Engage. Experience. Connect.
U.S. Travel’s ESTO delivers a dynamic, interactive experience, designed to spark meaningful engagement. From collaborative roundtables and hands-on experiential activities to unique entertainment, every element is crafted to help attendees connect, learn and leave inspired.
ESTO Cares
Since 2015, ESTO Cares has brought attendees together in a spirit of compassion and connection to give back to the local community. Continuing the tradition of community impact, attendees will come together to support Mural Arts Philadelphia, a public-private partnership dedicated to the belief that art ignites change. Mural Arts Philadelphia creates art with others to transform places, individuals, communities and institutions. Join us Monday morning from 7:30–9:00 a.m. for a hands-on volunteer event that sets the tone for a purposeful ESTO. Registration opens at 7:00 a.m. If you can’t attend in person, you can still make an impact by donating through the “Friends of ESTO” ticket option. Advance RSVP required.
Beyond the Classroom: Destination Immersions
Sunday, August 23The Philadelphia CVB created a variety of out-of-classroom experiences designed to help you explore our host city while learning from industry leaders. You can choose from four unique city tours—whether you are savoring the flavors of Philly at Reading Terminal Market or exploring America’s most Historic Square Mile, there is something for everyone. Advance RSVP required through ESTO 2026 registration.
New to ESTO: An Inside Look
Sunday, August 23 | 3:45 – 4:45 p.m.Start ESTO 2026 with confidence and connection
Whether this is your first ESTO or you’d like a refresher, this high-level briefing provides a strategic roadmap to maximize your time and investment. ESTO is most effective when we learn from one another. This session connects you with experienced peer resources and colleagues to ensure you have a dedicated network throughout the week. We can’t wait to welcome you!
A Grand ESTO Welcome – Secrets of Philly: Beneath the Surface
Sunday, August 23 | 5:00 – 6:30 p.m.Join us for an evening of intrigue, connection, and discovery in the heart of Center City Philadelphia. Engage with peers – both longtime colleagues and ESTO first-timers as you kick-off ESTO at this architectural icon, a National Historic Landmark known for its ornate design and rich symbolism. At our pre-dinner reception, you’ll enjoy creative culinary offerings inspired by Philadelphia’s vibrant food scene, craft cocktails (and zero-proof sips).
Destination Day
Tuesday, August 25Destination Day returns with more energy, more creativity and more competition. This ESTO tradition is your chance to show off your team’s unique brand that goes the distance and builds momentum for the future. Bring the spirit and show how your destination’s identity—and its ideas—travel, inspire and make lasting impressions across the industry. Compete to win bragging rights, two complimentary registrations to ESTO 2027 and a special surprise from Destination Day sponsor Tempest.
ESTO Awards Ceremony, Dinner and Celebration
Tuesday, August 25 | 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.Join us for an evening recognizing the work—and the people—moving destination marketing forward. The ESTO Awards highlight the ideas, campaigns and innovation shaping the future of our industry. This is a moment to come together, celebrate excellence and connect with peers across the industry.