Advertising Week New York 2026: How to budget and book your trip

Advertising Week New York takes place across multiple venues in The Penn District, so where you stay and how you structure your days can make a big difference. Book your hotel early, reserve time to move between venues, and keep plenty of time available for the conversations that happen between sessions. With a little planning, you'll head home with stronger industry connections and ideas you can put into action.

What is Advertising Week New York and who is it for?

Advertising Week New York brings marketing, advertising, media, technology, and creative professionals together for four days of sessions, industry discussions, and networking events. The 2026 event takes place Oct. 5-8 in various venues in The Penn District, centered around Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan.[1][2]

Attendees include brand and marketing leaders, agency strategists, media buyers and sellers, ad tech and martech professionals, creators, platform representatives, and independent agency leaders. Advertising Week says the 2026 event will feature more than 1,300 speakers and 500 sessions, along with focused summits covering gaming, B2B marketing, healthcare, independent agencies, and small and midsize businesses.[1][3]

If you're making the case to attend, connect the trip to work your team already has planned. That could mean meeting with media and agency partners, evaluating creator or gaming opportunities, comparing new advertising technologies, or gathering ideas that can inform upcoming campaigns and planning discussions.

What makes AWNY 2026 worth the trip

Advertising Week New York brings together the people shaping marketing, media, advertising, and culture for four days of conversations, ideas, and industry events. You'll hear how brands are approaching AI, creator partnerships, audience engagement, and emerging media while connecting with the agencies, platforms, publishers, and technology companies behind those campaigns.

Leave time in your schedule for these opportunities throughout the week:

• Gaming Summit: Explore how brands are connecting with audiences through gaming and immersive experiences.[1]
• B2B Marketing programming: Learn how marketing leaders are approaching demand generation, creativity, measurement, and growth.[1]
• Healthcare Summit: Hear how healthcare organizations are building stronger connections with patients and consumers.[1]
• Independent Agency and SMB programming: Find practical strategies for growing agencies and small businesses in a competitive market.[1]
• Creator and media programming: Attend sessions focused on creator partnerships, audience engagement, media innovation, and brand storytelling.[1]
• AWConnect networking: Set aside time for evening networking events and happy hours included with qualifying passes.[3]
• Leadership Breakfast Series and Official Wrap Party: If your pass includes access, use these events to continue conversations outside scheduled sessions.[3]

Advertising Week offers far more than what's listed on the agenda. Planning ahead helps you make time for the experiences that matter most, whether you're strengthening client relationships, evaluating new partners, or connecting with peers from the marketing industry.

Where to stay for AWNY 2026

Your hotel choice determines walking time to summit rooms, whether you can reset between partner meetings, and how late you stay out after AWConnect or client dinners without a long rideshare. The Penn District is steps from Penn Station, so Midtown West properties put you inside the conference area instead of commuting from neighborhoods farther away.

Hotels by distance to The Penn District

Compare Midtown neighborhoods by walk time, dining options, and typical AWNY-week rates:

Staying in The Penn District gives you the shortest walk to event programming and makes it easier to return to your hotel between sessions or before evening events. Herald Square and Koreatown remain comfortably walkable while offering more hotel and dining options. Times Square and Bryant Park can work when nearby rooms are unavailable, but account for the longer walk or subway ride.

Advertising Week New York hotel pricing

Midtown Manhattan is busy with conferences in October. Navan analyzed anonymized hotel booking patterns near The Penn District during the same week in October 2025 to provide helpful context.[12]

Use these benchmarks while planning your trip:

• Median hotel rate: The median nightly rate was $577 near The Penn District.[12]
• Booking windows: Travelers who booked more than 2 months ahead paid a median nightly rate of $518, while those booking within a week of the event paid $650 per night.[12]
• Stay length: Business travelers stayed an average of 2.9 nights.[12]
• Late bookings: Roughly 40% of bookings were made within two weeks of check-in.[12]

Hotels near The Penn District fill up quickly during Advertising Week, and rates generally increase as the event approaches. In Navan's October 2025 data, travelers who booked at least two months ahead paid substantially less than those booking during the final week before arrival.[12] If nearby hotels are unavailable or outside your budget, compare rates in Herald Square, Koreatown, or Times Square before making your reservation.

Advertising Week New York flight trends

There are three main airports serving New York City: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).[4][5][6] Navan flight data from the same October 2025 window shows 2,257 business flights into the New York area, with 23.7% from international origins.[12] Most travelers flew from Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, London, and Boston.[12]

How Navan Edge helps you book your conference travel

Navan Edge is a personal assistant for business travel. Powered by AI and 24/7 human travel experts, Navan Edge helps you compare and book flights, hotels, and restaurants in one conversation while considering your preferences, the amenities you care about and live availability.

Book your Advertising Week trip through Navan Edge and stack your usual hotel loyalty credit, airline miles, credit card multipliers, and extra 5% back in Amazon Gift Cards on eligible hotel stays.. See our guide on how to earn travel rewards on business trips for more useful information about rewards

Set your New York City budget before traveling

Before you book your trip, estimate the total cost of attending Advertising Week New York, including your conference pass, meals outside conference programming, airport transportation, client dinners, and other business travel expenses.

Federal per diem for New York City

The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) sets federal per diem rates by city and season. At the time of publication, the following October rates for FY2026 applied to New York City:

• $434 per day combined: Includes $342 for nightly lodging, plus $92 for daily meals and incidental expenses (M&IE)[7]
• M&IE breakdown: Includes $23 for breakfast, $26 for lunch, $38 for dinner, and $5 for incidentals; reduce for meals provided during the conference[7][8]
• First and last travel days: Includes an M&IE allowance of $69 (75% of the daily M&IE rate)[7]

Updated rates for FY2027 (October 2026–September 2027) are expected to be published in mid-August 2026 at gsa.gov. During Advertising Week, hotel rates near The Penn District often exceed the federal lodging rate, so budget for the difference or confirm with finance before booking.

Other expenses to consider

Include these expenses in your budget before you book so you can estimate the full cost of the trip and avoid surprises during conference week.

• Conference registration: Delegate pass tiers range from $88 for students to $400 for delegates 30 and younger to $2,499 for Platinum Delegates. Check the official registration page for tiers, pricing, and eligibility.[3]
• Pass-specific events: Some experiences, including the Leadership Breakfast Series, Official Wrap Party, and Platinum-only benefits, require qualifying pass types or advance RSVP.[3]
• Conference-provided meals: Leadership breakfasts, sponsor hospitality, or other catered events may reduce your M&IE reimbursement on the days they're provided.[3][7]
• Airport transfer: Public transit from JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark is generally the lowest-cost option, while rideshares typically cost $50–$90 or more, depending on the airport, traffic, and surge pricing.[4][5][6][9][10]
• Client dinners: Business dinners near The Penn District typically cost $75–$175 per person, depending on the restaurant and personal dining needs.
• After-hours networking: Budget for coffee meetings, team dinners, partner-hosted receptions, or other informal networking events beyond the official conference schedule.

Plan your AWNY 2026 agenda

Advertising Week has published the overall structure for its 2026 program, with four days of sessions, summits, networking events, and industry programming throughout The Penn District.[1] As the full session catalog becomes available, build your schedule around the sessions and meetings that best match your goals, then leave room for networking events and conversations throughout the week.

Here are some of the conference highlights:

• Monday (Oct. 5): Opening day of conference programming, including featured summits and the start of sessions across multiple stages.[1]
• Tuesday (Oct. 6): Continued sessions, industry discussions, and AWConnect networking events.[1][3]
• Wednesday (Oct. 7): Summit programming, partner activations, and networking opportunities throughout The Penn District.[1][3]
• Thursday (Oct. 8): Final conference sessions and the Official Wrap Party for qualifying pass holders (RSVP required).[1][3]

Topics on the official agenda include marketing strategy, advertising, media, brand leadership, event activations, gaming, B2B marketing, healthcare, creator influence, and audience engagement.[1]

Build flexibility into your schedule

Start by reviewing the published agenda and identifying the sessions, summits, and speakers most relevant to your work. Leave room between sessions for meetings, networking, and moving between venues.

Here are some tips to get ready for the event:

• Sessions: Save your must-attend sessions once the event scheduler is available, and register early for any programming that requires advance sign-up.[1]
• Meetings: Reach out to clients, partners, agencies, creators, or media contacts about one to two weeks before the conference to schedule time while everyone is still building their calendars.
• Logistics: Confirm your hotel reservation, plan your airport transportation, set your out-of-office message, and review badge pickup details before opening day.[1][2]
• Contacts: Decide how you'll exchange contact information — LinkedIn, QR codes, or digital business cards — and jot down a quick note after each conversation so you remember the context later.

Alongside this checklist, use our business trip planning guide, which walks through pre-trip logistics that apply to any conference.

What to pack and wear at Advertising Week New York

Advertising Week New York is generally business casual, though you'll see everything from blazers and tailored separates to polished sneakers and creative-industry style. Comfortable shoes are essential if you're walking between venues, while a blazer or dressier outfit comes in handy for client dinners, networking events, or Leadership Breakfast sessions.

Early October in Manhattan typically experiences afternoon highs in the mid-60s°F to low 70s°F, with evenings that dip into the 50s°F.[11] Dress in layers you can easily add or remove throughout the day as you go from venues to restaurants and back to your hotel.

Conference essentials

A few practical additions can make long days of sessions, meetings, networking events, and walking around Midtown Manhattan more comfortable:

• Two pairs of comfortable shoes: Walking between venues, client meetings, restaurants, and networking events adds up quickly over four days.
• Portable charger: Keep your phone powered for the conference app, maps, messages, note-taking, and exchanging contact information.
• Business cards or a digital contact card: Networking is a major part of Advertising Week, so make it easy to exchange contact information with new connections.
• Refillable water bottle: It's easy to forget to hydrate while moving between sessions, meetings, and events throughout Midtown.
• Light sweater or jacket: Conference rooms often feel much cooler than the weather outside.
• Compact umbrella: October showers can move through quickly, and you'll likely spend time walking between venues throughout the week.
• Comfortable cross-body bag or backpack: Carry your charger, water bottle, notebook, and conference essentials while keeping your hands free.

Getting from NYC airports to Midtown

Most attendees arrive at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), or Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). The Penn District surrounds Penn Station, making it easy to reach by public transit from all three airports. If you're traveling with heavy luggage, arriving late at night, or sharing a ride with colleagues, a taxi or rideshare may be worth the extra cost.

Beyond sessions: Make time for networking and industry events

Some of the most valuable conversations at Advertising Week happen outside the scheduled sessions. Leave time in your agenda for networking events, brand activations, and informal conversations with marketers, agencies, creators, and media partners.

Here are a few ways to make the most of your time onsite:

• Explore the featured summits: Set aside time for the Gaming, B2B Marketing, Healthcare, and Independent Agency and SMB programs instead of trying to move constantly between tracks.[1]
• Visit brand activations: Explore experiential marketing installations, partner events, and other activations happening throughout The Penn District.[1][2]
• Attend AWConnect networking events: If your pass includes access, use the evening happy hours to continue conversations and meet new industry contacts outside formal sessions.[3]
• Stop by the Creator Lounge: Creator Delegate pass holders can connect with fellow creators, brands, and platform representatives throughout the week.[3]
• Take advantage of the Leadership Breakfast Series: Super and Platinum pass holders can continue conversations in a smaller-group setting before the conference day begins (RSVP required).[3]
• End the week at the Official Wrap Party: Delegate passes and above include access to the closing celebration (RSVP required), making it a final opportunity to reconnect before everyone heads home.[3]
• Schedule important meetings before you arrive: Reach out to clients, partners, agencies, creators, or media contacts one to two weeks before the conference while calendars are still flexible.
• Leave room for unexpected conversations: Don't fill every hour with sessions. Some of the best introductions happen while walking between venues, grabbing coffee, or attending networking events.

Advertising Week is built around conversations as much as presentations. Giving yourself time to meet new people, reconnect with existing partners, and explore what's happening throughout The Penn District can be just as valuable as the sessions you planned weeks in advance.

What to eat at Advertising Week New York 2026

Advertising Week keeps you moving between sessions, meetings, networking events, and venues throughout The Penn District, so it's easy to push meals later than planned. If your pass includes breakfast or other conference hospitality, take advantage of it. Keep a protein bar or other easy snack in your bag, and carry a reusable water bottle so you're prepared if meetings run long or you find yourself walking straight from one event to the next.

When it's time for a client dinner, team meal, or a break away from the conference, these Penn District restaurants are convenient options nearby:

• Client dinner: Blue Ribbon Sushi & Steak at PENN 1 is a perfect option for business dinners; it features a modern steakhouse menu steps from summit rooms.[13]
• Team meal: The Landing at PENN 1 offers full-service dining with private dining rooms for group meals without leaving the conference.[13]
• Executive lunch or one-on-one: Bar Primi Penn District on West 33rd Street works for pasta-focused business lunches and private dining for eight to 40 guests.[14]
• Quick fuel between sessions: Los Tacos No. 1 and Shake Shack in the PENN 1 food hall keep you moving without a long detour when summit blocks run tight.[13]

If you need help booking a restaurant, Navan Edge can reserve New York City restaurants in the same chat where you arranged your hotel and flights.

Finish strong on departure day

Your trip isn't over when the last session ends. A little preparation before you leave New York can make it easier to turn what you learned at Advertising Week into action once you're back at work.

• Pack the night before: Charge your devices, set aside your travel clothes, and check your hotel room for chargers, business cards, conference swag, and anything else you picked up during the week.
• Confirm your checkout time: If you have a late flight, ask about late checkout or let Navan Edge request it for youso you can work comfortably before heading to the airport.
• Leave extra time for the airport: JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark can all be busy on weekday afternoons, so plan to arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight or three hours before an international departure.
• Submit your expenses while they're fresh: Upload receipts and complete your expense report before you get pulled back into your regular workload.
• Follow up with new contacts: Send a quick LinkedIn message or email to the people you met while your conversations are still fresh.
• Share what you learned: Schedule time with your team to review key takeaways, compare notes, and decide which ideas, partnerships, or conversations deserve a closer look.

Make your AWNY 2026 trip count

Advertising Week New York 2026 brings together thousands of marketers, media leaders, agencies, creators, technology platforms, and brand executives for four days of ideas, networking, and industry conversations throughout The Penn District. Plan your hotel early, build your schedule around the sessions and meetings that matter most, and leave room for the conversations that often offer the most valuable takeaways.

If you're planning your Advertising Week New York trip, Navan Edge can help you book your flights, Midtown hotels, and restaurant reservations in one chat.

Navan is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Advertising Week New York or their organizers, and this guide is not an official Emerald publication. Advertising Week New York and all other third-party trademarks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners and are used for identification and descriptive purposes only. All schedules, pricing, venue details, and program information are subject to change; verify current details with the official organizers before you travel.

Navan publishes this guide as part of its Navan Edge content series. Navan Edge is a Navan product referenced throughout this post. Card benefits, fees, loyalty program thresholds, earning structures, reward values, and AI capabilities described in this article are subject to change and were accurate as of the date of publication. Verify current terms with your card issuer, loyalty program operator, or the relevant program's website before making decisions. Amazon Gift Card rewards are subject to Navan Edge Terms and Conditions for eligible hotel bookings.

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