IDAA Conference 2026: Know Before You Go

We're excited to welcome you to Chicago for the IDAA Conference! To help you make the most of your experience, we've gathered the essential information you'll need before arriving.

Before You Arrive

• Download the Whova app before traveling (available beginning June 23).
• Confirm hotel and registration information in advance.
• Purchase attraction tickets online before arrival if you plan to explore Chicago.
• Review the conference schedule.

Registration & Conference Information

• Registration opens Wednesday at 10:00 AM.
•  Your conference badge is required for entry to all sessions and meals.
• Breakfast is available daily beginning Thursday (children included; badge required).
• Meal access requires a conference badge or guest meal ticket.
• Lost & Found is located at the Registration Desk.
• Silent Auction closes Saturday at noon.
• Discounted overnight and daily parking is available for IDAA attendees. When entering, please let the parking attendant know you are with IDAA. Attendees will receive a discounted sticker to place on their parking voucher, reducing the parking fee to $29 per day. The rate is the same whether you are parking overnight or just for the day.

Family Programming

• Join us Wednesday evening for a family-friendly welcome reception featuring trivia, face painting, and food.
• All attendees are invited to the Family Recovery Luncheon on Friday at noon.
• Private childcare options are available.[Book Private Care]
• Teen & 20s programming areas are reserved for registered participants.
• Children's Graduation Ceremony will be held Saturday at 3:00 PM in the Halsted Foyer. Everyone is encouraged to attend and celebrate our youngest attendees.

Top Family Attractions Near the Hotel

• Navy Pier – Free admission, rides and attractions available.
• Chicago Children's Museum – Hands-on exhibits for ages 1–10.
• Activate Chicago – Interactive gaming experience for kids, teens, and adults.
• Museum of Illusions – Fun photo opportunities and optical illusions.
• Millennium Park & Cloud Gate (The Bean) – Free and iconic Chicago experience.
• Chicago Riverwalk – Beautiful waterfront walking path just minutes from the hotel.
• Shedd Aquarium – One of Chicago's most popular family attractions.
• Field Museum – Home of Sue the T. rex and world-class exhibits.
• SlooMoo Institute –Where you can play with slime, create your own concoctions, and even experience their famous slime waterfall!

Recommended Chicago Experiences

• Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise (often rated Chicago's best tour)
• Chicago Architecture Center Walking Tours
• Explore Millennium Park, Maggie Daley Park, and the Chicago Cultural Center.
• Crown Fountain
• Visit one of Chicago's world-renowned museums with a CityPASS if you plan to see multiple attractions.
• Obama Presidential Center - Opened 6/19. Tickets available on their website 
• Theatre of Mind - Trust your senses... or don't! Theatre of the Mind is an unforgettable immersive experience.

Dining With a View

• LondonHouse Rooftop
• Cindy's Rooftop
• Pizzeria Portofino
• NoMI
• Gibsons Italia

Local Tips

• July is one of Chicago's busiest tourism seasons, book tickets in advance whenever possible.
• Most featured attractions are within a 5–20 minute walk or short rideshare trip from the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile.
• Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.

We Can't Wait to See You

Thank you for being part of the IDAA Conference community. Safe travels, and we'll see you in Chicago!

Chicago Planning Chairs,

Fran L. and Jenny K.

See you soon!