Chicago convention center parking lot caters to motorcoaches

Chicago has provided a link between the motorcoach industry and McCormick Place, the nation’s largest convention center, to better facilitate visitors’ needs. A new parking lot that can be used year round has been designated specifically for motorcoach vehicles. Located in the city’s business district known as the “Loop,” the parking lot is fenced and patrolled and can be accessed 24 hours a day. Overnight parking is available for a daily rate of $20, with exceptions during very large trade shows. The Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau (CCTB) offers a full rebate on the parking cost if the motorcoach company issues and confirms a hotel lead through the bureau. “We are always trying to improve and expand our offerings [to the motorcoach industry],” said Brad Lewis, vice president of tourism at CCTB. The purpose of the lot is to simplify the coordination of a motorcoach trip by making it safe, easily accessible and affordable, Lewis said. The parking lot is located at McCormick Place Truck Marshalling Yard at Lake Shore Drive and 31st Street.