Chicago is a Music Mecca. Since the days of Muddy Waters, musicians have been drawn to Chicago to perform, make contacts and, most importantly, to prove themselves. Today the city is more than Blues, providing a breeding ground for Metal (Disturbed), Urban (R Kelly), Modern Rock (Chevelle), Punk/Hardcore (Victory Records), Jazz (Patricia Barber) and, of course, the city’s signature power-pop of Cheap Trick and Material Issue. Oh yes, let’s not forget the Smashing Pumpkins.

With a population the size of Detroit, Indianapolis, Minneapolis and Milwaukee combined, Chicago has not only the fans, but more live music venues than Austin and it’s a less expensive travel destination than New York City. In addition, Chicago hosts more conventions, trade shows and business meetings than any other city in the country. The time has come for a major music industry conference in the Midwest and the host city can only be Chicago.

Air Travel

Chicago is the No.1 city for air travel and North America’s only double hub for commercial air. The city is accessible from both O’Hare International and Midway Airports. Research shows that flights to Chicago cost less than to other major cities.*

American Airlines is the official airline of MECA Music Conference & Festival, which means special savings when you fly to MECA with American Airlines, American Eagle, AmericanConnection Service and all oneworld carriers.  You get extra savings if you book your flight at least 30 days in advance.  To check rates and make reservations, call 800-433-1790 and give authorization number 1154BA.

Ground Transportation

12.9 million people live within a 2-hour drive of Chicago.* Both Amtrak and Greyhound offer service to Union Station in downtown Chicago (MECA’s host hotel is just over 1 mile from Union Station). See driving directions to the Congress Plaza Hotel.

Rental Cars

We have arranged special discounts with Avis Rent A Car. Discounts are 25% - 30% off regular rates. To check rates and make reservations call 1-800-331-1600 or go to the website at www.avis.com and use AWD (Avis Worldwide Discount) number D087518.

Public Transporation

Chicago offers a far-reaching public transportation system. MECA’s host hotel, O’Hare International Airport, Midway Airport and all participating MECA venues are easily accessible via the city’s 'L' Train lines. Two, three and five day passes are available for the 'L' Train, providing inexpensive transportation to all MECA events. For more information visit the CTA website.

The Congress Plaza Hotel is located within walking distance of all CTA 'L' Train lines. On the Blue and Red lines use the Jackson Stop. On the Orange, Purple and Brown lines use the Library stop. The Blue line provides transportation between O'Hare airport and the hotel. 

Airport Shuttle:

Shuttle service is available to and from O'Hare and Midway airports and the hotel. Call 1-800-654-7871 for details.

Parking:

The Congress Plaza Hotel offers valet parking for guests.

Public parking is available at the Grant Park north garage (enter at Michigan Avenue between Madison and Randolph).

* Provided by the Chicago Convention & Tourism Bureau