HOUSING OPENS: AUGUST 3, 2026
HOUSING DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 30, 2026
HOUSING DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 30, 2026
AVS is pleased to offer special rates at two downtown Pittsburgh hotels, the Westin Pittsburgh and the Omni William Penn Hotel.
Keep in mind that reserving a room in this convention block helps AVS meet its financial commitments to the host city and retain lower registration fees, as well as a high-quality conference with the features and services you are accustomed to.
Due to limited space, we recommend booking as early as possible to secure this special rate. Once the reserved room block is full, room availability and rate are not guaranteed and may vary.
Conference Hotels
AVS is pleased to offer special rates at two premier downtown Pittsburgh hotels—the Westin Pittsburgh and the Omni William Penn Hotel—providing attendees with convenient, comfortable accommodations just steps from the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.
| HOTEL |
DISTANCE |
RATE |
| Omni William Penn Hotel 530 William Penn Place Pittsburgh, PA 15219 |
4 Blocks | $239.00 |
| Westin Pittsburgh 1000 Penn Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15222 |
1 Block | $259.00 |
*A limited number of Government room rates may be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. If you don’t see a Government rate, please call the hotels directly to request a room in their Government block.
Hotel Cancellation Policies
Attendee Hotel Cancellation
Attendee Hotel Cancellation Policy
Reservations can be cancelled without penalty up to three business days (72 hours) prior to the day of arrival. NOTE: Failure to arrive on your confirmed arrival date will result in one night’s room & tax charged to the credit card provided and your entire reservation will be cancelled. A credit card is required to guarantee your reservation.
Cancellations or changes can be made via the website or via e-mail, avs@maritz.com until 5:00 pm EST on September 30, 2026. Please contact the hotel directly starting October 19, 2026, for all cancellations and changes. Please do not call the hotel prior to October 19, 2026, as the hotel may not have record of your reservation.
Exhibitor Hotel Cancellation
Exhibitor Hotel Cancellation Policy
Due to hotel stipulations, a minimum number of blocked rooms must be utilized by the AVS; therefore, the FINAL day to cancel your reservation without penalty is 5:00 pm EST on September 30, 2026. Reservations cancelled AFTER 5:00 pm EST on September 30, 2026, will be assessed a cancellation fee equal to one night’s room and tax per reservation. NOTE: The reservation cancellation fee is in addition to any hotel charges you may incur. If you cancel directly with the hotel, you will still be charged the cancellation fee. You are also subject to your individual hotel’s cancellation policy. Hotel requires cancellation of three business days (72 hours) prior to the day of arrival. Failure to arrive on your confirmed arrival date will result in one night’s room and tax charged by the hotel to the credit card provided and your entire reservation will be cancelled.
A credit card is required to guarantee your reservation. Cancellations and changes can be made via the website or via e-mail, AVS.exh@maritz.com until 5:00 pm EST on September 30, 2026. Please contact the hotel directly starting October 19, 2026, for all cancellations and changes. Please do not call the hotel prior to October 19, 2026, as the hotel may not have record of your reservation.
Conference Venue
David L. Lawrence Convention Center
1000 Fort Duquesne Blvd.
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Directions:
The David L. Lawrence Convention Center is easily accessible from all major downtown Pittsburgh points. Located at 1000 Fort Duquesne Boulevard, the center sits along the Allegheny River. It is reachable via major roadways, including I‑376 and the Fort Pitt Bridge, with clear signage directing visitors to the downtown and Strip District exits. Its central location allows attendees to arrive efficiently, whether traveling by car, public transit, or on foot from nearby hotels.
The David L. Lawrence Convention Center is easily accessible from all major downtown Pittsburgh points. Located at 1000 Fort Duquesne Boulevard, the center sits along the Allegheny River. It is reachable via major roadways, including I‑376 and the Fort Pitt Bridge, with clear signage directing visitors to the downtown and Strip District exits. Its central location allows attendees to arrive efficiently, whether traveling by car, public transit, or on foot from nearby hotels.
Parking:
A 700-car parking garage with a 7′ 8″ clearance is available at the Convention Center. The entrance is located on 10th Street. For more information, please visit Alco Parking Corporation. You may also visit ParkPGH.org for real-time parking availability in the downtown area.
Accessibility:
We are committed to hosting inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals—including those with disabilities—to participate fully. The David L. Lawrence Convention Center offers a range of accessibility features, including accessible entrances, elevators, restrooms, and designated seating areas. Our team is dedicated to providing a welcoming environment and ensuring that all attendees have the support and accommodations they need to engage comfortably and meaningfully throughout the conference.
Luggage Storage:
Should you need to store any luggage upon your arrival/departure to/from the Convention Center, you may leave it at the AVS Registration Desk or in the Event Office.
Family/Accessible Restrooms and Mother’s Room:
On the second level of the DLCC, we offer a dedicated space for parents of newborns/infants that can be used as a private nursing room. When at the DLCC, please ask a staff member for the location and how to gain access.
Childcare:
Options for childcare in the Pittsburgh area may be found at Care.com. Please Note: AVS and the Convention Center make no representation, warranty, or guarantee as to, and shall not be responsible for, the suitability of these providers.
Restrooms:
All bathrooms are ADA accessible, and there are men’s, women’s, and family restrooms throughout the facility.
Transportation
Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT):
Pittsburgh International Airport provides efficient, direct access to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. Located approximately 25–30 minutes from downtown, the airport provides a range of reliable transportation options, including taxis, rideshare services, shuttles, and public transit. Its streamlined arrival experience and straightforward travel routes ensure that attendees can reach the convention center and their accommodations with ease, supporting a smooth start to their conference participation.
Pittsburgh International Airport provides efficient, direct access to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. Located approximately 25–30 minutes from downtown, the airport provides a range of reliable transportation options, including taxis, rideshare services, shuttles, and public transit. Its streamlined arrival experience and straightforward travel routes ensure that attendees can reach the convention center and their accommodations with ease, supporting a smooth start to their conference participation.
Public Transportation:
Downtown Pittsburgh offers reliable, accessible public transportation to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. Numerous bus routes serve the surrounding area, and the free downtown light‑rail service (The T) provides convenient connections between major hotels, business districts, and nearby attractions, ensuring efficient mobility for conference attendees.
About Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh offers a welcoming and well‑organized environment for conference participants. The city’s compact downtown and centrally located convention facilities make it easy to navigate between sessions, hotels, and dining options. With its distinctive riverfront setting, cultural attractions, and professional yet approachable character, Pittsburgh offers a thoughtful, efficient backdrop for productive meetings and meaningful collaboration.
Pittsburgh is located in Southwestern Pennsylvania, where the Ohio, Allegheny, and Monongahela Rivers meet. Pittsburgh is about 45 miles west of the Ohio border and about 300 miles east of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Climate:
There are plenty of ways to enjoy Pittsburgh in the fall, no matter your interests, taste buds, or even the weather. When traveling to Pittsburgh in the autumn, remember to pack a few essentials to ensure a smooth trip. With these tips and ideas, you are sure to fall in love with Pittsburgh during your trip.
- Layers are critical as temperatures cool. While mornings and evenings may be cool, daytime will likely be warm and often sunny. Be sure to bring outfits that layer well, including sweaters and jackets.
- Be sure to pack your walking shoes! While the weather is just right, you’ll be sure to want to explore on foot) and comfy shoes are critical.
Things to Do:
Discover The Andy Warhol Museum, take a ride on the Duquesne and Monongahela Inclines, visit the August Wilson African American Cultural Center, the National Aviary, the Roberto Clemente Museum, get discount tickets to the Pittsburgh Opera and Cultural District– this list goes on!
Explore the city and experience the award-winning food scene, tremendous local breweries, and countless family activities