Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Chicago: What to Expect
This is the other Hyatt Regency in Chicago—not to be confused with the more famous one on East Wacker Drive in the heart of downtown. Hyatt Regency McCormick Place is located further south, directly connected to the McCormick Place Convention Center. This location makes it especially convenient if you're attending a conference or flying in and out of Midway Airport, which is a bit closer than O'Hare.
This property is massive and clearly designed to serve as a hub for conventions, trade shows, and large events. During my stay, I was probably one of the few people not attending a meeting, and that gave me a different perspective on what it’s like to stay here as a regular guest.
One thing to know upfront: if you’re staying here during a major event, timing is everything. When large groups break out of session, you'll find longer lines at the elevators, restaurants, and check-in desk. But if you plan ahead and move around while sessions are running, it feels like you have the entire hotel to yourself.
Despite its size, I found this Hyatt to be welcoming and well-run. As a Globalist, I was upgraded to a suite, which was extremely spacious—definitely on the older side in terms of furnishings, but comfortable and functional. I also chose to stay here because it was significantly more affordable than hotels right in the tourist hub. One day, I took a cab into the city to visit some favorite spots, but for this trip, I was happy to explore a different Hyatt offering in Chicago.
What’s Great About the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Chicago
The Service
The hotel staff here are used to dealing with large volumes of guests. That experience shows—check-in was smooth, and even during peak hours, the lines were manageable. There are multiple stations at reception, and everything felt very organized and efficient.
The Room Size
The suite I stayed in was huge. It had a separate living area, a large desk, and plenty of space to move around. It felt like the kind of room you could easily use for small meetings or entertaining if needed. While the decor felt a bit dated, everything was clean and in good working order.
You do get a peekaboo view of Lake Michigan from this suite at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Chicago.
The Market
One of my favorite features of the hotel was the on-site market on the ground floor. It’s a great option if you’re not in the mood for a sit-down restaurant. They offer a solid selection of snacks, hot food, and drinks—including healthier options, which can be hard to come by in larger hotels. It’s open long hours, so it’s handy if you arrive late or just want something quick between plans.
A Few Helpful Tips Before You Stay at Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Chicago
Plan your movements around event schedules. Try to avoid the lobby, gym, or food outlets during major break times to skip crowds. Ask the front desk if there’s a large group onsite—they’ll usually have a sense of timing.
Transportation is easy but not walkable to tourist spots. You can take a cab or rideshare into downtown, which usually takes around 10–15 minutes. The hotel is also near the Green Line Cermak-McCormick Place CTA station if you’re comfortable with public transit.
Dining options on-site are convenient. In addition to the market, there are two restaurants—Arc Bar that serves classic American fare and Sixes & Eights, which serves modern Asian street food. Both are reliable, especially if you don’t want to head back into the city.
Is There Room Service at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Chicago?
Yes, room service is available, though it may be limited in hours depending on occupancy levels and events. When I stayed, I opted to grab food from the market instead, but the in-room dining menu had a good mix of American comfort food and lighter options.
Is There a Globalist Breakfast at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Chicago?
I had to leave early and missed the opportunity to try breakfast, but Globalist members typically receive complimentary breakfast at the hotel’s full-service restaurant. You can either dine in or occasionally request a grab-and-go option if you're in a rush. Depending on the event schedule, it’s wise to arrive early to avoid the morning crowd.
What Is the Gym Like at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Chicago?
The gym is spacious and well-equipped, especially for a hotel gym. It includes cardio machines, strength equipment, and plenty of space for stretching or bodyweight workouts. It’s located on a higher floor with city views, and while it can get busy during conference downtime, it’s a solid facility for travelers who want to keep up their routine.
Why Stay at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Chicago?
This hotel is a perfect fit if you’re:
Attending an event at McCormick Place (no commuting necessary)
Flying through Midway Airport
Looking for great value without sacrificing space or service
Okay with being slightly outside the city center
While it may not offer the charm of a boutique hotel or the bustle of a River North location, it’s a dependable, efficient, and spacious choice, especially for Hyatt loyalists or budget-conscious travelers who want a quieter stay with easy access to Chicago’s major sites.
