Your Guide to RIMS 2025: Navigate Chicago Like a Pro

10 min read
February 04, 2025

Mark your calendar for RISKWORLD 2025, the leading risk management conference, coming to Chicago's McCormick Place May 4, 2025. First-time attendees and experienced professionals alike will find tremendous value at RIMS Chicago, where thousands of industry experts gather to share knowledge and build connections.

This guide offers practical strategies to help you make the most of your conference experience. You'll learn how to efficiently plan your schedule, choose the most valuable sessions, and discover excellent dining options near McCormick Place. We've included specific tips for networking with fellow risk management professionals and finding your way around the massive conference venue.

From morning keynotes to evening social events, this guide will help you create a focused plan for RISKWORLD 2025. Plus, we'll show you Chicago's best spots for client meetings and team dinners, so your time outside the conference is just as productive as your time inside.

What to Expect at RIMS 2025 Chicago

RISKWORLD 2025 offers fresh ideas and practical solutions for risk management professionals. This conference combines expert-led sessions with valuable networking opportunities at a top-tier Chicago convention center.

Conference Overview and Key Dates

RIMS Chicago kicks off May 4, 2025, at McCormick Place, with four days of intensive learning and networking. Previous conferences have drawn more than 10,000 risk management professionals, making this event a cornerstone gathering for industry experts and newcomers alike.

McCormick Place: Your Home Base

McCormick Place is North America's largest convention facility, featuring 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space. RISKWORLD 2025’s sessions are organized across multiple halls, each dedicated to specific risk management topics. The official RIMS mobile app provides interactive floor plans and session details to help you move smoothly between presentations.

Registration and Badge Information

Start planning as soon as possible — registration opened six months before the event with substantial early-bird discounts. Your conference badge grants access to all sessions, exhibits, and networking events. Use the RIMS website's scheduling tool to map out your conference schedule ahead of time, so you catch all the sessions that matter most to you.
Make the most of your experience by joining pre-conference workshops on May 3. These focused sessions offer hands-on training and direct interaction with industry specialists. The main exhibition hall welcomes visitors starting May 4 at 9:00 AM, showcasing hundreds of innovative service providers.

Be sure to look for the following features:

  • Morning Keynote Sessions: Begin each day learning from industry leaders who share practical insights and fresh perspectives.
  • Specialized Track Sessions: Follow focused learning paths covering property risk, cybersecurity, environmental risks, and emerging challenges.
  • Innovation Hub: Test new risk management tools and technologies through interactive demonstrations.
  • Professional Development Hub: Get personalized career guidance and expert resume feedback.

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Getting Around Chicago During RISKWORLD 2025

Here are some tips to manage travel and find comfortable accommodations near McCormick Place.

Transportation Options from Major Airports

The Blue Line “L” train connects O'Hare International Airport to downtown Chicago with a 45-minute trip for $5. From Midway Airport, travelers can catch the Orange Line for a quick 25-minute downtown ride. According to the Chicago Transit Authority, trains run from early morning through midnight on both routes. Travelers using ride-sharing services should expect to pay $35-45 from O'Hare and $25-35 from Midway to reach McCormick Place

Visit the Chicago Transit Authority website to access their Quick Trip Planner.

Navigating Downtown Chicago

McCormick Place sits right next to the Green Line's Cermak–McCormick Place station. The local bus system fills gaps between hotels and the venue perfectly: Both the #3 King Drive and #21 Cermak buses stop at McCormick Place's main entrance. Picking up a multi-day CTA pass helps cut down on transportation costs throughout the conference.

Accommodation Recommendations Near McCormick Place

Chicago offers a variety of accommodations to suit every attendee’s preferences and budget. Staying near McCormick Place not only saves time but also ensures that you’re close to conference activities. Here are some top options.

Marriott Marquis Chicago
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Connected directly to McCormick Place with a skybridge, the Marriott Marquis Chicago offers unparalleled convenience for conference attendees. The hotel features modern rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, providing stunning views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. Amenities include:

  • A state-of-the-art fitness center for early morning workouts
  • Several on-site dining options, including a casual bistro and a lively bar perfect for networking
  • Spacious meeting rooms for private discussions with clients or colleagues

Rates typically range from $280 to $350 per night during conference season. Booking early ensures availability and access to discounted RIMS room block rates.

Hyatt Regency McCormick Place

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Located steps from the convention center, the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place combines comfort with unbeatable proximity. This hotel is ideal for attendees who want to minimize travel time and maximize their focus on the conference. Highlights include:

  • Recently renovated guest rooms with contemporary furnishings
  • A 24-hour business center, making it easy to prepare for presentations or client meetings
  • An indoor pool and fitness center for unwinding after a busy day

Room rates generally range from $250 to $320 per night. The hotel’s direct access to McCormick Place ensures a seamless experience.

South Loop Boutique Hotels

For those seeking a more personalized stay, the South Loop’s boutique hotels offer a charming alternative. While these options may lack direct access to McCormick Place, they’re within walking distance and provide a unique atmosphere. Notable mentions include the following:

  • Le Méridien Essex: A modern boutique property featuring chic, minimalist rooms and a rooftop bar with panoramic city views. This is a great choice for attendees looking to mix business with leisure.
  • The Blackstone: A historic hotel blending classic architecture with modern amenities. Known for its stunning art collection and luxurious meeting spaces, The Blackstone is perfect for hosting small client gatherings.

Room rates in the South Loop typically range from $180 to $270 per night, depending on availability and amenities.

Budget-Friendly Options

If you’re looking to save on accommodation, consider these hotels:

Making the Most of Your Conference Experience

These strategies will help you get maximum value from this premier risk management conference.

Networking Opportunities

RIMS Chicago includes carefully planned networking events that bring together professionals sharing similar interests. Through morning meet-and-greets, industry roundtables, and evening social gatherings, attendees can form lasting professional connections. The conference app enables you to search for and message other participants who match your professional interests before arriving at the event.

Exhibition Hall Strategy

McCormick Place hosts hundreds of exhibitors across its extensive exhibition space, making a strategic approach essential. Focus on one-on-one meetings with vendors offering solutions that fit your organization's needs. Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best opportunities for in-depth conversations with exhibitors.

Here are some tips:

  • Start each day visiting your priority booths before peak hours.
  • Book product demonstrations during lunch periods to optimize your schedule.
  • Join the "Solution Studios" for focused, small-group presentations about specific tools.
  • Reserve time for unexpected discoveries—random exploration often leads to valuable finds.

Beyond the Risk Management Conference

May high temperatures in Chicago are typically in the 60s, making it pleasant to walk between locations and around the city. Consider bringing business casual clothes for conference events and a light jacket for evening activities. Remember your conference badge—many local attractions offer special RIMS attendee discounts.

RIMS Chicago delivers outstanding professional development opportunities, and getting acquainted with the city's dining and cultural offerings can make your conference experience even better, especially when planning client meetings.

Chicago's Top Dining Spots

The South Loop neighborhood surrounding the conference center features more than 50 dining options, from casual spots to high-end restaurants, perfect for any occasion.

The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
This historic firehouse turned elegant steakhouse offering a diverse menu, including premium steaks, seafood, and classic American fare. It’s ideal for business dinners or unwinding after a long day at the conference.

Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
Address: 1401 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605

Pizzeria Uno

A Chicago institution known for its legendary deep-dish pizza, Pizzeria Uno is a must-visit for those wanting to experience authentic Chicago-style pizza in a casual atmosphere.

Pizzeria Uno
Address: 29 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611

Victory Tap Chicago

A cozy Italian-American restaurant offering hearty pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and a robust wine selection. Great for team dinners or a relaxed meal after the conference.

Victory Tap Chicago
Address: 1416 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605

MingHin Cuisine

A popular spot for dim sum and traditional Chinese dishes, located close to McCormick Place in Chicago’s Chinatown, this restaurant is great for casual dining and sharing a variety of flavorful dishes with colleagues.

MingHin Cuisine
Address: 2168 S Archer Ave, Chicago, IL 60616

Entertainment and Cultural Attractions

The conference schedule leaves room to experience Chicago's amazing cultural offerings. Thursday evenings at the Art Institute of Chicago give attendees a perfect chance to unwind after conference activities. A quick 15-minute trip takes you to Navy Pier, where restaurants pair perfectly with magnificent city views.

Teams might enjoy catching the Cubs play at Wrigley Field—they host the San Francisco Giants May 5-7—or experiencing authentic blues music at Buddy Guy's Legends. Both venues are easily reached using public transportation.

Connect with Archipelago: AI-Driven Solutions for Brokers

Meet us at RIMS 2025 to see how Archipelago's AI tools make insurance workflows simple and efficient. We'll show you how our AI Assistants help brokers save time while maintaining data accuracy. Our solutions eliminate tedious spreadsheet tasks and boost data quality significantly. Schedule a meeting with us to learn how we can improve your brokerage operations.

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AI Assistants for Insurance Brokers

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    SOV Manager

    Your Personal AI Risk Analyst that fixes your SOV and populates data automatically

  • list-icon-2

    PreCheck

    Your AI Underwriting Assistant that reviews and improves your submission before it hits the market

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    Property Hub

    Offers advanced insights and access to industry-leading data sources

Request a Demo
Link

AI Assistants for Insurance Brokers

  • list-icon-1

    SOV Manager

    Your Personal AI Risk Analyst that fixes your SOV and populates data automatically

  • list-icon-2

    PreCheck

    Your AI Underwriting Assistant that reviews and improves your submission before it hits the market

  • list-icon-3

    Property Hub

    Offers advanced insights and access to industry-leading data sources

Request a Demo
Link

AI Assistants for Insurance Brokers 4 Order Test

  • list-icon-1

    SOV Manager 4

    Your Personal AI Risk Analyst that fixes your SOV and populates data automatically

  • list-icon-2

    PreCheck 4

    Your AI Underwriting Assistant that reviews and improves your submission before it hits the market

  • list-icon-3

    Property Hub 4

    Offers advanced insights and access to industry-leading data sources

Request a Demo
Link

AI Assistants for Insurance Brokers 3

  • list-icon-1

    SOV Manager 3

    Your Personal AI Risk Analyst that fixes your SOV and populates data automatically

  • list-icon-2

    PreCheck 3

    Your AI Underwriting Assistant that reviews and improves your submission before it hits the market

  • list-icon-3

    Property Hub 3

    Offers advanced insights and access to industry-leading data sources

Request a Demo

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Conclusion

RIMS 2025 in Chicago offers a prime opportunity to build your risk management skills while getting to know one of America's greatest cities. The conference at McCormick Place combines expert-led sessions with excellent chances to meet industry peers and build lasting professional relationships. You'll find value in every aspect—from sessions on property risk tools to discussions about AI applications in insurance. Smart preparation using the tips in this article will help you get the most from your time at the conference.

Schedule a meeting with us to see how Archipelago's AI-powered solutions can make your insurance processes smoother and help your team work smarter.

FAQs

How do I maximize networking opportunities at RIMS 2025?

The RIMS 2025 conference features built-in networking tools through its mobile app, which lets you build connections with other attendees before the Chicago event starts. You'll find value in joining topic-focused groups, participating in morning discussion tables, and scheduling private meetings using the app's chat system. When you visit the exhibition area, you'll discover comfortable networking spaces perfect for casual conversations with industry peers.

What certification credits can I earn at RIMS Chicago?

Attending RIMS 2025 helps you collect continuing education credits for several professional certifications, such as ARM, CPCU, and CPD. Most learning sessions count toward credit requirements, and you can track your progress right in the conference app. Those who come early can gain extra credits through specialized workshops before the main event begins.

Is there a virtual component to RIMS 2025?

Online guests can watch recorded content and certain live keynote speeches, but the best networking happens face-to-face at the venue. The conference structure emphasizes personal interactions among those who attend on-site.

What resources are available for first-time RIMS Chicago attendees?

New attendees start with a welcome session on day one, enjoy a special networking event, and can pair up with experienced mentors. The mobile app features specific recommendations for first-timers, pointing out key sessions and events. You'll also find a dedicated space called the newcomer's lounge, where you can meet other first-time participants and learn from regular conference attendees.

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