Trade showB2B

    APTA EXPO 2026

    APTA EXPO 2026 is the premier triennial event for the public transportation industry, organized by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). Taking place from October 4–7, 2026, at McCormick Place in Chicago, it serves as the largest showcase of its kind, bringing together over 12,000 attendees and 800+ exhibiting companies from 85 countries to explore cutting-edge technology, innovative mobility solutions, and the future of transit

    Trucks and Utility VehiclesRailways EngineeringLogistics & Transportation Engineering Handling Operations StorageUrban Equipment & EngineeringRoads, Bridges & TunnelsPublic Transportation

    Dates

    4–7 Oct 2026

    City / country

    Chicago, United States

    Venue

    McCormick Place Convention Center

    Time

    9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

    20 Floor Picks

    Matched booths for APTA EXPO 2026

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    Event overview

    Overview

    APTA's TRANSform & EXPO is where the world of public transportation converges to explore cutting-edge technology, innovative mobility solutions, and the future of the industry. As the largest showcase of its kind, EXPO elevates the next era of global transit driven by advanced technologies, sustainable solutions, and forward-thinking business models.

    APTA EXPO is the premier event designed to advance the public transportation industry and provide a platform for the exchange of ideas and information. Through unparalleled networking and a showcase of the latest innovations, technologies, and best practices, APTA EXPO is the place to immerse yourself into the industry while experiencing the latest in transit trends and initiatives, including, but not limited to, sustainability, enhanced mobility, autonomous vehicles, zero-emission/electric vehicles and infrastructure, passenger experience, technology, cleanliness, and safety and security.

    The TRANSform Conference (co-located with EXPO) features keynote speakers and educational sessions exploring critical topics such as transformative technology, mental health awareness, community building, innovative funding and finance, safety and security, workforce development, and worldwide mega projects

    TL;DR

    1. 1World's Largest Public Transportation Showcase – APTA EXPO is the premier triennial event for the public transportation industry, attracting over 12,000 attendees and 800+ exhibiting companies from 85 countries
    2. 2Cutting-Edge Technology & Mobility Solutions – Experience the latest in autonomous vehicles, zero-emission/electric vehicles, sustainability, safety and security, passenger experience, and more
    3. 3Unparalleled Networking & Learning – Connect with transit agency leaders, government officials, suppliers, manufacturers, and consultants from around the world. Free educational sessions are offered within Learning Zones on the show floor
    4. 4Flagship Conference & EXPO – APTA's TRANSform Conference runs alongside EXPO, featuring keynote speakers and sessions on transformative technology, workforce development, innovative funding, and international mega projects
    5. 5Free EXPO-Only Access – Registration for EXPO-only is free, making it accessible for all industry professionals to attend and explore the latest innovations

    Why visit

    APTA EXPO is the must-attend event for anyone involved in public transportation. As the largest showcase of its kind in North America, it offers a unique opportunity to: Discover the Latest Innovations – Explore cutting-edge autonomous and zero-emission/electric vehicle technology, sustainability solutions, safety and security advancements, and passenger experience innovations Network with Industry Leaders – Connect with over 12,000 attendees from 85 countries, including transit agency leaders, government officials, suppliers, manufacturers, and consultants Learn from Experts – Attend free educational sessions within the Learning Zones on the show floor, covering the latest public transportation topics and issues Experience the Future of Transit – Immerse yourself in the energy of Chicago, a city at the crossroads of transportation innovation, while engaging with industry leaders redefining every aspect of public transportation Access is Free – EXPO-only registration is free, making it easy for all industry professionals to attend

    Why exhibit

    APTA EXPO is the premier platform for exhibitors to showcase their products and services to the public transportation industry's top decision-makers. Every three years, EXPO brings together the industry's largest gathering of qualified buyers and influencers Connect with. Key Decision-Makers – Reach transit agency leaders, government officials, suppliers, manufacturers, and consultants from around the world who are actively seeking solutions Launch New Products – Leverage the opportunity to introduce new innovations to a highly targeted audience of industry professionals Increase Brand Awareness – Stand out among competitors and build brand recognition with the industry's most influential players Generate Qualified Leads – Attract qualified business prospects who are specifically looking for what you have to offer Flexible Exhibit Space Options – Space is available at competitive rates, with discounts for APTA members and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises Secure Your Booth Now – Space is filling up fast. Contact Ron Bates at +1-703-706-8230 or ron.bates@ntpevents.com to reserve your space

    Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

    Who this event is for

    Visitor profile

    Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

    Transit agency leaders and executives
    Government officials and policymakers
    Board members of transit authorities
    Suppliers and manufacturers of transit equipment and technology
    Consultants and engineering firms serving the transit industry
    Transit personnel and operations managers
    Students and early-career professionals (attending the free Transit Industry Job Fair)

    Exhibitor profile

    Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

    Vehicle manufacturers (buses, railcars, trolley buses, light rail)
    Technology providers (autonomous vehicle systems, AI, IoT, fleet management)
    Infrastructure and construction firms
    Component and parts suppliers (seating, HVAC, electrical systems, signage)
    Safety and security equipment providers
    Fare collection and passenger information system vendors
    Sustainability and clean energy solution providers
    Consulting and professional services firms

    Product categories

    Key solution areas showcased across the event.

    Autonomous Vehicles
    Zero-Emission/Electric Vehicles & Infrastructure
    Buses
    Rail and Railcars
    Technology & Software
    Safety & Security Equipment
    Passenger Experience Solutions
    Sustainability & Clean Energy
    Fleet Management Systems
    Maintenance & Operations Equipment

    Location & Facilities

    Venue

    Open in Google Maps

    Halls & areas

    4
    North BuildingSouth BuildingWest BuildingLakeside Center (East Building)

    McCormick Place Convention Center

    2301 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, 60616 Chicago, USA

    Entrances & gates

    South Building Main Entrance

    South Hall

    Located at 2301 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive

    North Building Main Entrance

    North Hall

    Located at 2301 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive

    West Building Main Entrance

    West Hall

    Located at 2301 S. Indiana Ave

    Lakeside Center Main Entrance

    Lakeside Center

    Located at 2301 S. Jean Baptiste Point DuSable Lake Shore Drive

    Floor plans & maps

    Hall & site plansVenue navigation mapOfficial venue page

    Facilities

    Parking

    McCormick Place6,000- .SpotHero- .Lot A(MLK DriveCermak Road)Hyatt Regency

    6,000 spaces · $30.00/day

    Accessibility

    McCormick PlaceADA.,,,./

    Charging points

    McCormick Place

    Food options

    McCormick Place Food Court, Showroom Food Hall, Hyatt Regency McCormick Place

    On-site dining

    Parking: McCormick Place has three main on-site parking lots: Lot A (2,100 spaces, 8' clearance, $21 for up to 16 hours, $32 for 16-24 hours, overnight parking available), Lot B (1,800 spaces, outdoor, flat $14/day, no overnight), and Lot C (1,900 spaces, 6'4" clearance, flat $21/day, no overnight) Events in the North, South, and West Buildings use Lot A as primary; events in Lakeside Center and Arie Crown Theater use Lot C Accessible parking is available in Lot A for South/North/West events and in Lot C for Lakeside events. Advance parking purchase recommended: https://www.mccormick.parkingguide.com/.

    Gate: McCormick Place has multiple transportation gates and loading zones. For rideshare pick-up during busy events, use Gate 40 (West Building on S. Indiana Ave) for faster exit. Key entrances: Gate 22 (Moe Drive, Security Office), South S1 Entrance (25th & King Drive), West Building Entrance (Prairie Ave., south of Cermak), Gate 40 Entrance (Lakeside), and North Security Entrance (21st Street)

    Attend

    Entry & tickets

    Free registration

    Event days & opening times

    DayOpening hours
    EXPO open October 5–7, 2026,9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Central Time)
    Event daysTRANSform Conference runs October 4–7, 2026
    Register

    Ticket info

    Badge collection

    EXPO-only access is free; TRANSform Conference requires separate paid registration. APTA members receive additional savings on TRANSform registration and for early registration

    Ticket notes

    EXPO-only access is free of charge. TRANSform Conference registration is paid and includes automatic EXPO access. Ticket prices for TRANSform vary; early-bird discounts available until August 21, 2026

    Who runs the show

    Organisers

    Ron Bates

    Account Executive

    EmailCallWebsite

    Deneen Pratt

    Sales & Event Services Representative

    EmailCallWebsite

    Christine Frye

    Sponsorship Assistance

    EmailCallWebsite

    Amy Thompson

    Media Contact

    EmailCallWebsite

    What's on

    Programme

    Topic tracks

    Transformative TechnologyZero-Emission & Electric VehiclesSafety & SecurityWorkforce DevelopmentInnovative Funding & FinanceWorldwide Mega Projects

    Co-located events

    APTA EXPO Job Fair

    Separate ticket

    Autonomous Vehicle Demonstration

    Separate ticket

    Awards

    APTA Awards

    Annual

    Recognizes excellence in the public transportation industry in North America, both on an individual and organizational level. Called the 'best of the best' of the public transportation industry, the APTA award winners are outstanding role models of excellence, leadership, and innovation whose accomplishments have greatly advanced public transportation. The 2026 awards honor 12 organizations and leaders for leadership, innovation and achievement, while inducting four industry veterans into its Hall of Fame. Categories include Outstanding Public Transportation System Achievement (divided into four ridership tiers), Innovation Awards, Outstanding Partnership, Distinguished Service, Outstanding CEO, Outstanding Board Member, and Outstanding Business Member

    Outstanding Public Transportation System AchievementInnovation AwardOutstanding Partnership in Public TransportationDistinguished Service AwardOutstanding Public Transportation Chief Executive OfficerOutstanding Public Transportation Board MemberOutstanding Public Transportation Business MemberHall of Fame
    source

    AdWheel Awards

    Annual

    Each year, APTA honors members' marketing, communications, and customer experience efforts with the AdWheel Awards. The 2026 competition will honor Grand Award winners at APTA TRANSform & EXPO, October 4-7, 2026 in Chicago

    MarketingCommunicationsCustomer Experience
    source

    Sponsors

    Genfare

    HDR

    WSP

    Opportunities Available – Contact Christine Frye at Cfrye@ntpshow.com

    Government supporters

    Federal Transit Administration

    Transit Cooperative Research Program Sponsor

    How the last edition performed

    Previous edition

    Current edition

    2026 · 12,000 visitors · 800 exhibitors

    APTA expects 800+ exhibiting companies and 12,000+ attendees for the 2026 edition, based on previous edition growth and pre-registration trends

    Forecast — not final

    Visitors

    12,000

    Exhibitors

    663

    Floor area (sqm)

    24,154

    Exhibitor countries

    70

    Visitor countries

    88

    Growth over time

    Edition recap

    The 2023 APTA TRANSform Conference & EXPO, held October 9-11 in Orlando, FL, was a resounding success, drawing approximately 12,000 attendees and 663 exhibitors from around the world – breaking the TRANSform Conference record for the second year in a row. The event featured the first-ever public transit equity summit, a federal partners update from the FTA, and a panel discussion with U.S. Representatives Sam Graves, Darren Soto, and Maxwell Frost. Keynote speaker Duncan Wardle, former head of innovation and creativity for Disney, inspired attendees, while APTA President and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas emphasized the transformative impact of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The EXPO floor showcased 650+ global suppliers across 260,000+ net square feet, with hands-on demonstrations of advanced buses, railcars, autonomous vehicles, and cutting-edge software. Educational sessions covered AI, augmented reality, sustainability, workforce development, and special event management. The event also hosted the APTA Honors Breakfast and Ceremony, celebrating industry excellence and leadership

    New this edition

    • 1

      First-Ever Equity Summit

      APTA hosted its first public transit equity summit at the 2023 edition, with national experts discussing the implications of recent Supreme Court decisions on transit equity

      Source
    • 2

      Autonomous Vehicle Demonstrations

      On-site demonstrations of autonomous vehicle technologies were offered at the 2023 EXPO, giving attendees a firsthand look at the future of mobility

      Source

    Testimonials

    APTA's expo is the largest public transportation event in the world. Our 2023 event in Orlando attracted approximately 12,000 attendees and 663 exhibitors from around the world

    Paul P. Skoutelas · President and CEO · American Public Transportation Association · 2023

    With over 11,000 attendees and 650+ exhibitors from around the world, the event showcased an awe-inspiring array of advanced buses, LRTs, trains, and a plethora of state-of-the-art software

    Jason Fitzpatrick · Team Member · Citylitics · 2023

    As a transit-obsessed student, finding APTA was an incredible stroke of luck—literally. it showed me that there was a place for someone like me in public transit, regardless of my college major

    Dylan Intwala · Student Member · APTA · 2023

    Next edition outlook

    2026-10-04 – 2026-10-07
    high

    APTA TRANSform & EXPO 2026 will take place October 4–7 at McCormick Place in Chicago—the first time the event has been held in the city since 1981 The event is expected to draw 800+ exhibitors and 12,000+ attendees from 85 countries, building on the momentum of the record-breaking 2023 edition. The conference agenda will address transformative technology, mental health awareness, community building, innovative funding and finance, safety and security, workforce development, and worldwide mega projects. Artificial intelligence is expected to be one of the dominant themes, with sessions exploring AI-powered predictive maintenance, customer communications, scheduling optimization, and security applications. Sustainability remains a key focus, with sessions on battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, charging infrastructure, resiliency planning, and strategies for meeting long-term environmental goals. The EXPO floor will feature the latest buses, rail vehicles, charging systems, fare payment technologies, passenger information systems, maintenance equipment, software platforms, and mobility solutions. Chicago's status as a major multimodal transportation hub provides an ideal setting for discussions on the future of mobility

    Relocation to Chicago's McCormick Place after multiple editions in Orlando, offering a new venue and city experience Increased emphasis on AI and autonomous technologies as dominant themes throughout the conference agenda Expanded focus on zero-emission fleets and sustainability, reflecting the accelerating transition to battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles Continued evolution of the educational program to include mental health awareness and workforce development as priority tracks Enhanced international participation, building on the 85 countries represented in 2023

    Impact

    A bigger and stronger platform

    The 2023 APTA TRANSform Conference & EXPO was a resounding success, drawing approximately 12,000 verified attendees and 663 exhibitors from around the world—breaking the TRANSform Conference attendance record for the second year in a row. The event underscored the industry's resilience and forward momentum, with a strong focus on technology adoption, workforce development, equity, and sustainability. Key sessions included the first-ever public transit equity summit, a federal partners update from the FTA, and a bipartisan panel discussion with U.S. Representatives Sam Graves, Darren Soto, and Maxwell Frost. The EXPO floor spanned 260,000+ net square feet (approx. 24,154 sqm) and featured 650+ global suppliers showcasing advanced buses, railcars, autonomous vehicles, AI-powered software, and cutting-edge components. The event also hosted the APTA Honors Breakfast and Ceremony, celebrating industry excellence and leadership. The strong turnout and packed agenda signaled a major industry appetite for innovation and collaboration, positioning APTA EXPO as the definitive gathering for public transportation professionals worldwide

    Audience quality

    High-value decision-makers

    The 2023 edition attracted a high-caliber audience of approximately 12,000 verified attendees, including transit agency executives, government officials, technology providers, manufacturers, consultants, and business leaders from 88 countries. The attendee base was characterized by decision-makers actively engaged in major procurement, technology evaluation, and strategic planning. The presence of 663 exhibitors—including 215 first-time exhibitors—and participation from 70 countries among exhibitors underscored the event's global reach and the quality of professional exchange. Sessions and panels featured speakers from top-tier agencies and corporations, including the New York MTA, Dallas Area Rapid Transit, Chicago Transit Authority, and leading manufacturers like NFI The strong turnout of senior leadership and the depth of technical and policy discussions affirmed the event's reputation as the premier gathering for North American transit professionals

    Exhibitor outcomes

    Real business growth

    Exhibitor feedback from the 2023 edition was overwhelmingly positive. NFI Group, a leading bus and coach manufacturer, recapped a 'successful week' attending the event, showcasing its mobility solutions ecosystem and market-leading vehicle lineup, with attendance from all its subsidiaries. NFI President and CEO Paul Soubry noted it was 'fantastic to reconnect with our customers, suppliers, and industry partners' and expressed pride in displaying the company's commitment to the North American transportation industry. Scheidt & Bachmann reported 'many interested visitors' came to their booth to discuss fare collection technology requirements and the challenges of digitizing public transport, describing 'great exchanges with valued customers, esteemed partners, and renowned industry experts.'- Amsted Rail declared the event 'a resounding success' and expressed confidence that their presence left a lasting impression on attendees. The high volume of qualified leads, the opportunity to launch new products (such as NFI's extended-range battery-electric buses), and the ability to engage with decision-makers on large-scale procurement projects contributed to strong exhibitor ROI

    Intelligence

    Market context

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

    Why it matters

    APTA EXPO,. :APTA1,700,90% .APTA EXPO,,,.202312,000,85 . :《》《》1,650 . ,- . :,EXPO——800,,, .,,, . :15%,,“”“” .APTA EXPO . :APTA,1,5

    Industry trends

    Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

    01

    :

    100%, .“”,,,,V2G .,2026

    Source
    02

    《》

    APTA EXPO 2026《》《》, ., .8%

    Source
    05

    :'Buy America'

    “Buy America” .FTA

    Source

    Market news

    Latest updates from across the market.

    2026-08-25

    APTA2026 TRANSform Conference & EXPO

    APTA2026105,.ABC Companies,Alstom,Chicago Transit Authority(CTA),Wabtec,WSP15

    Read
    2026-08-10

    APTA TRANSform & EXPO 2026

    APTA TRANSform & EXPO 20261047,,,,,.800

    Read
    2026-07-29

    APTA2026 TRANSform & EXPO

    APTA TRANSform & EXPO20261047,.,,,.80012,000

    Read
    2026-07-03

    Clever Devices

    Clever Devices

    Read

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    Plan your trip

    Travel & logistics

    Local currency · USD

    Arrival airports

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

    ORD

    Chicago O'Hare International Airport

    :CTAClark/Lake,Cermak-McCormick Place,115,$5 ./:Uber$52 ,$52-55 .McCormick Place$30/

    21 miles

    to venue

    26-50 minutes

    by car

    MDW

    Chicago Midway International Airport

    :CTALoop,,321.5- ./:$30-40 ,.McCormick Place$22/

    11 miles

    to venue

    15-25 minutes

    by car

    Hotel tiers

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

    /
    (,)

    USD 350–700 / night

    (The Peninsula Chicago), (Park Hyatt Chicago) . (Hyatt Regency McCormick Place)

    /
    (South Loop)

    USD 230–350 / night

    (McCormick Square), (Hilton Garden Inn), (Hampton Inn) Home2 Suites

    /
    (South Loop)

    USD 140–230 / night

    Best Western Grant Park

    Local transport

    Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

    CTA

    Estimated cost$2.25(,Ventra)
    Best for#3 King Drive

    15.“McCormick Place”

    CTA

    Estimated cost$2.25(,Ventra)
    Best for#21 Cermak

    CTA

    Estimated cost$2.25(,Ventra)
    Best for#4 Cottage Grove

    CTA

    Estimated cost$2.25(,Ventra)
    Best for#1 Bronzeville/Union Station

    8

    CTA 'L'

    Estimated cost$2.50(,Ventra)
    Best forCermak-McCormick Place

    McCormick Place7,(Loop)L

    Metra

    Estimated cost$4.00 - $10.00(,)
    Best for(Electric District Line)- McCormick Place

    (Millennium Station),7.McCormick PlaceGrand Concourse2.5

    (South Shore Line)

    Estimated costCost TBA
    Best for(South Bend)

    APTA EXPO,McCormick Place

    /

    Estimated cost$23-$36+
    Best forMcCormick Place

    McCormick Place(Lot A,B,C),.,Lot A

    Plan your trip

    Visa & entry documents

    Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

    Visa required
    ATA Carnet: accepted
    TypeWho needs itFeeProcessing
    B-1(VWP)/$185.003-6
    ESTAVWP/,90$40.0072

    2026,VWP/:,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,- ./ESTA90

    ATA,/ .ATA, .:ATA .2500,ATA(TIB) .ATA(USCIB),Roanoke Tradeboomerang carnets

    Official visa page

    Weather

    10,61°F (16°C),48°F (9°C)- .3.5(89mm)

    Plan for the climate

    Check temperatures and pack accordingly

    Venue connectivity

    : (ORD)(MDW).: CTACermak-McCormick PlaceMcCormick Place7 ;Metra(Metra Electric District Line)McCormick PlaceGrand Concourse 2.5,7 .: CTA #1,#3 King Drive,#4 Cottage Grove,#21 CermakMcCormick Place ./: ARRO,CURBAPP ,UberLyft

    Ride-hailing

    Taxis

    Public transit

    Car rentals

    Cultural notes

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

    Chicago: America's Transportation Hub

    Chicago is the largest city in the U.S. Midwest and one of North America's most important transportation hubs. The city boasts an extensive multi-modal network including heavy rail, commuter rail, bus, and intercity passenger services. APTA EXPO 2026's return to Chicago—the first time since 1981—underscores the city's role as a nexus of transportation innovation and industry. Beyond the convention, Chicago offers world-class museums, architecture, and dining. Top attractions include the Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Magnificent Mile

    Dress Code & Etiquette

    APTA EXPO is a professional business event; business formal or business casual attire is recommended. Chicago weather in October is cool and variable, so bring a jacket and comfortable walking shoes. Plan ahead for the large campus and allow extra time for security screening

    Chicago Dining & Local Flavors

    Chicago is famous for deep-dish pizza, Italian beef sandwiches, and hot dogs. The area around McCormick Place and the South Loop offers a wide variety of dining options, from casual to fine dining. The CTA and rideshares make it easy to explore neighborhoods like Chinatown, the Loop, and River North for diverse culinary experiences

    Practical guides

    Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

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

    Flights

    Destination: Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)

    2-3.10,.ORD,;MDW

    Visa

    APTA EXPO 2026B-1(VWP)ESTA(VWP).B-1, .VWPESTA90 .ESTA

    Estimated cost: Not yet confirmed

    Processing: B-1:,3-6;ESTA:72

    APTA EXPO 2026- .:,.APTA EXPO

    Official

    Hotels

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

    Areas to stay

    / (McCormick Square / McCormick Place) · (South Loop) · / (Downtown / The Loop) · (Magnificent Mile)

    /

    $350 - $700+

    /

    $230 - $350

    /

    $140 - $230

    Transport

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

    Airport → venue: (ORD):CTACermak-McCormick Place ,/($52+).** (MDW)**:CTA,/($30-40)

    Hotel → venue: :(skybridge)McCormick Place .:CTA(Cermak-McCormick Place ),Metra(McCormick Place )(#3 King Drive,#21 Cermak )

    Ride-hail: UberLyft

    Public transit: (CTA)8'L'100 .McCormick PlaceCermak-McCormick Place #3 King Drive,#21 Cermak .Metra

    Parking: McCormick Place.,Lot A16$27- .(Chicago South Loop Hotel)

    Weather

    Plan and pack for the event climate.

    Month: October

    Temperature: 48°F - 61°F (9°C - 16°C)

    Seasonality: 3.5(89mm)

    Packing: :T

    Itinerary builder

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

    Add side trips

    Default day plan

    1. 8:00 AMArrive at McCormick Place, collect badge, grab coffee
    2. 9:00 AM:00 PMAttend keynote sessions and educational tracks at TRANSform Conference
    3. 12:00 PM:30 PMLunch break at on-site food court or nearby restaurant (e.g., Showroom Food Hall at Marriott Marquis)
    4. 1:30 PM:00 PMExplore EXPO floor, visit exhibitor booths, network, attend Learning Zone sessions
    5. 5:00 PM:00 PMNetworking reception or happy hour (check event schedule)
    6. 6:30 PM onwardsDinner in South Loop or Chinatown; optional evening attraction (e.g., Museum Campus, lakefront walk)

    Plan your trip

    Planning

    Best day to visit: Tuesday, October 6

    Tuesday is typically the busiest day of the EXPO, with the highest number of exhibitors and attendees on the floor. Keynotes, major sessions, and the APTA Awards ceremony often take place on Tuesday, making it the most comprehensive day for content, networking, and deal-making

    Sample visitor itinerary

    Route-optimised day
    8:00 AM

    McCormick Place

    9:00 AM:00 PM

    TRANSform Conference

    12:00 PM:30 PM

    (Showroom Food Hall)

    McCormick PlaceMarriott Marquis
    1:30 PM:00 PM

    EXPO,,Learning Zone

    Side trips

    8

    (Field Museum)

     

     

    2 / 10

    (Shedd Aquarium)

     

     

    2 / 10

    (Adler Planetarium)

     

     

    2 / 10

    (Chinatown)

     

     

    1 / 20

    (Ping Tom Memorial Park)

     

     

    1 / 15

    (Millennium Park)

    /

    (“”)

    2.5 / 15

    (Lakefront Trail)

     

     

     

    (Soldier Field)

     

     

    2 / 10

    Networking spots

    6

    EXPO

     

     

     

    Learning Zones

     

     

     

    TRANSform Conference

     

     

     

    APTA EXPO

     

    1054:00-5:00

     

    Hyatt Regency McCormick Place

    /

     

     

    Marriott Marquis Chicago

    /

     

     

    Budget

    Costs & budget

    Shell scheme

    Not yet confirmed

    Raw space

    USD 204.51–516.67 / m²

    Standard booth

    9 m²

    Rates are per net square foot (nsf) and converted to USD per square meter. Standard Rate: $48/nsf; Member Rate: $32/nsf; Disadvantaged Business Rate: $19/nsf. Shell scheme pricing not published; standard booth size not explicitly stated on official site

    source

    Build your working budget

    Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.

    Estimated budget
    Live estimate
    • Hotel × 4 nights$600.00
    • Per diem × 4$400.00
    • Visa$185.00
    • Insurance$200.00
    • Flight — Economy (Domestic)$300.00
    Estimated total$1,685.00

    This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.

    Cost reference

    Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.

    (9㎡)

    exhibitor

    USD 7500 / per booth

    estimateAs of 2026-08-31

    B-1

    both

    USD 185 / per application

    officialAs of 2026-08-31

    ESTA

    both · VWP

    USD 40 / per application

    officialAs of 2026-08-31

    Decision

    Visit, exhibit, or skip?

    Should you go?

    APTA EXPO 2026

    QUESTION 1 OF 4

    ？

    Decision matrix

    Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.

    visit

    Assess how this option fits your objectives.

    Best for

    Not yet confirmed

    Min. budget

    $1,500.00

    Timeline

    4-6,;3

    Risks

    10

    exhibit

    Assess how this option fits your objectives.

    Best for

    Not yet confirmed

    Min. budget

    $8,000.00

    Timeline

    6-8;4;2

    Risks

    ($8,000-$15,000+)

    ATA

    skip

    APTA

    Best for

    Not yet confirmed

    Min. budget

    Not yet confirmed

    Timeline

    Not applicable

    Risks

    No major risks listed.

    Book with

    Partners

    Mass Transit

    Media Partner

    Official media partner covering APTA EXPO 2026

    Visit partner Confidence: officially_confirmed

    Listed as media partner on APTA EXPO website

    METRO Magazine

    Media Partner

    Official media partner covering APTA EXPO 2026

    Visit partner Confidence: officially_confirmed

    Listed as media partner on APTA EXPO website

    Railway Gazette International

    Media Partner

    Official media partner covering APTA EXPO 2026

    Visit partner Confidence: officially_confirmed

    Listed as media partner on APTA EXPO website

    Progressive Railroading

    Media Partner

    Official media partner covering APTA EXPO 2026

    Visit partner Confidence: officially_confirmed

    Listed as media partner on APTA EXPO website

    Urban Transport

    Media Partner

    Official media partner covering APTA EXPO 2026

    Visit partner Confidence: officially_confirmed

    Listed as media partner on APTA EXPO website

    Busline

    Media Partner

    Official media partner covering APTA EXPO 2026

    Visit partner Confidence: officially_confirmed

    Listed as media partner on APTA EXPO website

    Cities Today

    Media Partner

    Official media partner covering APTA EXPO 2026

    Visit partner Confidence: officially_confirmed

    Listed as media partner on APTA EXPO website

    Minority Business Entrepreneur

    Media Partner

    Official media partner covering APTA EXPO 2026

    Visit partner Confidence: officially_confirmed

    Listed as media partner on APTA EXPO website

    National Bus Trader

    Media Partner

    Official media partner covering APTA EXPO 2026

    Visit partner Confidence: officially_confirmed

    Listed as media partner on APTA EXPO website

    FAQs & glossary

    Answers

    Frequently asked

    Glossary

    1
    APTA
    American Public Transportation Association – the leading organization representing the public transportation industry in North America, organizing the APTA EXPO
    2
    TRANSform Conference
    APTA's flagship annual conference featuring workshops, technical tours, keynote speakers, and educational sessions on critical industry topics. Registration for TRANSform includes EXPO access
    3
    EXPO
    The exhibition component of APTA's TRANSform & EXPO, showcasing the latest products, services, technologies, and innovations in public transportation. EXPO-only access is free
    4
    Zero-Emission/Electric Vehicles
    Buses, railcars, and other transit vehicles powered by electric batteries or fuel cells, producing no tailpipe emissions. A key focus area at APTA EXPO
    5
    Autonomous Vehicles
    Self-driving transit vehicles and mobility systems that operate without human intervention, using sensors, AI, and connectivity. Featured prominently at EXPO

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