The Museum of Broadcast Communications (MBC) at 360 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654, offers a unique and engaging setting for meetings, conferences, and events. Here is a detailed description of its facilities:
Function Rooms and Capacities
- Exhibition Galleries: These galleries can be opened for evening events, providing a versatile space for receptions, presentations, and exhibitions. The galleries offer a variety of artifacts and memorabilia from broadcasts, especially those from Chicago.
- National Radio Hall of Fame Gallery: This gallery is dedicated to celebrating personalities who have had an impact in both rock & roll and TV. It is an ideal space for honoring industry legends and hosting ceremonies.
- Archives: Located on the first floor, the archives house more than 85,000 hours of broadcasting (radio, television, and commercials). These archives can be used for historical presentations or educational sessions.
- Museum Store: While not a traditional function room, the museum store offers a unique space for networking or registration areas. It features games, books, CDs, DVDs, and exclusive logo souvenirs related to the MBC and the National Radio Hall of Fame.
Services
- Accessibility: The MBC is accessible to persons with disabilities, including space for wheelchairs. However, wheelchairs are not available on site.
- Self-Service Coat Check: A self-service coat check is available before entering the museum. Persons with valuables may pay to check items at the front desk, with proceeds going to the museum.
- Event Accommodations: The MBC offers a variety of amenities that can be tailored to meet the needs of your event. These include the ability to customize exhibits and programs to serve as a bridge between producers, consumers, academics, and students.
Nearby Attractions
Given the MBC's location in the heart of downtown Chicago, there are numerous nearby attractions that can enhance your event experience. These include:
- Chicago Architecture Center: Located just across the river, this center features a museum and dozens of tours departing daily.
- Tribune Tower: A French Gothic skyscraper located at 435 Michigan Avenue.
- The Wrigley Building: A 1920s historical building at 400 Michigan Avenue, with an iconic clock tower.
Event Planning Tips
- Custom Exhibits: The MBC can design and support exhibits tailored to your event theme, ensuring a unique and engaging experience for your attendees.
- Educational Programs: The museum offers a variety of educational programs that can be integrated into your event, fostering imagination, creativity, awareness, and accountability.
- Archival Access: The extensive archives provide a rich resource for historical framing, making the past relevant to today and tomorrow.
The Museum of Broadcast Communications offers a unique blend of history, education, and entertainment, making it an ideal venue for meetings, conferences, and events that celebrate the power of broadcast media.