The Ultimate Neighborhood Guide: Chicago’s Fulton Market District

The Fulton Market District is one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Chicago, known for its dynamic blend of culinary creativity, lively nightlife, and cultural hotspots. 

It’s also not far from two of our stunning, purpose-built event venues: Convene Willis Tower and Convene 311 W Monroe. Spanning 90,000 square feet, Convene Willis Tower takes up the entire third floor of one of the most iconic buildings in the world. Just a few minutes away, Convene 311 W Monroe boasts 24,000 square feet of meeting space across six different rooms.

But meetings in Chicago don’t end at the venue. With endless activities throughout all of its exciting neighborhoods, the city offers something for everyone – all in close proximity to Convene. In this guide, we’ll showcase our favorite restaurants, bars, hotels, and activities in the Fulton Market District, ensuring your attendees have plenty of exciting options to enjoy before or after your event.

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How to get to and from the Fulton Market District from Convene

Convene Willis Tower and Convene 311 W Monroe are both in Chicago’s Loop neighborhood. The Fulton Market District is just across the Chicago River, near what’s known as the West Loop.

If you’re looking to make your way over to the Fulton Market District from Convene, you can get there by car, public transit, or even on foot. If you’re driving, getting to Fulton Market from the Loop takes under 10 minutes. Both Convene properties have convenient public parking options nearby. 

You can also take the Pink Line from Washington/Wells or Quincy stations to get to the Fulton Market District in as little as 15 minutes.

On foot, the trek takes about 30 minutes.

Best places to gather after an event at Convene

Guinness Open Gate Brewery

901 West Kinzie Street

1.3 miles from Convene Willis Tower – 9-minute drive, approximately 20 minutes by public transit

1.3 miles from Convene 311 W Monroe – 8-minute drive, approximately 20 minutes by public transit

The second Guinness brewery in the U.S. is located in the heart of Fulton Market and provides an energetic setting for a post-event happy hour. With options for reservations or walk-in bar seating, it's a perfect spot for gathering with a group. Don't miss the opportunity to sample its iconic beers, brewed on-site.

Lazy Bird

200 North Green Street

1.1 miles from Convene Willis Tower – 8-minute drive, approximately 16 minutes by public transit

1.1 miles from Convene 311 W Monroe – 8-minute drive, approximately 18 minutes by public transit

Located in the cellar of the Hoxton Hotel, Lazy Bird is an intimate lounge featuring a curated menu of 50+ expertly crafted cocktails. While it is primarily walk-in, VIP booths are available for reservation, accommodating groups of up to eight guests with personalized service. Ideal for small gatherings with clients or coworkers, Lazy Bird brings a sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance to enjoy a unique evening.

Grapes and Grains

858 West Lake Street

1.1 miles from Convene Willis Tower – 6-minute drive,  approximately 14 minutes by public transit

1.2 miles from Convene 311 W Monroe – 7-minute drive, approximately 18 minutes by public transit

Grapes and Grains captures the charm of old-time Chicago, offering a harmonious experience for both cocktail enthusiasts and wine connoisseurs. With its spacious layout and relaxed ambiance, it is an excellent venue for hosting small to medium post-meeting gatherings. The soothing sounds of a grand piano in the background enhance the ambiance.

PB&J

205 North Peoria Street

1.2 miles from Convene Willis Tower – 6-minute drive,  approximately 15 minutes by public transit

1.2 miles from Convene 311 W Monroe – 7-minute drive,  approximately 15 minutes by public transit

If your ideal end to a day with clients or coworkers involves a pint of beer paired with delicious pizza, PB&J is the place to be. This casual restaurant is optimal for groups seeking shareable food and exceptional Chicago beer; PB&J also features a jukebox for added fun. 

The Aviary

955 West Fulton Market

1.3 miles from Convene Willis Tower – 7-minute drive, approximately 14 minutes by public transit

1.4 miles from Convene 311 W Monroe – 8-minute drive,  approximately 14 minutes by public transit

Created by the team behind Alinea, one of only 13 Michelin 3-star restaurants in the U.S., The Aviary is a renowned bar celebrated for its meticulously crafted cocktails and exquisite food pairings. Recognized as one of the best cocktail bars in Chicago by The Infatuation, The Aviary presents a sophisticated setting suited for small group celebrations and memorable evenings.

Restaurants for Small Team Outings or Intimate Client Dinners in Fulton Market

Sunda

333 North Green Street

1.2 miles from Convene Willis Tower – 7-minute drive,  approximately 19 minutes by public transit

1.3 miles from Convene 311 W Monroe – 8-minute drive, approximately 21 minutes by public transit

Sunda—conveniently located in the same building as Convene— is a dining destination celebrated for its modern approach to Pan-Asian cuisine, with a special emphasis on sushi. The sleek, contemporary interior, enhanced with Asian-inspired design elements, sets the stage for a lively and energetic atmosphere. The menu offers a diverse array of sushi rolls, sashimi, and innovative Asian fusion dishes that masterfully blend traditional flavors with creative twists. Whether you're dining with colleagues or friends, Sunda delivers a dynamic culinary experience in the heart of the city.

La Serre

307 North Green Street

1.2 miles from Convene Willis Tower – 7-minute drive, approximately 17 minutes by public transit

1.3 miles from Convene 311 W Monroe – 8-minute drive, approximately 20 minutes by public transit

Le Serre—which translates to "The Greenhouse" in French—is a venue where lush, verdant decor meets culinary excellence. The menu is a celebration of seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, offering contemporary American cuisine with a refined touch of French influence. Whether you’re enjoying a meal in the elegant main room, sipping a crafted cocktail at the bar, or unwinding in the serene outdoor garden, Le Serre delivers a sophisticated culinary journey in the heart of Fulton Market. Perfect for team dinners or impressing clients.

Aba

302 North Green Street

1.2 miles from Convene Willis Tower – 7-minute drive, approximately 18 minutes by public transit

1.1 miles from Convene 311 W Monroe – 7-minute drive, approximately 17 minutes by public transit

If you’re looking to feel transported to California or the Mediterranean, look no further than an evening on Aba’s rooftop. This restaurant showcases the best of Chicago's dining scene with its versatile space and is an excellent choice for groups, effortlessly transitioning from a casual meal to a more formal group dinner setting.

Boqueria

807 West Fulton Market

1.1 miles from Convene Willis Tower – 6-minute drive, approximately 17 minutes by public transit

1 mile from Convene 311 W Monroe – 7-minute drive, approximately 19 minutes by public transit

Boqueria fosters memorable connections with its Spanish tapas-style restaurant. Designed for sharing, its menu encourages communal dining with a variety of appetizers and entrees. Seafood enthusiasts will particularly enjoy the large-format paella. This lively spot is ideal for team dinners, offering a delightful atmosphere for all.

Rose Mary

932 West Fulton Street

1.3 miles from Convene Willis Tower – 7-minute drive, approximately 15 minutes by public transit

1.3 miles from Convene 311 W Monroe – 8-minute drive, approximately 15 minutes by public transit

Rose Mary, helmed by celebrated Chef Joe Flamm, produces a culinary journey that blends Italian and Croatian traditions. The restaurant's bright and welcoming space, with its rustic yet modern design, evokes the warmth of the Mediterranean coast. The menu showcases a unique fusion of flavors, featuring handmade pasta, fresh seafood, and wood-fired dishes, all inspired by the Adriatic region. With its inventive cuisine and inviting ambiance, Rose Mary has quickly earned a reputation as a must-visit for locals and visitors alike, delivering a distinctive and memorable dining journey.

Swift and Sons

1000 West Fulton Market

1.5 miles from Convene Willis Tower – 8-minute drive, approximately 16 minutes by public transit

1.5 miles from Convene 311 W Monroe – 9-minute drive, approximately 16 minutes by public transit

Swift and Sons brings a contemporary flair to the classic American steakhouse, blending traditional charm with sophistication. Known for its expertly crafted steaks and elegant atmosphere, this restaurant is an excellent choice for impressing clients or for small team dinners. Its outstanding menu and upscale space ensure an evening of memorable dining that will leave a lasting impression.

Local Activities

Punch Bowl Social

310 North Green Street

1.2 miles from Convene Willis Tower – 7-minute drive, approximately 22 minutes by public transit

1.3 miles from Convene 311 W Monroe – 7-minute drive, approximately 20 minutes by public transit

Punch Bowl Social is a multi-level entertainment destination where dining, drinking, and gaming come together in an energetic environment. Guests can immerse themselves in a wide array of activities, from bowling and arcade games to karaoke and more. The menu features comfort food with a fresh twist complemented by craft cocktails, local beers, and a variety of other beverages. Punch Bowl Social exhibits a dynamic backdrop for any team outing that blends fun and flavor in a unique venue.

Emporium

839 West Fulton Market

1.1 miles from Convene Willis Tower – 8-minute drive, approximately 21 minutes by public transit

1.1 miles from Convene 311 W Monroe – 8-minute drive, approximately 19 minutes by public transit

Emporium is an eclectic bar and arcade that combines entertainment and nightlife in an energetic setting. The space buzzes with activity, featuring vintage arcade games, pinball machines, and classic consoles, all contributing to a nostalgic yet contemporary vibe. Alongside the collection of games, Emporium caters a wide selection of craft beers, creative cocktails, and a rotating menu of food from local vendors. With its playful and diverse offerings, Emporium has become a go-to activity for both casual hangouts and cheerful nights out.

Time Out Market

916 West Fulton Market

1.3 miles from Convene Willis Tower – 7-minute drive, approximately 15 minutes by public transit

1.3 miles from Convene 311 W Monroe – 8-minute drive, approximately 18 minutes by public transit

Time Out Market is a dynamic culinary destination that brings together some of the city’s top chefs and restaurateurs under one roof. The bustling space exudes a vibrant atmosphere, mirroring the rich diversity of Chicago's food scene. Guests can explore an array of food stalls offering everything from gourmet burgers and artisanal pizzas to sushi, tacos, and indulgent desserts. At the heart of the market is a central bar, serving craft cocktails, local beers, and a curated selection of wines. Perfect for food enthusiasts, Time Out Market delivers a sprightly, communal setting where visitors can savor a variety of flavors in one unforgettable experience.

Puttery

932 West Randolph Street

1.1 miles from Convene Willis Tower – 7-minute drive, approximately 14 minutes by public transit

1.1 miles from Convene 311 W Monroe – 7-minute drive, approximately 17 minutes by public transit

Puttery is a trendy, upscale mini-golf bar that effortlessly blends competitive fun with a sophisticated social scene. The venue features creatively designed themed mini-golf courses, offering a playful yet stylish backdrop for groups and gatherings. Complementing the mini-golf is a chic lounge area where guests can enjoy craft cocktails, premium spirits, and a selection of elevated bar bites. Perfect for those seeking a unique evening activity, Puttery delivers a refined yet entertaining setting. 

Hotels in the Fulton Market District

The Hoxton Hotel

200 North Green Street

1.1 miles from Convene Willis Tower – 6-minute drive, approximately 16 minutes by public transit

1.2 miles from Convene 311 W Monroe – 7-minute drive, approximately 18 minutes by public transit

The Hoxton Hotel offers stylish, boutique accommodations with a lively, welcoming aura. Their chic rooms feature mid-century furnishings, modern bathrooms, and warehouse-style floor-to-ceiling windows to show off Chicago in full. 

The Emily Hotel

311 North Morgan Street

1.4 miles from Convene Willis Tower – 8-minute drive, approximately 16 minutes by public transit

1.5 miles from Convene 311 W Monroe – 8-minute drive, approximately 15 minutes by public transit

Artfully designed, The Emily Hotel provides a relaxed, contemporary vibe and provides comfortable accommodations, a rooftop bar, and is a walkable distance to many trendy restaurants and bars located in the neighborhood.

Nobu Hotel Chicago

155 North Peoria Street

1.1 miles from Convene Willis Tower – 6-minute drive, approximately 16 minutes by public transit

1 mile from Convene 311 W Monroe – 7-minute drive, approximately 15 minutes by public transit

Blending luxury with a sleek, minimalist design, Nobu Hotel Chicago presents an upscale destination in the heart of the city. The hotel includes a world-renowned restaurant, a serene spa, and sophisticated rooms that blend old-world Japanese influence with ultra-modern design.

Level Chicago Fulton Market

354 North Union Avenue

1.2 miles from Convene Willis Tower – 7-minute drive, approximately 22 minutes by public transit

1.1 miles from Convene 311 W Monroe – 7-minute drive, approximately 22 minutes by public transit

Level Chicago Fulton Market provides spacious, apartment-style suites with contemporary amenities and a focus on extended stays. Guests can enjoy a rooftop pool, fitness center, and convenient access to Convene.

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If you’re looking for a modern, premium setting for your next meeting or event in Chicago, get in touch with us.