October Special — 50% off Spotlights and exhibitor listsSee prices

    Dates

    15–18 Jun 2026

    City / country

    Long Beach, USA

    Venue

    Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center

    Time

    8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

    20 Floor Picks

    Matched booths for Augmented World Expo AWE USA

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    Notable exhibitors

    Companies exhibiting at Augmented World Expo AWE USA include 4Dviews, Aequilibrium, Applied Materials India Pvt Ltd, AR insider and ArborXR.

    • 4Dviews
    • Aequilibrium
    • Applied Materials India Pvt Ltd
    • AR insider
    • ArborXR

    Event overview

    Overview

    AWE USA 2026 is the premier gathering for the extended reality (XR) and artificial intelligence (AI) community. This 17th edition marks a historic turning point for the industry, with massive smartglasses launches and AI taking center stage.

    Under the theme 'I, Spatial', the event focuses on the essential role XR plays in restoring human agency in an AI world. The four-day format (June 15, 2026) at the Long Beach Convention Center includes a dedicated Ecosystem Day (June 15) with specialized workshops and a welcome party, followed by three full days of the expo floor and sessions across 16 tracks

    TL;DR

    1. 1AWE USA 2026 is the world's #1 XR and AI conference, now in its
    2. 2The event runs from June 15, 2026 at the Long Beach Convention Center, featuring
    3. 3The theme 'I, Spatial' emphasizes human agency in an AI world, with dedicated pavilions
    4. 4Attendees can experience hands-on demos from 250+ exhibitors, hear from 400+ speakers across 16
    5. 5The expo hall is 10% larger, includes three dedicated expo stages, and features a

    Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

    Who this event is for

    Visitor profile

    Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

    Enterprise leaders and IT decision-makers from Fortune 500 companies and government sectors looking to adopt XR and AI solutions
    Developers, builders, and early-stage startups seeking to showcase their innovations, network with investors, and find talent
    Investors, VCs, and publishers scouting for the next big opportunity in the XR and AI space
    Gaming studios, LBE venue operators, and content creators interested in the latest in immersive entertainment and location-based experiences
    Media, press, and tech influencers covering major hardware launches and industry announcements
    Academics, researchers, and students engaged in cutting-edge XR, AI, and robotics research
    General enthusiasts, independents, and freelancers passionate about the future of spatial computing and immersive technology

    Exhibitor profile

    Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

    Technology platforms and hardware manufacturers with over 500 employees, such as Snap Inc, Qualcomm, Nvidia, and Google, showcasing the latest in AR, VR, MR, and AI
    Solution providers, agencies, consultancies, and labs offering XR and AI services for enterprise and government adoption
    Startups with a product, some funding, and revenue, looking to gain market exposure and connect with investors and partners
    Gaming studios, LBE venue operators, and manufacturers demonstrating the latest in immersive gaming and location-based entertainment
    Art and creative studios producing narrative XR, immersive films, 3D, and special effects
    Research institutions and academic groups presenting cutting-edge work in healthcare, AI, and robotics

    Product categories

    Key solution areas showcased across the event.

    Spatial Computing
    Extended Reality (XR)
    Augmented Reality (AR)
    Virtual Reality (VR)
    Mixed Reality (MR)
    Artificial Intelligence (AI)
    Physical AI
    Robotics
    Smart Glasses
    Digital Twins
    Reality Capture
    Gaming
    Location-Based Entertainment (LBE)
    Haptics
    Bio-interfaces
    5G
    Streaming
    Startups
    Investment

    Location & Facilities

    Venue

    Open in Google Maps

    Halls & areas

    17
    Expo HallGrand BallroomPromenade LobbyRoom 101ARoom 101BRoom 102ARoom 102BRoom 103CRoom 104ARoom 104BRoom 104CExhibition Hall AExhibition Hall BExhibition Hall CSeaside BallroomTerrace TheaterArena

    Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center

    300 East Ocean Boulevard, 90802 Long Beach, USA

    Entrances & gates

    Main Entrance / Promenade Lobby

    Promenade LobbyExpo Hall

    Primary registration and badge pickup location. All attendees must check in here

    Seaside Way Entrance

    Exhibition Hall AExhibition Hall BExhibition Hall C

    North entrance to the exhibit halls; convenient parking turnout on Seaside Way

    Floor plans & maps

    Official venue page

    Facilities

    Parking

    The Long Beach Convention Center has over 4,000 parking spaces across three garages (Terrace, Arena, Promenade) and one ground-level lot. Daily parking is typically a flat rate of $15 with no in-and-out privileges. Rates may vary by event and are in effect seven days a week. Event parking can range from $10–$25 depending on the event

    4,000 spaces · $15.00/day

    Accessibility

    The Long Beach Convention Center is fully ADA-compliant. Designated ADA parking is available in all four parking structures with a valid disabled placard. Accessible seating, companion seats, and assistive listening devices are available in theaters. Ramps and elevators are throughout the complex. Staff are trained in emergency evacuation procedures. For specific accommodations, contact the venue at 562-436-3636 or info@longbeachcc.com

    Cloakroom

    A free bag and coat check service is available in the Promenade Lobby during registration hours

    Charging points

    Charging outlets are available throughout the convention center. Bringing a portable power bank is recommended

    Food options

    Seaside Café, Seaside Deli, Long Beach Grill, Center Café, Coffee Shop, Promenade Café, Bogart & Co

    On-site dining

    Parking: The Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center has more than 4,000 parking spaces in three parking garages and one ground level lot. Terrace Theater Garage: 800 spaces (generally open for theater events). Arena Parking Garage: 1,460 spaces (open for conventions, tradeshows, and Arena events). Promenade Parking Garage: 350 spaces (open for conventions, tradeshows, special events). Main Parking Lot along Shoreline Drive: 1,500 spaces. Paid parking is available at each lot; rates vary by event (typically $10–$25). No in-and-out privileges; no overnight parking

    Gate: The Main Entrance is at the Promenade Lobby on Ocean Boulevard. The Seaside Ballroom entrance is on Seaside Way, with easy access to the exhibit halls’ north entrance doors. The Box Office is adjacent to the Pacific Ballroom on South Hart Place

    Attend

    Entry & tickets

    Trade-only

    Event days & opening times

    DayOpening hours
    Monday, June 15Registration 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Workshops 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM, Welcome Party 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
    Tuesday, June 16Registration 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM, Sessions 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Expo 11:00 AM – 5:30 PM
    Wednesday, June 17Registration 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM, Sessions 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM, Expo 11:00 AM – 5:30 PM
    Thursday, June 18Registration 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM, Sessions 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM, Expo 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

    • General

      Regular price $1,195, discounted to $995; late pricing begins June 2

      $995.00

    • Executive VIP

      Regular price $1,999, discounted to $1,495

      $1,495.00

    • Enterprise VIP

      Application/approval required

    • Government VIP

      Application/approval required

    • Investor and Startups Program

      Application/approval required

    Register

    Ticket info

    Badge collection

    Early badge pickup is available Monday, June 15 from 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM at the LBCC Main Entrance/Promenade Lobby to avoid Tuesday morning rush. Attendees must check in at the registration area with the QR code from their confirmation email; badges print instantly and must be worn at all times. AWE has a no-reprint policy for lost badges

    Ticket notes

    General pass: $995 (late pricing from June 2). Executive VIP: $1,495. Enterprise VIP, Government VIP, Investor and Startups Program: $0 (application/approval required). Special programs and discounts start at $375

    Build-up & tear-down

    Setup starts15 Jun 2026
    Setup ends15 Jun 2026
    Teardown starts18 Jun 2026
    Teardown ends18 Jun 2026

    Who runs the show

    Organisers

    AWE XR, LLC

    Organizer

    EmailCallWebsite

    What's on

    Programme

    2

    Keynote

    2

    Lightning Round

    TBA

    Event days

    09:00–17:00

    Typical time

    Official agenda
    This agenda is still being finalised. Check the official agenda for the latest sessions.

    Speakers

    OI

    Ori Inbar

    CEO and Co-Founder @ AWE and Super Ventures

    Welcome Keynote I, Spatial: Humans Empowered by Spatial AI

    ES

    Evan Spiegel

    Co-Founder and CEO @ Snap Inc

    Making Computing More Human

    ZA

    Ziad Asghar

    SVP & GM of XR @ Qualcomm

    DC

    David Chu

    VP of Spatial Computing and XR @ Nvidia

    BS

    Bilawal Sidhu

    TED Conferences

    Democratization of geospatial data

    TC

    Travis Cloyd

    California Institute of the Arts

    The Wild West of Storytelling

    DW

    Deborah Worrell

    Observe Media

    The Wild West of Storytelling

    BZ

    Billy Zane

    Actor and Futurist @ The Convergence Lab

    The Wild West of Storytelling

    MM

    Matt Miesnieks

    Stealth Mode AI Startup

    Demystifying World Models

    SL

    Sharon Lee

    Moonlake AI

    Demystifying World Models

    SH

    Sydney Hamilton

    Boeing

    AL

    Andrew Lowe

    Rolls-Royce

    JC

    James Cooper

    Raytheon

    AG

    Alex Goldberg

    Blue Origin

    EF

    Erik Fuentes

    VP of Innovation @ Chase

    JB

    Jamie Barras

    Fidelity Center for Applied Technology

    AO

    Andy O'Sullivan

    Senior Innovation Consultant @ Liberty Mutual

    SP

    Shelley Peterson

    Founder | XR Industry Pioneer @ Wizard Wells

    XR's Future in Aerospace and Defense

    GW

    Guy Wagner

    Founder and Chief Science Officer @ Wearable Devices

    How Brain-Computer Interfaces Eliminate Friction in AR and AI Interaction

    CH

    Cortney Harding

    Expert

    Implementing Smartglasses + AI in Industry

    MS

    Mark Sage

    Expert

    Scaling AR Solutions Beyond Pilot Purgatory

    09:00 – 09:25

    AWE USA 2026 Welcome Keynote I, Spatial – Humans Empowered by Spatial AI

    Keynote
    Main StageGrand Ballroom
    09:30 – 10:00

    Making Computing More Human

    Keynote
    Main StageGrand Ballroom
    12:00 – 12:45

    Builders Lightning Round #1

    Lightning Round
    Builders StageExpo Hall
    12:00 – 13:00

    XR's Future in Aerospace and Defense: Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Opportunities

    Roundtable
    Enterprise VIPRoom 104C
    12:00 – 13:00

    Achieving Scalable, Predictable ROI through XR Implementation

    Roundtable
    Enterprise VIPRoom 104C
    13:00 – 13:45

    Builders Lightning Round #2

    Lightning Round
    Builders StageExpo Hall
    13:40 – 14:05

    SPECS: The Power of a Fully-Integrated AR Stack

    Panel
    Main StageGrand Ballroom
    14:00 – 15:00

    Implementing Smartglasses + AI in Industry

    Roundtable
    Enterprise VIPRoom 104C
    14:10 – 14:35

    Android XR and Project Aura: Enterprise XR Gets Real

    Session
    Main StageGrand Ballroom
    16:00 – 17:00

    Scaling AR Solutions Beyond Pilot Purgatory

    Roundtable
    Enterprise VIPRoom 104C

    Topic tracks

    Main StageEnterpriseDigital Twins & Virtual EnvironmentsResearch & EducationXR PolicyRetail & MarketingStartups & InvestorsCreatorDeveloperXR EnablementEntertainment & MediaAI + XRGaming & LBEHealthcare & WellnessBuildersImmersive Video & Art

    Co-located events

    Auggie Awards Ceremony

    Separate ticket

    Startup Pitch Competition

    Separate ticket

    Art Festival Showcase

    Separate ticket

    Community Hack

    Separate ticket

    Builders Lightning Rounds

    Separate ticket

    Co-located seminars

    Designed to Disappear: Why Developers Are Choosing the Even Realities G2

    Paid

    Builder to Founder Workshop

    Paid

    Android XR: High-Performance Development Across Engines and Form Factors

    Paid

    Enterprise VIP Program

    Paid

    Awards

    Auggie Awards

    Annual

    The most recognized XR and spatial computing awards in the world since 2010. Now in their 17th year, the Auggies showcase the best in augmented, virtual, and mixed reality, with 18 categories plus Startup to Watch and Art Festival winner categories

    Best Art or FilmBest CampaignBest Consumer AppBest Content Creation ToolBest Content Creator(s)Best Developer ToolBest Education & Training SolutionBest Enterprise SolutionBest Game or ToyBest Headworn DeviceBest Healthcare & Wellness SolutionBest Indie Creator(s)Best Interaction ProductBest Location-Based EntertainmentBest Reality CaptureBest Societal ImpactBest Use of AIEthical XR Product of the Year
    source

    Best in Show

    Annual

    Awarded to the most impactful exhibitors based on buzz across the show floor, social media chatter, booth traffic, and overall wow-factor. Winners announced during the event wrap-up

    Best in ShowBest in Show PlaygroundBest in Show LBE ZoneMost Impactful Winner
    source

    XR Hall of Fame

    Annual

    Honors pioneers who have made lasting contributions to the field of XR. Eight pioneers were inducted in 2026

    source

    Sponsors

    Road to VR

    Qualcomm

    Lenovo

    Pico

    Trifork

    ScopeAR

    MASA

    Cleanbox Technology

    JADU AR

    Snap

    Virtual World Society

    Hurricane Productions

    Government supporters

    National IT Industry Promotion Agency (NIPA)

    Supporter (K-Digital Contents Pavilion)

    How the last edition performed

    Previous edition

    Current edition

    2026 · 5,000 visitors · 250 exhibitors

    Organiser forecast of 250+ exhibitors and 5,000+ attendees, as stated on the official AWE at a Glance page and in multiple event recaps

    Forecast — not final

    Visitors

    5,000

    Exhibitors

    250

    Floor area (sqm)

    13,935

    Growth over time

    New this edition

    • 1

      Physical AI & Robotics Pavilion

      A dedicated pavilion showcasing robotics and physical AI, reflecting the growing integration of AI with spatial computing

      Source
    • 2

      Smart Glasses Pavilion

      A dedicated area for smart glasses manufacturers and developers to demonstrate the latest wearable AR technology

      Source
    • 3

      Reality Capture & Digital Twins Pavilion

      A pavilion focused on reality capture technologies and digital twin applications

      Source
    • 4

      Expanded Gaming & LBE Hub

      An expanded hub for gaming and location-based entertainment, featuring a dedicated LBE zone

      Source
    • 5

      Inaugural Art Festival

      A new art festival showcasing immersive and spatial artworks from global creators

      Source
    • 6

      Research Poster Sessions

      New research poster presentations highlighting academic and industry research in XR

      Source
    • 7

      Enterprise VIP Program

      An exclusive program for enterprise and government VIPs with curated roundtables and networking

      Source
    • 8

      Four-Day Format

      Expanded to four days (June 15-18) with a dedicated Ecosystem Day on June 15

      Source

    Next edition outlook

    2026
    confirmed

    AWE USA 2026 builds on the mainstream momentum of 2025 with a new four-day format (June 15–18), a 10% larger expo hall, and a theme centered on human agency in the age of Spatial AI: 'I, Spatial.' The 17th edition introduces dedicated pavilions for Physical AI & Robots, Smart Glasses, Reality Capture & Digital Twins, and an expanded Gaming & LBE Hub. With 250+ exhibitors, 400+ speakers, and 5,000+ attendees expected, the event positions itself as both a technology showcase and a cultural festival, featuring an inaugural Art Festival, research poster sessions, and an expanded Enterprise VIP program. The market is projected to see significant growth, with spatial revenue expected to increase from $28.5 billion in 2025 to $61.4 billion in 2030

    Four-day format with a dedicated Ecosystem Day on June 15 featuring specialized workshops and a welcome party 10% larger expo floor with new pavilions: Physical AI & Robots, Smart Glasses, Reality Capture & Digital Twins Expanded Gaming & LBE Hub with dedicated zone for theme parks, FECs, and VR arcades Inaugural AWE Art Festival showcasing immersive and spatial artworks New research poster sessions bridging academic labs and industry applications Enhanced Enterprise VIP program with curated roundtables for enterprise and government leaders Deeper integration of spatial AI and world models across all tracks

    Impact

    A bigger and stronger platform

    AWE USA 2025 marked a definitive turning point for the XR industry, signaling that spatial computing has moved from vision to reality. The event's theme, 'XR is going mainstream,' was validated by the maturity of hardware, the readiness of development tools, and AI's role in lowering barriers to entry. With over 5,000 attendees, 250 exhibitors, and 450 speakers, the 16th edition demonstrated XR's expanding role across industries—from gaming and entertainment to enterprise, healthcare, and education. Major announcements from Snap (consumer-ready Spectacles coming in 2026), Google (Android XR and Project Aura), and Qualcomm (Snapdragon AR1+ Gen1) underscored the industry's momentum. The launch of the Builders Nexus accelerator signaled AWE's deepened commitment to nurturing early-stage XR creators. Overall, the event proved that XR is no longer a futuristic concept but an infrastructure-ready technology poised for mainstream adoption

    Audience quality

    High-value decision-makers

    AWE USA 2025 drew a high-caliber, decision-maker-heavy audience of over 5,000 XR professionals, including developers, C-level executives, investors, enterprise adopters, and creators from Fortune 500 companies, government sectors, and top tech firms. The attendee mix included representatives from Google, Meta, Snap, Qualcomm, Lucasfilm, Niantic, and XREAL, among others. The event's strong industry focus and high-level networking opportunities were noted as clear advantages. The audience was actively engaged in hands-on demos, deep-dive track sessions, and startup pitch competitions, reflecting a community ready to move from pilots to scalable deployments

    Exhibitor outcomes

    Real business growth

    AWE USA 2025 provided exhibitors with direct access to the XR industry's most concentrated gathering of buyers, decision-makers, and media. With 250+ exhibitors showcasing across a 150,000 sq ft expo floor, the event generated significant buzz and lead-generation opportunities. Major brands like Snap, Google, Qualcomm, and Samsung Display used the event as a launchpad for high-profile product announcements, demonstrating the platform's value for market visibility. The Best in Show Awards, determined by show floor buzz, social media chatter, and booth traffic, underscored the competitive and high-energy environment. Enterprise-focused roundtables on measuring XR ROI and building scalable business cases provided additional value for exhibitors targeting enterprise buyers

    Intelligence

    Market context

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

    North America (Global)

    Why it matters

    AWE USA 2026 matters because it marks a historic turning point where XR and AI converge into practical, everyday technology. The event is the world's most concentrated gathering of the XR and AI ecosystem, bringing together Fortune 500 companies, government sectors, top-tier media, and the most influential tech providers under one roof. This year's edition felt different, with a clear shift in tone from possibility to practicality—one of the clearest reasons AWE USA 2026 matters. With 5,000+ attendees, 250+ exhibitors, and 400+ speakers across 16 tracks, the event serves as the XR industry's 'festival of festivals'—bringing together every corner of the ecosystem under one roof Major hardware launches from Snap, Qualcomm, and XREAL signaled the industry's shift from experimental novelty to integrated, transformative platform. The event's expansion into a cultural festival—with art, research, gaming, and enterprise tracks—reflects XR's maturation into a medium that matters across every sector of society. As Ori Inbar noted in his keynote, 'real-world serendipity is the one thing AI can never replace,'- 1 and AWE provides that human connection at scale. The market is projected to grow significantly, with XR2030610

    Industry trends

    Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

    01

    Spatial AI and Physical AI Convergence

    AI is now the central story of XR. The industry is moving from language models to full-scale world simulators that learn how the physical world works through experience, altering both robotics and spatial computing. AWE 2026 introduced a new Physical AI & Robots Pavilion, reflecting this convergence

    Source
    02

    Smart Glasses Commercial Rush

    AI smartglasses are exploding into a massive commercial race. The current competition centers on balancing cameras, displays, and user privacy to pass the 'coffee shop test'. Major launches at AWE 2026 included Snap's next-generation SPECS and XREAL's AURA

    Source
    03

    Enterprise XR Scaling from Pilots to Operations

    The conversation has shifted from possibility to practicality. Enterprise sessions at AWE 2026 focused on moving beyond pilots to scalable, measurable deployments. Key success factors include dedicated internal champions, upfront ROI tracking (e.g., Mars Wrigley's $20 million savings example), and device-agnostic ecosystems

    Source
    04

    XR as a Cultural and Creative Medium

    AWE is evolving from a technology showcase into a cultural festival. The 2026 edition featured an inaugural Art Festival with 15 curated immersive artworks, a Research Poster Track, and the XR Hall of Fame inductions, highlighting the industry's maturation into a creative and academic discipline

    Source
    05

    Gaming and LBE as a Growth Engine

    Gaming and Location-Based Entertainment (LBE) are major growth drivers. AWE 2026 featured an expanded Gaming & LBE Hub sponsored by Pico, with top studios like nDreams and Mighty Coconut, dozens of gaming influencers, and a dedicated LBE Zone

    Source
    06

    Democratization of XR Development via AI

    A massive expansion of applications is occurring thanks to 'XR Vibe Coding,' where creators use text blocks to have coding agents build functional spatial experiences. This tool is opening up development to everyone, allowing builders to create highly targeted applications

    Source

    Market news

    Latest updates from across the market.

    Snap Unveils Next-Generation SPECS AR Glasses at AWE USA 2026

    Read

    Qualcomm Unveils Snapdragon Reality Elite and START Toolkit

    Read

    XREAL and Longcheer Launch Android XR's First AI-Powered Spatial Computing Glasses

    Read

    Android XR and Project Aura: Enterprise XR Gets Real

    Read

    Ori Inbar Keynote: 'I, Spatial' and Three Major Forces Reshaping XR

    Read

    AWE USA 2026 Closes with Best in Show Awards and Record Momentum

    Read

    Global XR & Spatial Computing Event Circuit 2026–2027

    Next 12 months (September 2026 – August 2027)

    AWE USA 2026 anchors the North American XR calendar in June, surrounded by a global circuit of academic, enterprise, and regional events. The year begins with AWE Asia in Singapore (February), followed by IEEE VR in Korea (March) and Laval Virtual in France (April). Summer brings SIGGRAPH in Los Angeles (July) and ICVR in the UK (July). Fall features the Augmented Enterprise Summit in Atlanta (October), IEEE ISMAR in Italy (October), and UnitedXR Europe in Brussels (December). AWE USA 2027 returns to Long Beach on June 14–17, 2027

    Winter–Spring 2026 (Academic & Regional)

    AWE Asia 2026IEEE VR 2026Laval Virtual 2026

    Early-year events focus on academic research (IEEE VR), regional market access (AWE Asia), and European industrial XR (Laval Virtual)

    Summer 2026 (North American Peak)

    AWE USA 2026SIGGRAPH 2026ICVR 2026

    The North American XR season peaks in summer with AWE USA (commercial and enterprise) and SIGGRAPH (graphics and immersive content)

    Fall–Winter 2026 (Enterprise & European)

    Augmented Enterprise Summit 2026IEEE ISMAR 2026UnitedXR Europe 2026

    Fall and winter events focus on enterprise deployment (Augmented Enterprise Summit), academic research (ISMAR), and the European market (UnitedXR Europe)

    Event dates and details compiled from official event websites (aweasia.com, ieeevr.org, laval-virtual.com, siggraph.org, augmentedenterprisesummit.com, ieeeismar.net, unitedxr.eu) and industry calendars. AWE USA 2026 dates and stats from official AWE recap blogs

    Plan your trip

    Travel & logistics

    Local currency · USD

    Arrival airports

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

    LGB

    Long Beach Airport (Daugherty Field)

    Closest airport; served by major domestic carriers. Ride-sharing, taxis, and private shuttles available. Multiple bus routes connect LGB to downtown Long Beach

    ~6 miles (10 km)

    to venue

    15–25 minutes

    by car

    LAX

    Los Angeles International Airport

    Major international hub with 700+ daily nonstop flights. Ride-sharing, taxis, and private car services available

    ~25 miles (40 km)

    to venue

    35–55 minutes (traffic dependent)

    by car

    SNA

    John Wayne Airport

    Alternative Orange County airport; served by major carriers. Ride-sharing and taxis available

    ~25 miles (40 km)

    to venue

    35–50 minutes

    by car

    BUR

    Hollywood Burbank Airport

    Northern Los Angeles airport; limited service but a viable alternative for some routes

    ~43 miles (69 km)

    to venue

    45–75 minutes

    by car

    Hotel tiers

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

    Premium
    Downtown Long Beach

    USD 319 / night

    Hyatt Regency Long Beach is the only 4 Diamond Award-winning hotel in Long Beach, located 0.1 mile from the Convention Center. All 531 guestrooms feature ocean or harbor views. Group rates valid through May 22, 2026

    Mid-Range
    Downtown Long Beach

    USD 274–279 / night

    Includes The Westin Long Beach (starting at $274/night, 0.1 mile from venue ) and Marriott Long Beach Downtown (starting at $279/night, 2 miles from venue ). Group rates valid through May 24, 2026 and May 14, 2026 respectively

    Budget
    Downtown Long Beach

    USD 146–200 / night

    Best Western Plus Hotel at the Convention Center – located 0.5 miles (8 min walk) from the venue. Offers breakfast buffet, gym, and indoor pool. Travelodge by Wyndham Long Beach Convention Center also available in this range

    Local transport

    Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

    Rideshare (Uber / Lyft)

    Estimated cost$20–$100 (depending on distance and demand)
    Best forAirport (LGB, LAX, SNA) to venue, or hotel to venue

    Available from all major airports. Use designated drop-off area at Convention Center's main entrance on Pine Avenue and Seaside Way. Surge pricing common during large events. Lyft base fare: $1.50 + $1.30/mile + $0.24/minute

    Taxi

    Estimated costLGB to venue: $30–$40; LAX to venue: ~$74 flat rate (to Downtown LA)
    Best forAirport to venue, or local trips

    Taxi stands available at all airports. Long Beach Yellow Cab services available

    Private Car / Shuttle Service

    Estimated cost$35–$280+ (depending on vehicle type and distance)
    Best forAirport to venue or hotel

    Pre-booked door-to-door service from LGB, LAX, and SNA. Shared shuttle vans are the cheapest option-; luxury sedans/SUVs available

    Public Bus (Long Beach Transit LBT)

    Estimated cost$1.25 per ride
    Best forLocal routes throughout Long Beach, including to/from LGB and downtown

    Multiple routes serve the Convention Center area, including 21, 22, 51, 61, 71, 91, 92, 93, 121, 151, 172, 181, 182, 232, and CE142. Check LBT schedules for real-time updates

    Free Passport Shuttle (Long Beach Transit)

    Estimated costFree
    Best forDowntown Long Beach circulator – connects hotels, Convention Center, Shoreline Village, Aquarium, and Queen Mary

    Convenient free shuttle for downtown area. Route operates with 14–18 stops. Check for detours during special events

    Metro A Line (Light Rail)

    Estimated cost$1.75 per ride
    Best forDowntown Long Beach Station to Downtown Los Angeles (Pico Station, Union Station)

    Connects Long Beach to LA's Metro system. Downtown Long Beach Station is a 2-minute walk from the Convention Center. Trains run every 10–15 minutes

    LB Circuit (Free Micro-Transit)

    Estimated costFree
    Best forOn-demand shuttle within downtown Long Beach and nearby neighborhoods

    Complimentary sustainable micro-transit service for Long Beach neighborhoods between Downtown and Alamitos Bay. Useful for short trips around the city

    AquaBus / AquaLink (Water Taxi)

    Estimated cost$1–$5 one-way
    Best forWaterfront routes – connects downtown, Alamitos Bay, and Belmont Shore

    Seasonal water transportation. Runs May 22 – Sept 7, 2026. Scenic alternative along the waterfront

    Walking

    Estimated costFree
    Best forDowntown hotels to Convention Center

    Many official hotels are within 3–8 minutes' walk of the venue. Downtown Long Beach is highly walkable and pedestrian-friendly

    Self-Parking (On-site)

    Estimated cost$10–$25 per day (event-dependent)
    Best forConvention Center garages and lots

    Over 4,000 spaces across Terrace, Arena, Promenade garages, and Main Lot. $10 flat rate during scheduled events at Convention Center Garage-; no in-and-out privileges. ADA spaces available

    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 (Business Visitor Visa)Citizens of countries not participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) who wish to enter the U.S. for business purposes, such as attending a conference or convention$185.00Varies widely by location; median global wait time ~30 days, but can exceed 12 months at some posts. A new optional $750 expedited interview fee (pilot program Jul–Dec 2026) can secure an appointment within 10 business days at select consular sections
    ESTA (Visa Waiver Program)Citizens of 42 VWP countries traveling to the U.S. for business or tourism for stays of 90 days or less$40.00Usually within minutes to hours; up to 72 hours in some cases

    Citizens of 42 Visa Waiver Program countries do not require a visa for business travel under 90 days but must obtain an approved ESTA prior to travel

    The ATA Carnet is accepted in the United States for temporary import of commercial samples, professional equipment, and goods for exhibitions and trade shows. It is valid for up to one year from issue, except for Exhibitions and Fairs which are valid for six months. The U.S. accepts digital ATA Carnets

    Official visa page

    Weather

    Long Beach in June enjoys mild, pleasant Southern California weather. Average high temperatures range from 74°F to 79°F (23°C to 26°C), with average lows between 58°F and 62°F (14°C to 17°C). Rainfall is minimal, averaging just 0.09 inches (2.3 mm) for the month. Expect 9 hours of sunshine per day. Evenings can be cool, especially near the waterfront. Light layers and comfortable shoes are recommended for navigating the 150,000 sq. ft. expo floor

    Plan for the climate

    Check temperatures and pack accordingly

    Venue connectivity

    The Long Beach Convention Center is well-connected to the region's transport network. The Metro A Line (formerly Blue Line) provides light rail service from Downtown Long Beach to Downtown Los Angeles and Union Station. Long Beach Transit (LBT) operates local bus service with fare at $1.25 for all routes; the Transit Gallery on 1st Street is the main downtown hub. The free LB Circuit micro-transit service connects downtown neighborhoods. Downtown Long Beach is highly walkable, with many hotels, restaurants, and attractions within a 5–10 minute walk of the convention center

    Ride-hailing

    Taxis

    Public transit

    Car rentals

    Cultural notes

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

    Diverse and Multicultural City

    Long Beach is one of America's most culturally diverse cities, with significant Latino, White, Black, and Asian communities. This diversity is reflected in the city's cuisine, festivals, and neighborhoods. English is the primary language

    Arts and Museums

    The city boasts a remarkable arts scene. The Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) is the only museum in the US dedicated to modern and contemporary Latin American art. The Long Beach Museum of Art (LBMA) offers stunning ocean views. The Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum (PIEAM) showcases Pacific Island culture. The East Village Arts District is a hub for galleries and creative spaces

    Tipping and Service Culture

    Tipping is customary in the US. Standard practice is 15–20% at restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, and $1–2 per bag for hotel porters. Some venues may have additional service charges

    Casual but Diverse Dress Code

    Casual attire is widely acceptable in Long Beach. However, some upscale restaurants and venues may prefer smart casual dress. For the conference, comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the large expo floor

    Beach and Waterfront Lifestyle

    Long Beach's identity is closely tied to the Pacific Ocean and its harbor. The waterfront areas—Rainbow Harbor, Shoreline Village, and the Pike Outlets—are popular for dining, shopping, and strolling. The iconic Queen Mary ocean liner is a short drive away

    Practical guides

    Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

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

    Flights

    Destination: Long Beach Airport (LGB) or Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

    Book flights early, especially if traveling internationally. Compare prices across carriers and consider flying into LAX for more international options, then take ground transport to Long Beach. Check for any travel advisories or visa requirements well in advance

    Visa

    Attending AWE USA 2026 for business purposes generally requires either a B-1 visa (for non-VWP countries) or an approved ESTA (for VWP countries)

    Processing: B-1: several weeks to months (expedited option available Jul–Dec 2026 for $750); ESTA: usually within 72 hours

    AWE can provide a visa invitation letter upon request via the contact form. ESTA applications should be submitted at least 72 hours before travel

    OfficialPartner

    Hotels

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

    Areas to stay

    Downtown Long Beach – walking distance to convention center (0.1–0.5 miles) · Shoreline Village / Rainbow Harbor – waterfront area with dining and attractions · Near Long Beach Airport (LGB) – convenient for early flights but requires transport to venue

    Premium

    $319+/night

    Book

    Mid-Range

    $274–$279/night

    Book

    Budget

    $146–$200/night

    Transport

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

    Airport → venue: Long Beach Airport (LGB) is 6 miles (15-25 min drive). Ride-sharing ($20–$40), taxis ($30–$40), and private shuttles available. LAX is 25 miles (35-55 min, traffic dependent). Metro A Line connects LAX/Metro Transit Center to Downtown Long Beach ($1.75)

    Hotel → venue: Most downtown hotels are within walking distance (3–8 min). Free Passport shuttle circulates downtown connecting hotels, convention center, and waterfront attractions

    Ride-hail: Uber/Lyft available throughout Long Beach. Designated drop-off area at Convention Center main entrance on Pine Avenue and Seaside Way

    Public transit: Long Beach Transit (LBT) operates local buses ($1.25). Free Passport shuttle serves convention center, hotels, and attractions. Metro A Line connects to downtown LA ($1.75)

    Parking: Convention Center has 4,000+ parking spaces across three garages and one ground lot. Rates range from $10–$25 per day depending on event. No in-and-out privileges. ADA spaces available

    Weather

    Plan and pack for the event climate.

    Month: June

    Temperature: 58°F–79°F (14°C–26°C)

    Seasonality: Minimal rainfall (0.09 inches / 2.3 mm); mostly sunny days with 9 hours of sunshine

    Packing: Pack light layers: T-shirts, light sweaters or jackets for cooler evenings, and comfortable walking shoes for the expo floor. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. A portable power bank and US plug adapters are recommended for international travelers

    Itinerary builder

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

    Add side trips

    Default day plan

    1. 8:30 AMArrive & Badge Pickup
    2. 9:00 AMKeynote / Track Sessions
    3. 11:00 AMExpo Hall Opens – Explore Booths & Demos
    4. 12:30 PMLunch (on your own)
    5. 2:00 PMAfternoon Sessions / Workshops
    6. 5:30 PMExpo Hall Closes – Networking / Side Events
    7. 6:00 PMEvening Reception or Auggie Awards (Wednesday)

    Plan your trip

    Planning

    Best day to visit: Wednesday, June 17

    Full expo and session schedule is active; the Auggie Awards ceremony takes place in the evening, making it the most comprehensive day for both learning and networking

    T

    Register for the event and secure early-bird pricing — Early Bird pricing is currently active; combine with discount codes for best rate

    T

    Book travel and accommodation — Book flights and hotels early. Official AWE hotel block rates start at $274/night

    T

    Download the AWE XR Events app and build your agenda — Available on Apple and Google stores. Use it to explore the 150,000 sq ft interactive floor plan

    T

    Review the full 16-track agenda and session schedule — Plan your days around keynotes, tracks, and side events

    T

    Request visa/travel support letter if needed — AWE can provide a travel support letter with at least 24 business hours' notice

    T

    Check weather forecast and pack accordingly — June in Long Beach: 58°F–79°F (14°C–26°C). Pack light layers and comfortable shoes

    T

    Arrive in Long Beach, check into hotel — Recommended check-in: Sunday, June 14 to avoid Monday morning rush

    Day 1 (June 15)

    Early badge pickup (8:30 AM – 5:00 PM) — Pick up badge at LBCC Main Entrance/Promenade Lobby to avoid Tuesday queues

    Sample visitor itinerary

    Route-optimised day
    8:30 AM

    Arrive & Badge Pickup

    LBCC Main Entrance / Promenade Lobby
    9:00 AM

    Keynote / Track Sessions

    Grand Ballroom / Various session rooms
    11:00 AM

    Expo Hall Opens – Explore Booths & Demos

    Expo Hall
    12:30 PM

    Lunch (on your own)

    Concession points or nearby restaurants
    2:00 PM

    Afternoon Sessions / Workshops

    Various session rooms
    5:30 PM

    Expo Hall Closes – Networking / Side Events

    Expo Hall / Promenade Lobby
    6:00 PM

    Evening Reception or Auggie Awards (Wednesday)

    Promenade Lobby / Main Stage

    Side trips

    8

    Shoreline Village

    Shopping & Dining

    5-minute walk

    Bevy of restaurants, specialty shops, and waterfront views. Includes Shenanigan's Irish Pub & Grill with live music

    Aquarium of the Pacific

    Attraction

    10-minute walk

    One of the largest aquariums in the US, featuring over 12,000 animals

    The Pike Outlets

    Shopping & Dining

    5-minute walk

    Outdoor shopping center with retail, dining, and entertainment options

    Rainbow Harbor

    Attraction

    5-minute walk

    Scenic waterfront with a Ferris wheel, boat cruises, and dining. Home to RISÜ, a New American restaurant with live music

    555 East American Steakhouse

    Dining

    0.5 miles (8-min walk)

    Upscale steakhouse with prime steaks, fresh seafood, and award-winning wine list. Private dining rooms available for business entertaining

    Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA)

    Museum

    15-minute walk

    Modern Latin American art in the East Village Arts District

    The Queen Mary

    Attraction

    10-minute drive

    Historic ocean liner turned hotel and museum, located nearby

    Long Beach Amphitheater

    Venue

    10-minute drive

    New 11,000-capacity outdoor waterfront venue opening June 6, 2026

    Networking spots

    7

    Promenade Lobby

    Official Venue

    Registration, bag check, and Welcome Party location (Monday 3-5 PM). Primary networking hub

    Expo Hall

    Official Venue

    Connect with 250+ exhibitors and attendees across 150,000 sq ft

    Gaming & LBE Hub

    Official Venue

    Casual environment to meet creators, developers, and influencers

    Auggie Awards Ceremony

    Official Event

    Prime networking opportunity with industry leaders and award winners (Wednesday evening)

    555 East Steakhouse

    External

    Private and semi-private dining rooms available for business entertaining

    RISÜ

    External

    New American restaurant with full bar, happy hour, and live music. Large outdoor dining

    The Auld Dubliner Irish Pub

    External

    Irish pub atmosphere, good for casual networking

    Budget

    Costs & budget

    Exhibitor pricing is not published on the official website. Startup exhibiting options start at $999 (includes draped table, free passes, electricity, two chairs). For standard booth and sponsorship packages, contact the organiser directly or inquire via the Road to VR exclusive 10% discount on all sponsor and exhibitor packages

    source

    Build your working budget

    Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.

    Estimated budget
    Live estimate
    • Hotel × 4 nights$584.00
    • Per diem × 4$240.00
    • Visa$185.00
    • Flight — Domestic (US)$400.00
    Estimated total$1,409.00

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

    Cost reference

    Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.

    Conference Pass – General

    visitor · General

    USD 995–1195 / per person

    official

    Conference Pass – Executive VIP

    visitor · Executive VIP

    USD 1495–1999 / per person

    official

    Startup Exhibiting Option

    exhibitor · Startup

    USD 999 / per package

    official

    Standard Booth – Shell Scheme

    exhibitor · Standard

    —

    unknown

    Raw Space Booth

    exhibitor · Raw Space

    —

    unknown

    Parking – On-site

    both · Daily

    USD 10–25 / per day

    estimate

    Hotel – Budget

    visitor · Budget

    USD 146–200 / per night

    estimate

    Hotel – Official Block

    visitor · Standard

    USD 274–319 / per night

    official

    Meals (Per Diem)

    both · Daily

    USD 50–75 / per day

    estimate

    Decision

    Visit, exhibit, or skip?

    Should you go?

    Based on your answers, here's how AWE USA 2026 fits your needs. The quiz evaluates three scenarios: Visit (attend as a participant), Exhibit (secure a booth and showcase), or Skip (wait for a future edition). Your highest-scoring path is recommended, but consider the tie-breaker if scores are close

    QUESTION 1 OF 7

    What is your primary role at AWE USA 2026?

    Decision matrix

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

    visit

    You are a buyer, decision-maker, or learner; you have at least $1,500 budget; you can commit 2–4 days; your goal is education, discovery, and relationship building

    Best for

    Enterprise buyers, developers, researchers, investors, and content creators seeking to discover products, learn from industry leaders, and network without exhibiting

    Min. budget

    $1,500.00

    Timeline

    T-30 days to register for early-bird rates; T-60 to secure travel and accommodation; T-14 to finalize agenda

    Risks

    Limited one-on-one time with top vendors due to high attendee volume; key sessions may fill up

    Travel and accommodation costs can increase if booked late

    May miss out on exclusive exhibitor networking if not on the floor

    exhibit

    You have a market-ready product, a team to staff the booth, and a budget of at least $5,000; you seek media exposure, enterprise leads, and investor interest; you can commit 4 days of presence

    Best for

    Vendors, startups, service providers, and established companies with a polished product, a budget for booth and logistics, and a clear sales/marketing objective

    Min. budget

    $5,000.00

    Timeline

    T-90 days for booth selection and payment; T-60 for shipping and logistics; T-30 for staff training and lead capture setup

    Risks

    High competition for attention; need a compelling demo or offer to stand out

    Booth and staff costs can be significant ($5,000+ for startup options, higher for larger spaces)

    May not get ROI if not targeted to the right attendees; requires active follow-up

    skip

    You are exploring the field without a specific business case; you have schedule conflicts; or you can catch up via recorded sessions and post-show coverage. Consider attending virtually (if available) or waiting for AWE 2027

    Best for

    Individuals or companies with very limited budget (< $1,000), no clear product or market fit, or those who are in early research and cannot justify the trip

    Timeline

    N/A

    Risks

    Missing out on major industry announcements (e.g., new smart glasses, Android XR updates) that could affect your roadmap

    Losing networking opportunities that may not be available online

    Book with

    Partners

    Road to VR

    Media Partner

    Premiere Media Partner offering exclusive 10% discount on all sponsor and exhibitor packages for AWE USA 2026

    Visit partner Confidence: confirmed

    Official AWE USA 2026 Premiere Media Partner

    ClimeCo

    Sustainability Partner

    Trusted sustainability partner for carbon offsetting of travel and hotel stays

    Visit partner Confidence: confirmed

    Official AWE USA 2026 sustainability partner

    Virtual World Society

    Community Partner

    Continuing partnership with AWE to support the global XR community

    Visit partner Confidence: confirmed

    Announced via LinkedIn as a continuing partner

    Hurricane Productions

    Registration Partner

    Partnership for registration management and event technology logistics

    Visit partner Confidence: confirmed

    Announced via LinkedIn as a new partnership for AWE USA 2026

    Recommended providers

    Visa

    AWE (Invitation Letter)

    AWE can provide a visa invitation letter for attendees upon request

    Hotels

    AWE USA 2026 Official Hotel Block

    Official group rates available through May 22–24, 2026. Book directly via provided links for Hyatt Regency Long Beach, The Westin Long Beach, and Marriott Long Beach Downtown

    FAQs & glossary

    Answers

    Frequently asked

    Glossary

    1
    XR (Extended Reality)
    An umbrella term encompassing all immersive technologies, including Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR). AWE covers the full spatial spectrum
    2
    Spatial Computing
    The technology that enables humans to interact with computers in three-dimensional space, often using AR, VR, and MR. It is a core focus of AWE, blending the physical and digital worlds
    3
    LBE (Location-Based Entertainment)
    Entertainment experiences that take place in a physical venue, such as VR arcades, theme parks, and family entertainment centers. AWE USA 2026 features a dedicated LBE Zone
    4
    Auggie Awards
    The most prestigious awards in the XR industry, presented annually at AWE to honor the best projects, companies, and individuals in the field
    5
    Digital Twins
    Virtual replicas of physical objects, systems, or processes. AWE features a dedicated Reality Capture & Digital Twins pavilion, focusing on virtual environments and 3D capture

    Trust footer

    Sources

    65

    References

    33

    Publishers

    0

    Date checked

    1

    AWE

    2

    Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center

    3

    PyCon US

    4

    timeanddate.com

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