Will Chicago shine?
When Chicago hosts the Democratic National Convention and its 50,000 attendees in August, the city will have a golden opportunity to reaffirm its standing as a marquee destination for tourism and events. But for Chicago’s reputation to benefit, the city will have to perform under pressure during the event. Mouse over these areas to watch:
Fulton Market
When Chicago hosted the DNC in 1996, Randolph Street was a major thoroughfare for media and delegates commuting from Loop hotels to the United Center — but “Restaurant Row” wasn’t yet a thing. This now-booming stretch will again be a key corridor during the 2024 DNC, with an opportunity to showcase Chicago’s strength and vibrancy.
The United Center
The televised portion of the convention will take place at this West Side arena. Protesters are planning to gather at nearby Union Park, making this area a potential flashpoint for clashes between protesters and security personnel.
Magnificent Mile
The iconic Chicago shopping district needs to show a national audience that it still shines brightly despite post-pandemic safety concerns and high vacancy rates.
The Loop and Millennium Park
Hotels in the city's center will host many of the visiting delegates and media members, and the area also sits between the United Center and the DNC’s daytime home at McCormick Place. Will Chicago's central business district signal that a post-pandemic rebound is in full swing, or give the impression of a downtown in decline?
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