National Recreation &amp; Park Association NRPA Annual Conference

Melissa Hunter

Development Coordinator

NRPA Customer Service

General Registration and Membership Inquiries

MCI Registration Support

Registration and Housing Support

NRPA Events Team

General Conference Inquiries

Email Website

What's on

Programme

General Session

TBA

Event days

09:00–10:30

Typical time

Official agenda

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

Speakers

Shola Richards

CEO and Founder, Go Together Global; Best-Selling Author and Keynote Speaker @ Go Together Global

Workplace kindness, resilience, and leading with intention

Kristine Stratton

President and CEO @ National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA)

Opening General Session — NRPA progress and priorities

Joshua T. Medeiros, Ed.D., CPRE

NRPA Board Chair; Superintendent @ Bristol (Connecticut) Parks, Recreation, Youth and Community Services

Day 2 General Session: The Power Of Leadership — Personal leadership stories

Javier Martinez, CPRP, CPO

Recreation Manager of Fitness and Aquatics @ Waukegan (Illinois) Park District

Day 2 General Session: The Power Of Leadership

Keith Wallace, CPRP

Executive Director @ Lincolnway Special Recreation Association (New Lenox, Illinois)

Day 2 General Session: The Power Of Leadership

Angelina Stancampiano

District Interpretive Ranger @ Wyoming State Parks (Lander, Wyoming)

Day 2 General Session: The Power Of Leadership

Emmy Richards, CPRP

Parks and Recreation Director @ Town of Ashland, Virginia

Day 2 General Session: The Power Of Leadership

Amanda Beard

Keynote Speaker @ Beard Swim Co

Youth Sports in Parks and Recreation Summit

Jamie Apody

Emcee @ FOX 29

Youth Sports in Parks and Recreation Summit

09:00 – 10:30

Opening General Session

General Session

Hall EPennsylvania Convention Center

Topic tracks

Access for AllAdvocacyAquaticsCertification and AccreditationCommunity, Culture and EngagementData and EvaluationEnvironmental ResilienceFunding, Partnerships and Revenue DevelopmentHealth and Well-BeingLeadership and Personnel ManagementMarketing and PR CommunicationsNetworking and Career DevelopmentPlanning, Operations and MaintenancePlaygroundsProgramming and Recreation Services

Co-located events

Youth Sports in Parks and Recreation Summit

Separate ticket

National Gold Medal Award Ceremony

Separate ticket

Best of the Best Ceremony

Separate ticket

Ethnic Minority Society Luncheon

Separate ticket

NRPA's Opening Reception: The Philly Block Party

Separate ticket

Awards

NRPA Innovation Awards

Annual

The NRPA Innovation Awards acknowledge park and recreation agencies nationwide that have improved and strengthened their communities through innovative practices in park design, health and well-being, environmental resilience and parks for all. The 2026 winners were announced on May 20, 2026, and will be recognized at the Best of the Best Ceremony at the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference in Philadelphia

Innovation in Health and Well-Being AwardInnovation in Equity AwardInnovation in Environmental Resilience AwardInnovation in Park Design Award

NRPA Spotlight Awards

Annual

The NRPA Spotlight Awards are presented to individuals to honor their efforts — both professional and personal — in the field of parks and recreation. The 2026 winners include Jill Geller (National Distinguished Professional Award), Kate Meacham (Dirk Richwine Professional Mentoring Award), Angel Ferrara (Robert W. Crawford Young Professional Award), and Jono Miller (Robert M. Artz Advocate Award)

National Distinguished Professional AwardDirk Richwine Professional Mentoring AwardRobert W. Crawford Young Professional AwardRobert M. Artz Advocate Award

National Gold Medal Award

Annual

The National Gold Medal Award honors public park and recreation agencies and state park systems throughout the United States and armed forces recreation programs worldwide that demonstrate excellence in long-range planning, resource management and innovative approaches to delivering superb park and recreation services with fiscally sound business practices. The program is managed by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA) in partnership with NRPA. Grand Plaque winners will be announced at the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference in Philadelphia

Class I (population 400,001 and Over)Class II (population 150,001 – 400,000)Class III (population 75,001 – 150,000)Class IV (population 30,001 – 75,000)Class V (population Less Than 30,000)Armed Forces Recreation (Worldwide)State Parks (awarded on Odd-Numbered Years)

Best of the Best Ceremony

Annual

The Best of the Best Ceremony recognizes and celebrates the most inspirational people and programs by presenting the 2026 Hall of Fame Induction, Innovation Awards and Spotlight Awards. The newly CAPRA-accredited and re-accredited park and recreation agencies, certified professionals, Young Professional Fellows, and Diversity and Student Scholarship recipients also are recognized. The 2026 ceremony takes place Wednesday, September 30, 6–7 p.m. at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, with a cash bar reception immediately following

Previous edition

Current edition

2026 · 8,000 visitors · 500 exhibitors

The 2026 NRPA Annual Conference takes place September 29 – October 1, 2026 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia. The official conference site states 8,000+ attendees and 500+ exhibitors expected. Exhibits are open September 29. No post-show figures are available as the event has not yet taken place

Forecast — not final

Visitors

8,600

Exhibitors

500

Floor area (sqm)

12,000

Growth over time

Edition recap

The 2025 NRPA Annual Conference was held September 16-18, 2025 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. It was the largest conference in NRPA's history, drawing over 8,600 attendees and exhibitors combined, with more than 500 exhibitors and over 12,000 sqm of exhibition space. The event marked NRPA's 60th anniversary and featured a keynote from Amy Purdy, Paralympic snowboarder and adaptive sports advocate. The conference included hundreds of education sessions, an interactive exhibit hall, and networking events. The 2025 event continued the record-breaking momentum from Atlanta 2024, which drew more than 8,000 attendees and nearly 500 exhibitors

New this edition

1
Youth Sports in Parks and Recreation Summit
First-ever summit held in conjunction with the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference. Location: WSFS Bank Sportsplex on September 27 and Pennsylvania Convention Center on September 28. Cost: Member/Nonprofit $160 / Nonmember $220. Credit: 0.3 CEUs. Registration has reached capacity and is closed. Conference registration is not required to attend the Summit, but separate registration is required
Source
2
Research to Practice series
The 2026 conference introduces its first annual three-day Research to Practice series, offering practical applications of research findings across a wide breadth of topics. Curated sessions cover parks for girls to thrive, messaging economic impacts, research-informed design for play, using cellphone data to understand park visitation patterns, building healing-centered parks, and measuring playground use
Source
3
The Philly Block Party opening reception
The 2026 Opening Reception takes place at three venues in the Fishtown neighbourhood: The Fillmore Philadelphia, Brooklyn Bowl Philadelphia, and Punch Line Philly. The event reflects Philadelphia's block party tradition as the city celebrates America's 250th anniversary. Ticketed event included with full package, young professional, retired, speaker upgraded, Spouse/Guest and Tuesday daily registrations
Source
4
NRPA Events App presented by Greenfields Outdoor Fitness
The official NRPA Events App is presented by Greenfields Outdoor Fitness for 2026. The app provides access to the full conference schedule, exhibitor information, session evaluations, and on-demand virtual sessions available until November 17
Source

Testimonials

My favorite aspect of NRPA is that you get to see the latest and greatest developments! You have the opportunity to talk to experts and ask questions. You can touch, use, and test the products to determine if they meet your needs before making a purchase. And testing out the playground equipment always fun!
Ticia Herd · Director of Parks and Recreation · City of Garden City, Kansas · 2025

This was my first time attending the NRPA Annual Conference, and walking into the exhibit hall was an unforgettable experience. I was amazed by the energy and creativity on display. It truly felt like stepping back into childhood and getting to play again
Lacey Polster · Marketing and Communications Specialist · Grayslake (Illinois) Community Park District · 2025

The exhibit hall at the NRPA Annual Conference was a vibrant and engaging space filled with a wide variety of vendors showcasing the latest products and services in the industry. From hands-on demonstrations (pickleball, soccer, etc.), to product sample giveaways, there was something for everyone. The opportunity to connect directly with suppliers, see new innovations up close, and gather ideas for our own programs was incredibly valuable. It was very informative
Jackie Lambert · Recreation Programs Supervisor · Palm Beach (Florida) County Parks and Recreation Department · 2025

Overall great experience! It is a very, very smart thing to have dedicated time/hours for attendees to visit the exhibit hall. I wish all conferences would do that! The traffic to our booth was noticeably increased during that time and we collected a lot of leads!
Mike Gassmann · Art Director · Engraprich Architectural Signage · 2024

Last year's event was the best ever for traffic and meeting the decision makers for local, national and government parks and recs. They made sure the attendees had focus hours for the show floor, which led to great conversations and sales possibilities
Mike Brown · VP of Sales · Gama Sonic USA Inc · 2024

Next edition outlook

2026

estimated

The 2027 NRPA Annual Conference will be held September 28-30, 2027 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas. Originally scheduled for Salt Lake City, the conference was relocated to Houston due to significant renovations at the Salt Palace Convention Center that would have made half the exhibit hall space and multiple meeting rooms unavailable. NRPA President and CEO Kristine Stratton stated that the scale of renovations would have 'significantly impacted' the organisation's ability to deliver the high-quality, large-scale event that members expect. The 2028 NRPA Annual Conference will be held in Columbus, Ohio

Relocation to Houston's George R. Brown Convention Center following the Salt Palace renovation conflict, requiring a full emergency site search and re-planning Continued expansion of the Research to Practice series, building on the first annual three-day series introduced at the 2026 edition Growth in AI-focused programming as park and recreation agencies move from experimentation to operational deployment Expanded youth sports content following the success of the first-ever Youth Sports Summit at the 2026 conference Continued emphasis on environmental resilience and climate adaptation as federal outdoor recreation funding reaches record levels

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

The 2025 NRPA Annual Conference was a landmark edition, held September 16-18 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. It was the largest conference in NRPA's history, drawing over 8,600 attendees and exhibitors combined — a record for the association. The event marked NRPA's 60th anniversary and was built around the theme 'Build Together, Play Together.' More than 500 exhibitors showcased products and services across over 12,000 sqm of exhibition space. The exhibit hall was a focal point, with 98% of attendees visiting the show floor and 94% playing a role in purchasing decisions. Amy Purdy, Paralympic snowboarder and adaptive sports advocate, delivered a keynote address on resilience and the power of adaptive sports. The conference featured hundreds of education sessions, research presentations, networking events, and celebrations recognizing excellence across the profession. More than 4,300 professionals have achieved certification through NRPA credentialing programs. The event reinforced the vital role of parks and recreation in advancing public health, community well-being, and environmental resilience

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

The 2025 NRPA Annual Conference attracted a high-calibre audience of decision-makers and buyers in the park and recreation profession. According to the official exhibitor prospectus, 94% of attendees play a role in purchasing decisions, 97% plan to purchase products in the next two years, and 98% of attendees visited the exhibit hall, with more than two-thirds spending three hours or more on the show floor. The typical park and recreation agency has annual operating expenditures of $7,225,000, and 38% of agencies have a budget exceeding $10 million. Special park districts have median operating expenditures exceeding $12 million. The average agency designates 88% of capital expenditures to improvements and 9% to acquisitions. Attendees represent municipal, county, state, and federal agencies, park districts, academic institutions, and industry suppliers from across the United States and internationally

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

No official exhibitor ROI statistics were published by NRPA for the 2025 edition. However, exhibitor testimonials from the 2024 and 2025 editions provide strong qualitative evidence of commercial value. At the 2024 conference, 96% of exhibitors said the event met or exceeded their expectations. Mike Gassmann of Engraprich Architectural Signage noted that dedicated exhibit hall hours 'noticeably increased' booth traffic and that 'we collected a lot of leads.' Mike Brown of Gama Sonic USA Inc. called it 'the best ever for traffic and meeting the decision makers for local, national and government parks and recs,' adding that focused show floor hours 'led to great conversations and sales possibilities.' BERPL Distribution, a first-time exhibitor, reported that the show was 'incredibly well organized' and 'bustling with high-quality attendees from across the U.S. and even some international regions, with end-user leads that had significant decision-making and purchasing power, as well as qualified resellers and distributors.' The 2025 edition, as the largest in NRPA's history, would have offered even greater exposure

Intelligence

Market context

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

United States — Parks, Recreation and Community Services

Why it matters

The 2026 NRPA Annual Conference matters because it convenes the largest gathering of park and recreation professionals in the world at a moment of extraordinary transformation for the field. Parks and recreation are increasingly recognised as essential public infrastructure — generating more than $201 billion in economic activity and supporting 1.1 million jobs across the United States. The Trust for Public Land's 2026 ParkScore report found that every $1 invested in parks returns at least $3 in local economic benefits. With federal outdoor recreation funding at record levels — $461 million in LWCF grants in 2026 alone and a proposed $1.9 billion annual investment through the Great American Outdoors Act — agencies have unprecedented opportunities to invest in facilities, programming and workforce development. At the same time, the field is being reshaped by AI adoption, shifting sports participation trends (pickleball, girls' flag football), workforce shortages, and a growing demand for environmental resilience. The 2026 conference's new Research to Practice series and first-ever Youth Sports Summit directly address these trends, providing attendees with the insights and tools they need to navigate change. The event draws 8,000+ attendees and 500+ exhibitors, with 94% of attendees playing a role in purchasing decisions and 97% planning to purchase products in the next two years. For exhibitors, this is the single most important marketplace to connect with qualified buyers in the parks and recreation market. Philadelphia, as the birthplace of America celebrating its 250th anniversary, provides a fitting backdrop for a conference focused on the power of parks and recreation to strengthen communities

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

AI adoption accelerates from curiosity to operational reality in parks and recreation

Artificial intelligence is moving from novelty to necessity in parks and recreation. NRPA's Parks & Recreation magazine identified AI as one of the top trends for 2026, noting that the question has shifted from 'Is AI real?' to 'How do we use it responsibly?' AI-powered sensors, modelling tools and analytics are providing early warnings and real-time insight into environmental conditions, helping to protect landscapes and prepare for rapid change. At the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference, AI is addressed across multiple education sessions, including 'Inside the Artificial Intelligence Revolution for Parks and Recreation' and 'America's 250 to 2050: A Vision for Parks and Recreation's Future in the Age of AI.' A dedicated pre-conference workshop on AI in parks and recreation is also offered, with real-world use cases and practical implementation strategies. The NRPA Innovation Awards also recognise AI-powered park management solutions

Youth sports emerge as a national priority with record investment and a dedicated summit

Youth sports are commanding unprecedented attention at the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference, which features the first-ever Youth Sports in Parks and Recreation Summit. The summit reflects growing recognition that youth sports are a critical component of community health, youth development, and social cohesion. The STRONG Kids Act, emerging legislation that would leverage 50 percent of federal excise tax revenues from sports betting, could provide an estimated $200 million per year to invest in youth sports at the national, state and local levels. NRPA also launched the 'Get Her in the Game' campaign in partnership with Nike to eliminate obstacles to girls' participation in sports. Since 2023, NRPA's Youth Sports in Parks and Recreation initiative has awarded 58 grants totalling more than $1.2 million in cash and in-kind support to park and recreation agencies across 25 states and the District of Columbia

Pickleball and girls' flag football drive demand for new facilities and programming

Pickleball remains the fastest-growing sport in the United States, having attracted 20 million participants and still growing, according to NRPA's Parks & Recreation magazine. The challenge for agencies is addressing the public's insatiable appetite for more courts while managing noise-related concerns. Girls' flag football is another sport poised for explosive growth in 2026, expanding from youth leagues to professional levels. These trends are reshaping facility planning, programming priorities, and equipment procurement for park and recreation agencies nationwide, creating significant demand for court construction, lighting, and related products

Federal outdoor recreation funding reaches record levels with $461 million in LWCF grants

Federal investment in parks and outdoor recreation remains strong. In June 2026, the Department of the Interior announced $461 million for parks and outdoor recreation across America, including $327 million in formula grants and $134 million in competitive grants from the Land and Water Conservation Fund. These funds will be matched at least 1:1, for a total outdoor recreation investment exceeding $900 million. The Great American Outdoors Act's Legacy Restoration Fund invests $1.9 billion annually in national parks, public lands, and Bureau of Indian Education facilities, supporting 72,500 jobs and $26.4 billion in revenue for rural gateway communities. Congress is advancing bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the Legacy Restoration Fund for five more years. For state and local agencies, this creates significant funding opportunities for park development, trail construction, and facility upgrades. NRPA applauded the bipartisan commitment to the LWCF state assistance program, its top federal funding priority

Workforce shortages and succession planning challenge park and recreation agencies

Park and recreation agencies across the country are navigating workforce shortages, succession planning challenges, and trying to attract the next generation of talent to a field many students and new professionals don't even know exists. NRPA reports that about half of the park and recreation academic programs across the country have been lost since the late 1990s, contributing to a shrinking talent pipeline. Specific shortages are most acute in lifeguards, equipment operators, auto mechanics, park keepers, and recreation outdoor supervision staff. To address these challenges, NRPA has expanded its Young Professional Network and offers dedicated sessions at the annual conference on career development and workforce solutions., https://www.minneapolisparks.org/

Environmental resilience and green infrastructure reshape park design and operations

Environmental resilience is a defining theme for parks and recreation in 2026. Agencies are embracing nature-based solutions such as green stormwater infrastructure, habitat restoration, and climate-adaptive design. The NRPA Innovation Awards' Innovation in Environmental Resilience category recognises projects such as the Forest Preserves of Cook County's Seed Amplification Program. The 2026 conference features sessions on 'From Overlooked to Unforgettable: Reimagining Stormwater Spaces as Living Parks' and 'Pocket Forests for Rapid Reforestation and Recovery.' Philadelphia's own FDR Park is undergoing a 33-acre wetland mitigation project to enhance climate resilience. The Trust for Public Land's 2026 ParkScore report found that every $1 invested in parks and recreation returns, on average, at least $3 in local economic benefits each year

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

Department of the Interior announces $461 million for parks and outdoor recreation across America

Congress advances bipartisan Great American Outdoors Act reauthorization with $1.9 billion annual investment

NRPA announces 2026 Innovation and Spotlight Award winners, nearly 250 submissions — highest ever

NRPA launches 'Get Her in the Game' campaign with Nike to eliminate obstacles to girls' participation in sports

NRPA partners with Score Sports to provide grants to park and recreation agencies

Parks, Recreation & Public Space Conference Circuit — Next 12 Months

October 2026 – October 2027

The parks and recreation conference circuit in the 12 months following the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference spans major national and regional events covering parks management, landscape architecture, urban green space, and the attractions industry. The CPRS Connections Conference & Expo in Long Beach (March 2027) is the largest state-level parks conference in the U.S. The mParks Conference & Trade Show in Michigan (February 2027) serves the Midwest region. The ASLA Conference on Landscape Architecture (September 2026) is the largest gathering of landscape architects and allied professionals. The UK National Parks Conference (September 2026) brings together UK national park authorities. The World Urban Parks Congress (October 2026) unites international park experts. The ATRAX Expo in Istanbul (January 2027) covers attractions, parks, sports and recreation across Europe, the Middle East and Central Asia. The NIRSA Annual Conference (March 2027) serves collegiate recreation professionals. Together these events offer complementary geographic and thematic coverage for parks and recreation professionals planning their conference calendar

29 Sep – 1 Oct 2026

ASLA Conference on Landscape Architecture 2026

Los Angeles, USA

Held at the Los Angeles Convention Center. The 2026 theme is 'Action!' Expected to draw over 6,000 attendees

website

29 Sep – 1 Oct 2026

UK National Parks Conference 2026

Aviemore, United Kingdom

Held at Macdonald Aviemore Resort, Cairngorms National Park, Scotland. The 2026 conference focuses on how national parks and protected areas can deliver for nature and people in a rapidly changing world

website

29 Sep – 1 Oct 2026

World Urban Parks Congress 2026

Kazan, Russia

Held at Kazan Expo international exhibition centre. Expected to attract over 1,000 guests and 120 recognised international expert speakers. Held in Russia for the first time

website

September 2026

ASLA Conference on Landscape Architecture 2026UK National Parks Conference 2026

ASLA (Los Angeles) serves landscape architects and allied professionals with a focus on park design and public space. UK National Parks Conference (Aviemore) focuses on protected landscapes and conservation. Both occur in the same week

October 2026

World Urban Parks Congress 2026

Global congress in Kazan, Russia, bringing together international park experts for discussions on ecological sustainability and urban green space development

February 2027

mParks Conference & Trade Show 2027

Michigan-focused regional conference serving the Midwest parks and recreation market

March 2027

CPRS Connections Conference & Expo 2027NIRSA Annual Conference 2027

CPRS (Sacramento) is the largest state-level parks conference in the U.S. NIRSA (National Harbor) serves collegiate recreation professionals. Both occur in the same week

January 2027

ATRAX Expo 2027

International exhibition in Istanbul covering attractions, parks, sports and recreation across Europe, the Middle East and Central Asia

All event dates are sourced from official organiser websites where available. CPRS Connections, mParks, ASLA, UK National Parks Conference, World Urban Parks Congress, ATRAX Expo and NIRSA dates are confirmed from official sources. ASLA 2027 conference dates are TBD

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · USD

Arrival airports

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

PHL

Philadelphia International Airport

The primary airport serving the Philadelphia region. The SEPTA Regional Rail Airport Line provides direct service from all airport terminals to Jefferson Station (directly beneath the Convention Center) in about 20-25 minutes. Taxi flat rate from PHL to Center City is $32 per one-way trip for one passenger. Rideshare services (Uber/Lyft) are also available with estimated fares around $28

7-10 miles (11-16 km)

to venue

approximately 15-25 minutes by car or taxi; 20-25 minutes by SEPTA Airport Line

by car

TTN

Trenton-Mercer Airport

Alternative airport serving the Greater Philadelphia region. Accessible via I-95 and Route 1. Offers limited commercial service

approximately 35 miles (56 km)

to venue

approximately 45-55 minutes by car

by car

EWR

Newark Liberty International Airport

Major international hub with extensive domestic and international connections. Amtrak provides direct service from Newark Liberty International Airport to 30th Street Station in Philadelphia, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes. From 30th Street Station, the venue is a short SEPTA ride or walk

approximately 85 miles (137 km)

to venue

approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car; 1 hour 15 minutes by Amtrak

by car

Hotel tiers

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

Premium (4-star)

Center City / Convention Center District

USD 180–400 / night

Options within walking distance of the venue include Philadelphia Marriott Downtown (Headquarter Hotel, 1201 Market Street, 0.33 km), Loews Philadelphia Hotel (1200 Market Street, 4-star, 0.4 km), The Notary Hotel (Autograph Collection, 21 North Juniper Street), The Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia (10 South Broad Street), Canopy by Hilton Philadelphia Center City (4-star, 15-minute walk, from approximately $267/night), and The Logan Philadelphia (Autograph Collection). Rates are estimates based on third-party booking data and are subject to seasonal variation

Mid-Range (3-star)

Center City / Convention Center District / Chinatown

USD 130–250 / night

Options include Aloft Philadelphia Downtown (3-star, one block from venue, from approximately $143-$243/night), Home2 Suites by Hilton Philadelphia Convention Center (0.24 km), Hampton Inn Philadelphia Center City-Convention Center (0.42 km), Hilton Garden Inn Philadelphia Center City (100 m from venue, from approximately $161/night), Best Western Plus Philadelphia Convention Center Hotel (15-minute walk, from approximately $105-$135/night), DoubleTree by Hilton Philadelphia Center City (from approximately $179-$219/night), and Cambria Hotel Philadelphia Downtown Center City (from approximately $129-$243/night). Rates are estimates based on third-party booking data

Budget (2-star)

Center City / Chinatown / Surrounding neighborhoods

USD 80–150 / night

Budget options are available in Chinatown and surrounding neighborhoods, some within a 5-10 minute walk of the Convention Center. HotelsCombined lists rates as low as £34 per night for the Convention Center area. Rates are estimates based on third-party booking data

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

SEPTA Regional Rail — Airport Line

Estimated cost$6.75 one-way with SEPTA Key card or Quick Trip ticket (purchased at airport fare kiosk); $8.00 if paying cash or credit card on board

Best forPhiladelphia International Airport (all terminals) to Jefferson Station (directly beneath the Pennsylvania Convention Center)

The fastest and most economical connection from PHL to Center City. Trains run every 30 minutes on weekdays from approximately 5 a.m. to midnight, and hourly on weekends. The journey takes about 20-25 minutes. Jefferson Station is attached to the Pennsylvania Convention Center, providing direct indoor access., https://www.rome2rio.com/Bus/Jefferson-Station/Pennsylvania-Convention-Center#1

Taxi

Estimated cost$28.50 flat rate per one-way trip for one passenger from the airport to the Center City zone; additional $1 per passenger over age 12 (maximum $3)

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

Taxis are regulated by the Philadelphia Parking Authority and display a medallion license. Flat rate applies between PHL and the Center City zone. Taxi stands are located outside baggage claim at every terminal. Tipping for good service is common., https://taxis-fare.com/

Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)

Estimated costApproximately $25–$40 from PHL to Center City depending on time of day and surge pricing; approximately $10–$20 from local Center City hotels

Best forDoor-to-door from Philadelphia International Airport, local hotels, or Center City to the Pennsylvania Convention Center

Uber and Lyft operate throughout Philadelphia. Typical UberX fares from PHL to Center City run roughly $25–$40. Surge pricing can occur during weekday mornings (6–9 AM), Friday afternoons, and large conventions at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Designated rideshare pickup areas are available at the venue., https://getridewise.com/

SEPTA Bus

Estimated cost$2.50 standard fare with SEPTA Key or contactless payment

Best forMultiple routes serve the Convention Center area, including SEPTA lines 4, 16, 17, 23, 27, 33, 38, 44, 45, 48, 61, 62, 78, 124, and 125

SEPTA operates a bus from 11th St & Market St to 11th St & Race St every 10 minutes, taking approximately 1 minute. The Convention Center is also served by numerous other bus routes connecting to neighborhoods throughout Philadelphia

Parking (Personal Vehicle)

Estimated costRates vary by provider; Pennsylvania Convention Center Garage (1324 Arch St.) rates start at $17.25; there are 42 parking lots in a 7-block area. Philadelphia Parking Tax of 22.5% is included in posted rates

Best forVarious parking garages and surface lots within a 7-block area surrounding the Pennsylvania Convention Center

The Pennsylvania Convention Center does not have its own dedicated parking facility, but several garages and surface lots are within blocks. The Pennsylvania Convention Center Garage has 1,957 spaces. Providers include ABM Parking, E-Z Park, iParkit, Park America and SP+. Street parking is very limited and mostly metered., https://www.parkmobile.io/

ADA Shuttle (Accessibility)

Estimated costComplimentary (for registered attendees requiring accessibility services)

Best forBetween official conference hotels and the Pennsylvania Convention Center for attendees with mobility needs

An ADA shuttle is available for attendees who need extra time, have mobility devices, or require closer seating access. Early seating access to general sessions is available beginning 45 minutes prior to the start time. Contact NRPA's events team for specific arrangements., https://conference.nrpa.org/frequently-asked-questions/

Plan your trip

Visa & entry documents

Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

Visa required

ATA Carnet: accepted

Type	Who needs it	Fee	Processing
B-1 Business Visitor Visa	Citizens of foreign countries who are not eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and who are travelling to the United States temporarily for business purposes, including attending a professional or business convention, conference, or trade show, or consulting with business associates	$185.00	Varies by consular post; can range from a few weeks to several months. An optional expedited appointment pilot program (July 1 – December 31, 2026) allows eligible applicants at select consular sections to secure an interview within 10 business days for an additional $750 fee. This does not guarantee visa issuance
ESTA (Visa Waiver Program)	Eligible citizens or nationals of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries who plan to travel to the United States for business or pleasure for stays of 90 days or less. As of 2026, 41 countries participate in the VWP	$40.27	Usually within 72 hours, but apply at least 3 days before travel
Visa Waiver Program (VWP) — ESTA Eligible Countries	Citizens of the following countries/territories: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Chile, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom	$40.27	Usually within 72 hours

As of 2026, 41 countries participate in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Citizens of these countries may travel to the United States for business or tourism for stays of 90 days or less without first obtaining a visa, provided they obtain an approved ESTA prior to travel. VWP countries include most of Western Europe (including the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands), Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Brunei, Taiwan, Chile, Israel, and Qatar

The ATA Carnet is an international customs document accepted by the United States that allows for the temporary importation of commercial samples, professional equipment, and certain advertising materials without paying duty or value-added taxes. The United States Council for International Business (USCIB) has been designated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection as the United States guaranteeing association. An ATA Carnet is valid for one year from the date of issuance. Important limitation: The United States is not a signatory to the Exhibitions and Fairs Convention. Therefore, ATA Carnets are only accepted for Commercial Samples and Professional Equipment, not for goods intended for trade fairs or exhibitions. Goods intended to be consumed or given away at a trade show are not allowed under an ATA Carnet. Exhibitors requiring temporary importation of goods for the NRPA Annual Conference should consult US Customs and Border Protection guidelines and their freight forwarder., https://www.internationaltradehub.co.uk/faq-ata-carnets-for-usa/, https://wiki.borderconnect.com/index.php?title=ATA_Carnet_(CBP_Shipment_Type)

Official visa page

Weather

Philadelphia in late September and early October is mild and pleasant. Average high temperatures are around 79°F (26°C) and lows around 62°F (17°C). September averages 4.44 inches of precipitation and humidity is around 67%. Expect a mix of warm days and cooler evenings. Pack layers, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket or sweater for air-conditioned session rooms

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

The Pennsylvania Convention Center is exceptionally well connected by public transit. It sits directly above SEPTA's Jefferson Station, which is served by multiple Regional Rail lines including the Airport Line from PHL. The Market-Frankford Line (13th Street Station) and numerous bus routes (SEPTA lines 4, 16, 17, 23, 27, 33, 38, 44, 45, 48, 61, 62, 78, 124, 125) serve the venue. Amtrak's 30th Street Station is about 1 mile away. The venue is also within walking distance of many Center City hotels, restaurants, and attractions., https://proexposervice.com/venues/pennsylvania-convention-center

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

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

Philadelphia as the birthplace of America

Philadelphia, the birthplace of the United States, holds a unique place in American history. The city is celebrating the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding in 2026, and the NRPA Annual Conference is held in this historic context. Iconic landmarks include Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the National Constitution Center. The city's grid system, designed by William Penn in 1682, was conceived as a 'Greene Countrie Town' with planned parks integrated into residential life — a philosophy that resonates deeply with the park and recreation profession., https://conference.nrpa.org/why-attend/

Parks and recreation community culture

The park and recreation profession is known for its collaborative, mission-driven culture. Professionals from agencies across the country gather at the NRPA Annual Conference not just for professional development but for a shared sense of purpose in serving communities. The conference features numerous networking events, including the Opening Reception, Best of the Best Ceremony, and Ethnic Minority Society Luncheon, designed to foster both professional connections and personal friendships. The spirit of the conference is captured in the 2026 theme, 'The Power Of,' which celebrates the many ways parks and recreation strengthen communities., https://conference.nrpa.org/why-attend/

Philadelphia's parks and recreation legacy

Philadelphia Parks & Recreation protects over 10,200 acres of public land and waterways, plus 500 recreation buildings, 166 miles of trail, 576 parks, and 250 playgrounds. 95% of Philadelphia residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park — well above the national average of 57% for urban cities. The city has been named 'The Most Walkable City in the U.S.' by USA Today for three consecutive years (2023, 2024, 2025). Fairmount Park, at 2,050 acres, extends northwest from Center City along the Schuylkill River and is one of the largest urban parks in the country

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

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

Flights

Destination: Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

Book flights early as late September is a popular travel period in Philadelphia. The SEPTA Airport Line provides direct service from PHL to Jefferson Station (directly beneath the Convention Center) for $6.75-$8.75. Taxi flat rate is $32. Rideshare averages $28. NRPA does not have an official airline partner

Visa

Most international visitors to the NRPA Annual Conference 2026 require either a B-1 business visitor visa or an approved ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program. Citizens of VWP countries (41 countries as of 2026) may travel for business for up to 90 days without a visa, provided they obtain an ESTA. Citizens of all other countries must apply for a B-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate. The conference is a professional trade event for the park and recreation community

Processing: B-1 visa: varies by consular post, from a few weeks to several months. Expedited B-1/B-2 interview pilot (July 1 – December 31, 2026): 10 business days for an additional $750. ESTA: usually within 72 hours

A visa or ESTA does not guarantee admission to the United States; the final determination is made by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer at the port of entry. NRPA does not publish a dedicated visa invitation letter page on its official website. Registered attendees requiring a visa invitation letter should contact NRPA's events team at events@nrpa.org or call 800.626.NRPA (6772)., https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas.html

Official

Hotels

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

Check-in (recommended)

2026-09-29

Check-out (recommended)

2026-10-01

Areas to stay

Center City / Convention Center District (5-15 minute walk to venue — Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, Loews Philadelphia Hotel, The Notary Hotel, Aloft Philadelphia Downtown, Home2 Suites, Hampton Inn, Hilton Garden Inn, Best Western Plus; highest convenience) · Rittenhouse Square (15-20 minute walk or short ride — The Ritz-Carlton, Kimpton Hotel Palomar, Sofitel Philadelphia, Hyatt Centric; upscale dining and shopping) · Chinatown / Old City (5-15 minute walk — Cambria Hotel, Holiday Inn Express Midtown, Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District; budget-friendly options and historic attractions)

Premium (4-star)

USD 180–400 per night

Book

Mid-Range (3-star)

USD 130–250 per night

Book

Budget (2-star)

USD 80–150 per night

Transport

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

Airport → venue: Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is 7-10 miles from the venue. The SEPTA Regional Rail Airport Line connects PHL directly to Jefferson Station (directly beneath the Convention Center) in about 25 minutes, with trains every 30 minutes from 5 a.m. to midnight. One-way fare is $6.75-$8.75 with SEPTA Key or contactless. Taxi flat rate is $32. Rideshare averages $28

Hotel → venue: The majority of official NRPA conference hotels are within a 5-15 minute walk of the Pennsylvania Convention Center. The Philadelphia Marriott Downtown (Headquarter Hotel), Loews Philadelphia, The Notary Hotel, Aloft Philadelphia Downtown, Home2 Suites, Hampton Inn, Hilton Garden Inn, and Best Western Plus are all within walking distance. Hotels in Rittenhouse Square are a 15-20 minute walk or short rideshare. The venue sits directly above SEPTA's Jefferson Station for easy transit connections

Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft operate throughout Philadelphia. Estimated fare from PHL Airport to the Convention Center is $28. From local Center City hotels, expect $10. Designated rideshare pickup areas are available at the venue

Public transit: The Pennsylvania Convention Center is directly above SEPTA's Jefferson Station, served by all Regional Rail lines. The Market-Frankford Line (13th Street Station) and Broad Street Line (15th Street/City Hall) are within a block. Bus routes 4, 16, 17, 23, 33, 38, 44, 45, 48, 124, and 125 serve the area. Standard SEPTA fare is $2.50 with SEPTA Key or contactless

Parking: The Pennsylvania Convention Center does not have its own dedicated parking facility, but several garages and surface lots are within blocks. The Pennsylvania Convention Center Garage at 1324 Arch St. has 1,957 spaces with rates starting at $17.25. Love Park Garage at 1500 Arch St. has 2,354 spaces with rates starting at $35. The Philadelphia Parking Tax of 22.5% is included in posted rates

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: September

Temperature: 79°F (26°C) highs; 62°F (17°C) lows

Seasonality: September averages 4.44 inches of precipitation. Humidity is around 67%. Expect a mix of warm days and cooler evenings

Packing: Pack layers, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket or sweater for air-conditioned session rooms. Business casual attire is recommended

Itinerary builder

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

Add side trips

Default day plan

7:00 AMBreakfast at hotel or Reading Terminal Market
8:30 AMArrive at Convention Center and collect badge
9:00 AMAttend Opening General Session and keynote
10:30 AMExplore the Exhibit Hall
12:00 PMLunch and networking at Reading Terminal Market
1:30 PMAttend education sessions
3:30 PMVisit the Sports Demonstration Zone or networking events
5:00 PMExplore Old City and Independence Hall
7:00 PMDinner at award-winning Philadelphia restaurant

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: Wednesday, September 30, 2026

Wednesday, 30 September, is the second day of the NRPA Annual Conference and features a full day of activities including the Day 2 General Session (9:00–10:30 a.m.) with the National Gold Medal Award Ceremony, a full day of Exhibit Hall access (10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.), education blocks, and the Best of the Best Ceremony & Reception in the evening (6–8 p.m.). It offers the most comprehensive single-day experience for first-time attendees, combining keynotes, awards, exhibit hall access, and networking., https://conference.nrpa.org/events/, https://parksandrecmag.mydigitalpublication.com/articles/day general-session

T-120

Register for the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference and book travel/accommodation — Early bird pricing ends August 7, 2026. Full Package $795 (member early bird) / $1,035 (non-member early bird). Expo Only $230 (member early bird). Book hotel through MCI USA, the only official housing provider

T-90

Book flights and ground transportation — Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is 7-10 miles from the venue. SEPTA Airport Line connects PHL to Jefferson Station (beneath the Convention Center) in about 25 minutes for $6.75-$8.75. Taxi flat rate is $32. Rideshare averages $28

T-60

Review the conference programme and build your schedule — The 2026 programme features 200+ education sessions across 40+ topics, including the Research to Practice series, Youth Sports Summit, and sessions on AI, environmental resilience, and equity. Download the NRPA Events App to plan sessions

T-30

Download the NRPA Events App and review the exhibit hall map — The NRPA Events App, presented by Greenfields Outdoor Fitness, provides the full schedule, exhibitor directory, and interactive floor plan. Use it to bookmark exhibitors and plan your show floor route

T-14

Complete Conference 101: A Crash Course for New Attendees — Free online course available at https://learning.nrpa.org/products/conference a-crash-course-for-new-attendees-in. A live web event on September 22 at 2 PM EDT covers how to maximize your time and network effectively. An in-person version is offered at the convention center on September 28 at 5 PM

T-7

Finalise travel documents and confirm registration — Bring a valid photo ID for badge collection. International attendees should ensure their visa or ESTA is approved well in advance. US B-1 visa costs $185; ESTA costs $40.27

T-1

Check weather, pack appropriately, and confirm transport to venue — Philadelphia in late September: highs around 79°F (26°C), lows around 62°F (17°C). September averages 4.44 inches of precipitation. Pack layers, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket for air-conditioned session rooms

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day

08:30 AM

Registration, badge collection, and morning welcome coffee at Pennsylvania Convention Center

Pennsylvania Convention Center Main Entrance Concourse

09:30 AM

Attending Opening Plenary Keynote: Future Industry Innovations & Market Outlook at National Recreation & Park Association NRPA Annual Conference

Pennsylvania Convention Center Plenary Auditorium

11:00 AM

Exhibition floor exploration: live product demonstrations and technology showcases

Pennsylvania Convention Center Exhibition Halls

01:00 PM

Networking luncheon and scheduled B2B supplier matchmaking meetings

Pennsylvania Convention Center Executive Networking Lounge

02:30 PM

Specialized Technical Workshop: Advanced Methodologies, Automation & Best Practices

Pennsylvania Convention Center Conference Rooms Level 2

04:30 PM

Evening Industry Networking Reception and collaborative discussions

Pennsylvania Convention Center Central Terrace & Hospitality Lounge

3:30 PM

Visit the Sports Demonstration Zone or networking events

Exhibit Hall, Pennsylvania Convention Center

5:00 PM

Explore Old City and Independence Hall

Old City (10-15 minute walk)

7:00 PM

Dinner at award-winning Philadelphia restaurant

Center City or Old City

Side trips

Reading Terminal Market

Public Market / Food Hall

Adjacent to the Convention Center (steps away)

One of America's oldest and largest public markets, with 80+ merchants offering Philadelphia classics like fresh soft pretzels, cheesesteaks, and diverse global cuisines

Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall

Historic Landmark / National Park

0.5-0.8 miles (10-15 minute walk)

Philadelphia's most iconic historic sites in Old City, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were debated and adopted

Philadelphia Museum of Art and Rocky Steps

Art Museum / Historic Landmark

2 miles (10-minute drive or 30-minute walk via Benjamin Franklin Parkway)

World-class art museum housing modern and historic masterpieces, famous for the Rocky Steps made iconic by the Rocky film franchise

LOVE Park (John F. Kennedy Plaza)

Public Plaza / Landmark

0.7 miles (14-minute walk)

Home to Robert Indiana's iconic LOVE sculpture, a go-to Philadelphia selfie spot just a short walk from the Convention Center

Old City

Historic District / Dining / Nightlife

0.5-1 mile (10-20 minute walk)

America's most historic square mile, with cobblestone streets, Independence Hall, the National Constitution Center, Museum of the American Revolution, and a vibrant dining and nightlife scene

Barnes Foundation

Art Museum

2 miles (10-minute drive or 30-minute walk via Benjamin Franklin Parkway)

Houses one of the world's greatest collections of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings, including works by Renoir, Cézanne, and Matisse

Networking spots

The Philly Block Party

Official opening reception

Tuesday, September 29, 6:30–9:30 p.m. across three venues in Fishtown: The Fillmore Philadelphia, Brooklyn Bowl Philadelphia, and Punch Line Philly. Outdoor lounge spaces, lawn games, food and beverage stations. Ticketed event included with full package and select registrations

Best of the Best Ceremony & Reception

Official awards ceremony and networking reception

Wednesday, September 30, 6–7 p.m. at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, 300-Level Grand Ballroom. Recognizes Hall of Fame, Innovation Awards, Spotlight Awards, and CAPRA accreditation. Cash bar reception immediately following

Ethnic Minority Society Luncheon

Official networking luncheon

Thursday, October 1, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Marriott Philadelphia Downtown, 1200 Filbert Street. Annual luncheon recognizing diverse experiences in the park and recreation profession. Ticketed event

Reading Terminal Market

Off-site dining and networking (recommendation)

One of America's oldest and largest public markets, with 80+ merchants offering Philadelphia classics. A great spot for informal meetings and networking between sessions. Recommendation only; not affiliated with NRPA

Old City

Off-site dining and nightlife district (recommendation)

America's most historic square mile, with cobblestone streets, Independence Hall, and a vibrant dining and nightlife scene. Accessible via a 10-20 minute walk from the Convention Center. Recommendation only; not affiliated with NRPA

Budget

Costs & budget

Standard booth size is 10'x10' (approximately 9 sqm). Early Bird rates (ends 3/31/26) are $3,310 per 10x10 for 1-5 booths, $3,210 per 10x10 for 6-9 booths, and $3,110 per 10x10 for 10+ booths. Standard rates are $3,415, $3,315, and $3,215 respectively. NGO/NPO rate is $2,910 per 10x10. Corner upgrades are $325 for 1 corner and $650 for 2 corners. Island (4 corners) is $1,300. Premium Exhibit Area is $725