We are excited for the CIES 2025 conference at the Palmer House a Hilton Hotel. Palmer House is located at the intersection of Chicago’s business, entertainment, and theater districts. As North America’s longest-operating hotel, Palmer House has been at the forefront of hospitality innovation and service for more than 150 years. The first to incorporate modern marvels, including the light bulb, vertical steam lift, the telephone, and even the brownie. With its history of innovation, the Palmer House is the ideal setting for the CIES 2025 conference with the theme Envisioning Education in a Digital Society.

Following a recent $7 million renovation, Palmer House is once again at the vanguard of cutting-edge, and guests can now enjoy upgrades to event spaces, a new indoor pool and a 10,000-square-foot Fitness Center facility on three interconnected levels, and the convenience of Lockwood Express, a gourmet grab-and-go dining option. Palmer House offers easy access to the very best of Chicago. From a convenient proximity to McCormick Place, Millennium Park, State Street shopping, The Art Institute of Chicago, and Cloud Gate – aka The Bean – it’s easy to experience more of the amazing city of Chicago.

What to do in Chicago

While in Chicago take advantage of the wonderfully unique Chicago Loop celebrated for its fantastic architecture and big city buzz. While Chicago is the birthplace of the skyscraper it is also a city of 77 Neighborhoods, each with a unique culture and history. Take advantage of visiting some of Chicago’s vibrant neighborhoods  or a trip on the iconic Chicago L (short for “elevated”) train while attending the conference.

Do you want to explore the city but you’re not sure how or where to go check out the free Chicago Greeter. The free Chicago Greeter visits are led by friendly locals who will guide you through authentic Chicago — its fascinating histories, diverse cultural traditions, iconic landmarks, and off-the-beaten-path gems. They provide personalized visits and neighborhoods pop-up walks.

For help finding your Chicago style and ideas on what to do, visit Choose Chicago. You might also want to check out the City Pass.

*We will be posting more information about the city and excursions over the next few months so key an eye out for updates.