International Airport and DuPage Airport
• Only 30 minutes from O’Hare International Airport
• Easily accessible from six major highways
• Located off I-90
• A quick trip to downtown Chicago via three commuter train lines
• Elgin boasts three Metra rail stations leading to Chicago’s Union Station
At-a-Glance
At-a-Glance
Phone: 847.695.7540
Fax: 847.695.7668
Odeum Expo Center
Elgin Community College
130,000 sq. ft.
Spartan Events Center (seating for 900)
Spartan Events Center
Ideally located just 20 miles from downtown Chicago, DuPage offers over 1.9 million square feet of combined meeting
Ever held a meeting in a former blacksmith shop that’s now a private dinner club? How about in an elegant pavilion surrounded
space and 16,000+ guest rooms in a wide variety of hotels, making it an outstanding choice for groups of up to 5,000.
by a beautiful, serene park? Or perhaps on a passenger locomotive surrounded by 56 acres of restored trains? Conveniently
DuPage County has five IACC-approved properties and three beautiful golf resorts with excellent meeting facilities. In
located just 30 minutes from O’Hare off I-90, Chicagoland’s Northern Fox River Valley is rich with exciting and unique meeting
addition to offering world-class restaurants, attractions and shopping, DuPage is also amazingly rich in culture, heritage
venues and is the ideal location for your next function. With affordable facilities, comfortable accommodations, many diverse
and landscape. Contact our team of seasoned professionals and take advantage of our long list of complimentary
dining options and exciting attractions, your event is certain to be a great success in this rare and exceptional meeting destination.
Signature Services to help make this your best meeting yet.
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Freeport/Stephenson County Convention & Visitors Bureau
Heritage Corridor Convention & Visitors Bureau
Website: stephenson-county-il.org
Website: HeritageCorridorCVB.com
Toll-Free: 800.369.2955
Phone: 815.233.1357
Fax: 815.233.1358
Toll-Free: 800.535.5682
Phone: 815.588.7940
Fax: 815.588.7945
Find it
Find it
• 25 miles from Rockford
• Chicago: As close as 14 miles and as far as 100 miles
• US Route 20 runs through Freeport
• Airports: Midway International, 40 minutes; O’Hare International, 1 hour
• 1 hour and 20 minutes from Chicago O’Hare International Airport
• Amtrak: Joliet and Mendota stations
• Easy Access off I-55 and I-80
At-a-Glance
Freeport Masonic Temple
24,000 sq. ft.
Masonic Temple
At-a-Glance
Holiday Inn Countryside
25,000 sq. ft.
Freeport/Stephenson County, with its centuries of charm and hospitality, is located two hours west of Chicago in the
Meet in Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Corridor, Chicagoland’s Largest Playground! You’ll discover
rolling hills of Northwest Illinois. Explore quaint villages, beautiful parks, first-class golf courses, restaurants, fine lodging
unique venues like Starved Rock Lodge with a variety of team-building exercises, staff training, or executive retreats!
and excellent meeting facilities perfect for small- to mid-size meetings.
Waterparks, seasonal waterfulls, championship golf courses, historic sites, nightlife, casinos, NASCAR and more! We offer
site selection, event planning, activity and touring opportunities with an emphasis on service. We excel in smaller, more
intimate meetings with plenty of outdoor team building exercises.
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Kankakee County Convention & Visitors Bureau
Visit Lake County
Website: visitkankakeecounty.com
Website: visitlakecounty.org
Toll-Free: 800.747.4837
Toll-Free: 800.LAKE.NOW (800.525.3669)
Fax: 815.935.5169
Fax: 847.662.2700
Find it
Find it
• 1 hour south of Chicago on I-57
• Centrally located between Chicago and Milwaukee
• 45 miles to Midway International Airport/70 miles to O’Hare International Airport
• Easy access off I-94 and Route 41
• 1½ hours north of Champaign, IL
• 25 miles from downtown Chicago
At-a-Glance
At-a-Glance
900
• Total number of guest rooms in area: 8,500 with over 60 hotels
Hilton Garden Inn Riverstone Conference Center
Lake County Fairgrounds
9,000 sq. ft.
65,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space
Kankakee’s beautifully manicured golf course
Chicago Botanical Gardens
Kankakee County has established itself as one of the Midwest’s affordable small meeting & event destinations. Located just
As Chicago’s neighbor to the north, Lake County boasts first-rate meeting sites at affordable prices. Centrally located
an hour south of Chicago off Interstate 57, the Kankakee River Valley offers a peaceful setting for meetings, retreats and
between Chicago and Milwaukee, only 25 miles north of downtown Chicago, access to Lake County is easy. Unsurpassed
special events. Find the perfect location for your event from conference centers to sportsplexes, auditoriums, classrooms,
natural beauty abounds with 75 inland lakes and 25,000 acres of lush forest preserves. Area attractions include Six Flags
theaters and ballrooms. For a truly unique event, consider one of Kankakee County’s historic landmarks or outdoor facilities.
Great America, Gurnee Mills, Chicago Botanic Garden, Ravinia Festival, Long Grove Historic Shopping Village, Genesee
Theatre and more! We offer 60 hotels, three premier resorts and facilities for events accommodating up to 1,000 people.
We will gather hotel proposals, arrange site tours and provide complimentary welcome bags with giveaways.
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Lisle Convention & Visitors Bureau
Visit McHenry County Convention & Visitors Bureau
Website: stayinlisle.com
Website: visitmchenrycounty.com
Toll-Free: 800.733.9811
Fax: 630.769.1006
Toll-Free: 888.363.6177
Phone: 815.893.6280
Fax: 815.893.6542
Find it
Find it
• 25 miles from O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport
• 45 miles northwest of Chicago
• Easy access to major highways I-88 and I-355
• Along I-90 and in the heart of the Chicago, Milwaukee, Rockford Business Triangle
• Easy access to O’Hare International Airport
At-a-Glance
At-a-Glance
Sheraton Lisle
Holiday Inn Crystal Lake Conference Center
12,000 sq. ft.
20,000 sq. ft.
The Four Pillars
Holiday Inn® Chicago-Crystal Lake Conference Center
Meet in Style…Stay in Lisle – Chicago’s Premier Western Suburb. Home to The Morton Arboretum, internationally
Located northwest of Chicago, McHenry County offers an escape from the everyday. Accessibility from I-90, O’Hare
recognized 1,700-acre outdoor museum and the popular Eyes to the Skies Hot Air Balloon Festival, Lisle has three
International Airport and Metra train service makes getting to the area simple. From the full-service Holiday Inn® Chicago-
outstanding, full-service hotels that offer complimentary parking and easy access to major highways and attractions.
Crystal Lake Conference Center to the spectacular rural retreats of the Concorde Centre and Loyola University Chicago’s
With beautiful natural surroundings, Lisle offers meeting planners the very finest in meeting facilities with options that
Retreat and Ecology Campus in Woodstock, McHenry County meeting and event sites are a breath of fresh air. Team
include the Hilton, Hyatt and Sheraton hotels.
building, outdoor recreation, unique off-site facilities and top-rated golf make an event in McHenry County successful,
and the services of the Visit McHenry County CVB make planning easy.
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Visit Oak Park
Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Website: visitoakpark.com
Toll-Free: 888.OAK.PARK (888.625.7275)
E-mail: info@visitoakpark.com
Website: gorockford.com
Fax: 708.524.7473
Toll-Free: 800.521.0849
Fax: 815.963.4298
Find it
• 8 miles west of downtown Chicago
• Getting to the Rockford region is easy, especially if you live in Chicago (60 miles from
O’Hare International Airport), Madison (60 miles) or Milwaukee (80 miles). And once you’re here,
you’ll feel like you’re a million miles from the work-a-day world of home.
• Convenient to O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport
• Seventeen daily shuttles connect Rockford with Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport
Find it
• Easily accessed by CTA Green Line, Blue Line and Metra rail system
• Flying directly into Rockford is an option for those wanting to use the Chicago/Rockford
International Airport (RFD)
At-a-Glance
At-a-Glance
Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio
Four Points Sheraton
12,000 sq. ft.
Prairie Street Brewhouse
Clock Tower Resort & Conference Center
33,000 sq. ft.
The Oak Park area is ready to host your next meeting or seminar. National hotels and unique historic venues provide a variety of
Illinois’s Rockford region is just 60 minutes from the Windy City, with lots of incentives and competitively priced event hosting
options to best meet your small- to mid-size group needs. We’ll work with our partners to assist you in creating a flawless and
costs. Event planners enjoy visiting us for the versatile mix of unique venues, unparalleled value, ease of accessibility and friendly
professional event. Enjoy world-class dining, theater, history and Frank Lloyd Wright architecture just 8 miles west of downtown
community we have to offer. Located at the top of Illinois, a wealth of meeting venue options are at arm’s length, waiting to be
Chicago. Make the “Wright” choice and bring your meeting to the Oak Park area.
explored. Notably, our experienced facilities professionals welcome back their event planning counterparts year after year. To
learn more, call Greta Spencer at 800.519.1651 or visit gorockford.com for free professional event planning assistance.
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Rosemont Convention & Tourism Bureau
Greater St. Charles Convention & Visitors Bureau
Website: rosemont.com
Website: visitstcharles.com
Toll-Free: 800.777.4373 Fax: 630.513.0566
E-mail: sales@visitstcharles.com
Phone: 847.823.2100
Fax: 847.696.9700
Find it
Find it
• 5 minutes from O’Hare International Airport
• Halfway between I-90 and I-88
• 20 minutes from downtown Chicago
• Less than 1 hour from O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport
At-a-Glance
At-a-Glance
• Total number of guest rooms in area: More than 10,000 within a 3-mile radius
Donald E. Stephens Convention Center
Pheasant Run Resort
840,000 sq. ft.
100,000+ sq. ft.
Donald E. Stephens Convention Center
Rosemont, Illinois, is home to the 840,000-square-foot Donald E. Stephens Convention Center featuring flexible exhibition
space, a friendly staff and great rates. Just 5 minutes from O’Hare Airport and 20 minutes from downtown Chicago, Rosemont
is continually growing and evolving to enhance our visitors’ experience. In addition to our world-class hotels, dining,
networking opportunities, the new MB Financial Park entertainment district, shopping at the fashion outlets of Chicago,
Ballpark in Rosemont, Dome at the Ballpark. All of this, combined with Rosemont Convention Bureau’s professional staff, makes
Rosemont a leader in the meeting industry. Discover what Rosemont can do for you.
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Pheasant Run Resort
Located in the heart of the Chicagoland’s Fox River Valley, Greater St. Charles offers meeting planners a “perfect portfolio” of
choices. Professional planners are amazed at the wide range of hotels and venues that charming St. Charles offers. St. Charles
is home to the Midwest’s premier entertainment resort, Pheasant Run Resort, and state-of-the art training facilities Q Center
and Advanced Center for Training. The Hotel Baker, excellent for VIP retreats and mid-size programs, is located on the Fox River
in the heart of downtown St. Charles. Additionally, the DuPage Expo and Prairie Events Center both offer planners 25,000+
square feet of meeting space. All this, plus free parking everywhere, live theater, delightful restaurants, antique and boutique
shopping, a charming downtown community and recreational activities on or along the river. Our professional bureau team is
eager to help you plan your event today!
27
Abraham Lincoln Tourism Bureau of Logan County
Website: abe66.com
Phone: 217.732.8687 Fax: 217.735.9205
E-mail: info@abe66.com
LAND OF LINCOLN
Get your meeting’s kicks along Route 66. Step back in history; experience
the legacy of Lincoln, the Amish lifestyle, college campuses and, of
course, the region’s state-of-the-art meeting facilities.
Find it
• 30 minutes from Bloomington and Springfield, IL
• Nearest major airport is 30 minutes away in Springfield
At-a-Glance
Lincoln Christian University
Seating for 1,200
Abraham Lincoln
Logan County has many meeting facilities, including Lincoln Public Library, the Maple Club, the American Legion, the Knights
University of Illinois
Abraham Lincoln
Amish Country
of Columbus Hall and the Holiday Inn Express. Logan County also hosts four major events: the Logan County Fair, Christmas
on Vinegar Hill, the Art and Balloon Festival and the Abraham Lincoln National Rail-Splitting Contest. This county is steeped in
Abraham Lincoln history and is home to the Postville and Mt. Pulaski Courthouses from his 8th Judicial Circuit rides, as well as
the Stage Coach Inn and the Hoblit Carriage House. Route 66 also provides many other tourist attractions. Logan County offers
seven hotels with 370 available rooms.
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Bloomington-Normal Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Visit Champaign County
Website: bloomingtonnormalcvb.org
Website: visitchampaigncounty.org
Toll-Free: 800.433.8226
Phone: 217.351.4133
Fax: 309.661.0743
Find it
Find it
• Centrally located with outstanding interstate access I-55, I-74 and I-39
• 3 major interstates from all directions converge in Champaign County
• Central Illinois Regional Airport with more than 40 daily flights
• Downtown Champaign features Amtrak, and more than 35 locally owned bars and
restaurants in three blocks
• Amtrak service
• Willard Airport with daily flights serviced by American Airlines
At-a-Glance
30
Fax: 217.398.3037
3,000+
U.S. Cellular Coliseum
180,000 sq. ft.
At-a-Glance
I Hotel & Conference Center
38,000 sq. ft.
U.S. Cellular Coliseum
Local dining in downtown Champaign
Make Bloomington-Normal your meeting destination, and be prepared to have your expectations exceeded. We have a central
Champaign County offers meeting planners more than 3,500 hotel rooms and more than 240,000 square feet of meeting spaces.
location, award-winning convention facilities, second-to-none service and spaces for groups from 10 to 10,000 people! Plus
With modern hotel and conference centers, unique venues, and the University of Illinois in our backyard, Champaign County is
you’ll notice our attention to detail in everything from your pre-convention meeting to your post-convention meeting to our
the ideal location for events and a hot spot for arts, culture, sports, entertainment, dining and nightlife. Visit Champaign County
unique services, such as customized hotel registration pages. Come see why groups return here again and again. Check our
offers meeting planners Savor the Flavor, a tasteful tour of the finest beverages and treats Champaign has to offer. Delegates
Web site for details, including our online Request for Proposal.
receive transportation and two tickets to be redeemed at any of the participating locations for a very small fee.
31
Decatur Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Effingham Convention & Visitors Bureau
Website: decaturcvb.com
Website: visiteffinghamil.com
Toll-Free: 800.772.0750 Phone: 217.342.5310
E-mail: jacksonj@ci.effingham.il.us
Toll-Free: 800.331.4479
Fax: 217.423.7455
Find it
Find it
• Central Illinois location on I-72 between I-55 and I-57
• Effingham is intersected by two interstates: I-57 and I-70
• Air service from anywhere in the U.S. via connections in Chicago O’Hare International Airport
and St. Louis International Airport
• 1½ hours from St. Louis
• 1 hour from Champaign
At-a-Glance
At-a-Glance
Fax: 217.342.4939
Decatur Conference Center & Hotel
Keller Convention Center
55,000 sq. ft.
23,000 sq. ft.
Decatur Convention Center & Hotel Front Lobby
Lake Sara
Decatur/Forsyth, in central Illinois, is convenient for travelers from anywhere in the Midwest. We offer 1,400+ guest rooms to
Effingham has approximately 1,230 hotel/motel rooms and 65 restaurants, including the very popular Firefly Grill. The Keller
accommodate all tastes and budgets. Additionally, we offer the largest hotel/conference center in downstate Illinois, many
Convention Center is the largest meeting and event facility in Effingham. The Knights of Columbus Hall has two reception/
significant historic sites and three fabulous public golf courses, plus unique shopping, restaurants and art galleries in our
exhibition rooms with banquet seating for about 800. The total seating capacity of the meeting facilities in Effingham is 3,700,
historic downtown district. We’ve got big-city amenities at small-town prices!
including hotel meeting space and various community facilities. Additional recreation can be found at the Ballard Nature Center,
Effingham Performance Center, Evergreen Hollow Park and Recreation Center, Tuscan Hills Winery and popular Lake Sara. The
Effingham CVB offers complimentary services and is flexible to your needs. We are eager to help you plan your perfect meeting.
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Springfield Illinois Convention & Visitors Bureau
Website: planonspringfieldil.com
GREAT RIVERS COUNTRY
Toll-Free: 800.545.7300
Just along the western edge of Illinois lies Great Rivers Country, where
Fax: 217.544.8711
spectacular scenery meets top-notch facilities for hosting meetings. Whether you’re looking for the simple charm of Galena’s historic Main Street
Find it
• Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport at Springfield
or stunning views along Great River Road, you’ll find this and more here.
• Centrally located between Chicago and St. Louis
• Amtrak and Greyhound service
At-a-Glance
Prairie Capital Convention Center, Springfield Hilton &
President Abraham Lincoln – a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
Prairie Capital Convention Center
65,000 sq. ft.
Discover why conventions and meetings of every size are choosing Springfield as their convention destination! Located
in the heart of the Midwest and the historic capital of Illinois, Springfield is an ideal destination, providing a central,
easily accessible and affordable location that allows attendees to balance business with pleasure. The city is abundant
with unique venues for special event functions, including the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, along
Main Street, Galena
Spirit of Peoria
John Deere Pavilion
with many of the other famous historic sites and museums. The Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau is here to
help! Consider us your “go-to” team for everything in Springfield. At the SCVB, we understand the scope of planning
both large and small events, and we offer a menu of complimentary services that can help you pull off even the most
complex event with ease.
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35
Alton Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau
Galena/Jo Daviess County Convention & Visitors Bureau
Website: visitalton.com
Website: galena.org
Toll-Free: 888.442.5362 Fax: 815.777.3566
E-mail: sales@galena.org
Toll-Free: 800.ALTON.IL (800.258.6645)
Fax: 618.465.6151
Find it
Find it
• Convenient access to four major interstates: I-44, I-55, I-64 and I-70
• Dubuque Regional Airport – 30 minutes
• Minutes from Lambert-St. Louis International Airport and St. Louis Regional Airport
• 3 hours from Chicago, IL; Des Moines, IA; and Milwaukee, WI
• Amtrak station with service to Chicago, Bloomington, Springfield and St. Louis
• 1½ hours from Quad Cities and Madison, WI
At-a-Glance
At-a-Glance
600
Lewis & Clark Community College
Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa
9,000 sq. ft.
15,000 sq. ft.
Mississippi River Bluffs
Main Street, Galena
Alton, Illinois, is full of tranquil and scenic destinations for conferences, educational programs, retreats and small- to mid-
Galena and Jo Daviess County is one of the Midwest’s premier destinations. Located in the northwest corner of Illinois, the
size meetings. Ideally situated along the Meeting of the Great Rivers (Mississippi, Illinois and Missouri River confluences), our
region gives inspiration to any meeting with the tranquility of its river valleys and boundless scenic vistas. The topography-
meeting spaces are just 20 minutes from downtown St. Louis, as well as the Lambert-St. Louis International Airport. Alton has
enriched destination of Galena and Jo Daviess County highlights our 1,600 sleeping rooms, 50,000 square feet of meeting
an Amtrak station and is minutes from I-44, I-55, I-64 and I-70. We look forward to helping you design the perfect getaway
space, 189 holes of golf, full-service spas, downhill skiing, gardens and wineries. From first-class resorts to upscale inns, the
program for your meetings.
variety of accommodations are endless. Whether you’re planning a convention or a golf tournament, you’ll find the perfect
location to give your attendees a fresh perspective.
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37
Galesburg Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Henry County Tourism Bureau
Website: visitgalesburg.com
Website: visithenrycounty.com
Toll-Free: 877.436.7926
E-mail: director@visithenrycounty.com
Phone: 309.343.2485
Fax: 309.343.2521
Find it
Find it
• Conveniently located on I-74
• Conveniently located off I-80 & I-74
• Daily Amtrak service to several destinations
• 2½ hours from Chicago
• Located halfway between Peoria and the Quad Cities
• Kewanee Amtrak Service
At-a-Glance
At-a-Glance
Best Western Prairie Inn
Best Western Annawan Inn and Banquet Center
2,795 sq. ft.
5,750 sq. ft.
Ryan’s Round Barn
The longstanding home to one of the largest railroad yards in the United States, Galesburg is known for its rich railway history.
Discover the Illinois countryside in Henry County, where we cater to small to mid-size meetings. The Best Western Annawan
But it is also known for its welcoming Midwestern spirit. Galesburg’s meeting facilities and overnight accommodations are
Inn offers an enclosed walkway to the tastefully decorated meeting/banquet space. Additional unique meeting venues within
perfect for hosting all kinds of events. Plus there’s so much to explore before and after the event, from Galesburg Railroad
Henry County include Lavender Crest Winery, Colona and National Historic Landmark Bishop Hill Colony School and VagnHall
Museum to “Old Main” – the last standing site of the 1858 Lincoln–Douglas Debates – and more.
Galleri. Henry County offers a variety of cultural, historic heritage, recreational attractions and entertainment. Have your meeting
attendees travel the roads for a fun-filled, memorable experience.
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39
Macomb Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Peoria Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Website: makeitmacomb.com
Phone: 309.833.1315 Fax: 309.833.3575
E-mail: macvb@macomb.com
Website: peoria.org
Toll-Free: 800.747.0302 Phone: 309.676.0303
E-mail: satherton@peoria.org
Find it
Find it
• Intersection of Highways 67 and 136
• General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport
• Daily Amtrak service to and from Chicago
• Main interstate is I-74
• 90 miles from Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport, Quad City International Airport
and Peoria International Airport
• 2½ hours from Chicago and St. Louis
At-a-Glance
At-a-Glance
Sherman Hall, Western Illinois University
40
Western Illinois University
10,000+ sq. ft.
Fax: 309.676.8470
Peoria Civic Center
5,000+
Peoria Civic Center
110,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space
44,000 sq. ft. of meeting space
As the home of Western Illinois University, Macomb offers space ideally suited to meetings and conventions with a strong
Meet, stay and play in Peoria and make your next conference one that your attendees will never forget. The Peoria Civic Center
educational component. The University Union features a ballroom accommodating 1,100 in classroom style and 875 for a
offers 110,000 square feet of exhibition space with 25 meeting rooms, a 2200 seat theater, and a connecting skywalk to the
conference workshop. Sodexo provides exceptional meal and catering services for groups meeting on campus. Classrooms
Historic Peoria Marriott Pere Marquette Hotel. We offer over 1000 deluxe guest rooms within walking distance of the Civic
are electronically wired, offering instant access to technology. Local meeting options include numerous restaurants, a
Center and more than 2,500 hotel rooms within a 15-minute drive of downtown. Come and experience our vibrant downtown
converted theater for receptions and weddings, and smaller intimate spaces at City Hall, Western Illinois Museum and B&Bs.
riverfront district, try your luck at the Par-A-Dice Casino, shop in one of our boutiques and enjoy a meal in one of our many
See why Macomb is known for its friendly attitude and cost-effective amenities.
authenic restaurants. Peoria offers all the amenities of a large city with all the charm and hospitality of the Midwest.
41
see the unexpected
Quad Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau
Quincy Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Website: visitquadcities.com
Toll-Free: 800.747.7800 ext. 104
E-mail: satherton@peoria.org
Website: seequincy.com
Fax: 309.764.9443
QUINCY AREA CONVENTION
A N D V I S I T O R S B U R E AU
Toll-Free: 800.978.4748
Phone: 217.214.3700
Fax: 217.214.2721
Find it
Find it
• Quad City International Airport (MLI)
• Quincy Regional Airport, Cape Air provides daily service to St. Louis
• 2½-hour drive from Chicago, IL and Des Moines, IA
• Amtrak offers service twice daily to Chicago
• Easily accessible via I-74, I-80 and I-88
• Located on I-72 or travel the historic Great River Road
At-a-Glance
At-a-Glance
The Quad Cities Event Center
Oakley Lindsay Civic Center
117,500 sq. ft.
30,000 sq. ft.
i wireless Center – Moline, IL
Oakley Lindsay Civic Center
You’ll marvel at the meeting possibilities in the Quad Cities and you’ll find surprises around every corner! Our financial
The city of Quincy is the commercial hub for the tri-state area, serving over 300,000 people. Quincy’s proximity to several
incentives, specialized services, beautiful facilities, hotels and attractions are all served up with Midwestern hospitality and
major metropolitan areas makes it a perfect choice for holding conventions. Located on the bluffs above the Mississippi River,
affordability. Just 2½ hours west of Chicago and right on the Mississippi River, the Quad Cities include Rock Island, Moline/
Quincy has a wonderful combination of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Visitors are encouraged to tour the fabulous
East Moline, Illinois along with Davenport, Bettendorf, Iowa. We are easily accessible via I-74, I-80 and I-88 and served by the
architecture complemented by outstanding restaurants. The Oakley Lindsay Civic Center in downtown Quincy provides 30,000
Quad Cities International Airport. Take a look and be surprised as you discover your own marvels on the Mississippi River!
square feet of clear span exhibition space, or conference rooms and a state-of-the-art auditorium.
Order a free Meeting Planner Guide, or visit the “Planner” section on our website for more information.
42
43
The
Tourism
Bureau
ILLINOISouth
Alton
Regional
Convention
& Visitors Bureau
Website: thetourismbureau.org
Toll-Free: 800.442.1488 Fax: 618.257.3403
E-mail: dkrankeola@thetourismbureau.org
TRAILS TO ADVENTURE
Find it
Park provide the perfect backdrop to your next event.
The call of the outdoors adds adventure to any meeting in Southern Illinois.
Impressive sites such as the Shawnee National Forest and Cave-In-Rock State
• Largest city nearby – Just across the river from St. Louis
• Easy access to five Interstates: 1-55, 1-57, 1-64, 1-70, and I-255
• ILLINOISouth has many fine Meeting Facilities with nearby unique attractions,
wineries, golf courses, musems and antique shops.
At-a-Glance
Mississippi
Gateway
Center
River Bluffs
Gateway Center – Collinsville, IL
Capacity for 4,000 people
Looking for a great place to gather? Look no further than Gateway Center in the heart of ILLINOISouth! Experience our
treasures, historic sites, entertainment venues and culture! The Metro area is conveniently located east of downtown
St. Louis, MO, providing a large-city mentality with a small-town feel. With approximately 7,275 hotel rooms in the
Garden of the Gods
Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
Cache River
region, easy access to St. Louis Lambert International Airport, as well as access to five major interstates, ILLINOISouth
can host large and small meetings and conventions at a reasonable price.
44
45
Carbondale Convention & Tourism Bureau
Mt. Vernon Convention & Visitors Bureau
Website: carbondaletourism.org
Toll-Free: 800.526.1500 Fax: 618.529.5590
E-mail: info@carbondaletourism.org
Website: enjoymtvernon.com
Toll-Free: 800.252.5464 Phone: 618.242.3151
E-mail: tourism@mvn.net
Find it
Find it
• Amtrak service to and from Carbondale
• 77 miles from St. Louis, MO
• Williamson County Regional Airport service and shuttle to Lambert–St. Louis
International Airport
• Located at the intersection of I-57 and I-64
• 15 miles to I-57 and quick access to I-24 and I-64
At-a-Glance
At-a-Glance
Shryock Auditorium
46
Fax: 618.242.6849
• 45 minutes from MidAmerica Airport, Mascoutah, IL
87 miles from Lambert–St. Louis International Airport
Southern Illinois University Student Center
Holiday Inn
21,018 sq. ft.
6,790 sq. ft.
Cedarhurst Sculpture Park
Carbondale, Illinois, is an exciting community located in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest. As the home of the
Mt. Vernon is conveniently located at the junction of I-57 & I-64 and hard to miss with more than 1,100 motel/hotel rooms,
Southern Illinois University, Carbondale boasts plenty of cultural activities and exciting sporting events. The community has
meeting space for more than 800, 60+ restaurants and a wide range of shopping and activities. Government, regional,
a variety of facilities available for meetings, conferences, banquets, reunions and weddings. Carbondale’s list includes the
political, educational, business and labor conferences and family reunions are just some of the types of meetings that Mt.
Carbondale Civic Center, Garden Grove Event Center, The Pine Manor Estate, as well as other banquet facilities located on the
Vernon has hosted. Area tourist sites include the Appellate Courthouse, the Jefferson County Historical Village, Cedarhurst
campus of SIU and within our hotels. Carbondale restaurants offer many options for off-site catering or carryout services to
Center for the Arts, the GenKota Winery and four outstanding golf courses. In addition, beautiful Rend Lake is just 15
meet your dining needs. Please contact our staff for additional information.
minutes south of Mt. Vernon.
47
Southernmost
T O U R I S M
Illinois
B U R E A U
Seeing is Believing
Southernmost
T OU R ISM
Illinois
B U REA U
Seeing is Believing
Southernmost
T OU R ISM
Illinois
B U REA U
Seeing is Believing
Southernmost
T O U R I S M
Illinois
B U R E A U
Seeing is Believing
Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau
Williamson County Tourism Bureau
Website: Southernmostillinois.com
Website: visitsi.com
Toll-Free: 800.248.4373
Phone: 618.833.9928
Fax: 618.833.9928
Toll-Free: 800.433.7399
Fax: 618.997.1874
Find it
Find it
• 2½-hour drive from St. Louis, Nashville, Memphis and Evansville
• I-57 and I-24 lead to Southernmost Illinois
• 2 miles east of Williamson County Airport
• Between the Mississippi & Ohio Rivers in the southern tip of Illinois
• Located behind Illinois STAR Centre
At-a-Glance
At-a-Glance
Harrah’s Event Center
The Pavilion of the City of Marion
11,704 sq. ft.
35,000 sq. ft.
Superman Statue
The Pavilion
Southernmost Illinois offers an abundance of outdoor recreation, plus the all-new Harrah’s Hotel and Event Center. We offer
While visiting Southern Illinois, you’ll learn that there is so much to see and do that you’ll want to return again. The industry
a variety of services for the bidding, planning and hosting of events, such as bid application, site inspections, press releases,
and commerce in Williamson County complements neighboring counties, which drive the economic structure and tourism in
brochures and informational materials, restaurant lists, secure bids for lodging, liaison with public officials and sightseeing
this part of the state. The southern charm and hospitality in Southern Illinois greet you and welcome you like few places in the
tours. We are eager to assist you in any way to help make your event a success.
country. The air is fresh and clean, and the land is beautiful. There are literally thousands of hotel and motel rooms, great bed
& breakfast locations, indoor and outdoor activities, festivals and shopping, plus we’re open year round!
48
49
Photos:
Cover: Garden of the Gods, Chicago Skyline, Gambit Golf Course. Back Cover: Buckingham Fountain, Chicago Botanic Gardens,
Allerton Mansion, Robert J. Reber, Paramount Theatre in Aurora, Rock River, World’s Largest Catsup Bottle, Bridge in Naperville.
ILLINOIS MEETING GUIDE
© 2014 Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Office of Tourism. TTY: 800-785-6055. Printed by the authority of the State of Illinois. 2M/12

ILLINOIS MEETING GUIDE - Meetinillinois.com

Transcription

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