Chicago

Where All of Ophthalmology Meets™

AAO 2022 will take place in McCormick Place, Chicago.

Chicago is known for its cutting-edge theater, breathtaking architecture, world-renowned museums and inventive chefs. Take in the 26 miles of lakefront along beautiful Lake Michigan, stroll through awe-inspiring Millennium Park or shop the latest fashions on the Magnificent Mile. There is always something new to see, hear and experience in Chicago.

Save the Date

AAO 2022
Friday–Monday, Sept. 30–Oct. 3

Subspecialty Day
Friday–Saturday, Sept. 30–Oct. 1

AAOE Practice Management Program
Friday–Monday, Sept. 30–Oct. 3

AAO 2022 Expo
Saturday–Monday, Oct. 1–3

Theater/Shows

Theater

In Chicago you will see shows direct from Broadway, and discover theater productions that are destined for Broadway:

• Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier is presenting The Notebook - A New Musical.

• Lyric Opera of Chicago presents Fiddler On The Roof on Sept. 30 and Oct. 2. On Oct. 1 hear Verdi's Ernani.

• Wicked at the James M. Nederlander Theatre at Ford Center for the Performing Arts.

Find more shows scheduled for October.

Comedy

Chicago is home to some of the best comedy in the country. Check out the legendary The Second City.

Music

Chicago is the home of the blues. Follow the advice of TripAdvisor or Choose Chicago to find the best blues clubs and bars in Chicago.

Ready to rock? Upcoming shows include:

• New Order and Pet Shop Boys at the Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island, Sept. 30

• Dinosaur Jr. at the Vic Theatre, Sept. 30

Sporting Events

Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field will face:

• Philadelphia Phillies, Sept. 27 - Sept. 29

• Cincinnati Reds, Sept. 30 - Oct. 2.

Chicago White Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field will face:

• Minnesota Twins on Oct. 3.

Museums

Explore some of Chicago's many museums:

• The International Museum of Surgical Science is located in a historic four-story mansion on Lake Shore Dr. One entire gallery is devoted to ophthalmology.

• The iconic Art Institute of Chicago will have a special exhibition in September and October: Jonathan Muecke: Objects in Sculpture. Free tours of museum highlights are available each day at noon.

• See the universe at Adler Planetarium.

• At the Shedd Aquarium you can view fish and sharks swimming overhead, or really dive in to meet a penguin.

• Explore your love of science at the Field Museum.

• The American Writers Museum celebrates the influence of writers in the United States and their works.

Shopping

The 13-blocks known as the Magnificent Mile boasts more than 450 stores - including three shopping centers. The shops cater to all styles and budgets. Find a list of the best shopping in Chicago by TripAdvisor.

Hot Restaurants

Chicago is filled with so many good eateries - from casual to fine dining - that it is hard to narrow down the choices. Use the following resources to help in your selection:

• Chicago Magazine's "Best New Restaurants".

• A list and map of Chicago's restaurants with Michelin Stars.

• TimeOut's list of the 55 best restaurants in Chicago.

• View a list of Chicago’s retro speakeasies and bars.

When you are ready, make a reservation with Open Table.

Tours

Take a daytime or evening tour of Chicago's famous architecture, historic bars, jazz and blues clubs as well as unique neighborhoods.

• Explore the possibilities with Viator, an online tour marketplace.

• Review a list of the Best Things to Do in Chicago by U.S. News & World Report.

• Looking for something off the beaten path? View the Atlas Obscura Guide to Hidden Chicago.

Outdoor Activities

Fall is the best time to visit the Windy City. The weather is still warm enough to enjoy many outdoor activities, without the crowds:

• Navy Pier

• Chicago Riverwalk

• Maggie Daley Park

• Lincoln Park Zoo

• Millennium Park

• Grant Park

Weather

Late September and early October in Chicago is mild. The average high temperature can range from 62°F - 74°F (17°C - 23°C) and the average low is around 50°F (10°C).

Time

Chicago is in the Central Time Zone. The end of September and early October, the Central Time Zone is -5h UTC/GMT.