Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Notable exhibitors
Companies exhibiting at Adepticon include 40Kradio, Across the Realms, Acrylicos Vallejo T/A Vallejo Colours, Akinteractive and Allenpanakal.
- 40Kradio
- Across the Realms
- Acrylicos Vallejo T/A Vallejo Colours
- Akinteractive
- Allenpanakal
Event overview
Overview
AdeptiCon 2027 is set to take place from April 7th to 11th at the Baird Center in Milwaukee, USA. This convention is renowned for its extensive range of over 1650 gaming events, including tournaments, hobby seminars, and social gatherings.
With more than 160 exhibitors, attendees can explore the latest products and innovations in the miniature wargaming industry. The event promises to deliver high-quality experiences for both gamers and exhibitors alike.
Adepticon takes place in Milwaukee, USA.
TL;DR
- 1Dates and Venue: AdeptiCon 2027 runs from April 7th to 11th at the Baird Center in Milwaukee, USA.
- 2Scale and Focus: The event features over 1650 gaming events and 160 exhibitors showcasing the latest in wargaming.
- 3Organiser: Hosted by AWC, Inc., with registration opening in January 2027.
- 4Buyer Authority: Attendees include gamers, hobbyists, and industry professionals from the miniature wargaming community.
- 5Entry: Registration details and badge types can be found on the official website.
Why visit
Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of gaming events, learn from expert seminars, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. The exhibitor hall will showcase the latest products and innovations in the wargaming community, making it a must-visit for hobbyists and gamers alike. Networking opportunities abound, allowing visitors to forge new connections and discover new games and products.
Why exhibit
Exhibiting at AdeptiCon provides unparalleled access to a dedicated audience of wargaming enthusiasts and industry professionals. The event features over 1650 gaming events and 160 exhibitors showcasing the latest in wargaming. Attendees include gamers, hobbyists, and industry professionals from the miniature wargaming community.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Competitive miniature wargamers attending tournaments, leagues and organized-play events.
Casual board gamers looking for demos, open tables and new board game releases.
Role-playing game players and Game Masters seeking RPG tables, campaign ideas and rules support.
Miniature painters and hobbyists interested in seminars, paint-and-take sessions and painting competitions.
Terrain and scenery makers shopping for materials, tools and tabletop inspiration.
Collectors and fans looking for limited miniatures, dice, art prints and merchandise.
Content creators and community organisers covering tabletop releases, tournaments and hobby culture.
Families and friend groups attending for casual gaming, demos and the vendor hall.
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Miniature manufacturers and wargame studios running demo tables and tournament support.
Board game and card game publishers showing new releases and organized-play kits.
Role-playing game publishers and accessory makers supporting Game Masters and campaign play.
Paint, brush, airbrush and hobby tool brands selling to painters and modellers.
Terrain, scenery and tabletop mat producers for wargamers and RPG groups.
Dice, token, storage and miniature transport accessory suppliers.
Artists, sculptors and studios selling prints, miniatures and custom pieces.
Specialist retailers and distributors serving local game stores and clubs.
Event service providers for tournaments, demo spaces and streaming coverage.
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Miniature wargames and rule sets
Board games, card games and party games
Role-playing games and supplements
Miniatures, busts and collector figures
Acrylic paints, washes, pigments and airbrush supplies
Brushes, sculpting tools and hobby knives
Terrain, scenery, gaming mats and tabletop props
Dice, tokens, measuring tools and game aids
Storage cases, carry bags and transport trays
Cosplay props, art prints and merchandise
Organized-play kits and tournament accessories
Streaming, demo and club-support equipment
Location & Facilities
Venue
Baird Center
400 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53203
Facilities
Parking
Baird Center in Milwaukee typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: Baird Center in Milwaukee typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at Baird Center for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Who runs the show
Organisers
AWC, Inc.
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Milwaukee, USA
Why it matters
On 2027-04-07 to 2027-04-11, Adepticon in Milwaukee covering Miniature wargames and accessories., Board games and role-playing games., Hobby supplies and painting tools., Gaming ter gives trade buyers a single calendar window to compare suppliers, validate specs on the stand, and book follow-ups before the next buying cycle - especially when your roadmap matches the published exhibitor profile.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Sustainability in procurement
What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Automation and labour efficiency
What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regional supply-chain resilience
What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Hybrid engagement models
What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · USD
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Milwaukee Downtown
3-star
Downtown Milwaukee4.4
USD 115–145 / night
Holiday Inn Express Milwaukee Downtown by IHG
3-star
Downtown MilwaukeeUSD 115–145 / night
Delta Hotels Milwaukee Northwest
3-star
Milwaukee northwest3.9
USD 115–145 / night
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Milwaukee - Brookfield by IHG
3-star
Brookfield (suburban Milwaukee)4.7
USD 115–145 / night
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Milwaukee Airport by IHG
2-star
Milwaukee Mitchell Airport (MKE)3.9
USD 175–236 / night
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Milwaukee - West Allis, an IHG Hotel
3-star
West Allis (suburban Milwaukee)4.1
USD 115–145 / night
Ramada by Wyndham Milwaukee
3-star
MilwaukeeUSD 115–145 / night
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
Walk
Estimated costFree, no fare
Best forDowntown Milwaukee hotels to Baird Center (400 W Wisconsin Avenue)
Best option for downtown hotels; confirm sidewalk access and weather.
Bus (MCTS)
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forDowntown Milwaukee / Intermodal Station to Baird Center
Use the MCTS trip planner for event-day schedules.
Rideshare / taxi
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forMilwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) to Baird Center
Use designated pick-up and drop-off areas at Baird Center.
Milwaukee Intermodal Station connector (bus/coach)
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forMilwaukee Intermodal Station to Baird Center
Check whether your intercity ticket includes a local transfer.
Weather
Milwaukee spring weather is cool and variable, with rain and wind off Lake Michigan. Plan for mild afternoons and cold mornings, and check the 7-day forecast before packing for Baird Center.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
US mobile networks cover downtown Milwaukee; international visitors should confirm roaming or an eSIM before landing. Baird Center Wi-Fi and exhibitor internet should be ordered through venue or exhibitor manuals; bring a power bank and a US Type A/B plug adapter if needed.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Gaming etiquette
Ask before touching miniatures, dice or terrain that belong to other players. Use a tray or ask the owner before handling painted models.
Photography and cosplay
Ask before photographing people, especially cosplayers. Respect no-photo signs, personal space and event photography rules.
Tournament conduct
Bring your own dice, measuring tools and rulebooks where required. Follow judge rulings and the published event pack for each tournament.
Vendor hall payments
Many vendors accept cards, but small booths may prefer cash. Carry a card and a small amount of US dollars for quick purchases.
Tipping
Tipping is customary in US restaurants and for good service. Check whether a service charge is already included before adding a tip.
Weather and clothing
Milwaukee spring can be cold and wet. Layers and a waterproof jacket are more useful than formal business dress inside the convention halls.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Sample Google Flights for New York JFK to Milwaukee MKE on 7 Apr 2027 showed Delta and American itineraries from about 4 hr 8 min up to about 7 hr 43 min, with connections via DTW, ATL, MSP or ORD. Fares were not captured; compare MKE against Chicago O'Hare plus ground transfer, and confirm baggage rules before booking.
Transport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Use the nearest international airport serving Milwaukee; Metro, train or taxi links are typically available to the venue district.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Baird Center: Downtown Milwaukee: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Milwaukee Downtown; Downtown Milwaukee: Holiday Inn Express Milwaukee Downtown by IHG; Milwaukee northwest: Delta Hotels Milwaukee Northwest.
Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft are commonly used in Milwaukee. Use Baird Center signage for pick-up and drop-off, match the car and plate before entering, and expect higher prices around convention opening and closing times.
Public transit: MCTS buses serve downtown Milwaukee; Route 57 is shown near Baird Center with short rides from nearby stops. Use the MCTS trip planner for event-day schedules, and budget approximately USD 2.00-2.50 per one-way local fare; confirm cash or contactless payment.
Parking: Baird Center has on-site parking, with rates and availability varying by event. Budget approximately USD 15-30 per day for downtown garage parking and arrive early on tournament mornings. Confirm current rates and oversized-vehicle rules with the venue.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: April 2027 (spring; confirm exact dates on adepticon.org)
Temperature: Typical April range: highs approximately 10-16 C (50-61 F), lows approximately 1-6 C (34-43 F); lake breezes can make it feel colder.
Seasonality: Spring is changeable in Milwaukee, with rain showers, wind and occasional late cold snaps. Check the forecast 7-10 days before travel and keep indoor backup plans for outdoor activities.
Packing: Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, comfortable shoes for long hall days, a power bank and a US Type A/B plug adapter if coming from Europe or the UK. Bring any miniatures, dice or rulebooks needed for registered events, and check airline rules for paints and tools.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at Adepticon usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
Day 1
13 days before: Book your MKE airport transfer or check the MCTS route from your hotel to Baird Center.
Day 2
12 days before: Reserve a downtown Milwaukee hotel or a property on a convenient MCTS route; confirm cancellation terms.
Day 3
11 days before: Check the Milwaukee forecast and pack layers, a waterproof shell and comfortable shoes.
Day 4
10 days before: Review the schedule for miniature tournaments, RPG slots, seminars and demo tables; note clashes.
Day 5
9 days before: Prepare army lists, dice, measuring tools and rulebooks required for registered events; read the event pack.
Day 6
8 days before: Pack hobby supplies only if allowed; check airline rules for paints, solvents, knives and aerosols.; 7 days before: Confirm ESTA or visa status if travelling internationally, and carry your registration confirmation.
Day 7
6 days before: Plan a budget for the vendor hall, food and local transport; bring a card and some cash.
Day 8
5 days before: Download transit apps and screenshot routes from your hotel to Baird Center.
Day 9
4 days before: Check Baird Center bag, cosplay, prop and photography policies.
Day 10
3 days before: Charge devices and a power bank; pack a US Type A/B plug adapter if coming from Europe or the UK.
Day 11
2 days before: Confirm check-in time and travel to the venue; allow extra time for badge pickup.
Day 12
14 days before: Confirm your Adepticon badge, event tickets and tournament sign-ups on adepticon.org; save confirmations offline.; 1 day before: Set out badge, ID, tickets, hotel confirmation and your event shortlist for the first day.
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at Baird Center
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2Adepticon registration concourse
Baird Center
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
Baird Center
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nights$230.00
- Per diem × 2$150.00
Estimated total$380.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether Adepticon fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
For Adepticon, what is your primary role on the show floor?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus and target suppliers align with the official exhibitor profile.
Best for
Buyers, engineers, and delegates sourcing Miniature wargames and accessories. and Board games and role-playing games. solutions and benchmarking suppliers at Adepticon in Milwaukee.
Min. budget
$622.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration, hotels, and travel.
Risks
Session times and ticket tiers may change - confirm the official agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a defined lead-generation or distributor recruitment goal for this market.
Best for
Brands and manufacturers launching Miniature wargames and accessories. and Board games and role-playing games. products who need qualified meetings with the event's trade audience.
Min. budget
$2,799.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, staffing, and pre-show marketing.
Risks
Booth pricing and corner premiums vary by hall - confirm with the organiser sales team.
skip
Audience, geography, or commercial goals do not justify travel and stand costs this cycle.
Best for
Teams with weak category fit, budget constraints, or overlapping commitments during the Milwaukee show week.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
Skipping may mean missing buyer meetings if competitors exhibit or attend the same week.
Gallery
Photos
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
What is Adepticon?
Adepticon is a tabletop gaming convention focused on miniature wargaming, board games, role-playing games, painting and hobby culture. It is held at Baird Center in Milwaukee.
When and where is Adepticon 2027?
The 2027 edition is planned for spring 2027 at Baird Center, 400 W Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee. Confirm exact dates, hall hours and badge pickup times on adepticon.org before booking travel.
Is Adepticon open to the public or trade-only?
It is primarily a consumer tabletop gaming convention, with publishers, manufacturers and retailers exhibiting and running demos. If you need trade or press access, check the official badge categories on adepticon.org.
Do I need to register in advance?
Advance registration is recommended. Check adepticon.org for badge options, prices and deadlines. Door availability and sell-out risk are not assumed here.
Can I buy games and miniatures at the show?
Yes. Exhibitors and vendors typically sell miniatures, board games, role-playing games, paint, terrain, dice and hobby accessories in the vendor hall. Confirm specific exhibitors and booth sales policies on site.
Are there tournaments and organized play?
Adepticon is known for tournament and organized-play events across miniature wargames and other tabletop systems. Check adepticon.org/schedule for event listings, rules and sign-up requirements.
Is there painting or hobby programming?
Painting and hobby content is a core part of the convention, with seminars, paint-and-take activities and competitions listed in the programme. Confirm 2027 sessions and sign-up details on the official schedule.
How do I get from MKE airport to Baird Center?
Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) is the primary gateway. Rideshare or taxi to Baird Center is approximately USD 35-55 one-way; MCTS bus is cheaper but slower. Confirm live fares, pick-up zones and event-day traffic.
Is parking available at Baird Center?
Baird Center has on-site parking, with rates and availability varying by event. Budget approximately USD 15-30 per day for downtown garage parking and confirm current rates with the venue.
What should I bring for a day at Adepticon?
Bring comfortable shoes, layers, water, a power bank and your badge confirmation. For registered events, bring any required miniatures, dice, measuring tools and rulebooks; check airline rules for paints, solvents and tools.
Can I attend without playing in tournaments?
Yes. Casual gaming, demo tables, the vendor hall and hobby activities give non-tournament visitors plenty to do. Check the schedule for open-play and demo times.
Is cosplay allowed at Adepticon?
Cosplay is part of hobby-convention culture, but prop and costume rules apply. Check the official event policies before bringing large props or replica weapons, and ask before photographing people.
Are families and children welcome?
Adepticon includes family-friendly and casual gaming content, but some tournaments and RPG sessions may have age guidance. Check individual event listings and badge policies before registering children.
What currency and payment methods are used?
The host currency is the US dollar (USD). Cards are widely accepted in Milwaukee, but some small vendors may prefer cash, so carry a small amount for quick purchases.
I am travelling internationally. What should I check?
Check ESTA eligibility or apply for a U.S. visitor visa if required, allow lead time for approval, and confirm mobile roaming or an eSIM before landing. Carry your registration confirmation and hotel booking.
Glossary
- Adepticon
- Tabletop gaming convention held at Baird Center in Milwaukee, focused on miniature wargaming, board games, role-playing games and hobby painting.
- Baird Center
- Downtown Milwaukee convention centre at 400 W Wisconsin Avenue and venue for Adepticon.
- MKE
- IATA code for Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, the primary commercial airport serving the city.
- MCTS
- Milwaukee County Transit System, the local bus network linking downtown hotels, the airport area and Baird Center.
- Tabletop wargame
- Miniatures game played on a tabletop using measured movement, dice and army lists.
- Miniature
- Small-scale figure assembled and painted for wargames, role-playing games or display.
- Terrain
- Buildings, hills, ruins and scatter pieces used to create tabletop battlefields.
- Game Master (GM)
- Player who runs a role-playing game session, controls non-player characters and adjudicates rules.
- Demo table
- Exhibitor or community table where visitors can try a game with guidance from staff or volunteers.
- Paint-and-take
- Hobby activity where visitors paint a supplied miniature, often with paints and brushes provided.
- Bitz
- Spare miniature parts or components used for conversions and custom builds.
- Narrative event
- Story-driven wargame or role-playing session where outcomes shape a campaign rather than a simple win-loss bracket.
- Organized play
- Structured event series with published rules, match scheduling and often prizes or rankings.
- Vendor hall
- Exhibition area where publishers, manufacturers and retailers sell games, miniatures and hobby supplies.
- Cosplay
- Costumed fan activity at gaming conventions; check official photography and prop rules before participating.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- Adepticon 2027
- Adepticon Milwaukee 2027
- Milwaukee USA
- Gaming Convention Milwaukee 2027
- Miniature wargames and accessories
- Board games and role-playing games
- Hobby supplies and painting tools
- Gaming terrain and scenery
- Gaming Convention Convention Milwaukee
- Miniature wargames and accessories.
Digital business cards for the show floor
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.