Anime Central 2026
The Midwest's largest anime convention, attracting fans from across the heartland.
Event concluded
Convention tips
parking
Convention center parking is $20/day. Cheaper: park free at the Rosemont CTA Blue Line station and walk 2 blocks, or use the free Rosemont Entertainment Shuttle.
food
The Park at Rosemont across River Road has sit-down restaurants. Fashion Outlets of Chicago mall (15-min walk) has a budget food court. Food trucks park at the Hyatt's back entrance during ACen.
hotels
The Hyatt Regency O'Hare connects directly to the Stephens Convention Center. Room blocks sell out in minutes. Overflow: Hilton Rosemont, Embassy Suites, DoubleTree across the street.
weather
Rosemont in mid-May averages 66F highs and 51F lows with 76% humidity. Rain falls on roughly 17 days in May. The walk between the convention center and overflow hotels can be chilly at night.
layout
The convention spans the Stephens Convention Center and the attached Hyatt. CTA Blue Line Rosemont station is two blocks from the Hyatt. O'Hare Airport is only 5 minutes away.
Weekend cost estimate
Estimated cost for attending Anime Central 2026 in Rosemont, IL. These are ballpark ranges based on convention size and typical venue-area pricing. Your actual costs will vary based on travel distance, hotel choice, and spending habits.
| Expense | Solo | Split with friend | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
Badge Prices go up closer to the event. Buy early. | $50-$75 | $50-$75 | $50-$75 |
Hotel (2 nights) Split rate assumes 2 people per room. | $300–$560 | $150–$280 | $300–$560 |
Food (3 days) Convention center meals run $12–$18 each. | $135 | $135 | $135 |
Artist alley and vendors Set a cash budget before the doors open. | $80–$200 | $80–$200 | $80–$200 |
Parking or transit Split if you carpool. Many venues have paid lots only. | $45 | $0–$45 | $45 |
| Total estimate | $610–$1015 | $415–$690 | $610–$1015 |
Plan your full budget with the convention budget calculator. Travel costs (gas, flights, tolls) are not included above.
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Packing Checklist
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