(Delegates from around the world gathered under the towering dinosaurs of Chicago’s Field Museum during a signature evening event at IPW 2025, hosted by the U.S. Travel Association. Photo courtesy of U.S. Travel Association.)
From IPW 2025 and top July tradeshows to new dining, stadium plans, and music accolades, the city showcases its strength as a destination for business and culture
Chicago continues to stand out as a hub for business, culture, and tourism. This summer brings a wave of activity, from major tradeshows and citywide festivals to new restaurant openings and infrastructure plans. Whether welcoming global delegates or spotlighting local traditions, the city’s calendar reflects its reach and rhythm.
IPW 2025 Brings Global Travel Industry to Chicago
Chicago hosted more than 6,000 delegates from 70 countries for IPW 2025, the U.S. Travel Association’s signature tradeshow promoting international inbound travel. Held June 17–20, the event marked a major milestone in the industry’s recovery and is projected to generate 10.9 million new visitors to the United States over the next three years. Organizers estimate this will result in $26.1 billion in visitor spending. The show emphasized streamlining visa access, improving airport infrastructure, and modernizing entry experiences. Choose Chicago used the platform to spotlight the city’s cultural assets and position it as a gateway for global tourism.
Top Tradeshows Coming to Chicago This July
Chicago is set to host a strong slate of tradeshows this July, drawing tens of thousands of professionals across industries. Kicking off the month, Destinations International Annual Convention (July 9–11) will gather 1,900 destination marketing leaders. The Institute of Food Technologists returns with IFT FIRST (July 13–16), expecting more than 16,000 attendees and 1,000 exhibitors. The IAAP Summit (July 18–21) brings administrative professionals together, overlapping with the National Medical Association’s 2,500-attendee annual meeting (July 19–23). The ASI Show! (July 22–24) will highlight promotional products with over 5,000 in attendance, and the month wraps with the Association for Diagnostics & Laboratory Medicine (July 27–31), drawing nearly 20,000 attendees.
Chicago ranks among top music cities worldwide
Chicago has been named the third-best city in the world for music lovers, according to TimeOut’s latest global rankings compiled by SeatPick. The list analyzed the number of concerts, music venues, festivals, homegrown artists, and music-related businesses across major cities. Topping the list were London and Berlin, with Chicago beating out other U.S. powerhouses like New York, Nashville, and Seattle. Whether it’s Lollapalooza, local jazz clubs, gospel fests, or a packed concert schedule across venues big and small, Chicago’s music scene continues to make global noise.
Chicago Fire FC Plans $650 Million Stadium at ‘The 78’
Chicago Fire FC has unveiled new renderings for a $650 million privately funded soccer stadium planned along the city’s riverfront within the ‘The 78’ development. The 22,000-seat venue, designed by Gensler, will include 50 suites, 100 loge boxes, and 3,000 club seats—aimed at boosting matchday experience and premium revenue. A canopy-covered bowl and supporters’ section will enhance the atmosphere, while naming rights and ticketing strategy are being managed by Excel Sports Management and Elevate Sports Partners. Construction is set to begin by early 2026, with a 2028 opening.
Ox Bar & Hearth Revives Golden Ox Legacy Near North & Clybourn
One of Chicago’s most anticipated openings this summer, Ox Bar & Hearth will bring wood-fired cooking to 1578 N. Clybourn—once home to the Golden Ox, a beloved German restaurant that operated for 80 years. Restaurateurs John Asbaty and Alain Uy, both alumni of Evanston’s Trio, are reimagining the space with a focus on Midwestern ingredients and classic technique. The new name pays tribute to the site’s history while evoking a warm, communal atmosphere inspired by European pub traditions. Hiring is underway ahead of the restaurant’s debut.
Gospel Music Festival Returns to Millennium Park with Chandler Moore Headlining
Chicago will host the 2025 Gospel Music Festival on July 12 at Millennium Park, a free daylong event celebrating the city’s role in the development of gospel music. Grammy winner Chandler Moore headlines, joined by Jekalyn Carr, the Chicago Unity Choir, and others. The festival includes a mayoral proclamation honoring gospel media pioneer Don Jackson and kicks off with a showcase of local choirs. With over eight hours of programming, the event reinforces the city’s cultural tourism appeal and Millennium Park’s role as a key visitor destination.
Hyatt Centric Replaces Hyatt Rosemont Near O’Hare
The former Hyatt Rosemont has reopened as Hyatt Centric Chicago O’Hare following a full renovation. Located less than two miles from O’Hare International Airport, the 206-room hotel features redesigned guestrooms, a revamped lobby with a large cityscape art installation, and over 7,600 square feet of meeting space. New dining options include Cima Restaurant, serving Mediterranean dishes on a seasonal patio, and a market with local coffee and pastries. The hotel is managed by Maverick Hotels & Restaurants and offers 24-hour airport shuttle service.
Chicago Scots Host 39th Annual Highland Games in Wheaton
The Midwest’s largest Scottish celebration returns to the DuPage County Fairgrounds June 13–14 with the 39th annual Scottish Festival & Highland Games. Organized by the Chicago Scots, the event features traditional athletics, Highland dancing, piping competitions, and family-friendly entertainment. This year’s headliner is Skerryvore, a celebrated band blending folk and rock, performing both nights. Other highlights include the Parade of Tartans, British Car Show, and a range of cultural contests—from haggis hurling to the “Men in Kilts” competition. Proceeds benefit Caledonia Senior Living & Memory Care. Full schedule and tickets at chicagoscots.org/festival.
Executive Women’s Symposium Coming to Chicago August 7–8
The inaugural Executive Women’s Symposium will take place in Chicago August 7–8, offering a two-day program designed to empower women in executive leadership roles. Hosted by Future of Work Events, the symposium will feature keynote speakers, competency-based executive evaluations, interactive workshops, and collaborative working sessions. With women holding 10.4 percent of Fortune 500 CEO roles and 29 percent of C-suite positions, the event aims to drive progress toward more inclusive leadership. Registration details are available at futureofworkevents.com.
