Travel & Lodging

Everything you need to know for your visit to Chicago

Meeting Location

Workshop Venue

SkAI Institute

The TDAbench 2026 workshop will be held at the SkAI Institute in Chicago. Access to the John Hancock Center requires a guest badge which will be provided for registered participants.

Address: 172 E. Chestnut St., Chicago, IL

Shadow of the John Hancock Center where the SkAI Institute is located
GualdimG, CC BY-SA 4.0
Transportation

Getting to Chicago

By Air

O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is the primary airport serving Chicago, located approximately 17 miles from downtown. Midway International Airport (MDW) is a closer alternative at about 10 miles from downtown.

By Train

Chicago Union Station is served by Amtrak with connections from across the country. From Union Station, take the CTA Red Line north to Chicago/State station, then walk or take a short taxi ride to Michigan Avenue.

By Car

Chicago is accessible via I-90/94 (Kennedy/Dan Ryan Expressway) from the north and south, and I-290 (Eisenhower Expressway) from the west. Valet parking is available at The Westin for an additional fee.

Airport to Hotel

From O'Hare: Take the CTA Blue Line to Clark/Lake, transfer to the Red Line northbound to Chicago/State. The hotel is a short walk east on Chicago Ave. Alternatively, taxis and rideshare are available (~$40-50).

Accommodations

Conference Hotel

Special rates available for TDAbench 2026 participants

The Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago

Our conference hotel is ideally located on the Magnificent Mile, directly across the street from the historic 875 North Michigan Avenue (formerly John Hancock Center). This prime location offers easy access to world-class shopping, dining, and Chicago attractions.

  • Address 909 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
  • Location Across from Hancock Center
  • Block Dates March 8 - 16, 2026
$169/night

Exclusive of 17.4% tax

Book Your Room

Booking Information

A block of rooms has been reserved for TDAbench 2026 participants at a special conference rate.

Guest Room Details

  • Check-in Available March 8, 2026
  • Check-out By March 16, 2026
  • Nightly Rate $169.00
  • Tax Rate 17.4%
  • Total Per Night ~$198.42

Note: Rates are subject to availability. We recommend booking early as the room block may fill up quickly. The group rate is available from March 8-16, 2026, allowing you to extend your stay before or after the workshop.

Explore

About Chicago

Make the most of your visit to the Windy City

Dining

Chicago is renowned for its diverse culinary scene. From deep-dish pizza to Michelin-starred restaurants, you'll find excellent dining options within walking distance of the hotel on Michigan Avenue and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Attractions

Visit world-class museums including the Art Institute of Chicago, Field Museum, and Adler Planetarium. Take an architecture river cruise (if you pack a good jacket), explore Millennium Park, or enjoy views from the 360 Chicago observation deck (in the Hancock Center, right across the street!).

Weather

Early March in Chicago can be variable. Expect temperatures between 30-45°F (-1 to 7°C). We recommend bringing layers and a warm jacket. Rain and occasional snow are possible, so pack accordingly.

Questions About Travel?

If you have any questions about travel arrangements, accommodations, or need assistance with visa invitation letters, please don't hesitate to contact us.

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