The village of Rosemont, IL was founded in 1956. Rosemont sits between northwest Chicago and O’Hare Airport. It is roughly 1.7 square miles and houses about 4,000 people. Because of its location, almost every major US hotel chain has a property in Rosemont, including the InterContinental which is due to open in September 2008.

If you are in Rosemont on business, chances are that you will be at a convention at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center. Built in 1975, it boast 840,000 square feet of exhibition area. Its proximity to O’Hare, many fine restaurants, hotels, parking, public transportation and nightlife make this an attractive convention alternative to Chicago.

According to Susan Prather, spokesperson for the Stephens Convention Center, the Convention Center ranks #1 in Illinois in terms of volume (about 100 conventions per year) and #2 to McCormick Place in overall revenue. Prather stated, “Conventions (and residual business) bring in over $100 million to Rosemont annually.”

Besides the raw numbers and rankings, one important fact must be noted. “The unique thing is that it is one of, if not the only, municipally-owned center which returns revenues without any subsidies and that is truly remarkable,” explained Prather. That is a great testament to the success of the convention center.

Another part of the success is that is has not become outdated. It is still an attractive, accessible, comfortable place to attend a business event. It has adapted nicely and fits right in with the ever-growing surrounding area.

Within a quick drive of the convention center are many dining choices from the usual fast food franchises to top-notch restaurants. Gibson’s Bar & Steakhouse, Rosewood, Harry Caray’s, Morton’s and Maria’s are a few of the excellent dining options. Shoeless Joe’s or many of the fine hotel bars are great for relaxing after dinner.

For other amusement, the Allstate Arena (formerly Rosemont Horizon) is home to the 2008 champion Chicago Wolves (AHL hockey), the defending champion Chicago Rush (arena football) and the DePaul Blue Demons (NCAA basketball). The Rosemont Theatre is a plush, intimate venue for concerts, musicals and more.

Business conventions don’t have to be 12 hour days followed by room service in a small hotel room. The best ones limit the hassle and maximize the enjoyment while you are on duty and offer a wide array of activities when you are off the clock. The Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL is one of the best.

-John Wroblewski, distribution specialist