McCormick Square has a variety of activities, eateries and services both on campus and in the surrounding neighborhoods. That’s why the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority (MPEA) invites you to download our official smartphone app, MARTY by McCormick Square. This one-of-its-kind app is designed to be an insider’s guide to McCormick Square, helping our visitors to learn more about all that the McCormick Square campus and surrounding neighborhoods have to offer. It is available now on iTunes for iOS and Google Play for Android.

In the meantime, below are a few neighborhood highlights.

Nearby Museums and Attractions

• Glessner House Museum – A National Historic Landmark, Glessner House was designed by noted American architect Henry Hobson Richardson and completed in 1887.
• Field Museum – One of the largest museums in the world and home to millions of natural artifacts, such as Sue the T-Rex and artifacts from ancient Egypt.
• Shedd Aquarium – One of the first inland aquariums, with Stingray touching exhibits and dolphin shows. Located right next to the Field Museum.
• Adler Planetarium – Home to telescopes and places to gaze up at the stars. Also check out “Adler After Dark” one of the best after hours events in the city.
• The Obama Presidential Center – The presidential library will be located just a short drive down Lake Shore Drive.
• Soldier Field, home of Chicago Bears – Located next door to McCormick Square, head on over and cheer on the Bears.
• Guaranteed Rate Field, home of Chicago White Sox – A short train ride from McCormick Square, visit Guaranteed Rate Field to catch a game, eat a hot dog and sing during the 7^th inning stretch.
• McCormick Bird Sanctuary – Right along the Lake Shore, check out this six-acre sprawling bird habitat.
• Northerly Island – This destination is a 91-acre peninsula that extends into Lake Michigan. The island is home to strolling paths and a place to enjoy concerts along with one of the best skyline views in the city.
• FirstMerit Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island – This huge outdoor amphitheater hosts concerts and entertainment all throughout the summer.
• Chicago Women’s Park and Gardens – A couple blocks from the McCormick Square station, check out this beautiful gem.
• 31^ST Street Beach – A really family friendly beach with wireless access for visitors, food, music and fun.
• Burnham Wildlife Corridor – Check out this hidden gem in McCormick Square. Home to native prairie and a butterfly sanctuary.
• Clarke House – The oldest house in Chicago, built in 1836, now serves as a museum and is open to the public. Go check out some history with a visit.

Food and Drinks

• Chinatown – Get off at the Chinatown stop on the CTA Red line and you will find many options to enjoy Chinese cuisine.
• Bronzeville – Located at the 35^th-Bronzeville-IIT Green line, this area is home to dozens of great restaurants to check out.
• South Loop Farmers Market – Venders from local farms and chefs all come together every Thursday at 4:00 P.M.
• South Loop – Right off the Cermak-McCormick Square Green line this neighborhood is filled with great food and entertainment.
• Magnificent Mile – A 13-block section of Chicago’s Michigan Avenue running from the Chicago River to Oak Street in the Near North Side. Visit for great food, entertainment and shopping.