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    IMEX AMERICA 2026

    IMEX America 2026 is the largest trade show for the global meetings, events and incentive travel industry in North America, organised by IMEX Group and held at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas from 13 to 15 October 2026. The show connects global buyers with destinations, hotels, venues, technology providers and event suppliers.

    Events OrganizationMarketing & SellingPublic Relations & AdvertisingCatering & Hospitality IndustriesMeetingsEvents

    Dates

    13–15 Oct 2026

    Venue

    Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino

    Time

    13 – 15 October 2026 · show days run at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Las Vegas

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    Event overview

    Overview

    IMEX America is a free-to-attend, trade-only exhibition and educational event for the meetings, incentives, conferences and events (MICE) industry in North America.

    The 2026 edition runs 13-15 October 2026 at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, bringing together hosted buyers, trade visitors, exhibitors and education partners from around the world.

    The show combines an exhibition floor of destinations, hotel groups, venues, cruise lines, airlines, event technology and service providers with a full education programme and structured networking opportunities.

    TL;DR

    1. 1IMEX America 2026 is held 13-15 October 2026 at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Las Vegas.
    2. 2Organised by IMEX Group as a trade-only event for the meetings and events industry.
    3. 3The show is free to attend for qualified industry professionals.
    4. 4It features global destinations, hotel groups, venues, cruise lines, airlines and event technology providers.
    5. 5A hosted buyer programme and a substantial education programme run alongside the exhibition.

    Why visit

    IMEX America is free to attend for qualified industry professionals and gives visitors access to a large international gathering of destinations, hotel groups, venues and suppliers in one place. Visitors can use the show to source venues and destinations, compare suppliers, take part in the education programme and build industry contacts. It is designed as the North American meeting point for the global meetings and events industry.

    Why exhibit

    Exhibiting at IMEX America places a destination, venue, hotel group or supplier in front of a large audience of pre-qualified meetings and events buyers from North America and beyond. The organiser highlights access to high-quality buyers, personalised support from the IMEX team, brand visibility through sponsorship, and technology tools such as free lead scanning and messaging. Exhibitors use the show to build relationships, generate leads and raise their profile in the MICE market.

    Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

    Who this event is for

    Visitor profile

    Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

    Meetings and events planners
    Corporate and association buyers
    Incentive travel professionals
    Event and conference organisers
    Hosted buyers from North America and internationally

    Exhibitor profile

    Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

    National, regional and city convention bureaus
    Hotel groups and resorts
    Conference and exhibition venues
    Cruise lines and airlines
    Destination management companies
    Event technology and service providers

    Product categories

    Key solution areas showcased across the event.

    Destinations and convention bureaus
    Hotels and resorts
    Conference and exhibition venues
    Cruise lines
    Airlines and transportation
    Destination management companies (DMCs)
    Event technology
    Event services and suppliers

    Location & Facilities

    Venue

    Open in Google Maps

    Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino

    Floor plans & maps

    Hall & site plansOfficial venue page

    Facilities

    Parking

    Mandalay Bay offers on-site self-parking and valet parking for guests and visitors; fees are charged by MGM Resorts and can change, so confirm current rates directly with the property.

    Accessibility

    Mandalay Bay is an accessible MGM Resorts property with accessible public areas, restrooms and guest services; attendees needing specific assistance should contact the venue or the organiser in advance.

    On-site shuttle

    Mandalay Bay does not operate a direct airport shuttle. A free tram connects Mandalay Bay with Luxor and Excalibur, and event transport is organised by the show for hosted-buyer programmes rather than as a public airport shuttle.

    Food options

    Mandalay Bay dining collection, Concession and grab-and-go outlets

    On-site dining

    Attend

    Entry & tickets

    Trade-only
    Free registration

    Event days & opening times

    DayOpening hours
    1315 October 2026
    Event daysshow days run at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Las Vegas
    Register

    Ticket info

    Ticket notes

    IMEX America is a trade event and registration is free for qualified industry professionals.

    Who runs the show

    Organisers

    IMEX Group

    Organiser

    Website

    Regent Exhibitions Ltd

    Organising company (IMEX Group entity)

    Website

    IMEX Operations Team

    Operations

    EmailCallWebsite

    IMEX Exhibitor Enquiries

    Exhibitor Sales

    EmailCallWebsite

    IMEX General Enquiries

    General enquiries

    EmailWebsite

    What's on

    Programme

    1

    Education Session

    1

    Event days

    12:05 PM–12:50 PM

    Typical time

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

    Speakers

    CB

    Carina Bauer

    CEO @ IMEX Group

    State of the industry

    KH

    Kevin Hinton

    Managing Director, Group Travel @ U.S. Travel Association

    State of the industry

    CK

    Caitlin Krause

    Educator and author

    Empowered Connection in a Digitally Layered Landscape

    SH

    Shawn Harper

    Keynote speaker and former NFL offensive lineman

    The Winner's Mindset

    NJ

    Neen James

    Leadership strategist

    Leadership and culture

    Wednesday, Oct 14, 2026

    12:05 PM – 12:50 PM

    State of the industry

    Education Session
    Inspiration Hub | Ideas TheaterB4100

    Topic tracks

    Designing for Human NeedsDesign for SpectacleDesign MattersRegenerative DesignTech Enabled FuturesAdvanced Event LogisticsHealth and Well-BeingImpactExperiential Event DesignLeadership and CultureMarketing and EngagementTrends and Research

    Co-located events

    Smart Monday, powered by MPI

    Separate ticket

    MPI Rendezvous

    Separate ticket

    MPI Foundation events at IMEX America

    Separate ticket

    Co-located seminars

    Association Focus

    Paid

    Corporate Focus

    Paid

    Executive Meeting Forum

    Paid

    Corporate Co-Lab

    Paid

    Awards

    AEO Excellence Awards Best International Show, Americas

    Annual

    IMEX America was recognised by the Association of Event Organisers (AEO) Excellence Awards as Best International Show in the Americas category.

    Best International Show Americas
    source

    Trade Show Executive Gold 100 Grand Award

    Annual

    IMEX America was recognised within the Trade Show Executive Gold 100, including a Grand Award honour.

    Gold 100
    source

    Sponsors

    ExpoPlatform (Official Tech Partner)

    Meeting Professionals International (MPI)

    Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority

    Show Gear Productions

    Caesars Entertainment

    New Orleans & Co

    Government supporters

    Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority

    Destination marketing authority and Design for Spectacle track partner

    How the last edition performed

    Previous edition

    Current edition

    2026 · 6,145 visitors · 3,700 exhibitors

    The 15th edition of IMEX America runs October 13-15, 2026 at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, preceded by Smart Monday on October 12, 2026. IMEX Group has not published official exhibitor or visitor forecasts for the 2026 edition; the latest pre-show release confirms buyer registration is running ahead of the same point last year without releasing specific numbers, so no organiser-forecast counts are available yet.

    Forecast — not final

    Visitors

    17,633

    Exhibitors

    3,700

    Exhibitor countries

    80

    Growth over time

    Edition recap

    IMEX America 2025, the 14th edition of the show, took place at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas from October 7-9, 2025. Official post-show statistics reported a record 17,633 total participants, including 6,145 buyers, of which more than 4,700 were hosted buyers plus 1,400 buyer attendees. Around 3,700 exhibiting companies took part, representing 80+ countries, and roughly 92,000 meetings were held across the show. IMEX reported that 41% of hosted buyers manage budgets of USD 5 million or more, and the education programme featured 373 sessions, with the first-timer welcome session attracting around 800 attendees.

    New this edition

    • 1

      Design Matters Talking Point

      A new cross-show talking point for 2026-2027, 'Design Matters', spotlighting how event design and experience shape business outcomes, supported by new education content and activations.

      Source
    • 2

      Relocated and enlarged Inspiration Hub

      The Inspiration Hub education and networking zone is relocated with newly expanded theatres and a dedicated entrance to improve flow and capacity for education sessions.

      Source
    • 3

      Redesigned Hosted Buyer Lounge

      An enlarged and redesigned Hosted Buyer Lounge provides more space for hosted buyer meetings, networking and refreshments.

      Source
    • 4

      Five new education tracks

      The 2026 programme expands to twelve learning tracks, including five new tracks rooted in the Design Matters theme, broadening the education offering for planners.

      Source
    • 5

      Brian D. Stevens Hospitality Educational Fund dinner

      A special fundraising dinner on October 11, 2026 supporting the Brian D. Stevens Hospitality Educational Fund, held ahead of the show opening.

      Source

    Testimonials

    This year's edition of IMEX America was remarkable not just for its size, but also the value created for our industry.

    Carina Bauer · CEO · IMEX Group · 2025

    The exhibitors were fantastic so creative with their booths and presentations. It's the kind of serendipitous discovery you just can't get online.

    Kathy Bakeberg · Hosted Buyer · Type A Events · 2025

    The business conversations we are having here are incredibly valuable the quality of the buyers in the room is outstanding.

    Gina Henrickson · Vice President, Global Sales · Hyatt Hotels · 2024

    IMEX America is where we build the relationships that carry us through the year the attendance and engagement this year have been exceptional.

    Cheryl Lacriarde · Account Manager · Virgin Atlantic · 2024

    Next edition outlook

    2026-10-13 – 2026-10-15
    confirmed

    The 15th edition of IMEX America will be held October 13-15, 2026 at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, with Smart Monday on October 12, 2026. IMEX reports that buyer registration is running ahead of the same point last year, and the 2026 show introduces a new 'Design Matters' talking point, a relocated and enlarged Inspiration Hub, a redesigned Hosted Buyer Lounge and five new education tracks, signalling continued investment and expansion.

    Introduction of the 'Design Matters' cross-show talking point for 2026-2027 Relocation of the Inspiration Hub with expanded theatres and a dedicated entrance Enlarged and redesigned Hosted Buyer Lounge Five new education tracks rooted in the Design Matters theme, bringing the total to twelve Brian D. Stevens Hospitality Educational Fund dinner on October 11, 2026

    Impact

    A bigger and stronger platform

    IMEX America is the largest meetings, events and incentive travel trade show in the United States, and the 2025 edition confirmed its growth trajectory with a record 17,633 participants and 3,700 exhibiting companies from more than 80 countries. Buyer numbers rose to 6,145, including over 4,700 hosted buyers and 1,400 buyer attendees, generating around 92,000 meetings across three days. The show anchors a strong autumn calendar in Las Vegas and has committed to Mandalay Bay through 2030, underscoring its scale and stability within the global business events industry.

    Audience quality

    High-value decision-makers

    IMEX America continues to attract a senior, high-budget buyer audience. The 2025 edition recorded 6,145 buyers, of which more than 4,700 were hosted buyers and 1,400 were buyer attendees, and IMEX reported that 41% of hosted buyers manage budgets of USD 5 million or more. Buyers engaged in about 92,000 meetings across the show, and the education programme ran 373 sessions, evidence of a qualified, decision-making audience drawn from across the global meetings, incentive and event industry.

    Exhibitor outcomes

    Real business growth

    Exhibitor returns at IMEX America are underpinned by the volume and seniority of buyer meetings: around 92,000 meetings took place at the 2025 edition, with 86,000+ pre-scheduled meetings reported for 2024. The hosted buyer programme alone brought more than 4,700 qualified buyers to the show floor, and the 3,700 exhibiting companies span hotels, destinations, technology providers and event services. IMEX has not published specific exhibitor-satisfaction or return-on-investment percentages, so quantitative ROI claims beyond meeting volumes and buyer counts are not asserted here.

    Intelligence

    Market context

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

    North America — the United States meetings, business events and incentive travel market, hosted annually in Las Vegas, Nevada

    Why it matters

    IMEX America is one of the largest and most influential trade shows for the North American meetings, events and incentive travel industry, and its Las Vegas edition brings together global exhibitors, hosted buyers and planners in one place. For exhibitors, it provides structured access to qualified buyers through appointment programmes rather than passive floor traffic; for buyers, it concentrates sourcing of venues, destinations, technology and services into a few efficient days. Because it sits at the centre of the North American business events market and is co-located with industry education and networking, it functions as a key annual checkpoint for pricing, supplier relationships and emerging trends such as experience design, accessibility and sustainability.

    Industry trends

    Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

    01

    Experience-driven, design-led events

    Buyers and exhibitors increasingly compete on event design and experience rather than scale alone. Show-floor programming and industry debate are shifting toward how meetings create meaning and measurable attendee value.

    Source
    02

    Longer planning horizons and cost pressure

    Across the business events sector, lead times have stretched and cost inflation remains a top concern for planners, making venue and supplier negotiations more strategic.

    Source
    03

    Accessibility and inclusion as standard

    Accessibility is moving from a niche requirement to a baseline expectation in venue selection and event design, influencing how organisers and venues present their offer.

    Source
    04

    One-to-one meetings and hosted-buyer value

    Structured appointment programmes and hosted-buyer models remain central to shows like IMEX America, giving exhibitors predictable access to qualified buyers rather than relying on passing floor traffic.

    Source
    05

    Sustainability and responsible events

    Sustainability commitments in venue operations, food and travel are increasingly part of the procurement conversation between buyers and suppliers at major industry shows.

    Source

    Market news

    Latest updates from across the market.

    IMEX America returns to Las Vegas as a key global business events gathering

    Read

    IMEX America 2026 scheduled for 13-15 October at Mandalay Bay

    Read

    Business events sector focuses on value and experience

    Read

    Global business events and meetings industry circuit

    Plan roughly 6-12 months ahead. Spring shows (IMEX Frankfurt, MPI WEC, The Meetings Show) require booking in late winter to early spring; the autumn cluster (IMEX America, IBTM World) requires summer booking. Reconfirm each organiser's dates before committing travel budgets.

    IMEX America is a major node in a year-round global circuit of meetings and business events trade shows. Exhibitors and buyers typically plan participation across a spring European show, mid-year regional and association events, and an autumn cluster that includes the Las Vegas show and the Barcelona world show. Coordinating travel and budgets across this circuit lets suppliers reach different buyer bases efficiently.

    1–31 Jan 2026

    PCMA Convening Leaders 2026

    United States, United States

    Host city and exact dates should be confirmed with PCMA; the event typically opens the calendar year.

    website
    19–21 May 2026

    IMEX Frankfurt 2026

    Frankfurt, Germany

    Dates should be reconfirmed with the organiser; the Frankfurt edition typically draws a strong European and international buyer base.

    website
    1–30 Jun 2026

    The Meetings Show 2026

    London, United Kingdom

    Exact 2026 dates should be confirmed with the organiser; the show typically runs in the first half of the year in London.

    website
    1–30 Jun 2026

    MPI World Education Congress 2026

    United States, United States

    City and exact dates should be confirmed with MPI; the congress typically runs in mid-year.

    website
    13–15 Oct 2026

    IMEX America 2026

    Las Vegas, United States

    Official dates per the IMEX America website; held at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino.

    website
    17–19 Nov 2026

    IBTM World 2026

    Barcelona, Spain

    Dates are subject to change; reconfirm with the organiser before booking travel.

    website

    Spring window

    IMEX Frankfurt 2026

    The European flagship show anchors the spring period and is the logical first major stop for suppliers planning a full-year circuit.

    Mid-year window

    The Meetings Show 2026MPI World Education Congress 2026

    Regional and association events help reach UK and North American buyer segments between the two major IMEX shows.

    Autumn window

    IMEX America 2026IBTM World 2026

    The autumn cluster pairs the North American IMEX show with the global Barcelona show, often targeted together by international exhibitors.

    Event dates are drawn from organiser-published information where available and should be reconfirmed before booking. Dates for some comparable events are listed as month-level where an exact confirmed schedule was not verified, and are marked accordingly.

    Plan your trip

    Travel & logistics

    Local currency · USD

    Arrival airports

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

    LAS

    Harry Reid International Airport

    The primary commercial gateway for Las Vegas and the practical arrival airport for IMEX America. Multiple terminal options and rental car center; taxi and rideshare pickups are curbside.

    Approximately 3 miles (about 5 km) east of the venue, just off the south end of the Las Vegas Strip

    to venue

    About 10-15 minutes by taxi or rideshare in normal traffic

    by car

    VGT

    North Las Vegas Airport

    General aviation and private-jet airport owned by Clark County; no scheduled commercial airline service. Useful for business aviation arrivals.

    Approximately 15 miles (about 24 km) north of the venue

    to venue

    About 25-30 minutes by car

    by car

    HSH

    Henderson Executive Airport

    General aviation and executive-jet airport south of the Strip; no scheduled commercial airline service.

    Approximately 12 miles (about 19 km) south of the venue

    to venue

    About 20-25 minutes by car

    by car

    BLD

    Boulder City Municipal Airport

    Small general aviation field near Boulder City and Hoover Dam; no commercial airline service.

    Approximately 28 miles (about 45 km) southeast of the venue

    to venue

    About 35-40 minutes by car

    by car

    Hotel tiers

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

    Budget
    Downtown Las Vegas and off-Strip corridors; Excalibur and value rooms at Luxor on the South Strip

    USD 70–140 / night

    Estimate before mandatory resort fees and taxes. October convention demand can lift rates; downtown and older properties typically offer the lowest nightly rates.

    Mid-range
    South Strip near Mandalay Bay (MGM Grand, New York-New York) and central Strip

    USD 140–300 / night

    Estimate before resort fees and taxes. These properties balance location and comfort and are a short tram, monorail or rideshare from Mandalay Bay.

    Premium
    Mandalay Bay and Delano, Four Seasons, and luxury Strip resorts such as Wynn and Encore

    USD 300–600 / night

    Estimate before resort fees and taxes; suites and peak October dates can exceed the top of this range. Staying at Mandalay Bay eliminates commuting to the show.

    Local transport

    Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

    Taxi / rideshare (Uber, Lyft)

    Estimated costAbout $15-30 for the short airport-to-Strip trip; more to outlying areas
    Best forHarry Reid International Airport (LAS) to Mandalay Bay, and resort-to-resort across the Strip

    Fastest door-to-door option for the short airport transfer. Surge and peak convention queues are common; use designated pickup zones at the airport and resorts.

    Free Mandalay Bay tram

    Estimated costFree
    Best forMandalay Bay to Luxor to Excalibur

    Connects the host property with its two sister resorts on the South Strip, avoiding a long walk and a costly short ride.

    Las Vegas Monorail

    Estimated costSingle rides from a few dollars; multi-day passes available
    Best forAlong the east side of the Strip, from the MGM Grand area north toward the Convention Center and Sahara

    Inexpensive and traffic-free for longer Strip journeys. It does not reach Mandalay Bay directly, so combine with a short walk or the tram.

    RTC Deuce and Strip & Downtown Express buses

    Estimated costLow per-ride fares with 2-hour and 24-hour passes available; exact fares change
    Best forLas Vegas Strip corridor and downtown, with routes linking the airport area

    Good budget option with frequent service along the Strip; slower than rideshare during peak traffic.

    Walking

    Estimated costFree
    Best forWithin Mandalay Bay and to connected South Strip resorts (Luxor, Excalibur)

    Distances along the Strip are long and the desert sun is strong; wear comfortable shoes and carry water even for seemingly short walks.

    Plan your trip

    Visa & entry documents

    Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

    Visa not required
    ATA Carnet: accepted
    TypeWho needs itFeeProcessing
    ESTA (Visa Waiver Program)Nationals of Visa Waiver Program countries travelling for business or tourism for up to 90 days$21.00Usually decided within 72 hours; apply at least 72 hours before travel
    B-1 Business Visitor VisaNationals not eligible for the Visa Waiver Program who are travelling to the United States for business meetings, conferences or contract negotiations$185.00Varies widely by consulate; interview appointment wait times can range from days to many months
    B-2 Visitor VisaNationals not eligible for the Visa Waiver Program travelling for tourism or to attend a conference as a visitor$185.00Varies widely by consulate; interview appointment wait times can range from days to many months

    The United States does not offer visa-free entry in the traditional sense. Nationals of Visa Waiver Program countries may travel without a visa for business or tourism stays of up to 90 days provided they hold an approved ESTA. Nationals of all other countries generally require a B-1 or B-2 visa issued in advance. Requirements are strictly nationality-dependent, so check official U.S. government sources for your passport.

    The United States accepts ATA Carnets for the temporary admission of commercial samples, professional equipment and goods for exhibitions and fairs. In the U.S. the United States Council for International Business (USCIB) is the guaranteeing association and issuing body. Exhibitors bringing professional equipment or display goods should confirm current procedures and covered categories with USCIB before shipping.

    Official visa page

    Weather

    October is one of the most comfortable months in Las Vegas. Historical averages for October are roughly 81°F (27°C) daytime highs and 60°F (16°C) overnight lows, with the desert climate producing very little rainfall (typically under 0.5 inch for the month). Expect bright, dry, sunny days and noticeably cooler evenings; indoor convention spaces are heavily air-conditioned.

    Plan for the climate

    Check temperatures and pack accordingly

    Venue connectivity

    Las Vegas is served by Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), about 3 miles from Mandalay Bay, with direct nonstop flights from most major U.S. and many international hubs. On the ground, the Strip is served by the RTC Deuce and Strip & Downtown Express buses, the Las Vegas Monorail along the east side of the Strip, and the free Mandalay Bay tram linking Mandalay Bay, Luxor and Excalibur. Taxis and rideshare (Uber/Lyft) are widely available; walking distances along the Strip are long, so plan for heat and distance.

    Ride-hailing

    Taxis

    Public transit

    Car rentals

    Cultural notes

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

    Tipping is expected

    Las Vegas is a tipping-heavy service city. Budget 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and a few dollars for hotel housekeeping and bell staff. Taxi and rideshare drivers are typically tipped.

    Resort fees and taxes

    Most Strip hotels add a mandatory nightly resort fee on top of the room rate, plus a room tax. When comparing room prices, confirm the total including resort fee and tax, as advertised rates usually exclude them.

    24-hour city, but a business city too

    Las Vegas markets itself as entertainment-focused, but the convention corridor is a serious business-events hub. Trade shows run to fixed schedules with formal business dress norms; keep evening entertainment separate from daytime meeting commitments.

    Smoking, alcohol and casino etiquette

    Casino floors allow smoking while many restaurants and some public areas are non-smoking. Alcohol is widely available and legal on the Strip in many contexts. Ask before photographing people at gaming tables, and never photograph inside gaming areas where signage prohibits it.

    Desert climate and distance

    The dry desert air and long walking distances along the Strip mean you should carry water, use sunscreen, and wear comfortable shoes. Distances that look short on a map can be a 20-30 minute walk.

    Practical guides

    Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

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

    Flights

    Destination: Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)

    LAS is a major hub with extensive nonstop domestic service and many international connections; booking early for October is advisable because Las Vegas hosts multiple large conventions that month. Compare fares across carriers and confirm baggage rules for the convention season.

    Book flights

    Visa

    Entry requirements depend on nationality. Travellers from Visa Waiver Program countries generally need an approved ESTA rather than a visa; most other nationalities need a B-1 business visitor or B-2 visitor visa issued by a U.S. embassy or consulate before travel. The event website or a visa invitation letter supports logistics but not the legal requirement.

    Processing: ESTA is usually decided within 72 hours; B-1/B-2 visa interview wait times vary widely by consulate and can take weeks to months.

    Always check your own nationality's requirements on official U.S. government pages. ESTA and visa rules, fees and processing times change, so confirm close to travel. An event invitation letter may assist an application but does not guarantee approval.

    OfficialPartner

    Hotels

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

    Areas to stay

    Mandalay Bay and the connected South Strip cluster (Luxor, Excalibur, Delano) · South Strip beyond the host property (MGM Grand, New York-New York, Tropicana vicinity) · Central Strip (Bellagio, Cosmopolitan, Planet Hollywood) · Downtown Las Vegas (Fremont Street area) for budget and local character

    Budget

    Approximately $70-140 per night before resort fees and taxes (estimate; October convention demand pushes rates upward)

    Book

    Mid-range

    Approximately $140-300 per night before resort fees and taxes (estimate)

    Book

    Premium

    Approximately $300-600+ per night before resort fees and taxes (estimate)

    Book

    Transport

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

    Airport → venue: Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) is about 3 miles from Mandalay Bay. Taxi and rideshare (Uber/Lyft) are the most common transfers, typically 10-15 minutes. Public bus routes (RTC) also connect the airport corridor to the Strip at low cost.

    Hotel → venue: If staying at Mandalay Bay or its connected properties, walking is the simplest route. From other Strip hotels, use the free Mandalay Bay tram, the Las Vegas Monorail, the RTC Deuce bus, or a short taxi/rideshare.

    Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft operate throughout Las Vegas, with designated pickup zones at the airport and major resorts. Surge pricing is common during convention peaks; fares for the short airport-to-Strip trip are comparatively low but queue times can be long.

    Public transit: RTC Transit operates the Deuce and Strip & Downtown Express along the Strip and to downtown, and the Las Vegas Monorail runs along the east side of the Strip. Fares are low and passes are available; the free Mandalay Bay tram links Mandalay Bay, Luxor and Excalibur.

    Parking: Mandalay Bay provides on-site self-parking and valet; MGM Resorts charges fees that change over time. Confirm current rates with the property before driving, and allow extra time during peak convention hours.

    Weather

    Plan and pack for the event climate.

    Month: October

    Temperature: About 60°F to 81°F (16°C to 27°C) average low to high

    Seasonality: Very dry; October is typically one of the driest months with minimal rainfall (historically under 0.5 inch for the month).

    Packing: Pack light layers: warm days and cooler evenings, strong sun protection, a refillable water bottle, and comfortable walking shoes. A light jacket or sweater is useful for heavily air-conditioned convention halls.

    Itinerary builder

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

    Add side trips

    Default day plan

    1. 08:00Breakfast and review of the day's meeting schedule
    2. 09:00Attend opening sessions and keynote on the show floor
    3. 11:00Pre-scheduled buyer-exhibitor appointments
    4. 13:00Networking lunch with exhibitors
    5. 14:30Education session in the Inspiration Hub
    6. 16:30Follow-up meetings and booth visits
    7. 18:30Evening networking reception

    Plan your trip

    Planning

    Best day to visit: Wednesday 14 October 2026

    Wednesday offers the full 09:30-17:30 attendee schedule without opening-day arrival pressure or Thursday's 16:00 close. It is the strongest single day for a dense meeting plan; attend Smart Monday or multiple show days when education and broader sourcing are equally important.

    T-60 to T-45

    Register and confirm whether you are attending as a buyer, hosted buyer, trade attendee or exhibitor. — Registration is free, but eligibility and hosted-buyer conditions differ by attendee type.

    T-45

    Book hotel and travel through official offers where suitable. — IMEX lists negotiated MGM rates and flight offers; compare total terms before booking.

    T-30

    Complete your IMEX profile and shortlist priority exhibitors, buyers and sessions. — Use the online meeting system and IMEX Events App rather than relying on walk-up availability.

    T-14

    Confirm meetings, build a route by hall and add education sessions to the app schedule. — Leave buffers between appointments because Mandalay Bay Convention Center is large.

    T-3

    Update the IMEX Events App and download or screenshot the schedule and floor plan. — The app includes schedules, messages, exhibitor directory and floor plan.

    12 October 2026

    Attend Smart Monday and orientation sessions if relevant. — Smart Monday precedes the three trade-show days and provides free education.

    Daily during show

    Record meeting outcomes and next actions before leaving the venue. — Prioritise concrete sourcing, partnership or follow-up actions over badge collection alone.

    Sample visitor itinerary

    Route-optimised day
    08:30

    Review objectives, messages and confirmed meetings over breakfast.

    Mandalay Bay
    09:15

    Arrive at the convention centre and use the app floor plan to reach the first zone.

    Mandalay Bay Convention Center
    09:30-12:00

    Hold priority appointments and visit shortlisted destinations, venues or suppliers.

    Exhibit hall
    12:00-13:00

    Lunch and record next actions from morning meetings.

    Convention center or Mandalay Bay
    13:00-15:00

    Attend one priority education session and continue targeted meetings.

    Education venue and exhibit hall
    15:00-17:15

    Complete secondary meetings, scan qualified contacts and confirm follow-up owners.

    Exhibit hall
    After 17:30

    Attend a confirmed industry reception or hold a small partner dinner.

    Official event venue or pre-booked Las Vegas location

    Side trips

    4

    Shark Reef Aquarium

    Attraction at Mandalay Bay

    On the Mandalay Bay campus

    A convenient short activity without leaving the host resort.

    Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign

    Landmark

    About 5-10 minutes by car from Mandalay Bay

    A quick Las Vegas landmark stop near the south end of the Strip.

    Bellagio Fountains and Conservatory

    Free Strip Attraction

    About 10-20 minutes by car depending on traffic

    Suitable for an evening walk or informal guest activity after show hours.

    Allegiant Stadium

    Sports and Events Venue

    Short drive west of the Strip

    A major Las Vegas sports and events venue hosting NFL games and concerts, useful for visitors extending their stay.

    Networking spots

    4

    Exhibitor stands and scheduled meeting tables

    Business meetings

    Best for accountable supplier or buyer conversations booked through the IMEX meeting system.

    Inspiration Hub and education areas

    Learning and peer networking

    Use session transitions for relevant peer conversations without disrupting scheduled meetings.

    Hosted Buyer Lounge

    Eligible hosted-buyer networking

    Access is restricted; use only if your registration grants entry.

    Mandalay Bay public lounges and restaurants

    Informal meetings

    Pre-book a specific location and time because the resort is large and busy during the show.

    Budget

    Costs & budget

    Official booth and stand pricing for IMEX America 2026 is not published publicly. Pricing for both space-only and shell scheme options is provided on request by the IMEX Sales Team via the exhibitor inquiry form on the official registration page. No official exhibitor page or PDF lists per-square-metre rates, so no numeric range can be confirmed for the 2026 edition.

    source

    Build your working budget

    Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.

    Estimated budget
    Live estimate
    • Booth 9 m² × $1,050.00/m²$9,450.00
    • Hotel × 4 nights$480.00
    • Per diem × 4$400.00
    • Visa$185.00
    • Flight — US domestic round trip$400.00
    Estimated total$10,915.00

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

    Cost reference

    Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.

    Trade attendee registration

    visitor · Standard

    —

    officialAs of 2026-09-19

    Airport rideshare

    both · Standard

    USD 15–30 / one way

    officialAs of 2026-09-19

    Airport taxi

    both · Standard

    USD 25–40 / one way

    officialAs of 2026-09-19

    Strip bus or monorail pass

    both · Budget

    USD 5–8 / starting fare or pass

    officialAs of 2026-09-19

    Budget hotel

    both · Budget

    USD 100–180 / per night before taxes and resort fees

    estimateAs of 2026-09-19

    Mid-range Strip hotel

    both · Standard

    USD 150–300 / per night before taxes and resort fees

    estimateAs of 2026-09-19

    Mandalay Bay or premium Strip hotel

    both · Premium

    USD 300–600 / per night before taxes and resort fees

    estimateAs of 2026-09-19

    Meals and incidentals

    both · Standard

    USD 75–140 / per person per day

    estimateAs of 2026-09-19

    Decision

    Visit, exhibit, or skip?

    Should you go?

    Choose the answer closest to your situation to compare visiting, exhibiting and skipping IMEX America 2026.

    QUESTION 1 OF 7

    How directly does your work connect to planning, buying, supplying or supporting business events?

    Decision matrix

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

    visit

    Choose a visit when sourcing, education or partner meetings have defined owners and outcomes.

    Best for

    Event planners, procurement teams, association and corporate buyers, and suppliers validating the market before exhibiting.

    Min. budget

    $1,200.00

    Timeline

    Allow 4-8 weeks to register, book travel, shortlist exhibitors and request meetings.

    Risks

    An unplanned visit can be overwhelmed by the scale of the show

    Late hotel booking can increase costs

    Meeting availability may narrow close to the event

    exhibit

    Choose an exhibit when buyer fit is strong, a full quotation is approved, meetings can be prepared and post-show pipeline follow-up is staffed.

    Best for

    Destinations, convention bureaus, venues, hotel groups, event technology providers and specialist suppliers targeting qualified meetings-industry buyers.

    Timeline

    Begin 4-6 months ahead, or follow the official exhibitor manual and sales timeline if already contracted.

    Risks

    Public booth pricing is unavailable, so the full budget requires a sales quotation

    Weak meeting preparation can reduce ROI

    Freight, union labour and official supplier costs can materially increase spend

    skip

    Skip when neither a focused visitor agenda nor an evidence-based exhibit case can be justified.

    Best for

    Organisations without a clear business-events audience, current sourcing need, approved budget or accountable follow-up plan.

    Timeline

    Reassess after defining target accounts, desired outcomes and a realistic total-cost envelope.

    Risks

    Missing access to a large concentration of global buyers and suppliers

    Losing a year of relationship development

    Relying on indirect market intelligence

    Book with

    Partners

    GES

    Official general contractor and freight

    Listed by IMEX for booth construction, furnishings, general contracting, and domestic and international shipping and storage.

    Visit partner Confidence: high

    Official IMEX America exhibitor manual and supplier list.

    MGM Resorts

    Official accommodation offers

    Provides directly negotiated hotel rates near Mandalay Bay through the official IMEX travel page, subject to registration and availability.

    Visit partner Confidence: high

    Official IMEX America travel and accommodations page.

    IMEX Events App

    Show planning and lead capture

    Provides schedules, messages, exhibitor directory, floor plan and badge scanning for eligible exhibitors and buyers.

    Visit partner Confidence: high

    Official IMEX America app page.

    MPI

    Smart Monday education partner

    Powers Smart Monday, the education day preceding the IMEX America trade-show dates.

    Visit partner Confidence: high

    Official IMEX America show information.

    Recommended providers

    Visa

    U.S. Department of State / U.S. Customs and Border Protection

    Official U.S. government sources for visa and ESTA rules; the event organiser can provide invitation letters for applications but does not determine eligibility.

    Hotels

    MGM Resorts International (host venue)

    Mandalay Bay is the host property and the most convenient base; book early through the venue or the event's official housing channel when available. No booking partner is invented here.

    Freight & shipping

    GES

    Official general contractor and domestic/international shipping and storage supplier.

    Insurance

    Arc International

    Listed as the official insurance supplier; confirm coverage requirements and purchase terms in the live manual.

    Lead capture

    IMEX Events App

    Official app with badge scanning for exhibitors and buyers; verify account access before the show.

    FAQs & glossary

    Answers

    Frequently asked

    Glossary

    1
    Hosted buyer
    A qualified buyer of meetings and events who is invited by the organiser and receives benefits such as travel and accommodation support in exchange for scheduled appointments and attendance.
    2
    MICE
    An acronym for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions, the business events sector that IMEX services.
    3
    Trade visitor
    An industry professional attending the show to do business, network and attend education rather than the general public.
    4
    DMC
    Destination Management Company, a local specialist that arranges ground services, activities and logistics for events in a destination.

    Trust footer

    Sources

    33

    References

    10

    Publishers

    0

    Date checked

    1

    IMEX Group

    2

    CMW (Conference & Meetings World)

    3

    Skift Meetings

    4

    MGM Resorts International

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