Program Schedule


What to Expect at ESTO

Each year, ESTO delivers bold content, dynamic learning formats and opportunities to connect and equip destination leaders with insights they can immediately put into action.

Session Format
  • Keynotes: Bold ideas and big-picture insights from industry leaders.
  • Mini Keynotes: Fast-paced spotlights on emerging strategies.
  • Presentations: Case studies and research-driven sessions.
  • Take-Off Talks: Short, story-driven talks with big impact.
  • Roundtables: Interactive discussions and peer exchange.

 

A Look Back at ESTO 2025

In Phoenix, the ESTO 2025 program set a new standard for how destination leaders learn and connect. Attendees experienced:

 

  • Immersive activations, including the hands-on AI Playground, where marketers explored practical applications of emerging technologies.
  • Fresh networking formats, such as Beyond the Classroom, designed to foster collaboration and exchange outside traditional sessions.
  • Purpose-driven engagement, highlighted by the expanded ESTO Cares initiative.

 

These highlights exemplify ESTO’s ongoing commitment to building programs that push boundaries and inspire action.

Event Policies

For full details including information around cancellations, substitutions, payments and photography, explore U.S. Travel’s general event policies and ESTO-specific guidelines.  

 

 

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Sunday, August 17
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7:45am - 10:00am

Experience

  • ESTO Cares
    More Details

    Pre-registration required

    Since 2015, ESTO Cares has brought attendees together in a spirit of compassion and connection to give back to the local community. In honor of its 10th year, we’re teaming up with Valley of the Sun United Way to support Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central & Northern Arizona by assembling travel-themed care packages that bring comfort and encouragement to families in need. 

    Join us Sunday morning from 8:30–10:00 a.m. for a hands-on volunteer event that sets the tone for a purposeful ESTO. 

    Coffee and donuts will be available at 7:30 a.m., and registration opens at 7:45 a.m.

    Registration opens at 7:45 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.

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1:00pm - 1:45pm

Concurrent Session: Peer-to-Peer Roundtable

  • Building Meaningful Relationships with Indigenous Communities
    More Details

    Pre-Registration Required

    Creating meaningful travel experiences starts with meaningful relationships. This roundtable session brings together industry leaders to share how tourism professionals can engage with indigenous communities through collaboration, cultural sensitivity and long-term respect. Whether you represent a DMO, tour company or hospitality brand, you’ll gain insights into building partnerships that honor heritage, uplift communities and lead to more responsible tourism practices.

    To foster more focused, meaningful conversation, registration is capped at 60 participants.

    Advance RSVP required through your personalized schedule.