When was ix center built

Overview

The IX Center, formally known as the Donald E.. Stephens Convention Center, is a major convention facility located in Rosemont, Illinois. Originally built to serve the growing demand for exhibition and meeting space near Chicago, it has evolved into one of the busiest convention centers in the United States.

Since its opening, the center has played a pivotal role in attracting national and international events to the region. Its strategic location near O'Hare International Airport and robust infrastructure make it a preferred venue for large-scale trade shows and corporate gatherings.

• Construction began in 1973 and the facility officially opened in 1975, marking a significant investment in regional economic development.
• The original building featured 500,000 square feet of exhibit space, designed to accommodate mid-sized conventions and trade events.
• Donald E. Stephens, the founding village president of Rosemont, was instrumental in the center’s creation and later expansion.
• A $160 million expansion project launched in 1998 and was completed in 2000 to meet rising demand for event space.
• The expansion added 400,000 square feet of space, bringing the total to 900,000 sq ft and significantly enhancing its capabilities.

How It Works

The IX Center operates as a full-service convention facility, offering modular exhibit halls, meeting rooms, and advanced technical support for events of all sizes. Its design allows for flexible configurations to suit trade shows, consumer expos, and professional conferences.

• Exhibit Halls: The center features multiple interconnected exhibit halls totaling 900,000 square feet, capable of hosting over 1,000 exhibitors simultaneously.
• Meeting Rooms: There are more than 100 meeting rooms with combined capacity for over 30,000 attendees in breakout sessions or seminars.
• Infrastructure: The facility includes state-of-the-art HVAC, fiber-optic internet, and load-in access via ground-level freight entrances.
• Transportation Access: Located just 2 miles from O'Hare Airport, the center is accessible via highway, rail, and shuttle services.
• Event Support: On-site catering, audiovisual services, and security are provided by a dedicated team of over 200 full-time staff.
• Sustainability: The center has implemented energy-efficient lighting and recycling programs, reducing its carbon footprint by 22% since 2010.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the IX Center with other major U.S. convention centers based on size, location, and annual attendance.

While the IX Center is smaller than national giants like McCormick Place, its proximity to Chicago and modern amenities make it a competitive choice for mid-sized events and regional expos. It serves as a critical economic engine for Rosemont, generating over $200 million annually in direct spending.

Why It Matters

The IX Center is more than just a venue—it’s a driver of economic growth, tourism, and business networking in the Midwest. Its continued expansion and modernization reflect the region’s commitment to hosting global events and supporting industry innovation.

• Generates $200 million annually in direct economic impact for the Rosemont area through hotel stays, dining, and transportation.
• Supports over 5,000 full- and part-time jobs in event management, hospitality, and logistics sectors.
• Hosts major events like the National Hardware Show and Chicago Auto Show Press Preview, attracting international media.
• Serves as a model for public-private partnerships, with funding from both municipal bonds and private investment.
• Its expansion in 2000 helped double attendance within five years, proving the value of infrastructure investment.
• Offers year-round programming, ensuring consistent revenue and community engagement throughout the calendar year.

As demand for physical event spaces rebounds post-pandemic, the IX Center remains a vital asset for connecting industries, showcasing innovation, and strengthening regional competitiveness on a national stage.