Travel Tips 

Getting to Bloomington-Normal
The conference will be held at Illinois State University in Normal, Illinois, adjacent to Bloomington. Bloomington-Normal has its own airport (BMI), but since flight options can be limited, we have some alternate travel tips. 

Flying into Bloomington-Normal (BMI)
Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI) is the closest and easiest option. The airport is less than 15 minutes to ISU and Hyatt Place Bloomington/Normal. Rental cars and taxis are available, and the Hyatt offers a shuttle by appointment only. The shuttle is based on availability, so please contact the sales office to schedule at 309-454-9288. 

Flying into Chicago
Chicago O’Hare (ORD) and Chicago Midway (MDW) are good options, with more flight choices and possibly better fares.  

If you’re renting a car, plan on approximately 2½–3 hours from the Chicago area to Bloomington-Normal. 

Taking the Train from Chicago
Amtrak is another option. Trains leave Chicago’s Union Station and arrive at Uptown Station in Normal, located right next to campus and the Hyatt (BEA On-Location conference hotel). The train ride is approximately 2½ hours.  

Driving to Hyatt Place and the ISU Campus
The Hyatt and Illinois State University are located near I-55, I-74 and I-39. Bloomington-Normal is approximately: 

2–3 hours from Chicago
2½ hours from St. Louis
3 hours from Indianapolis
3½ hours from Milwaukee 

The Hyatt has complimentary parking, and we’ll share campus parking options as we get closer to the conference. 

ISU Campus

100 N University St

Normal, IL 61761

Hyatt Place Bloomington/Normal   

200 Broadway Avenue

Normal, IL 61761