2025 Chicago International Boat Show Map

Illustrated Boat Show Guest Map

Artist, Illustrator, Designer: John Potter - Escape Key Graphics
Client: Revel Republic

I'm the guy who makes these maps. If you plan on attending the show please visit the show's website to make sure you're getting all the latest information on The Chicago International Boat Show at OfficialCHIBS.com

The 2025 Chicago International Boat Show marks Escape Key Graphics’ first illustrated map for a Chicago event and the first boat show project in the city. Held at the historic Navy Pier, the show brings together boating enthusiasts in one of Chicago’s most iconic waterfront destinations. The location offers a unique opportunity for boat shoppers and exhibitors alike to enjoy a major marine event while experiencing the culture, architecture, and energy that define the city.

This illustrated event map was designed to help visitors navigate a large and busy venue with ease. While the view appears nearly straight overhead, a detailed three dimensional model of Navy Pier was built using SketchUp to achieve accurate proportions, realistic shading, and subtle surface textures. This modeling approach also allows for flexibility, making it possible to adapt the map for future events or alternate viewing angles as the show evolves.

A clear color coded zone system was used to simplify wayfinding across the exhibition space and help attendees quickly locate specific areas of interest. An exhibitor legend directs visitors to preferred brands and displays, while numbered markers identify primary points of interest throughout the venue. Essential facilities and amenities such as restrooms and ticket sales are represented with intuitive icons, creating a map that is both visually engaging and highly functional for show attendees.

Here's a beauty shot of the model I built for the map including a lot of area that turned out not to be necessary.