Illinois remains a dynamic destination for conferences in a variety of fields, offering professionals and business leaders countless ways to learn, connect, and grow. In 2025, the state will host a range of noteworthy gatherings covering healthcare, education, engineering, and beyond. In this post, you’ll get a closer look at 12 must-attend events, complete with themes, venues, and other key details. You’ll also discover how our Chicago shuttle to conferences can upgrade your experience by providing comfortable transportation to and from each location, so you have more time to network and share ideas.

12 Conferences in Illinois Throughout 2025

An exciting slate of events awaits in 2025, each tailored to professionals from different sectors. Whether you’re curious about emerging technologies, interested in refining your expertise, or eager to chat with peers who share your passion, these conferences offer plenty of opportunities for meaningful engagement. Remember to arrive prepared with your materials in hand — it’s easier to seize every learning moment when you’re organized.

IAPD/IPRA Soaring to New Heights Conference 2025

Dates: Jan 23–25, 2025

Location: Hyatt Regency Chicago, Illinois

The IAPD/IPRA Soaring to New Heights Conference 2025 brings together parks and recreation professionals for three days of learning, resource sharing, and problem-solving to improve community services and facilities management.

Key highlights:

  • Leadership development: Participate in specialized tracks for administrators, board members, and emerging professionals designed to strengthen organizational governance and strategic planning capabilities.
  • Operational excellence: Discover innovative approaches to facility management, program design, and resource allocation that maximize community impact while addressing fiscal sustainability.
  • Community engagement strategies: Explore proven methods for increasing public participation, building inclusive programming, and measuring the social impact of parks and recreation services across diverse populations.

Illinois Educators and Career Success Network Conference

Dates: February 25, 2025

Location: I Hotel & Illinois Conference Center, Champaign

“Building the Future We Want” is the rallying call behind the Illinois Education and Career Success Network Conference. This one-day gathering unites leaders from education, government, nonprofit groups, and more to explore how to raise postsecondary attainment rates in an equitable way.

Key highlights:

  • Plenary sessions & concurrent workshops: Choose from a lineup of expert-led sessions aimed at practical solutions for closing achievement gaps and improving outcomes.
  • Networking opportunities: Build meaningful relationships with a broad mix of stakeholders interested in driving student success statewide.
  • Special pricing for early registrants: Take advantage of discounted rates for those who sign up well ahead of the event date.

NADOHE Annual Conference

Dates: March 5–8, 2025

Location: Chicago

The NADOHE Annual Conference focuses on DEI, justice, and belonging in higher education, providing attendees with tools and strategies for promoting DEI initiatives and leadership through keynotes and workshops.

Key highlights:

  • Keynote sessions & workshops: Hear from prominent voices in diversity leadership who will share best practices and personal success stories.
  • Collaborative discussions: Join focused conversations on the latest challenges facing higher education, with opportunities to develop action plans that advance DEI.
  • Networking opportunities: Connect with peers who are also navigating the complexities of diversity initiatives on campuses around the nation.

Illinois Structural Engineering Conference

Dates: April 17, 2025

Location: I Hotel & Illinois Conference Center, Champaign

The Illinois Structural Engineering Conference welcomes experts from every corner of the industry to explore fresh developments in design and construction. It’s a prime opportunity for individuals eager to trade insights, discover new materials, and learn from thought leaders shaping the future of engineering.

Key highlights:

  • Diverse topics: Sessions will offer updates on emerging design approaches, advancements in materials, and other cutting-edge issues in structural engineering.
  • Networking opportunities: Mingle with fellow professionals from consulting firms, government agencies, and universities.
  • Professional development: Leave with renewed energy for your work, fueled by engaging conversations and the latest research.

Chicago BioLife Summit

Dates: May 28, 2025

Location: Chicago, Illinois

The Chicago BioLife Summit brought together leading researchers, healthcare professionals, and biotech innovators for a transformative day of knowledge exchange focused on advancing biological sciences and healthcare solutions.

Key highlights:

  • Cutting-edge research: Discover breakthrough developments in CRISPR therapeutics and biodegradable nanomaterials directly from pioneering scientists at the forefront of their fields.
  • Strategic investments: Connect with the $50 million research grant program and the BioChicago Initiative designed to transform the region into a premier biotech innovation hub.
  • Collaborative opportunities: Engage with industry leaders, startups, and academic experts through interactive panels and hands-on workshops focused on emerging technologies and ethical frameworks.

2025 NASW National Conference

Dates: June 15–19, 2025

Location: Chicago, Illinois

The 2025 NASW National Conference unites social workers from across the country for five days of collaborative learning, advocacy, and professional growth centered on advancing social justice and innovative practice approaches.

Key highlights:

  • Policy and advocacy focus: Engage with sessions on emerging social legislation, effective advocacy strategies, and opportunities to influence policy development at local, state, and federal levels.
  • Practice innovation: Explore cutting-edge intervention models, trauma-informed approaches, and technology integration that are transforming service delivery across diverse practice settings.
  • Professional community: Network with peers through events, diverse groups, and workshops to build lasting professional connections.

LeadingAge Illinois Annual Conference

Dates: July 21–23, 2025

Location: Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center, Schaumburg

Aiming to strengthen the field of senior care, the LeadingAge Illinois Annual Conference is designed for professionals dedicated to supporting older adults. This gathering delves into emerging trends, pressing challenges, and advanced methods in senior living.

Key highlights:

  • Educational sessions: Tap into a variety of presentations on practical best practices and up-to-date policy information.
  • Networking events: Engage with peers and industry experts to discuss how to improve care for aging populations.
  • Exhibitor showcase: Check out new tools and resources that could enhance your organization’s services.

Community Health Conference & EXPO

Dates: August 17–19, 2025

Location: Chicago, Illinois

The Community Health Conference & EXPO brings together healthcare providers, community organizations, policy makers, and advocates for three days of intensive collaboration aimed at strengthening community-based health systems and addressing health disparities.

Key highlights:

  • Health equity solutions: Evidence-based tactics to tackle social determinants, cut disparities, and expand fair healthcare access.
  • Collaborative models: Innovative partnerships among systems, communities, and agencies driving local health improvements.
  • Resource optimization: Practical methods to stretch resources, secure funding, and deploy cost-effective interventions for measurable impact.

CLEAR's 2025 Annual Educational Conference

Dates: September 15–18, 2025

Location: Chicago, Illinois

CLEAR's 2025 Annual Educational Conference brings together regulatory professionals, board members, and government officials for an immersive four-day experience focused on advancing regulatory excellence, compliance strategies, and professional standards across industries.

Key highlights:

  • Regulatory innovation: New professional regulation models, tech-driven compliance, and adaptive frameworks balancing protection with autonomy.
  • Cross-jurisdictional collaboration: International dialogues, case studies, and partnerships addressing shared regulatory challenges.
  • Evidence-based governance: Data-driven evaluation, continuous improvement, and outcome metrics to validate oversight.

Project Summit Business Analyst World

Dates: October 6–8, 2025

Location: Chicago, IL

The PMBA Annual Conference is the leading business-focused gathering for public media, uniting station managers, finance and HR leaders, and industry partners to learn from experts, share ideas, and network.

Key highlights:

  • Educational sessions: Workshops and presentations on topics such as financial reporting, fundraising strategies, and organizational development.
  • Networking opportunities: Connect with professionals from across the public media landscape to discuss challenges and share best practices.
  • Exhibitor showcase: Explore products and services that can enhance station operations and audience engagement.
  • CPB sessions: Sessions led by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) to provide insights into system-wide trends and funding opportunities.

Midwest Healthcare Summit

Dates: November 2–4, 2025

Location: Hyatt Regency, Chicago

This conference offers cost-effective access to top-tier healthcare facility education, resources, and vendors. It's an excellent opportunity for professionals to stay certified and advance their careers with continuing education credits.

Key highlights:

  • Cutting-edge healthcare solutions: Discussions on telemedicine, AI in healthcare, and other innovations.
  • Networking with healthcare leaders: Opportunities to connect with professionals from various sectors of the industry.
  • Workshops & continuing education: Earn credits and gain knowledge to enhance your professional expertise.

International Conference on Gastronomy Studies (ICGS)

Dates: December 1, 2025

Location: Chicago, Illinois

The International Conference on Gastronomy Studies brings together culinary professionals, food scientists, cultural researchers, and industry innovators for a day of collaborative exploration into the evolving world of food systems, culinary traditions, and gastronomic innovation.

Key highlights:

  • Culinary research advancements: Discover groundbreaking studies on flavor development, sustainable cooking techniques, and the intersection of science and artistry in modern gastronomy.
  • Cultural food heritage: Engage with scholars and practitioners preserving and reimagining traditional food practices through documentation, adaptation, and cross-cultural exchange.
  • Industry-academic collaboration: Partner with food ecosystem stakeholders to translate research into restaurant operations, food production, and policy development.

Planning a Successful Conference Trip

Planning a successful conference requires attention to venue, transportation, and accommodations. Here are some tips for coordinating a great event, whether in Chicago or elsewhere.

  • Choose a venue that’s convenient and accessible: Look for a location with plenty of amenities and services to ensure a comfortable and productive experience for all attendees.
  • Arrange for transportation and accommodations: Choose solutions that fit your group’s budget and schedule, with our conference shuttles offering a stress-free, shared travel experience.
  • Plan for meals and entertainment: Focus on local cuisine and culture to enhance the overall experience. Consider organizing group dinners or outings to explore the local area.
  • Leave some free time in your schedule: Allow time for rest, as a well-rested attendee engages better in activities and networking.

Why Choose Ideal Charter Bus for Your Conference Transportation?

Ideal Charter Bus ensures a smooth, stress-free ride with experienced drivers and well-equipped vehicles. Enjoy comfort and convenience with the following features:

  • High-back reclining seats: Travel in comfort throughout your journey.
  • Seat belts: Safeguard everyone on board.
  • Onboard restroom: Added convenience for longer routes.
  • Generous luggage space: Ample room for suitcases and materials.
  • TV, DVD, and CD player: Stay entertained or catch up on training videos.
  • PA system: Easily communicate with your group.
  • Wi-Fi available: Stay connected with emails or share ideas (upon request).
  • Dual-zone climate control: Maintain a pleasant interior temperature year-round.

Upgrade Your Next Event with Ideal Charter Bus

Our goal is to make conference travel a hassle-free part of the overall experience at top Illinois events this coming year. Every conference on the calendar has the potential to expand your knowledge base and connect you with key figures in your field. Traveling on one of our charter buses adds to that positive momentum, ensuring your group arrives relaxed and focused. Get in touch to discuss our charter bus services and let us help you organize a seamless trip for all.