up-arrow

Collaborate. Innovate. Act.

Meetings

ADA Overlay icon

The Conference Center

at Wingspread

Located along the western shores of Lake Michigan, Wingspread, Retreat & Executive Conference Center encompasses three unique buildings nestled on 36 acres of lush, natural landscape. Each building contains a variety of unique indoor and outdoor meeting locations for you to choose from. The Conference Center offers meeting technologies and space graced by abundant natural light and sweeping views.
Conference of people
  • Three unique and iconic venues within a short walk of each other
  • Over 15,000 sq. ft. of flexible and collaborative event space  
  • International Association of Conference Centers (IACC) certified  
  • 40-room Sam & Gene Johnson Guest House accommodations  
  • Spaces feature floor to ceiling windows with exquisite views of surrounding nature
  • Latest audio-visual technology & wireless connectivity throughout
  • Professional staff of meeting and event planners
  • Ergonomic chairs and an abundance of natural light
  • Signature team building activities  
  • Custom-designed content and experiential offerings
  • Dedicated and attentive culinary staff
  • 36 acres of lush, natural landscape
  • Onsite fitness center and jogging trails
  • Airport shuttle service
  • Complete and convenient meeting package pricing

Your Success is Our Passion

"Our participants loved the setting. It was close enough to Chicago to be hassle free, but far enough away to offer a true change of scenery. The space was very conducive to both hard work and socializing. The conference facilities are top notch, but honestly, our group accomplished an equal amount gathering in the guest house living room and getting to know one another over a glass of wine. Participants absolutely raved about Wingspread. It was very special for the group to dine in such an iconic living landmark.  Our group kept late hours getting to know one another, but the sleeping rooms were equal to any top hotel. Best of all, the facility provided an environment where we went in as relative strangers and were able to emerge as a team.

The food was delicious and plentiful. The staff were both incredibly accommodating and efficient. No request  was too much. They were there whenever we needed anything, but completely unobtrusive.  Please extend our thanks to everyone for the fabulous and very welcoming service.

Our group enjoyed exploring the grounds and the opportunity to learn more about the facility during the tour. It was really magical what occurred over the course of the weekend. I only wish we could have stayed another day! Thank you, thank you. We’ll be back!"

-Cindi, Meeting Planner

Conference Center Patio with Firepit
View of the conference center from across the lake

The Conference Center

Formerly known as "The House"

In 1959, H.F. Johnson, the third generation S.C. Johnson & Son leader, moved out of Wingspread and into a newly built residence with his wife. This building was located next to Wingspread and became known as The House. California architect Henry L. Eggers and interior designer T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings designed this new residence which overlooks Wingspread’s pond.

After H.F.’s death in 1978, The House was remodeled for conference use and is able to accommodate meetings of up to 120 people in various room configurations. The innovative conference center has hosted visionaries, global thought leaders and agents of change with the goal of creating actionable solutions to our ecological and humanitarian challenges. Over the years, conferences here have lead to the birth of key national and international initiatives and organizations such as National Public Radio, the National Endowment for the Arts, International Criminal Court and the Presidential Climate Action Project among others. In 2017, this historic building became known as The Conference Center.

The IACC Meeting Experience

Wingspread, Retreat & Executive Conference Center is a member of the International Association of Conference Centers (IACC). This certification signifies our dedication to a level of meeting service beyond that of many other venues. The Wingspread facilities are unique, our service is impeccable and our professional staff will make your meeting everything that it can and should be.

We welcome business and organizations seeking to chart new courses, to open minds and to define possibilities.

To speak directly to a meeting planner, please call 262-639-3211 or click here to e-mail us!

people in a meeting

Professional Audio-Visual Services

Wingspread's audio-visual and technology team is on-site and highly skilled. Our team is fully trained in the use of today's technology and stands ready to help you successfully communicate your message.

We provide:

  • In-house audio-visual equipment and support
  • High speed internet  
  • On-site IT support
  • Teleconferencing and videoconferencing capabilities
  • Sharp touch screen interactive monitors
  • HD video displace enhancements
  • Livestreaming capabilities and assistance  
  • Interactive instant polling and real-time visualization

To learn more about hosting your next meeting or retreat at Wingspread, call us today at 262-639-3211 or click here to e-mail us!