Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
The 79th Annual Wills Eye Conference will be held on April 15-16, 2027, at the Philadelphia Marriott Old City Hotel. This event brings together clinicians, researchers, educators, and trainees from the ophthalmic community to advance research and patient care through innovation and collaboration.
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with leading experts and participate in a variety of educational sessions. 79th Annual Wills Eye Conference takes place in Philadelphia, United States.
TL;DR
- 1Dates and Venue: April 2027 in Philadelphia, PA - exact dates and venue are posted on willsconference.org/schedule.
- 2Organiser: Wills Eye Alumni Society, the alumni organization of Wills Eye Hospital.
- 3Clinical Focus: Comprehensive ophthalmology and subspecialty updates in cataract and refractive surgery, retina, glaucoma, cornea, oculoplastics, pediatric ophthalmology, and neuro-ophthalmology.
- 4Audience: Practicing ophthalmologists, residents, fellows, optometrists, ophthalmic technicians, and practice administrators.
- 5Exhibits: Ophthalmic device manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies, diagnostic imaging vendors, and surgical instrument suppliers.
Why visit
Attendees will gain insights into the latest advancements in ophthalmology, network with peers, and participate in expert-led discussions. Dates and Venue: The 79th Annual Wills Eye Conference takes place from April 15-16, 2027, at the Philadelphia Marriott Old City Hotel. Buyer Authority: Clinicians, researchers, educators, and trainees from the ophthalmic community will attend. Entry: Registration is now open for attendees and exhibitors.
Why exhibit
Exhibitors will have the chance to showcase their products to a targeted audience of ophthalmology professionals, engage in meaningful interactions, and enhance their visibility in the industry. Scale and Focus: This conference gathers leading experts in ophthalmology to discuss advancements in research and patient care. Buyer Authority: Clinicians, researchers, educators, and trainees from the ophthalmic community will attend. Entry: Registration is now open for attendees.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Comprehensive ophthalmologists
Retina specialists
Glaucoma specialists
Cornea and refractive surgeons
Cataract surgeons
Oculoplastic and reconstructive surgeons
Pediatric ophthalmologists
Neuro-ophthalmologists
Optometrists and contact lens specialists
Ophthalmic residents, fellows, and medical students
Ophthalmic technicians and nurses
Practice administrators and clinic managers
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Ophthalmic surgical device manufacturers (phacoemulsification, femtosecond laser, vitrectomy systems)
Intraocular lens (IOL) and refractive implant suppliers
Diagnostic imaging companies (OCT, fundus photography, visual field, corneal topography)
Pharmaceutical companies (anti-VEGF agents, glaucoma medications, dry eye therapies)
Ophthalmic instrument and microsurgery tool suppliers
Practice management software and electronic health record (EHR) vendors
Dry eye and ocular surface product companies
Clinical research organizations and CME providers
Hospital and health system recruiters
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Cataract and refractive surgery systems
Intraocular lenses (monofocal, multifocal, toric, EDOF)
Retina diagnostics and treatment devices (OCT, angiography, lasers)
Glaucoma diagnostics and surgical devices (trabeculectomy, MIGS)
Corneal topography and transplant instruments
Ophthalmic pharmaceuticals (anti-VEGF, glaucoma drops, dry eye)
Ophthalmic surgical instruments and sutures
Visual field testing and perimetry equipment
Practice management and EHR software
Teleophthalmology and AI-based imaging tools
Location & Facilities
Venue
Philadelphia Marriott Old City Hotel
1 Dock Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Facilities
Parking
Philadelphia Marriott Old City Hotel in Philadelphia 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: Philadelphia Marriott Old City Hotel in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia Marriott Old City Hotel for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Who runs the show
Organisers
Wills Eye Alumni Society
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Philadelphia, United States
Why it matters
Attending 79th Annual Wills Eye Conference on 2027-04-15 to 2027-04-16 in Philadelphia lets buyers and specifiers benchmark suppliers, see live demonstrations, and compress months of vendor meetings into one focused trade visit — worthwhile when your category roadmap aligns with the official 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.
Philadelphia Marriott Old City
4-star
Old City, PhiladelphiaRated 4.1 from about 2,300 Google reviews; amenities include breakfast (fee), Wi-Fi (fee), parking (fee), air conditioning, pet-friendly, fitness center, bar, restaurant.
Philadelphia Marriott Downtown
4-star
Center City, PhiladelphiaListed on Google Hotels as 1.6 km from Philadelphia Marriott Old City; rated 4.1. Amenities include breakfast (fee), Wi-Fi (fee), parking (fee), fitness center, bar, restaurant, room service.
Residence Inn by Marriott Philadelphia Center City
3-star
Center City, PhiladelphiaListed on Google Hotels as 1.7 km from Philadelphia Marriott Old City; rated 4.1. Amenities include free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, parking (fee), pet-friendly, fitness center, kitchen in some rooms.
Aloft by Marriott Philadelphia Downtown
3-star
Center City, PhiladelphiaListed on Google Hotels as 1.9 km from Philadelphia Marriott Old City; rated 4.1. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, parking (fee), pet-friendly, fitness center, breakfast, restaurant, accessible.
Courtyard by Marriott Philadelphia Downtown
4-star
Center City, PhiladelphiaListed on Google Hotels as 2 km from Philadelphia Marriott Old City; rated 3.9. Amenities include breakfast (fee), free Wi-Fi, parking (fee), pet-friendly, fitness center, bar, restaurant.
Courtyard by Marriott Philadelphia City Avenue
3-star
City Avenue, PhiladelphiaRated 4.1 on Google Hotels; amenities include free Wi-Fi, parking (fee), indoor pool, air conditioning, fitness center, breakfast, bar, restaurant.
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
SEPTA Airport Line (train)
Estimated costApprox. $6.75 one-way (confirm current fare)
Best forPHL Airport to Center City Philadelphia (Jefferson, Suburban, 30th Street stations)
Runs regularly; check SEPTA schedule for late-night service.
SEPTA Metro/Bus
Estimated costApprox. $2.50 per ride (SEPTA Key card)
Best forCenter City to venue area
Use SEPTA Key card or contactless payment; confirm routes to the venue.
Taxi
Estimated costApprox. $35-45 metered fare (plus tip)
Best forPHL Airport to Center City Philadelphia
Taxi stand at baggage claim; confirm flat-rate or metered fare with driver.
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Estimated costApprox. $30-45 depending on demand
Best forPHL Airport to Center City Philadelphia
Pickup at designated rideshare zone; prices surge during peak hours.
Hotel parking
Estimated costApprox. $40-55 per day
Best forCenter City hotels
Confirm parking rate with your hotel; some hotels offer valet only.
Rental car
Estimated costApprox. $50-80 per day before taxes/fees
Best forPHL Airport
Not necessary for Center City conference; public transit is convenient.
taxi
Estimated costApprox. USD taxi/rideshare from PHL to venue (estimate; confirm before travel)
Best forPhiladelphia International Airport (PHL) to Philadelphia Marriott Old City Hotel
taxi
Estimated costApprox. USD taxi/rideshare from TTN to venue (estimate; confirm before travel)
Best forTrenton-Mercer Airport (TTN) to Philadelphia Marriott Old City Hotel
Weather
April in Philadelphia is spring: mild days are the norm and rain is possible, so plan for changeable conditions across conference days. (Weather search capture returned no usable climate data; check a forecast closer to arrival.)
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
Confirm mobile roaming or a local SIM for business visitors to the United States.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Conference attire
Business casual is standard for ophthalmology scientific meetings; a jacket is optional for evening events.
Tipping
Tip 15-20% at restaurants and $2-3 per drink at bars; taxi drivers expect 15-20%.
Arrival and badge pickup
Arrive 30-45 minutes early on day one to collect your badge and navigate the venue.
Local etiquette
Philadelphia is a walkable city; say please and thank you, and hold doors for others. Smoking is restricted in indoor public spaces.
Weather readiness
April can be rainy and breezy; carry a compact umbrella and wear layers.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Compare flights to the nearest international gateway serving Philadelphia; confirm ground transport on the organiser site.
Transport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Use the nearest international airport serving Philadelphia; Metro, train or taxi links are typically available to the venue district.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Philadelphia Marriott Old City Hotel: Old City, Philadelphia: Philadelphia Marriott Old City; Center City, Philadelphia: Philadelphia Marriott Downtown; Center City, Philadelphia: Residence Inn by Marriott Philadelphia Center City.
Ride-hail: Ride-hailing apps are commonly used in Philadelphia; confirm local availability before travel.
Public transit: Check local bus/metro options for routes to Philadelphia Marriott Old City Hotel.
Parking: On-site parking is available at Philadelphia Marriott Old City Hotel; confirm daily rates and hall access on the organiser or venue site.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: April 2027
Temperature: April: approx. 45-65 F (7-18 C) daytime; evenings can drop to the 40s F (4-9 C).
Seasonality: April is a shoulder season with moderate rainfall; showers are common but rarely last all day. Check the forecast closer to arrival.
Packing: Pack layers, a waterproof jacket or umbrella, comfortable walking shoes, and business casual attire for conference sessions. A small day bag is useful for the exhibitor hall.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at 79th Annual Wills Eye Conference usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
T-1
14 days out: Confirm your registration and secure your CME tracking number.
T-2
12 days out: Book your hotel in Center City or Old City Philadelphia; rates are often lower with conference blocks.
T-3
10 days out: Review the scientific programme on willsconference.org/schedule and mark key sessions.
T-4
7 days out: Arrange airport transfer from PHL (SEPTA Airport Line or taxi/rideshare).
T-5
5 days out: Download the conference app or print the schedule; note exhibitor hall hours.
T-6
3 days out: Pack business casual attire, comfortable shoes, and a light rain jacket for April weather.
T-7
1 day out: Check in for your flight and confirm your badge pickup location.
Day 1
Arrive early for registration, pick up your badge, and attend the opening session.
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at Philadelphia Marriott Old City Hotel
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
279th Annual Wills Eye Conference registration concourse
Philadelphia Marriott Old City Hotel
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
Philadelphia Marriott Old City Hotel
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 79th Annual Wills Eye Conference fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
What is your primary role?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus aligns with the official product themes.
Best for
Buyers, researchers, and delegates evaluating the programme and networking value.
Min. budget
$400.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration and travel.
Risks
Limited session times published - confirm agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a clear lead-generation or launch goal for this market.
Best for
Suppliers and brands seeking qualified meetings with the event audience.
Min. budget
$2,500.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, and marketing prep.
Risks
Booth pricing not published in captured sources - confirm with organiser.
skip
Programme, audience, or commercial goals do not match your plan.
Best for
Teams whose category or region fit is weak this edition.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
No major risks listed.
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
What is the Wills Eye Conference?
The Wills Eye Conference is an annual clinical and scientific meeting hosted by the Wills Eye Alumni Society, bringing together ophthalmologists and eye care professionals for updates on research, surgical techniques, and patient care.
Who should attend the Wills Eye Conference?
The conference is designed for comprehensive ophthalmologists, subspecialists (retina, glaucoma, cornea, oculoplastics, pediatrics, neuro-ophthalmology), optometrists, residents, fellows, ophthalmic technicians, and practice administrators.
Where is the Wills Eye Conference held?
The conference is held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The exact venue for the April 2027 edition is listed on willsconference.org/schedule.
How do I register for the Wills Eye Conference?
Registration information, fees, and deadlines are posted on the official website, willsconference.org. Check the registration page for the April 2027 edition.
Is the Wills Eye Conference only for Wills Eye alumni?
While organized by the Wills Eye Alumni Society, the conference welcomes ophthalmologists and eye care professionals from other institutions and practices.
What topics are covered at the Wills Eye Conference?
Topics typically include cataract and refractive surgery, retina, glaucoma, cornea, oculoplastics, pediatric ophthalmology, neuro-ophthalmology, and practice management, with case discussions and research updates.
Will there be exhibitors at the Wills Eye Conference?
Yes, the conference features exhibitors from ophthalmic device, pharmaceutical, diagnostic, and practice management companies, providing hands-on access to new products and technologies.
Can I earn CME credits at the Wills Eye Conference?
The conference is designed as a continuing medical education (CME) activity. Check the official schedule for accredited sessions and credit details.
Glossary
- OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography)
- A non-invasive imaging test that uses light waves to take cross-section pictures of the retina, used to diagnose and monitor macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, and glaucoma.
- IOL (Intraocular Lens)
- An artificial lens implanted during cataract surgery to replace the eye's clouded natural lens; options include monofocal, multifocal, toric, and extended depth of focus (EDOF) lenses.
- Anti-VEGF therapy
- Injections of drugs that block vascular endothelial growth factor, used to treat wet age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion.
- MIGS (Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery)
- A group of surgical procedures that lower intraocular pressure through small incisions, often combined with cataract surgery.
- Phacoemulsification
- The most common cataract surgery technique, using ultrasound energy to break up and remove the clouded lens.
- Fundus photography
- Imaging of the back of the eye (retina, optic disc, macula) to document and monitor ocular disease.
- Visual field test
- A test that measures the full area a person can see without moving their eyes, used to detect and track glaucoma and neurological vision loss.
- Corneal topography
- A computerized mapping of the cornea's surface curvature, used in refractive surgery planning and corneal disease diagnosis.
- Oculoplastics
- A subspecialty of ophthalmology dealing with reconstructive and cosmetic surgery of the eyelids, orbit, and tear ducts.
- Neuro-ophthalmology
- A subspecialty that addresses visual problems related to the nervous system, including optic nerve disease, double vision, and pupil abnormalities.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- 79th Annual Wills Eye Conference 2027
- 79th Annual Wills Eye Conference Philadelphia 2027
- Philadelphia United States
- Medical Conference Philadelphia 2027
- Medical Conference Conference Philadelphia
- Ophthalmic surgical instruments and devices
- Diagnostic equipment for eye care
- Pharmaceuticals for eye diseases
- Patient care solutions in ophthalmology
Digital business cards for the show floor
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.