Planning an event? Don’t just think about the meeting itself. Crafting a successful experience goes beyond securing sponsors and booking speakers. A recent Incentive Research Foundation study underscores this, revealing that a staggering 77% of attendees consider the destination a pivotal factor in shaping their overall experience.

That means venue selection is key. For event planners seeking to transcend the status quo of generic convention centers, Rosemont, Illinois, emerges as an unforgettable destination. Home to the OLC – Rosemont offers a wealth of options to ensure your guests are engaged and entertained throughout their stay.

We caught up with Melissa McIntyre, Executive Director of the Rosemont Chamber of Commerce and Katie Walsh, Senior Marketing Manager for the Fashion Outlets of Chicago and Vice President of the Rosemont Chamber of Commerce. These local experts know the village inside and out, and they’re spilling the tea on where to keep your attendees happy before, during, and after your event.

Here’s a glimpse into what Rosemont has to offer:

New Restaurants and Culinary Adventures for Foodies

Coal fired pizza at SLYCE to elevated seafood at McCormick and Schmick’s, there’s something to satisfy every palate and budget. Here are 6 delicious new restaurants in Rosemont:

• Big Chicken
• Small Cheval
• Portillo’s
• SLYCE Coal Fired Pizza Company
• Salt Water Coastal Seafood
• Fat Rosie’s (coming soon)

Exciting Events and Activities

Rosemont boasts a vibrant calendar of events throughout the year. Catch a concert, a game, or a show – you name it! Here are some resources to help you plan your itinerary:

• Welcome to Rosemont App: Never miss a beat at Rosemont! The secret weapon? The free “Welcome to Rosemont” app for iPhone and Android. As Melissa puts it, “I strongly recommend the ‘Welcome To Rosemont’ App – it’ll give you an entire schedule of fun things to do, including upcoming events!” Download the free “Welcome to Rosemont” app for iPhone and Android and keep all the exciting events happening at your fingertips. This comprehensive calendar acts as your compass, guiding you to the hottest happenings in Rosemont. Download it today! (Available on the App Store and Google Play)
• Rosemont.com: The village website keeps its calendar of events updated, along with press releases and news announcements.

Hidden Gems and Yummy Local Favorites

While Rosemont offers a variety of well-known chains, don’t miss out on some of its best-kept secrets – like Carmine’s, The Capital Grille, Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood and Crab, and Gibsons Bar and Steakhouse. “I think some of the hidden gems are also the breakfast options – The Thorn at the Rose Hotel has a great breakfast. There’s also Land & Lake, which is at Holiday Inn Chicago O’Hare- Rosemont” added Katie.

Fuel up for your adventures with a delicious and unforgettable morning meal – it’s a great way to start your day.

Shopping, Shopping, Shopping

Fashion Outlets of Chicago offers an unparalleled shopping experience with a mix of high-end brands and unique outlet finds. Here’s what’s new:

• Opening this month: Ulta, convenient for attendees looking for essentials or last-minute purchases.
• Luxury Brands: Maje, Sandro, and Peserico all have their only Midwest outlet locations here. Alexander McQueen and Vouri are slated to open very soon.
• Art on Display: Spectra, a new piece by Lufterk, is now on display in the main entrance of the shopping center. A lighting installation by Derrick Adams adorns the area as guests walk in.

Family Fun and Entertainment

Rosemont offers a variety of activities beyond shopping and dining. Here are our favorites:

• Chicago Dogs: Enjoy a fun and affordable ballpark experience with themed nights, special games, and delicious Chicago-style hot dogs. “They have a really great promotional schedule. There’s always different theme nights or different deals taking place.” Katie raved. “They do group events, too!”
• Indoor Ice Skating Rinks: Two new indoor ice rinks are under construction, perfect for a winter outing – all year round!
• The Rosemont History Museum: The highly anticipated Rosemont History Museum is scheduled to open its doors early next year, showcasing the village’s rich tapestry. Melissa also shared some exciting insider details: “The museum will be located at our new village hall, right next to the fashion outlet. Construction on the innovation center is also slated to begin this summer!”
• Hiking and Biking Trails: Enjoy the newly renovated trails along the Cook County Trail, located east of River Road behind the Hyatt Regency.
• Athletes Unlimited: Witness the thrill of professional women’s softball during the six-week summer season at the Parkway Bank Sports Complex. Unlike traditional leagues, Athletes Unlimited puts the spotlight on players, with fans cheering for their favorite athletes’ performances. Katie, loves this unique twist: “The players get individual points throughout the game. So it’s really about the individual players versus the team!”

Easy Accessibility

Rosemont is conveniently located minutes from O’Hare International Airport and offers easy access from downtown Chicago. For those without a car, the free entertainment circular bus makes a loop throughout Rosemont, with stops at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago, Chicago Dog Stadium, and more. The bus runs approximately every 20 minutes – and is completely free.

With its abundance of restaurants, entertainment options, and convenient location, the OLC in Rosemont, Illinois is the perfect place to host your next event. Contact our concierge today to start planning an unforgettable experience for your attendees!