Events

Discover Chicago’s River North District during ProMat 2025

With 1,200 leading supply chain leaders displaying their innovation at ProMat 2025, there’s no shortage of action at the McCormick Place. But if you find yourself with free time in the evening or are extending your stay, consider hitting Chicago’s River North neighborhood. Once a warehouse zone, this district has bloomed into a hub for art, restaurants, and nightlife. Here are a few recommendations for places to visit:

Cultural Diversions

Addington Gallery
Many art galleries dot the River North landscape, including the Addington, which has called River North its home for 23 years. Visit it to explore contemporary paintings and sculptures.

Public Art on the Chicago Riverwalk
March weather in Chicago can be unpredictable, but if you catch a clear day, take a stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk. Along this pedestrian walkway, you can find permanent and temporary art displays, such as sculptures, murals, and a Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Driehaus Museum
After losing his home to the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, Samuel Nickerson hired an architect to execute a fire-proof mansion, which became known as the “The Marble Palace.” Thanks to philanthropist Richard H. Driehaus, this opulent residence was restored in the early 2000s and is a prominent example of Gilded Age style.

Delicious Dining Options

Liva
Located inside the Chicago Winery, Liva prioritizes seasonal ingredients in its Italian fare. Enjoy a wide range of charcuterie, as well as such flavorful plates as umami short ribs and smoked wild mushroom gnocchi. You can pair the plates with local wines.

Tzuco
If you have yet to try French-Mexican fusion, here is your opportunity. Tzuco’s chef, who began his career as a dishwasher, has 2 Michelin stars under his belt and a James Beard nomination. Expect to see such innovations on the menu as carne asada with a chipotle goat cheese fondue and a chile relleno with ratatouille.

Avec River North
Midwestern meets Mediterranean at this popular restaurant. You can swing for the fences with a 28 oz porterhouse served with labneh cheese and pita, or you can opt for a small plate like Avec’s beloved chorizo-stuffed medjool dates with bacon. You will also find creative pastas and pizzas on the menu.

Enjoy the Nightlife

The Berkshire Room
Amid River North’s flashy bar scene, the Berkshire Room stands out with its throwback appeal. Enjoy its elegant cocktail menu with a Mid Century twist.

Pops for Champagne
Sealing a deal at ProMat? Toast your success at Pops for Champagne. This bar features an extensive menu of champagne and wines, as well as a limited assortment of liquors and beers.

The Comedy Bar
Catch a show at this comedy club, where you’ll find reasonably priced acts. On Tuesdays, it hosts a tomato show where you’re invited to hurl fake tomatoes if the stand-up is bombing.

Register to Attend ProMat 2025

We look forward to welcoming you to ProMat 2025 in Chicago, where thousands of supply chain and manufacturing professionals will converge. Register now to attend the show for FREE from March 17-20 at the McCormick Place.