August 2024 - Philadelphia Rental Exhibits

Free Things to Do While You’re in Town for a Chicago Trade Show

When you travel to a big city like Chicago, there are probably a lot of places you want to visit and sites you want to see during downtime from your . And unlike some other large metropolises, the Windy City offers plenty of great spots and attractions that don’t cost a dime. Here are a few ways to enjoy Chicago any time of year.

Free Outdoor Activities to Check Out During Your Chicago Trade Show

Chicago is an amazing place to visit any time of year—but it really shines during the warmer months. Chicagoans love to show off their city, so they make many of their outdoor attractions free to both residents and out-of-town visitors. Here are a few can’t-miss spots when you’re in town for a trade show during the spring, summer, or fall.

Public Beaches

The shores of Lake Michigan are stunning. If you visit Chicago between Memorial Day and Labor Day, you can take advantage of the gorgeous beaches, which are free to the public every day. So pack your bathing suit, pick up a beach umbrella, and check out one of these awesome locations:

Oak Street Beach, with breathtaking views of Chicago’s skyline
Rainbow Beach, part of the massive Rainbow Park that features public gardens and the Rainbow Beach Dunes
North Avenue Beach, where you’ll enjoy the large beach house and sand volleyball courts as far as the eye can see
Montrose Beach, which is home to an open-air restaurant, a world-renowned bird sanctuary, and a beautiful butterfly garden

Lifeguards are on duty from 11am to 7pm every day, so you can jump in the lake or have a relaxing lie on the beach just about any time you arrive.

The Riverwalk

If you prefer a scenic stroll to lakeside recreation, check out the Chicago Riverwalk. It’s free to the public and offers stunning views of Downtown Chicago on every step of its 1.25 miles. You’ll be treated to public artwork, world-class architecture, and plenty of dining opportunities during your visit.

If you want to spend a little cash while you explore the city, hop on the commuter-friendly Water Taxi and check out the architecture up and down the Chicago River. There are several routes to choose from, you can opt for the all-day pass for unlimited rides if you have trouble deciding. The taxi will take you to a variety of neighborhoods, and you can hop off the boat and into a restaurant for a quick bite before you head back to the show or your hotel.

Millennium Park

During your trip to Chicago, you might enjoy the dining, shopping, and architecture of Michigan Avenue (known to tourists as the Magnificent Mile). If you find yourself on Michigan between Randolph Street and Monroe Street, head into Millennium Park, a sprawling area that’s open to the public.

Here are a few features you’ll find inside the park:

Cloud Gate, a bean-shaped reflective sculpture perfect for photo ops
Crown Fountain, an interactive water fountain between two 50-foot towers that showcase images of Chicago residents
BP Pedestrian Bridge, a 925-foot long stainless steel walkway
Jay Pritzker Pavilion, an innovative music venue where you can enjoy free concerts and films

And that’s just the beginning. Millennium Park also offers gardens and sculpture parks throughout its campus. Even taking a relaxing stroll through the park, you’ll be surrounded by local culture.

Winter Attractions to Check Off Your Chicago Bucket List

Winters in the Midwest get cold—and this is where the “Windy City” nickname really comes into play! When the freezing gusts pick up, it might be time to head inside. Fortunately, there are free indoor things to check out if your Chicago trade show takes place during the colder months.

Chicago Cultural Center

Chicagoans tend to be obsessed with their city’s history and traditions, and it’s all on display for free at the Chicago Cultural Center. In addition to temporary exhibits that change throughout the year, here are a few sites you can see inside this stunning building:

Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) Hall and Rotunda
Preston Bradley Hall’s Tiffany Dome
The Learning Lab
Claudia Cassidy Theater

After even a short one-hour visit to the Cultural Center, you will have learned enough about the city to feel like a true Chicagoan.

Navy Pier

One of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, Navy Pier originally opened to the public in 1916. Although it’s delightful to stroll down the pier during the summer, this Chicago landmark also has a huge indoor area with shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. While you’re there, grab tickets to a show at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater or check out the interactive Chicago Children’s Museum, which are both onsite at Navy Pier.

Lincoln Park Zoo

Most people think of a zoo as a warm-weather attraction. Since Chicago’s temperature can go from subzero to over 100° Fahrenheit, its Lincoln Park Zoo is set up to welcome visitors all 12 months of the year and is open to the public with no admission fee.

During the winter, you’ll see polar bears, snowy owls, and other cold-weather animals taking advantage of their outdoor habitats (but don’t worry—they also have indoor areas to warm up in). You can also step inside to warm up and check out the indoor exhibits in the Helen Brach Primate House, the McCormick Bird House, and the Regenstein African Journey.

Let Us Handle Your Chicago Trade Show Exhibit While You Check Out the City

Most cities are expensive to hang out in, but Chicago invites its visitors to enjoy its beauty and culture for free. Regardless of what time of year you visit, you’ll have a long list of fun sites and attractions to check out that don’t put a dent in your wallet. While you’re out and about enjoying everything Chicago has to offer, we’ll take care of the booth and show services for you at any local venue, whether you’re exhibiting at McCormick Place, the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, or any of the city’s event-hosting hotels.

5 Historic Sites You Can Walk to From the Pennsylvania Convention Center

As the Birthplace of America, the Cradle of Liberty, and the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia is a hotspot for out-of-town visitors. If you’re exhibiting at or attending a Philadelphia trade show, it’s worth taking a little time away from the event to view some of the most important sites in American history. Since many of these sites are a mile or less from the Pennsylvania Convention Center (PCC), you can walk to them—as long as your feet aren’t too tired from the show floor, of course!

Independence Hall

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Independence Hall is the quintessential American historical site for everyone visiting Philadelphia, and it’s less than a mile from the PCC. Here’s a brief timeline that captures just some of the many important events in the building’s history:

1732: Construction of Independence Hall begins, known then as the State House.
1776: The Declaration of Independence is signed.
1780: The U.S.’s first Gradual Abolition Law is passed inside the building.
1787: 55 delegates attend the Constitutional Convention, including iconic forefathers like George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Alexander Hamilton. The U.S. Constitution is signed on May 17^th of that year.
1844: Frederick Douglass visits and speaks against slavery in Independence Square.

Over the decades, Independence Hall has continually been the site of freedom-forward events. Celebrations of National Freedom Day, Reminder Day, and sit-ins supporting civil rights in the 1960s solidified the Hall’s place as a symbol of the American dream for freedom and equality. And you can experience all of this history just a short walk from the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

Liberty Bell

Around the corner from Independence Hall, check out one of the most famous artifacts from the early days of the United States: the Liberty Bell. Made in 1752 and weighing in at over one ton of copper, tin, and other metals, the bell earned its name from abolitionists who dreamed of the end of slavery. Though it’s not actually known whether the bell actually rang to celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, visitors can still revel in its history, inspect the infamous crack, and reflect on its inscription: “Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants thereof”.

President’s House Site

Long before Washington, D.C. was named the country’s capital, the American presidents resided in Philadelphia. Since the site of this home is only half a mile from the Pennsylvania Convention Center, it’s a convenient must-see when you’re in town for a Philadelphia trade show.

Although only the foundation remains today, the President’s House Site allows you to walk in the footsteps of George Washington and John Adams, who inhabited the building during their presidencies. This is a self-guided museum that features indoor and outdoor exhibits, and it’s free to all visitors.

Betsy Ross House

While you’re in America’s birthplace, why not visit the building in which the very first American flag was likely created? The Betsy Ross House features artifacts, documents, and even actors in contemporary dress to help you learn about life early days of the United States. This is the upholstery shop that very well may have been where the first Stars and Stripes was crafted. You can take advantage of a self-guided tour or an audio guide to get the most out of your visit. And since it’s less than a mile from the PCC, there’s no reason not to check it out!

Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site

Edgar Allan Poe is sometimes more closely associated with Baltimore than Philadelphia. However, his six years in this house on 7^th Street inspired some of his most famous writings—and it’s just over a mile away from the PCC.

This site lets you walk through the home where Poe wrote two of his most famous works: The Tell-Tale Heart and The Black Cat. There’s an interactive exhibit that puts you inside the enigmatic writer’s mind and guides you to solve a mystery. And before you leave, be sure to snap a picture with the giant raven statue, an 8’ bronze bird perched atop a 12’ pedestal.

Enjoy History While We Take Care of Your Exhibit at the Pennsylvania Convention Center

America’s birthplace is meant to be enjoyed by all who visit. So while you’re in Philadelphia for a trade show, let us take care of everything at the Pennsylvania Convention Center! From exhibit design to onsite installation and dismantle, we’re your one-stop-shop for all of your trade show services and needs.

5 Historic Sites to Check Out During a Baltimore Trade Show

If you’re heading to Maryland for a Baltimore trade show, you’re in for a treat. The city is filled with great food, diehard sports fans, a vibrant culture, and a ton of American historical sites. In fact, the is within minutes of some of the most important spots in United States history. So while you’re in town, make some time to check them out!

Fort McHenry

Have you ever wanted to visit the spot that inspired Francis Scott Key to write the U.S. National Anthem? Well, it’s less than ten minutes from the BCC, and it’s absolutely brimming with historical information.

Fort McHenry has been a crucial location throughout much of American history. A few decades after it was defended against the British during the Battle of Baltimore in 1814 and Key scribed the melody to “The Star Spangled Banner”, it served as a stronghold for the Union during the American Civil War. The Fort even played a role in World War I, when it was turned into U.S. Army General Hospital No. 2, a 3,000-bed facility for wounded soldiers returning home from overseas.

Nowadays, you can walk the 43-acre grounds (much of which is free to the public), learn about the iconic fort at the visitor center, or interact with the Living History Guards.

Historic Ships

Immerse yourself in maritime history by checking out Baltimore’s Historic Ships. At just a six-minute walk from the Baltimore Convention Center, you can head over even if you only have a quick lunch break from the show floor! While you enjoy the waterfront views of the Patapsco River, you’ll learn about and explore these four historic ships:

USS Constellation. Perhaps the most popular of the Historic Ships of Baltimore, this is the only Civil War-era ship that’s still around today.
LV116 Chesapeake. This lightship patrolled Chesapeake Bay for more than two decades and now invites you aboard.
USS Torsk. This is your chance to experience life inside a Navy submarine. Deployed to the Pacific during World War II, this ship now serves as a museum and memorial.
USCG Cutter 37. From the 1930s until the 1980s, this Coast Guard vessel was used for search and rescue, law enforcement, and patrol until it was decommissioned in 1986.

After you’ve explored all the ships, check out the Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse. This structure was built in 1856, and although it stopped operating in the 1940s, visitors are still welcome to peruse its extensive collection of artifacts and learn about the history of Baltimore Harbor.

Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum

Get to know one of the most enigmatic figures in history at the Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum. You’ll walk in Poe’s footsteps and see where he wrote some of his most haunting stories and poems. If strolling through the house doesn’t quench your thirst for knowledge about the literary icon, Poe Baltimore offers additional tours and attractions, including:

The Poe Death Exhibit & Carroll Mansion
Poe’s Death in Baltimore Bus Tour
Virtual tours of the house
Annual events like The International Edgar Allan Poe Festival & Awards and The Black Cat Ball

You can even pay your respects to Poe when you have a quick break from your Baltimore trade show. Walk just half a mile from the BCC to Westminster Burial Ground and recite a few lines of your favorite Poe work at the monument near the cemetery’s entrance. While you’re there, you can also visit the final resting places of several key figures from the American Revolution and the War of 1812.

Federal Hill Park

On one of the many lovely weather days in Baltimore, visit the 8.5-acre Federal Hill Park. Take in the breathtaking views of downtown Baltimore and the Patapsco River, grab some snacks and refreshments at the onsite restaurants or bars, and enjoy a relaxing moment to yourself in Flag Staff Plaza.

You can even learn about history in this beautiful greenspace. The land the park now occupies was a stronghold during both the War of 1812 and the Civil War and is the home to monuments to Colonel George Armistead and General Samuel Smith.

Maryland Center for History and Culture

Maybe you’ll have little extra time to take in as much history as possible during your Baltimore trade show. If that’s the case, head over to the Maryland Center for History and Culture, which is just one mile away from the BCC. Founded in 1844, this museum is a must-visit for history buffs. Here are a few features you can enjoy there:

Locally discovered artifacts that are thousands of years old
12,000 garments that show you contemporary fashion throughout Baltimore’s four-century history
A huge library filled with over seven million books and educational materials
Paintings by local artists

While you’re there, don’t forget to look at Francis Scott Key’s handwritten manuscript of the song that became the U.S. National Anthem. You might even find yourself humming along as you read the lyrics!

We’ll Help You Enjoy Your Baltimore Trade Show—and the History that Surrounds the BCC!

There’s too much awesome history in Baltimore to confine yourself to the convention center. We’ll be happy to handle your trade show exhibit installation and show services so you can venture out and immerse yourself in the American historical sites throughout the city.

Explore the Nation’s Capital During Your Washington, D.C. Trade Show

When you visit the United States capital, the Smithsonian museums and presidential memorials are probably at the top of your must-see list. While those are absolutely bucket list items for many people, exhibitors and attendees who have been to more than one Washington, D.C. trade show might want to experience different parts of the area. Here are a few spots to check out while you’re in town that are a little different than the normal visit to the National Mall.

Ghosts of Georgetown Tour

After the show floor closes for the day, head about two miles west of the Walter E. Washington Convention Center to one of the most famous and historic neighborhoods in the U.S. And then get to know its haunting history!

The Ghosts of Georgetown Tour will guide you through the streets for a little under two hours. You’ll hear the chilling history and pass the cemeteries and churches that were built throughout Georgetown’s history. You’ll even get to visit iconic landmarks like the 1765-built Old Stone House and the infamous steps from the classic horror movie “The Exorcist”. Georgetown is Washington, D.C.’s oldest neighborhood, so if there are any ghosts in the Nation’s Capital, they’re probably roaming these roads!

Monuments by Moonlight Tour

If you don’t fancy yourself a ghosthunter or horror buff, check out a Monuments by Moonlight Night Tour after your Washington, D.C. trade show closes. There’s a good chance you’ve seen the city’s many monuments in the daylight, but nighttime provides an entirely new experience. The tour will take you to see the breathtaking lighting that adorns some of the most iconic memorials, including:

The Iwo Jima Marine Corps Memorial
Lincoln Memorial
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Korean War Memorial
Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

Since these tours have two pickup locations, you can select the more convenient one based on where you’re staying or where you grab a post-show dinner.

Ford’s Theater

April 14, 1865, was one of the most tragic days in American history. You can visit the exact site where Abraham Lincoln was assassinated at Ford’s Theater. The onsite museum offers exhibits and artifacts that’ll take you to the time of the U.S. Civil War and the events that led up to the heinous act committed by John Wilkes Booth. Since the theater is still used for live performances, check their calendar to see if there’s a play showing while you’re in town for your Washington, D.C. trade show.

Union Market District

Take a quick 6-minute drive from the Walter E. Washington Convention Center and check out Union Market. This place houses over 40 different restaurants and shops, so you can have some food and pick up the souvenirs you promised to bring home to your kids. You can also visit the onsite art galleries and enjoy the many events hosted at the Market throughout the year. Be sure to spend at least a few minutes in the Plaza at the Dock, an open-air rooftop with gorgeous views of the area.

Mount Vernon

Not many places are as important to American history as Washington, D.C. However, Mount Vernon is right up there with the U.S. capital! This isn’t just the mansion where George Washington lived from 1754 until he died in 1799. It’s a sprawling estate with a blacksmith shop, stables, and these four stunning gardens:

Upper Garden, which was used for entertaining guests in Washington’s day. It includes a greenhouse that the first President built to house tropical plants that wouldn’t survive Virginia’s colder months.
Lower Garden, a plot of land where the Washingtons and their staff grew fruits and vegetables for their daily meals.
Botanical Garden, a stunning collection of flora and fauna that Washington received as gifts from friends, colleagues, and diplomats around the world.
Fruit Garden and Nursery, a failed vineyard that Washington changed over to a greenspace for grasses and flowers centuries ago.

Mount Vernon is about a 30-minute drive from the convention center, and since it’s such a big place, try to visit when you have a full day away from your Washington, D.C. trade show.

Let Us Help Make Your Washington, D.C. Trade Show a Success

Trade shows require a lot of planning and onsite logistics—but when you get to visit a place like Washington, D.C., let yourself take some time away from the show floor to explore all the awesome features that are sprinkled throughout the area. While you plan out your tourist itinerary, we’ll handle all of your trade show services from booth design to project management to installation and dismantle on the show floor—and everything in between.