American Physical Therapy Association APTA Combined Sections Meeting

Meredith Turner

Business Development Manager, A. Fassano & Company

Susan Waters

Exhibit Opportunities, A. Fassano & Company

Alicia Fresquez

Exhibit Operations, A. Fassano & Company

What's on

Programme

Speakers

Angela Campbell

Linda Crane Memorial Lecture

Topic tracks

APTA Acute CareAPTA Academy of Aquatic Physical TherapyAPTA Academy of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Physical TherapyAPTA Academy of Clinical Electrophysiology & Wound ManagementAPTA Academy of EducationAPTA FederalAPTA GeriatricsAPTA Hand and Upper Extremity Physical TherapyAPTA Home HealthAPTA Leadership & InnovationAcademy of Neurologic Physical TherapyAPTA OncologyAcademy of Orthopaedic Physical TherapyAPTA Academy of Pediatric Physical TherapyAPTA Pelvic HealthAPTA Private PracticeAPTA Academy of ResearchAmerican Academy of Sports Physical Therapy

Awards

Linda Crane Memorial Lecture Award

Annual

Recognizes an individual who has made outstanding and enduring contributions to the practice of physical therapy as exemplified in the professional career of Linda Crane. The 2027 recipient is Angela Campbell, who will give the Linda Crane Lecture at CSM 2027 in Philadelphia

Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Physical Therapy

APTA Orthopedics Awards

Annual

The 2027 APTA Orthopedics Award nomination period is open. Awards celebrate colleagues who exemplify excellence in research, teaching, clinical practice, and leadership within orthopedic physical therapy

ResearchTeachingClinical PracticeLeadership

CSM Abstract Awards Early Career Scientist

Annual

Recognizes the work of PhD-trained early career scientists for outstanding work submitted to CSM. To be considered, applicants must be within 5 years after graduation from a PhD program and have submitted an abstract for CSM 2027

Neurologic Physical TherapyEarly Career Scientist

APTA Academy of Pelvic Health Annual Awards

Annual

Award categories include the Elizabeth Noble Award, Distinguished Mentor Award, Volunteer of the Year Award, Friend of the Academy Award, Outstanding PTA Award, Outstanding PT Resident Award, Diversity Initiative Award, Education Excellence Award, and Research Award

Pelvic Health

APTA CSM Student Travel Award

Annual

The Academy of Physical Therapy Research will fund up to five student travel awards (based on availability of funds) to offset the costs for attending CSM 2027, to be held February 4-6, 2027, in Philadelphia, PA

Student Research

Previous edition

Current edition

2027 · 15,077 visitors · 540 exhibitors

Forecast — not final

Growth over time

Edition recap

APTA CSM 2026 Recap

The 51st annual APTA Combined Sections Meeting was held Feb. 12–14, 2026, at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California. More than 15,000 physical therapy professionals gathered for three days of education, networking, and innovation. The programme featured 400+ educational sessions curated by APTA's 18 specialty academies and sections, 1,440+ poster presentations, and a dynamic exhibit hall showcasing products, services, and recruitment opportunities. The redesigned schedule introduced 90-minute sessions and an earlier daily wrap-up at 3:30 p.m., giving attendees more time for the exhibit hall and networking. APTA President Kyle Covington, PT, DPT, PhD, welcomed attendees, and the event included the specialist recognition ceremony, the PT Fund Celebration of Diversity, and PTPAC's annual party. The 2027 edition will take place Feb. 4–6, 2027, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

New this edition

1
90-minute educational session format
APTA CSM introduced 90-minute sessions for deeper learning across 400 total sessions, designed based on attendee feedback. Sessions end at 3:30 p.m., leaving more time for exhibits and networking. Attendees earned 1.35 CEUs in person and can reach 1.8 CEUs with three On Demand sessions
Source
2
Virtual participation option
APTA CSM 2027 will feature both in-person and virtual participation options, making it easier to join from anywhere
Source
3
Pelvic Health pre-conference expansion
The 2027 CSM Pre-Conference for pelvic health will be 8 hours in duration and focus on hands-on lab sessions and creative, interdisciplinary collaboration
Source

Next edition outlook

2027-02-04 – 2027-02-06

confirmed

APTA CSM 2027 will be held Feb. 4-6, 2027, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The event returns to Philadelphia and will feature both in-person and virtual participation options. The organisers forecast over 14,000 in-person professional attendees. Building on the 2026 edition's redesigned schedule, the 2027 programme will continue 90-minute sessions, earlier daily wrap-up at 3:30 p.m., and flexible CEU options. Session proposals opened Jan. 14, 2026, and close April 15, 2026. Abstract submissions are due July 15, 2026

Return to Philadelphia for the first time since 2025 ( Enhanced 8-hour pelvic health pre-conference with hands-on lab sessions ( Continued 90-minute session format and 3:30 p.m. daily wrap-up based on 2026 attendee feedback ( Both in-person and virtual participation options (

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

APTA CSM is the largest physical therapy conference in the United States, consistently drawing 15,000+ attendees and 400+ exhibiting companies. The 2026 edition in Anaheim featured 400 educational sessions, 1,440+ posters, and nearly 500 exhibitors across three days. The event serves as the profession's premier annual gathering, combining cutting-edge research, clinical education, networking, and a dynamic exhibit hall. APTA CSM rotates across western, central, and eastern U.S. locations to be inclusive of members across the country

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

APTA CSM attendees are highly qualified physical therapy professionals, including PTs, PTAs, students, educators, researchers, and clinic owners. According to the APTA CSM 2027 exhibitor prospectus, 97% of attendees visited the exhibit hall, 34% are purchasers or authorize/approve purchases, and nearly 60% have purchasing power or significant influence. The event draws professionals representing private and group practices, hospitals, hospital-based outpatient facilities, and academic institutions. Approximately 3,600 students attend, representing roughly 10% of the addressable market

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

Exhibitor testimonials from APTA CSM highlight strong return on investment. Rehab 2 Perform described CSM as a 'high-ROI exhibiting experience' with an attendee ecosystem mixing clinic owners, decision-makers, and forward-thinking clinicians ready for real conversations about outcomes, patient experience, and growth. Bioness Medical, a repeat exhibitor and Patron Sponsor, reported 'incredible visibility for our brand and meaningful opportunities to connect with attendees' with 'high engagement, key customer conversations, and strong interest' in their neuro-rehabilitation technologies. American Specialty Health (Active & Fit Direct) stated 'the interactions with attendees is always productive and energizing.' FeldCare Connects connected with passionate physical therapists exploring home health opportunities and other PT organizations eager to collaborate. The prospectus notes that 97% of attendees visited the exhibit hall and nearly 60% have purchasing power or significant influence

Intelligence

Market context

Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

North America (United States)

Why it matters

APTA CSM is the largest physical therapy conference in the United States, bringing together more than 15,000 attendees and nearly 500 exhibiting companies. The event sits at the intersection of powerful market forces: a physical therapy market projected to reach $47.87 billion by 2033, a persistent workforce shortage creating demand for recruitment and retention solutions, rapid adoption of digital rehabilitation and AI-powered tools, expanding telehealth reimbursement through 2027, and Medicare payment policy changes that directly affect every PT practice. For exhibitors, the show offers direct access to decision-makers — organizers state that 97% of attendees visit the exhibit hall, 34% are purchasers or authorize/approve purchases, and nearly 60% have purchasing power or significant influence. For attendees, it provides 400+ educational sessions curated by 18 specialty academies, 1,440+ posters, hands-on access to emerging products, and unmatched national networking

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

Physical therapy market growth driven by aging populations and chronic disease

The global physical therapy market is estimated at USD 30 billion in 2026 and expected to reach USD 47.87 billion by 2033 (CAGR 6.9%), driven by the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, a rising geriatric population, and growing awareness of physical therapy benefits. The U.S. accounts for more than 35% of the global physical therapy services market, with over 64% of U.S. institutions specializing in orthopedic and chronic pain treatment

Workforce shortage and burnout crisis

APTA's 2024 Workforce Survey estimated a national deficit of 12,070 full-time-equivalent physical therapists. About 72% of physical therapists reported working at or above capacity in APTA's 2025 Physical Therapy Profile Survey. Roughly half of U.S. physical therapists reported burnout in a national cross-sectional survey. Demand is projected to continue exceeding supply through 2037, with the shortfall projected to peak at nearly 20,000 by 2027 before partially recovering to around 9,100 by 2037

Digital rehabilitation and AI adoption accelerating

The AI-enhanced remote physiotherapy market was valued at USD 2,105.8 million in 2025 and is expanding at a CAGR of 25.8% from 2026 to 2033. Digital physical therapy platforms enable guided exercise programs, remote physiotherapy sessions, movement tracking, and real-time feedback. The U.S. AI in physical therapy market was estimated at USD 178 million in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 1.06 billion by 2033 (CAGR 25.24%). AI-powered solutions use computer vision, motion analysis, and machine learning algorithms to evaluate exercise performance and recommend adjustments

Telehealth reimbursement extension and hybrid care models

Under Section 6209 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2026, therapists are permitted to provide telehealth services—including telephone assessment and management services (codes 98966-98968)—through December 31, 2027. Telehealth visits are reimbursed at the non-facility rate under the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule. The growing preference for hybrid care models that combine in-person services with remote monitoring and virtual visits is reshaping physical therapy practice

Medicare payment instability and regulatory pressure

CMS's 2027 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule includes a 1.68% reduction to the Medicare conversion factor, continuing a cycle of payment instability that threatens patient access to physical therapist services. However, APTA analysis reveals that practice expense methodology changes would increase payment for nearly all services, resulting in a 1-3% increase each year for most commonly billed PT services over the next eight years

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

APTA Analysis Reveals Greater Long-Term Payment Gains in Medicare Proposal

In reviewing data released after the proposed 2027 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, APTA staff modelled expected payment for practice expenses over the next eight years. For providers, the analysis translates into a 1-3% increase each year for most commonly billed PT services, despite an overall proposed reduction to the conversion factor

Heinrich, Rounds Introduce Legislation to Improve Americans' Access to Physical Therapy and Address Healthcare Workforce Shortage

U.S. Senators introduced legislation to integrate licensed physical therapists into key federal safety-net programs, aiming to address longstanding healthcare workforce shortages. More than 80% of providers who participate in the National Health Service Corps continue practicing in a Health Professional Shortage Area after fulfilling their service commitment

Advancing Payment: What the Proposed 2027 Medicare Fee Schedule Means for PTs

APTA published an analysis of the proposed 2027 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, helping physical therapists understand what is at stake in terms of payment changes, the KX modifier threshold, and practice expense methodology

Rural Health Care Workforce Shortages Highlighted in Congressional Hearing

APTA submitted testimony to Congress highlighting long-term physical therapy workforce needs in rural areas and urged the addition of PTs to the National Health Service Corps, calling it a critical step toward addressing the growing shortage of healthcare providers in medically underserved communities

Medicare Proposes 1.7% Pay Cut for Physical Therapists in 2027

CMS proposed a 1.68% reduction to the 2027 non-qualifying provider conversion factor due in part to the expiration of the temporary 2.5% congressional payment increase. The proposed CY 2027 KX modifier threshold amounts are $2,540 for physical therapy and speech-language pathology services combined

U.S. Physical Therapy Conference Circuit 2027

6 to 12 months. Booth space and housing for APTA CSM 2027 open in mid-2026; specialty conferences accept proposals 6 to 9 months ahead; state conference registrations typically open 3 to 6 months before each event

APTA CSM anchors the U.S. physical therapy conference calendar each February, followed by a year-round circuit of specialty, state, and practice-management events. The 2027 circuit begins with CSM in Philadelphia (Feb. 4-6), moves to the World Physiotherapy Congress in Guadalajara (May 14-16), continues with the AASPT Annual Meeting in summer, and concludes with a cluster of fall events including AAOMPT in Louisville (Oct. 20-24), PPS Annual Conference (Nov. 10-13), APTA Pediatrics (Nov. 19-21), and ACRM in Dallas (Oct. 30-Nov. 2). State chapter conferences — including PTTX in Round Rock (Oct. 22-24) and APTA Michigan in Port Huron (Oct. 29-30) — provide lower-cost regional alternatives throughout the year

4–6 Feb 2027

APTA Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) 2027

Philadelphia, USA

15,000+ attendees, 400+ educational sessions, nearly 500 exhibitors. Preconference courses Feb

4–6 Feb 2027

World Physiotherapy Congress 2027

Guadalajara, Mexico

23 focused symposia with approximately 90 presenters from 38 countries

4–6 Feb 2027

AASPT Annual Meeting 2027

TBD, USA

2026 meeting was July 10-11 in Seattle. 2027 dates and location not yet confirmed on official AASPT site

4–6 Feb 2027

AAOMPT Annual Conference 2027

Louisville, USA

Held at The Galt House, Louisville, Kentucky

4–6 Feb 2027

PTTX 2027 (Texas Physical Therapy Association Annual Conference)

Round Rock, USA

Held at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions

4–6 Feb 2027

APTA Private Practice Annual Conference 2027

TBD, USA

Location not yet published on official PPS site

4–6 Feb 2027

ACRM 104th Annual Conference 2027

Dallas, USA

4–6 Feb 2027

APTA Pediatrics Annual Conference 2027

TBD, USA

2026 conference was Nov. 13-15 in St. Louis. 2027 location not yet published

Q1 2027 — Flagship national event

APTA Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) 2027

CSM is the anchor event of the year. All other national and specialty events plan around it. Booth space and housing for CSM open in mid

Q2 2027 — International and specialty meetings

World Physiotherapy Congress 2027

World Physiotherapy Congress is held every two years and draws an international audience. 2027 edition is in Guadalajara, Mexico

Q3 2027 — Sports and summer meetings

AASPT Annual Meeting 2027

AASPT focuses on sports physical therapy. 2026 meeting was in Seattle; 2027 details pending

Q4 2027 — Fall cluster

AAOMPT Annual Conference 2027PTTX 2027ACRM 104th Annual Conference 2027APTA Private Practice Annual Conference 2027APTA Pediatrics Annual Conference 2027

The fall season features a dense cluster of specialty, state, and practice-management events. AAOMPT and PTTX overlap in late October; PPS and APTA Pediatrics occur in November

Dates and locations are sourced from official organizer websites and reputable industry guides. Events marked TBD have not yet published confirmed dates or locations on their official sites as of September 2026

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · USD

Arrival airports

Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

PHL

Philadelphia International Airport

SEPTA Airport Line provides direct regional rail service from all PHL terminals to Jefferson Station, a 5-minute walk from the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Trains run every 30 minutes, seven days a week, between approximately 5 a.m. and midnight. Fare is $6.75 one-way with cash or credit card, or $6.25 with SEPTA Key Travel Wallet

Approximately 9-12 miles (14-19 km)

to venue

Approximately 20 minutes by taxi or rideshare under typical conditions

by car

TTN

Trenton-Mercer Airport

A smaller regional airport served by Frontier Airlines. Accessible via I-95 and Route 1. Not directly connected to SEPTA regional rail; car rental or rideshare is recommended

Approximately 35 miles (56 km)

to venue

Approximately 45-55 minutes by car depending on traffic

by car

ACY

Atlantic City International Airport

A smaller airport serving the South Jersey shore region. Accessible via the Atlantic City Expressway and I. Not recommended as a primary option due to limited flight availability and longer transfer time

Approximately 60 miles (97 km)

to venue

Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes by car

by car

EWR

Newark Liberty International Airport

A major international hub with extensive domestic and international connections. Amtrak and NJ Transit offer rail connections from Newark Airport to Philadelphia 30th Street Station in approximately 1 hour. Recommended for international attendees seeking broader flight options

Approximately 90 miles (145 km)

to venue

Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours by car

by car

Hotel tiers

A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

Budget (2-3 star)

Center City / Convention Center District

USD 100–180 / night

Estimated based on market rates for 2-3 star hotels in Center City Philadelphia during February 2027. Examples include Days Inn by Wyndham Philadelphia Convention Center (steps from the venue, avg. $120-$190/night) and Best Western Plus Philadelphia Convention Center Hotel (5-minute walk)

Mid-Range (3-4 star)

Center City / Convention Center District

USD 160–300 / night

Estimated based on market rates for 3-4 star hotels in Center City Philadelphia during February 2027. Examples include Hampton Inn Philadelphia Center City-Convention Center (avg. $133-$225/night), Home2 Suites by Hilton Philadelphia Convention Center (directly across from the venue), and DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Philadelphia Center City (from $162/night)

Premium (4-5 star)

Center City / Rittenhouse Square

USD 250–500 / night

Estimated based on market rates for 4-5 star hotels in Center City Philadelphia during February 2027. Examples include Loews Philadelphia Hotel ($254-$293/night), Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia (from $295/night), The Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia, and W Philadelphia (8-minute walk to the venue)

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

SEPTA Regional Rail (Airport Line)

Estimated cost$8.00 one-way

Best forPhiladelphia International Airport (PHL) to Jefferson Station (Pennsylvania Convention Center)

Trains run every 30 minutes from all PHL terminals to Center City stations including Jefferson Station, a 5-minute walk from the Convention Center. Journey time is approximately 20-25 minutes. Purchase a SEPTA Key card at the station or use contactless payment

Taxi (Flat Rate)

Estimated cost$28.50 flat rate

Best forPhiladelphia International Airport (PHL) to Center City / Convention Center Zone

A flat rate of $28.50 applies to trips between PHL and the Center City zone, which includes the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Taxis are available curbside at all terminals. Confirm the flat rate before departure

Rideshare (Uber / Lyft)

Estimated cost$20-$35 (may surge during peak times)

Best forPhiladelphia International Airport (PHL) to Center City / Convention Center

Rideshare pickup is available on the arrivals level at PHL. Travel time is approximately 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Fares can surge during rush hour or major events

Amtrak + SEPTA Transfer

Estimated costFree with valid Amtrak ticket

Best forAmtrak 30th Street Station to Jefferson Station (Pennsylvania Convention Center)

Amtrak tickets to and from Philadelphia are honored for a transfer between 30th Street Station and Jefferson Station via SEPTA commuter rail. Present your Amtrak ticket or eTicket to the SEPTA conductor. This provides a seamless connection for attendees arriving by Amtrak

SEPTA Subway / Bus

Estimated cost$2.50 per ride (or $2.90 with contactless tap)

Best forCenter City local transit (Market-Frankford Line, Broad Street Line, and bus routes)

SEPTA's Market-Frankford Line stops at 11th Street, and the Broad Street Line at 15th Street/City Hall, both near the Convention Center. Multiple bus routes including 4, 16, 17, 23, 33, 38, 44, 45, 48, 124, and 125 serve the area. Two free transfers are included within 2 hours when using a SEPTA Key card

Plan your trip

Visa & entry documents

Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

Visa required

ATA Carnet: check with organiser

Type	Who needs it	Fee	Processing
B-1 Business Visitor Visa	Citizens of foreign countries who do not qualify for the Visa Waiver Program and are traveling to the U.S. to attend a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference on specific dates	$185.00	Varies by U.S. embassy or consulate; often several weeks to several months depending on appointment availability and administrative processing
Visa Waiver Program (ESTA)	Citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries traveling to the U.S. for business or tourism for 90 days or less	$40.27	Typically within 72 hours; most applications are approved in a matter of minutes to hours

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda generally do not need a visa to conduct temporary business in the United States, including attending professional conferences. Citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries may travel without a visa for business purposes for 90 days or less if they have an approved ESTA. The VWP includes 41 countries. Travelers who have visited Cuba on or after January 12, 2021, are no longer eligible for the VWP and must apply for a visa

The United States is not a signatory to accepting ATA Carnets under the Exhibitions & Fairs classification. While the U.S. accepts ATA Carnets for commercial samples and professional equipment, goods for display at trade fairs and exhibitions are excluded from carnet coverage. Exhibitors shipping display materials to APTA CSM 2027 should use alternative customs procedures such as a Temporary Importation under Bond (TIB) or contact a customs broker

Official visa page

Weather

February in Philadelphia is cold and changeable. Average daily high temperatures range from approximately 40°F to 45°F (4°C to 7°C), and average daily low temperatures range from approximately 25°F to 29°F (-4°C to -2°C). Snow and rain are both possible; February is historically one of the drier months with an average rainfall of about 2.2 inches (56 mm). Pack layers, a warm winter coat, hat, gloves, scarf, and comfortable waterproof footwear

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

The Pennsylvania Convention Center is highly accessible by multiple transport modes. SEPTA Regional Rail serves Jefferson Station (5-minute walk to the venue) via the Airport, Media/Elwyn, Paoli/Thorndale, and other lines. SEPTA Market-Frankford Line stops at 11th Street, Broad Street Line at 15th Street/City Hall, and SEPTA bus routes 4, 16, 17, 23, 33, 38, 44, 45, 48, 124, and 125 serve the area. Amtrak's 30th Street Station is less than 1 mile from the venue and is a major Northeast Corridor hub. The venue is connected to the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown and the Aloft Hotel, and more than 14,000 hotel rooms are within walking distance. Major landmarks including Reading Terminal Market, Chinatown, Independence Hall, and LOVE Park are within walking distance or a short transit ride.; https://www.paconvention.com/the-center/floor-plans

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

Greetings and local vernacular

Philadelphians are known for being direct but warm. A simple 'Hello' or 'Hey' with a smile works well in most settings. The local dialect features unique terms like 'jawn' (a catch-all noun for a person, place, or thing) and 'hoagie' (a submarine sandwich). 'Go Birds' is a common greeting referencing the Philadelphia Eagles and is widely used across the city

Tipping and service charges

Tipping is customary in the United States. A 20% tip is standard for restaurant service. Some Philadelphia restaurants have begun adding a 2-6% surcharge or a 20% hospitality fee to bills, particularly as international tourism increases. Check your bill to avoid double-tipping

Business attire and professional conduct

Business casual attire is the norm at professional conferences in Philadelphia. In winter, practicality takes precedence over style, with heavy coats and warm layers being essential. Businesspeople generally dress well, with suits still common in many corporate settings. Exchange business cards when offered and use formal titles unless invited to use first names

Local food culture

Philadelphia is known for its iconic food scene. The cheesesteak is a must-try, with Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks being the most famous rivals. Reading Terminal Market, steps from the Convention Center, offers 80+ vendors including Pennsylvania Dutch baked goods, Middle Eastern specialties, and local favorites like roast pork sandwiches. Chinatown, adjacent to the Convention Center, offers authentic Asian cuisine including Peking duck and hot pot

Safety and practical tips

Philadelphia is a walkable city with a well-lit Center City district. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Pedestrians should look both ways carefully before crossing, as Philadelphia drivers are known for being assertive. The city has a robust public transit system, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

Flights

Destination: PHL

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is the primary gateway, located approximately 9-12 miles from the Convention Center. SEPTA Airport Line offers direct rail service from all terminals to Jefferson Station (5-minute walk to venue) for $6.75 one-way. Taxi and rideshare are also available. For international attendees, Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) offers more flight options with Amtrak connections to Philadelphia 30th Street Station

Visa

Most international attendees traveling to APTA CSM 2027 in Philadelphia will need either a B-1 business visitor visa or an approved ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program. Citizens of Canada and Bermuda generally do not require a visa for temporary business travel. The B-1 visa is specifically appropriate for attending scientific, educational, professional, or business conventions on specific dates

Estimated cost: Not yet confirmed

Processing: B-1 visa: varies by consulate, often weeks to months. ESTA: typically within 72 hours

Apply early. Visa interview wait times can be significant in some countries. Check the specific U.S. embassy or consulate website for current appointment wait times and processing durations. The B-1 visa fee is $185. The ESTA fee is $40.27.; https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/

Official

Hotels

Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

Check-in (recommended)

2027-02-04

Check-out (recommended)

2027-02-06

Areas to stay

Center City / Convention Center District · Chinatown · Rittenhouse Square · Old City / Historic District

Budget (2-3 star)

$100-$180/night

Mid-Range (3-4 star)

$160-$300/night

Premium (4-5 star)

$250-$500/night

Transport

Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

Airport → venue: From Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), the SEPTA Airport Line Regional Rail connects directly to Jefferson Station (5-minute walk to the Convention Center) in approximately 25 minutes. Trains run every 30 minutes from about 5 a.m. to midnight. One-way fare is $6.75 with a SEPTA Key, contactless tap, or Quick Trip ticket, or $8 if paying cash onboard

Hotel → venue: More than 14,000 hotel rooms are within walking distance of the Pennsylvania Convention Center. The venue is directly connected to the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown (1,408 rooms) and the Aloft Hotel (179 rooms). Many Center City hotels are within a 1-10 minute walk

Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft are available curbside at PHL airport and throughout Center City. Estimated fare from PHL to the Convention Center is approximately $28-$46, with a drive time of about 20 minutes under typical conditions

Public transit: SEPTA Regional Rail serves Jefferson Station (5-minute walk to the venue) via the Airport Line, Media/Elwyn Line, Paoli/Thorndale Line, and other regional rail lines. SEPTA Market-Frankford Line stops at 11th Street, Broad Street Line at 15th Street/City Hall, and multiple bus routes (4, 16, 17, 23, 33, 38, 44, 45, 48, 124, 125) serve the Convention Center area. Single-ride transit fare is $2.50 cash or $2.00 with a SEPTA Key card

Parking: The Pennsylvania Convention Center does not operate its own dedicated parking facility. However, there are 42 parking lots in a 7-block area surrounding the Center. The Pennsylvania Convention Center Garage at 1324 Arch St. has 1,957 spaces with rates starting at $17.25 and $35 for 15 to 24 hours. Love Park Garage at 1500 Arch St. offers 2,354 spaces with rates starting at $35

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: February

Temperature: High 40-45°F (4-7°C) / Low 25-29°F (-4°C to -2°C)

Seasonality: February is one of the drier months in Philadelphia with an average rainfall of about 2.2 inches (56 mm). Snow is possible but not guaranteed; average annual snowfall is about 4 inches

Packing: Pack warm layers including a heavy winter coat, hat, gloves, scarf, and warm socks. Comfortable waterproof walking shoes are essential given the venue spans multiple blocks. Bring a compact umbrella for possible rain or snow showers

Itinerary builder

Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.

Add side trips

Default day plan

7:00 AMBreakfast at Reading Terminal Market
8:30 AMAttend morning educational sessions
12:00 PMVisit the Exhibit Hall during unopposed hours
2:00 PMAttend afternoon educational sessions
3:30 PMExplore nearby attractions (LOVE Park, Independence Hall)
7:00 PMDinner in Chinatown or Center City

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: 2027

Saturday, Feb. 6, 2027, is the final day of the exhibit hall (9 a.m. – 2 p.m.) and typically features the most relaxed atmosphere with exhibitors offering end-of-show promotions. Educational sessions continue through 3:30 p.m., so attendees can still capture clinical content while having ample time for in-depth exhibit hall conversations

T-90

Register for APTA CSM 2027 at early bird rates — Early bird registration runs Sept. 9 – Nov. 4, 2026. Section member PT rates start at $505

T-90

Book hotel through APTA CSM Housing (Spargo, Inc.) — APTA's exclusive housing bureau offers guaranteed negotiated rates and hotels near the Convention Center. Call 703 or 888

T-60

Book flights to Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) — PHL is 9-12 miles from the venue. SEPTA Airport Line offers direct rail to Jefferson Station (5-min walk) for $6.75 one-way

T-30

Download the APTA CSM Events app and build your schedule — The app provides session info, room locations, speaker details, handouts, exhibit hall map, and session polling

T-14

Review the programme and identify priority sessions — 400+ sessions across 18 academies and sections. Plan for 90-minute sessions ending at 3:30 p.m. daily

T-7

Print or save your registration confirmation and badge details — Badges are required for all sessions, the exhibit hall, and ticketed events. Pick up at Main Registration Area if not mailed

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Reading Terminal Market

Reading Terminal Market, 51 N 12th St, Philadelphia

8:30 AM

Attend morning educational sessions

Pennsylvania Convention Center

10:30 AM

Visit the Exhibit Hall during unopposed hours

Pennsylvania Convention Center Exhibit Hall

12:00 PM

Lunch at Chinatown or Reading Terminal Market

Chinatown / Reading Terminal Market

1:30 PM

Attend afternoon educational sessions

Pennsylvania Convention Center

3:30 PM

Explore nearby attractions (LOVE Park, Independence Hall)

Center City Philadelphia

6:30 PM

Attend academy reception or networking event

Philadelphia Marriott Downtown / Convention Center

8:00 PM

Dinner in Center City or Chinatown

Center City / Chinatown Philadelphia

Side trips

Reading Terminal Market

Public Market / Dining

One of America's oldest and largest public markets, with 80+ merchants and 30 eateries offering local specialties including cheesesteaks, Amish goods, and Pennsylvania Dutch baked goods

Steps from the Convention Center (0.1 mi)

Independence Hall & Liberty Bell

Historic Site

Independence National Historical Park preserves the birthplace of the United States, including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell

Short walk or taxi ride (0.8 mi)

Philadelphia Museum of Art

Art Museum

World-class art museum featuring the famous Rocky Steps and panoramic views of the Philadelphia skyline

Short drive or taxi ride (2 mi)

LOVE Park

Public Park / Landmark

Home to Robert Indiana's iconic LOVE sculpture and a popular Philadelphia photo spot

Short walk from the Convention Center (0.5 mi)

Philadelphia Chinatown

Neighborhood / Dining

One of the largest Chinatowns in the nation, anchored by the Friendship Gate, with authentic street food, specialty markets, and renowned Peking duck

Adjacent to the Convention Center (0.2 mi)

Masonic Temple of Pennsylvania

Historic Building

A striking architectural landmark and historic Masonic temple in the heart of Center City

Steps from the Convention Center (0.1 mi)

Networking spots

Reading Terminal Market

Market / Casual Dining

A central gathering spot steps from the Convention Center with diverse food options for informal meetings

McGillin's Olde Ale House

Historic Tavern

The city's oldest continuously operating tavern, located near the Convention Center and downtown hotels

Chinatown

Neighborhood / Dining

Adjacent to the Convention Center, offering authentic restaurants and specialty markets for group dinners

LOVE Park

Public Park

A short walk from the Convention Center, ideal for informal meetups and photos

Philadelphia Marriott Downtown

Hotel Lobby / Bar

Connected to the Convention Center and a hub for conference attendees. Hosts the AASPT RISE & Teammates Networking Reception on Feb. 5

Budget

Costs & budget

In-Line Booth (10x10): $3,150; Corner Booth (10x10): $3,350; Island Booth: $35 per square foot; Non-Profit (10x10 In-Line only): $1,700 (must provide 501(c)3 form). Booth space purchase includes pipe/drape and ID sign; carpet or approved flooring is required and must cover the entire space reserved. Furniture, electric, internet, AV and other services are optional and can be purchased through the Exhibitor Resource Center once confirmed