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.  

 

 

Print
Monday, August 18
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7:30am - 5:00pm

Networking

  • ESTO Launchpad
    More Details

    Destination Services

    Stop by for some giveaways, courtesy of Visit Phoenix and Visit Arizona.

    Sip & Say Hi with U.S. Travel

    4:30 - 5:30 PM

    During “Me Time,” swing by to mix, mingle, and sip with the U.S. Travel team! Grab a drink, say hello, and enjoy good company.

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8:00am - 9:00am

Networking

  • Breakfast
    Sponsored by
    Future Partners
    More Details

    Continental Breakfast Menu

    Season's Best Fruits & Berries (V, GF)

    Assortment of Fruit & Greek Yogurts (Veg, GF)

    -Granola (Veg, GF, DF, CN)

    Breakfast Bakeries & Gluten Friendly Muffin Tops (Veg)

    -Accompanied by Sweet Butter, Assorted Fruit Jams

    Southwest Breakfast Burrito

    -Scrambled Eggs, Chorizo Sausage, Potato, Pepper-Jack Cheese, Locally Made Tortilla, Salsa Verde

    -Meatless option available upon request

     

    Beverages

    Coffee and Tea Service

     

    GF = Gluten Free; DF = Dairy Free; CN = Contains Nuts; Veg = Vegetarian; V = Vegan

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11:30am - 12:45pm

Networking

  • Connect and Refuel - Networking Lunch
    Sponsored by
    Madden Media
    More Details

    Buffet Lunch Menu

    Market Style Chopped Salad

    -Romaine, Queso Fresco, Roasted Corn, Black Beans, Tortilla Strips, Cherry Tomato, Chipotle Ranch Dressing, Honey Ancho Vinaigrette

    Grilled Chicken (GF, DF, CN)

    -Black Mole (contains peanuts) and Toasted Sesame Seeds

    Green Chili Tamales (Veg, GF)

    -Accompanied by Fire Roasted Salsa (V, GF), Salsa Verde (V, GF)

    Calabacitas (V, GF)

    -Mexican Squash, Grilled Peppers, Fire Roasted Corn, Cilantro

    Cilantro Lime Rice (V, GF)

     

    Desserts

    Chocolate Chili Rice Pudding (Veg, GF)

    Prickly Pear Cheesecake (Veg)

     

    Beverages

    Coffee and Tea Service

     

    GF = Gluten Free; DF = Dairy Free; CN = Contains Nuts; Veg = Vegetarian; V = Vegan