Hotels near Anime Central 2027 in Rosemont, IL

Anime Central (ACen) is the largest anime, manga and Japanese popular culture convention in Chicago and the Midwest. Organized by MAPS, the Midwest Animation Promotion Society, the show returns May 14–16, 2027 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center and the Hyatt Regency O'Hare in Rosemont, Illinois — just 30 minutes from downtown Chicago. Across three days, ACen brings fans together with guests from both the Japanese and US anime and manga industries, plus gaming, cinema and Asian culture personalities. Programming spans a huge exhibit hall, a massive free-to-play video game room, tabletop gaming, escape rooms, concerts, dances, educational panels and workshops, premiere screenings, autograph sessions, 24-hour video rooms and one of the largest Artist Alleys in the country. With more than 36,000 unique attendees expected, accommodation near the venue sells out fast. The Donald E. Stephens Convention Center and the Hyatt Regency O'Hare sit directly across the street from each other and are linked by an enclosed walkway, making Rosemont hotels the most convenient base for badge pickup, late-night events and cosplay photography. Whether you plan to attend for one day or the full weekend, reserve a hotel close to the Rosemont venue in advance to get the best rates and the shortest walk to the show floor.