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Schedule



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

Explore the full schedule to start planning your experience at ESTO.

Sunday, August 23
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10:00am - 12:00pm

Invitation Only

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12:00pm - 5:00pm

Invitation Only

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1:00pm - 2:30pm

Beyond the Classroom

  • Pre-registration required. Limited to 50 people.

    Discover Philadelphia through a canvas that spans the entire city. For more than 40 years, Mural Arts Philadelphia has transformed walls into powerful expressions of creativity, community, and social change, making it the largest public art program in the nation.

    Lace up your walking shoes for a guided tour through the vibrant neighborhoods of Chinatown and Midtown Village, where bold murals demonstrate how public art inspires and shapes a destination's identity.

    Departs from Philadelphia Marriott Downtown.

    Key Takeaway: Brand Development

    Discover how public art and community-driven initiatives can shape, inspire and strengthen a destination’s story to engage visitors.

     

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1:00pm - 3:30pm

Beyond the Classroom

  • Pre-registration required. Limited to 50 people.

    Immerse yourself in world-class art along Philadelphia’s iconic Benjamin Franklin Parkway. This 2.5-hour guided tour pairs two of the city’s most celebrated cultural destinations for an inspiring afternoon of creativity and discovery. 

    Begin at the serene, open-air setting of Calder Gardens, where the monumental works of Alexander Calder, one of the 20th century’s most influential artists, invite reflection and exploration. Then, just across the Parkway, step inside the renowned Barnes Foundation to experience one of the greatest collections of post-impressionist and early modern art in the world, thoughtfully arranged according to Dr. Albert Barnes’ original vision.

    Departs from Philadelphia Marriott Downtown.

    Key Takeaway: Innovative Approach

    See how intentional programming, design and curated experiences offer innovative approaches to craft brand identities that resonate with today’s travelers.

  • Pre-registration required. Limited to 50 people.

    Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with an unforgettable journey through the nation’s most historic square mile. This 2.5 hour guided tour brings the founding of the United States to life as you explore what sets Philadelphia apart from other destinations through its unique concentration of globally recognized landmarks.

    Start at the National Constitution Center, then continue toward the Museum of the American Revolution. Along the way, pass the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, and experience immersive multimedia moments that reveal the people, places, and ideas that shaped a nation.

    Departs from Philadelphia Marriott Downtown.

    Key Takeaway: Destination Storytelling

    See how history becomes the story when a city transforms heritage into compelling, audience-driven narratives that bring history to life.

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2:00pm - 3:30pm

Beyond the Classroom

  • Pre-registration required. Limited to 50 people.

    Step into the heart—and stomach—of Philadelphia at the legendary Reading   Terminal Market. On this 90-minute guided tour, you’ll explore one of   America’s oldest and most celebrated public markets, where rich history and bold flavors come together under one roof.

    Uncover how a historic space evolved from a 19th-century rail hub into a thriving food destination that locals love and visitors seek out. Through vendor stories, generational traditions, and curated tastings, see how food becomes a compelling storytelling tool. One that builds emotional connection,   reflects authenticity, and can be leveraged to create memorable,   experience-driven branding in any destination.

    Departs from Marriott Hotel Lobby.

    Key Takeaway: Leveraging Experiences

    See how one of Philadelphia’s cultural gems leverages local assets to create a meaningful and authentic culinary experience.

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6:30pm - 9:00pm

Invitation Only