Dear PePcon attendees:

We’re glad you can join us for PePcon: The Print + ePublishing Conference 2014 in Chicago! Here are some answers to some frequently asked questions:

Q: What else is going on in Chicago during PePcon? Where should I have dinner?

A: First, check out the hotel’s excellent list of local attractions here. Then, for a list of entertainment and dozens of other events happening in Chicago this weekend, see this page.

There are also some great suggestions on our social network site, including times that people are getting together to drink, go to a White Sox game, or go running or sightseeing!

Q: Do you have suggestions for how I should prepare before the event?

A: Whether you have been attending conferences for years, or this is your first, you may be surprised that there are tricks for getting the most out of an event like this. We found some helpful hints at these two sites:

  • http://www.chrisbrogan.com/27-things-to-do-before-a-conference/
  • http://www.wikihow.com/Network-at-a-Conference

Q: Where is the conference being held?

A: At the Marriott Magnificent Mile, in the heart of downtown Chicago. We have negotiated a special PePcon 2014 room rate of $244 but rooms are limited, so book now! For more information on the hotel/venue, please go to, our Conference Location page.

Q: I live in the area. How do I get to the event?

A: The The Marriott hotel, in the heart of downtown, is on several bus routes. The Grand Avenue & State Street stop on the Red line is just a few blocks from the hotel. There is also pay-parking at the hotel and several parking lots nearby.

Please note that the Kennedy Expressway will be clogged over the weekend!

Q: Is there parking at the hotel?

A: The Marriott offers valet parking and there is self-parking in the area. Here is a document the hotel provided us with additional information.

Q: How do I get there from the airport?

A: Chicago has two airports:

O’Hare International Airport

By Taxi

Taxi Stands are located on the lower-level curb fronts (outside baggage claim) of each terminal.  Fares are contingent on traffic conditions, but the average fare to downtown Chicago is $30-$40. Additional details can be found here http://www.flychicago.com/OHare/EN/GettingToFrom/TaxiLimo/Taxi-Limousine.aspx.

By Public Transportation – From O’Hare to Hotel

Board the Rapid Transit train (Blue Line) to the Jackson Street stop. Go downstairs, through the tunnel toward State Street, then back up the stairs.  Board the northbound Howard Line (Red Line) and exit at Grand and State. Exit subway, walk 2 blocks east to hotel. Fare is $5.

By Public Transportation – From Hotel to O’Hare

Exit the Rush Street door. Walk left to the corner of Grand Avenue.  Turn right on Grand Avenue, and walk two streets to State Street.  Enter subway and board the southbound (Red Line) train.  Get off at the Jackson Street stop.  Go down the stairs and through the Dearborn Street tunnel.  Go up the stairs to the platform and board the O’Hare Line (Blue Line) train to O’Hare.  Fare is $2.25.

Chicago Midway International Airport

By Taxi

Taxi Stands are located at the lower-level curb fronts of each terminal.  Fares are contingent on traffic conditions, but the average fare to downtown Chicago is $28-$30. Additional details can be found here: http://www.flychicago.com/midway/en/GettingToFrom/TaxiLimo/Pages/Taxi-Limousine.aspx

By Public Transportation – From Midway to Hotel

From baggage claim, follow signs to Rapid Transit train.  Take Rapid Transit train (Orange Line) to the Roosevelt Road stop.  Change to the northbound Howard Line train (Red Line) and exit at Grand and State.  Exit subway, walk 2 blocks east to the hotel.  Fare is $2.25.

By Public Transportation – From Hotel to Midway

Exit the Rush Street door.  Walk left to the corner of Grand Avenue.  Turn right on Grand Avenue and walk two streets to State Street.  Enter subway and board the southbound (Red Line) train and exit at Roosevelt Road.  Change to Midway Train (Orange Line) to Midway Airport.  Fare is $2.25.