Chicago tourism surged through summer and early fall with record hotel bookings, major convention attendance, and significant development updates. The city set an all-time hotel record, hosted tens of thousands for the NACS Show at McCormick Place, and announced new leadership for EXPO CHICAGO as cultural programming expands. At the same time, Illinois rolled out new tourism grants, the Bears advanced plans for a multibillion-dollar stadium in Arlington Heights, and new restaurants and nightlife concepts continued to fill neighborhood corridors.
Hotel Records & Visitor Growth
Chicago’s hotel sector hit an all-time high in summer 2025. More than 3.5 million rooms were booked from June through August, surpassing the previous record set in 2019, according to Choose Chicago.
The surge generated $949 million in hotel revenue. It also contributed to an estimated $20 billion annual economic impact that supports 130,000 local hospitality jobs.
High-demand weekends included Pride in June, BLACKPINK’s Soldier Field concerts in July, and Lollapalooza in early August. Additionally, CEO Kristen Reynolds credited strong convention attendance and international visitors from Colombia, Spain, Japan, and Italy for the record-breaking season.
Convention Highlights
Meanwhile, the 2025 NACS Show brought 25,136 attendees and 1,204 exhibitors to McCormick Place from Oct. 14–17. The show set a new Chicago record for the global convenience and fuel retailing expo.
The 440,000-square-foot floor featured five product zones and a large New Exhibitor Area showcasing emerging brands.
Beverage makers previewed dozens of 2025 and 2026 launches across energy drinks, coffee, soft drinks, spirits, and hydration. Looking ahead, the show returns to Las Vegas in 2026.
Leadership & Arts Updates
Frieze has named Kate Sierzputowski as director and Essence Harden as curator for EXPO CHICAGO, replacing long-time leader Tony Karman, who will remain in an advisory role.
Sierzputowski, who joined the fair in 2020, will oversee operations and programming. Harden will curate exhibitions and guide artistic direction.
In addition, EXPO CHICAGO returns to Navy Pier’s Festival Hall from April 9–12, 2026, with Northern Trust as the presenting sponsor.
Medical Community Returns in December
Chicago closes November and opens December with one of the world’s largest medical meetings. The Radiological Society of North America (Nov. 30–Dec. 4, McCormick Place) brings 35,109 imaging and radiology professionals and 722 exhibitors to the city.
Tourism Grants & Funding
Illinois is making $4.4 million available for tourism development through three state grant programs. Local governments, nonprofits, and businesses can apply for funding to support attractions, events, and marketing campaigns.
The programs include:
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$1.8 million for tourism attractions
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$600,000 for private-sector event support
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$2 million for marketing partnerships
Furthermore, grant awards range from $10,000 to $200,000 depending on the category. All programs require matching funds, and applications are due Nov. 3 at 5 p.m. through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.
Major Development Projects
Chicago Bears Stadium Plan
The Chicago Bears released new renderings and an economic impact report for their proposed domed stadium in Arlington Heights. The $10.9 billion project includes a 60,000-seat venue and surrounding mixed-use district.
Designed by architect David Manica, the fixed-roof stadium would anchor a 326-acre development featuring retail, dining, and housing.
The team estimates the project would create 9,000 permanent jobs and generate $1.3 billion in annual economic impact. However, they are seeking state legislation to freeze property tax assessments and help fund $855 million in infrastructure costs. Construction expenses are rising by up to $12 million per month while legislative approval is pending.
Bally’s Chicago Tower Begins Vertical Construction
Crews with the Chicago Community Builders Collective have begun vertical work on Bally’s 34-story, 500-room hotel tower in River West.
The tower and its attached casino remain on track for a December 2026 opening. Recent photos show the structure rising above West Erie Street as concrete contractor McHugh Concrete advances early tower floors.
Restaurants & Nightlife Updates
Ascione Bistro is preparing a third Chicago location at 5500 S. Shore Drive. The restaurant has applied for on-site and patio service and expects to open later this fall or winter.
A new speakeasy-style bar, Apothecary Cocktail Lounge, is planned for 3242 North Clark Street in Lakeview. A liquor license application outlines plans for both a tavern license and outdoor patio. Finally, owners Zach Heller and Eric Reid describe the concept as a blend of speakeasy and old-world pharmacy. An opening date has not yet been announced.
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