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Have you heard the news? The Liferay Symposium North America is coming Chicago this fall! Prepare for the Windy City this November by planning out your conference strategy beforehand and setting aside some time to check out the city’s most iconic sights and sounds. Even though you’re in town for business, you can still make time to enjoy the city. In the end, it’s all about the work-life balance!

Here’s a list of our suggested attractions to experience while in Chicago.

1. Art Institute of Chicago

Whether you’re an art history buff, or just one who enjoys admiring beautiful paintings, the Art Institute of Chicago is a must see in the city. Spend an afternoon walking through the galleries as you enter into a time capsule and discover various works of art from the Byzantine era through Impressionism. The restaurant on the third floor is a great spot to stop and grab a bite. And if you’re staying in town for post-symposium training, you can try visiting on Thursday evening when admission is free!

2. Cloud Gate at Millennium Park

Often referred to as “The Bean,” Cloud Gate is Chicago’s iconic outdoor art installation. You’ve probably seen many pictures and movies that include this giant, shiny jelly bean structure. This precious jelly bean weighs 110-ton and is made of highly polished stainless steel plates that act as a concave mirror to reflect the city’s skyline. You might be surprised by how much fun you can have looking at the city’s reflection (and your own) from different angles of the bean. You’re guaranteed to capture some great pictures here!

3. Willis Tower

Formerly known as the Sears Tower, the Willis Tower is a true icon of the Chicago city skyline. The 360 degree view from the sky deck is quite amazing where you can see the entire city and Lake Michigan. There may be a wait to take a picture on the glass platform, but it’s definitely worth the wait for this unique experience. If it’s a hazy day, you’ll feel like you’re hovering in the clouds. Note, this isn’t for the faint of heart with a fear of heights!

4. Wrigley Field

If you’re a baseball fan, then you’ll definitely want to check out the stomping grounds of the Chicago Cubs. The symposium happens right after MLB season is over, which means the Wrigley Field will be open and available for tours. Check the stadium’s website to see if you can catch some action while you're in town.

5. Deep Dish Pizza

You don’t want to visit Chicago and leave without trying their famous deep dish pizza. I suggest going hungry, and with a group of people for sharing. Not many things in the world can compare to this city’s pie. From the golden, flaky crust to its oozing mile-long cheese, Chicago deep dish is definitely something worth making time for. Check out the best deep dish pizza places according to Serious Eats. Of course, there are many other delicious cheap eats in town that'll earn you some food cred with the locals. 

There are many other attractions within walking distance of the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (discounted room rate good until October 26), as well as free things to do year round. Be sure to book your accommodations early as space is limited. 

Register for the symposium by 10/31 and enter into a raffle to win a pair of tickets to either the Purdue vs. Northwestern game on 11/14 or The Second City's Mainstage Revue comedy show on 11/15!

We look forward to seeing you in Chicago!