Introduction to Chicago and Our Conference Hotels

Our conference hotels, the Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park and the Swissôtel, are centrally located, providing easy access to some of the city's most popular attractions. Take a walk through Millennium Park to see the famous Cloud Gate sculpture ("The Bean"), explore the Chicago Riverwalk, or visit renowned institutions like the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, or the Museum of Science and Industry. With endless dining, shopping, and cultural experiences nearby, your free time at the conference will be well spent!

For more information about Chicago, visit the Choose Chicago Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Resources for Travelers

U.S. Border Patrol and Customs information on the search of electronic devices at the border.

Electronic Frontier Foundation information on digital privacy at the U.S. border, with a long version and short version of guidance for travelers.

Information on international travelers' rights and responsibilities in the U.S. from CLEAR, the free legal assistance program at the City University of New York.

For LGBT2QIA+ travelers, in particular gender-nonconforming and trans travelers, resources on flying to and in the U.S. (scroll down) from Advocates 4 Trans Equality.

Although SCMS has sought the best information we could to help participants arrive safely and enjoy their stay, our sharing of these resources in good faith does not constitute an endorsement.

Transportation to Chicago

Chicago is a major transportation hub, offering various options for reaching the annual conference:

Air: Chicago is served by two major airports-O'Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport-providing numerous domestic and international flights.

Rail: Amtrak operates out of Union Station, offering routes to and from various cities across the country. Choose Chicago

Bus: Intercity bus services, including Greyhound and Megabus, connect Chicago with many other cities.

Car: Chicago is accessible via several major highways and interstates, making it convenient for those driving to the city.

Transportation Within Chicago

Within the city, Chicago offers a diverse array of transit choices:

Public Transportation: The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates an extensive network of buses and the 'L' train system, facilitating easy movement around the city. Chicago Transit Authority

Biking: Chicago is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and the Divvy bike-share program, offering over 580 stations and 5,800 bikes across the city. Choose Chicago

Water Taxis: For a scenic route, water taxis operate along the Chicago River, connecting various points of interest. Choose Chicago

Transportation from Airport to the Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park & the Swissôtel

Both the Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park and Swissôtel are approximately 18 miles from O'Hare International Airport and 12 miles from Midway International Airport:

Taxi: Taxi fare from O'Hare is approximately $50-60 one way, and from Midway, it's about $35-45, depending on traffic.

Public Transit (CTA):

• From O'Hare: Take the Blue Line 'L' train to downtown, where you can transfer to other lines if needed.
• From Midway: Take the Orange Line directly into the Loop area, which is close to both hotels.
• For schedules and routes, visit the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) website.

Airport Shuttle Services: Shared shuttle services, like GO Airport Express, offer transportation to downtown Chicago hotels from both O'Hare and Midway airports. Rates vary, and you can make reservations online.

Additional Ground Transportation: For more options, including rideshare and car rentals, visit the Chicago Department of Aviation's ground transportation page for O'Hare and Midway airports.

Attire and Weather

Feel free to dress comfortably for all conference events in whatever suits your personal style. In March, Chicago typically has daytime highs in the upper 40s to low 50s, with evenings often dropping into the 30s. Meeting room temperatures can vary, so it's helpful to bring a sweater or jacket. You can also check Chicago's current weather as we get closer for the most up-to-date conditions.

O'Hare (ORD) & Midway (MDW) International Airports - Sustainability Measures

The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) has implemented numerous airport industry-leading initiatives to improve natural resource conservation, operational efficiency, social responsibility and economic viability at O'Hare and Midway International Airports. The CDA continues to seek creative ways to reduce emissions and energy use, conserve water and natural resources, salvage and recycle materials, reduce waste, and educate passengers and the local community.

Carbon and Energy Goals: O'Hare is working toward reducing its carbon emissions and energy consumption as part of a city-wide commitment to sustainability, aiming for a carbon-neutral future. Both airports have implemented energy-efficient lighting, HVAC systems, and infrastructure upgrades to support this.

Waste Reduction: O'Hare has established programs to reduce waste and promote recycling, with a focus on reducing passenger-generated waste and achieving a high recycling rate. Waste composting and single-stream recycling programs are available throughout both airports.

Water Conservation: Both O'Hare and Midway are actively working on water-saving initiatives, including rainwater harvesting, low-flow fixtures, and drought-resistant landscaping to reduce water use over the next decade.

Ground Operations: To reduce emissions, O'Hare encourages airlines to use single-engine taxiing and has streamlined shuttle bus services for its consolidated car rental facilities, reducing the number of trips and emissions.

Climate Resilience Investments: The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) has allocated funds to bolster climate resilience at both airports, including flood management systems and infrastructure designed to handle extreme weather events.

Electric Ground Equipment: Many airlines operating at O'Hare, including United and American, are transitioning their ground equipment-such as bag tugs and belt loaders-to electric. The CDA is also investing in charging infrastructure to support this shift toward electric ground operations.

For more information about sustainability initiatives at Chicago's airports, visit The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA)'s Environment page.

Making Low-Carbon Choices

SCMS is committed to reducing carbon emissions at our annual meetings and encourages participants to consider low-carbon travel options whenever possible.

Dining and Attractions Near the Hotels

See the Chicago Dining Guides and Chicago Childcare & Family Activities for more information.

Travel Insurance

Conference participants may consider purchasing travel insurance that covers illness (for themselves or family members), travel disruptions, and unforeseen emergencies, including COVID-related issues. These policies can offer reimbursement not only for pre-paid travel expenses but also for non-refundable costs like conference fees. This Forbes article on travel insurance options provides helpful information. While it was originally written for 2024, the insights remain relevant. Please note that SCMS is not affiliated with Forbes, Squaremouth, or any of the insurance providers listed and cannot guarantee coverage or reimbursable expenses.

For an additional resource, you may also consult NerdWallet's Travel Insurance page, which provides a detailed comparison of various policies and their benefits.

When selecting a travel insurance policy, consider coverage options that include:

Trip Cancellation and Interruption: Reimbursement for non-refundable costs if you must cancel or shorten your trip due to unforeseen events (e.g., illness, family emergency, or conference cancellation).

Medical and Emergency Coverage: Health coverage for medical emergencies, hospital visits, or evacuations, particularly if your regular insurance doesn't cover you at your destination.

Baggage Loss, Damage, or Delay: Compensation for lost, stolen, or delayed luggage, which can help replace essentials and conference materials.

Travel Delay: Coverage for expenses such as accommodations and meals during significant delays due to weather, strikes, or other issues.

Pandemic-Related Coverage: Some policies provide specific coverage for cancellations, delays, or medical care related to COVID-19 or other pandemics.

24/7 Assistance Services: Access to a 24/7 hotline for medical referrals, lost luggage help, and other emergency support while traveling.

Non-refundable Costs: Coverage for non-refundable expenses, including conference fees.

Review each policy carefully to understand its coverage scope, limits, and exclusions to make the most informed choice.