With less than a month until the United Fresh Produce Show, there are some definite “to-do’s” and “must-haves” to ensure you make the most of your tradeshow experience. We created the Passport for Chicago free download to help you navigate the show during your trip, and the recommendations we make have been proven, tested and tasted by a few members of our team! Below is a quick checklist of 10 things you need to know before you leave that I can personally vouch for.

1. Step outside the city limits for good eats:

Step away from the touristy joints and you’ll find some serious eats around Chicago. Rumor has it that the best eating can be found outside of downtown and within the many eclectic neighborhoods within the city.

2. Ask your concierge the right questions:

These guys know their city! Make the most of your requests or concerns by asking very specific questions to your hotel concierge (i.e. don’t be shy). If you want to know the best place to find a business-casual eating establishment that overlooks the city for under $15 a meal…they’ll be able to name a handful right then and there!
3. Stick to your restaurant reservation:

Restaurants in downtown Chicago are not shy about charging for no-shows. You may be asked to provide a credit card for large reservations to secure your spot.

4. Find caffeinated relief within the convention center:

The McCormick convention center for United has hosted their share of tradeshows and special events—they know we all need a little boost throughout the day. You’ll find multiple spots right at the tradeshow were you can grab some coffee or pain meds.

5. Be proactive about transportation:

For instance, make sure you are dropped off at the south entrance of the convention center, or you’re in for quite the hike.

6. Enjoy the great outdoors:

Chicago is filled with gorgeous views and outdoor fun—scope them out and relax if you have time during your visit!

7. Solve the meeting room locations puzzle:

There’s a not-so-secret code behind the room numbers. They all begin with a letter that represents North, South, East or West Building. (You can crack the rest of the code on page 6 of the eBook).

8. Don’t waste time at the airport:

If your first meeting is uncomfortably close to when you land, schedule a pre-arranged ride. Car services like American Coach Limousine and Blacklane will eliminate the wait and get you where you need to go (for not much more than the cost of a cab)!

9. Visit the “culinary mecca” of Chicago:

Also known as the West Loop, this culinar mecca is filled with some of the hottest and newest chefs right now, of which some have been featured on Food Network or Travel Channel.

10. Don’t miss these opportunities:

With big-name speakers like Hillary Clinton and Greg Gumbel, United Fresh has some amazing opportunities for personal development and philanthropic involvement. Improve your marketing prowess through the Marketing and Merchandising Conference, and take advantage of opportunities to donate or honor your industry colleagues.

Click below to get the full list of tips, recommendations and ideas for making the most out of your time in Chicago and at the convention. See you in Chi-town!