Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Award application deadline?

Applications may be submitted until May 15, 11:59 PM PT.

How do I submit my application?

Submit your application through the ESTO Awards application website by creating an account or logging in. Once you are logged in, click on “Awards: Start Entry” to begin your Awards submission.

What are the qualifications and requirements to submit?

The U.S. Travel ESTO Awards are open to all local and regional destination marketing organizations or convention and visitors bureaus and to all state and territory tourism offices. Learn more about general submission requirements.

What are the ESTO awards categories this year?

The ESTO Awards include two main categories, each with multiple awards:

• Destination Awards for local and regional DMOs.
• State Awards for state and territory tourism offices.

Within each category, the individual awards recognize excellence in areas such as digital campaigns, print marketing, public relations, community impact, inclusivity, innovation and immersive experiences. Review all awards.

What is the accessibility policy for ESTO?

The ESTO team is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible environment for all attendees. We encourage attendees and presenters to consider accessibility and the diverse needs of participants when planning presentations, communications, and interactions.

What do I do if I require mobility support?

If you require mobility support during the ESTO conference, please contact us at [email protected] in advance so we can discuss available accommodations and how best to support your needs. Attendees are encouraged to bring any personal mobility equipment they may require.

I am hard of hearing. What does ESTO do to support my needs?

If you are hard of hearing and require accommodations, please contact us at [email protected] in advance so we can discuss available support options.

I have low vision. How will ESTO support my needs?

The ESTO team encourages presenters to follow accessibility best practices when developing materials. If you require presentation materials in advance or in an accessible format, please contact us at [email protected], and we will work with presenters to accommodate requests where feasible.

What is a Destination Immersion?

Destination Immersions are out-of-classroom experiences where you’ll explore our host city and learn how industry leaders develop products that attract and engage visitors.

When will Destination Immersion information be available?

Destination Immersion details will be available once registration opens.

Do I have to register for Destination Immersions?

There is limited availability for each session. Those who register in advance will receive priority in attending the Destination Immersions.

When will Executive Edge sessions be available for registration?

More information will be available in early June.

Who is eligible to attend Executive Edge sessions?

Participation is limited to:

• Heads of organizations
• Chief Marketing Officers

Note: If the primary invitee is unable to attend, the invitation may be transferred to a senior-level executive, pending approval.

How do I know my member status with U.S. Travel Association?

Please contact [email protected].

I am a company that works with destinations. How should I register?

You are required to submit an Agency Rep application through our registration platform. No other form of submission is accepted. Applications go through an approval process and you and your sponsoring DMO will be notified of your registration status.

Do I receive a group discount if I don't register my group all at once?

To ensure your team discount is applied, please register everyone from your organization in one transaction. If your group registers separately, the team discount will not be applied automatically. For assistance, email us at [email protected]

What is the registration cancellation policy?

Please refer to our Event Policies page.

When will the 2026 schedule be available?

You can view the schedule at a glance or the full program.

Will sessions be recorded?

No, the sessions at ESTO will not be recorded.