The Conference will be held in Chicago, Illinois. Voted the “Best Big City in the US” by Conde Nast Traveler readers the last five years in a row, Chicago’s central location and two airports make it an easily accessible location for US and international attendees alike. Hotel rooms and all in-person conference sessions will be held at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk. Located between the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, the hotel is an urban sanctuary in a downtown setting. Whether it’s enjoying the jogging trails, exploring Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods, visiting the Magnificent Mile, or walking down to Navy Pier, you won’t run out of things to do within walking distance of the hotel.
Beware of Unauthorized Hotel Solicitations. Please note that there is only one official conference hotel, the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk. The only way to make a reservation is by contacting the hotel directly through the reservation site or phone number listed above. While hotel resellers or others may contact you offering accommodations for your trip, they are not endorsed or affiliated with the hotel, GSA, or the Conference.
The staff at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk is excited to welcome Drosophilists back to this popular hotel. Near everything, the hotel has beautifully updated rooms and something for everyone. Equidistant from both Chicago Midway and O’Hare Airports, you are able to easily take a cab, rideshare, or public transit with the Chicago Transit Authority to get to the hotel. Surrounded by green space on the banks of the Chicago River, you are just a few blocks from Navy Pier and Lake Michigan. Miles of walking trails start just outside the front door, and a variety of restaurants from fast-casual to fine dining are steps away. Or you can visit Whole Foods for a quick bite or to stock up on snacks. Enjoy the complimentary indoor pool and exercise facility. Be sure to become a Marriott Bonvoy member to take advantage of special benefits including complimentary WiFi in your guest room.
All rates are per room, per night and do not include state, local, and occupancy taxes (currently 17.4% per room per night). Maximum occupancy per room is four people.
* Single-person rollaway beds may be requested for triple and quad rooms, but availability is limited and an additional charge will apply.
To reserve a hotel room, you may either make your reservations online at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk site or by calling the hotel directly at +1 877/303-0104. Please note that reservations will be accepted only when accompanied by a credit card guarantee or a deposit of the first night’s room and tax.
The deadline to reserve a room is February 1, 2023. When contacting the hotel by telephone, identify yourself as an attendee of the 64th Annual Drosophila Research Conference.
Room Reservation Guarantee and Cancellation
Room reservation fees are fully refundable. However, you must cancel your reservation at least 72 hours prior to your scheduled arrival date and time to receive a credit or refund of the required first night’s room and tax deposit.
Meals
Meals are not included in the conference registration fee, but there are plenty of dining options, with cash concessions at the hotel and the surrounding area that can accommodate all dining preferences and budgets. Light snacks will be served at the Welcome Reception on Wednesday, March 1.
Accessibility
The Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk is handicap accessible; guests should advise the hotel of accessibility needs as far in advance as possible. Every effort will be made to accommodate your needs.
If you have difficulty walking long distances, you can consider renting a scooter from Scoot Around. They will deliver your scooter to your hotel and pick it up when you no longer need it. For more details, visit www.scootaround.com or call (888) 441-7575.
Travel
Due to the uncertainty of future pandemic travel restrictions, GSA recommends making travel arrangements, particularly for air travel, no sooner than 60 days prior to the conference.
Childcare
If you need childcare while a guest at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, the front desk can help you find a recommended childcare service.
Nursing Mothers
The Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk offers two rooms for nursing mothers conveniently located on the lobby level. Access is 24/7.
Health & Safety
The Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk has implemented a number of cleaning and guest protocols in order to provide the safest possible meeting environment. To learn more about the hotel’s COVID-19 precautions, please visit their website.
GSA’s top priority is the health and safety of conference attendees. In addition to a vaccination mandate for in-person attendees, we will follow all federal, state, and local government and venue requirements for masks, social distancing, and other measures. Please check the Conference Policies page for the most up-to-date information.
Join our community of nearly 6,000 researchers from all career stages and more than 50 countries. You’ll receive discounted conference fees and become eligible for travel awards and professional development programs.
