September 30 – October 3, 2026
Anaheim, CA
170
AAOPT | American Academy of Optometry 2026 is a trade show in Anaheim, CA with approximately 170 exhibitors expected.
More detailed information about this show will be added soon.
Registration and housing are open, with early bird registration rates available through July 29, 2026. Registration is completed online through the official website.
Registration tiers follow a tiered deadline structure. For example, the International Lower Middle Tier Member rate (75% discount) is Early Bird (4/14–7/29) $175, Regular (7/30–9/20) $200, and On-Site (9/21–10/3) $220. Rates vary by membership category and registration type.
Key policies:
Academy 2026 is the annual meeting of the American Academy of Optometry, a professional and scientific organization known for its Fellowship (FAAO) distinction and its journal Optometry and Vision Science. The defining characteristic of the Academy meeting versus the AOA meeting is its research and clinical science emphasis — it is where clinical research gets presented, debated, and put into context for practicing clinicians.
The meeting rotates among major US convention cities each year. Following Academy 2026 Anaheim, the Academy is scheduled for San Antonio in 2027 (November 10-13) and Nashville in 2028 (November 8-11), with future meetings planned for Seattle in 2029 and Orlando in 2030.
Detailed exhibitor list is being compiled. Check back soon or visit the official show website for the most current information.
800 W Katella Ave.
The meeting takes place at the Anaheim Convention Center, 800 W Katella Ave, Anaheim, CA 92802. The Anaheim Convention Center is the largest convention facility on the West Coast and sits in the heart of the Anaheim Resort district near Disneyland. It hosts exhibits, plenary sessions, and concurrent breakout sessions across its exhibit halls and meeting rooms.
On-site parking is available at the Anaheim Convention Center. For a standard-size vehicle, parking at the Convention Center begins at $25 per day, and overnight parking is prohibited. Visitors should check the Anaheim Convention Center website for up-to-date information and rates. Reservable parking at nearby lots and garages can also be booked in advance through platforms such as SpotHero.
The Anaheim Convention Center is served by several Southern California airports. John Wayne/Orange County Airport (SNA) is the closest and most convenient airport to the Anaheim Convention Center, and Long Beach Airport (LGB) is a convenient alternative. From area hotels, John Wayne Airport (SNA) is roughly 14 miles away, Long Beach Airport (LGB) about 20 miles, and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) about 36 miles.
The Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC), located between Angel Stadium and the Honda Center, offers direct connections to attractions throughout Anaheim, including Disneyland and the Convention Center. Rideshare, airport shuttles, and rental cars are all widely available.
A wide range of hotels sits within the Anaheim Resort district, many within walking distance of the Convention Center:
Many Anaheim hotels also serve the adjacent Disneyland Resort, so booking early is recommended during major meetings.
Academy 2026 Anaheim takes place September 30 through October 3, 2026, at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California.
The meeting is designed for practicing optometrists across all subspecialties, along with researchers, optometry faculty, residents, students, and paraoptometric staff. It brings together leaders in eye care, research, and vision science, and also draws a strong international audience.
Registration and housing are open and completed online through the official website. Early bird registration rates are available through July 29, 2026, with regular and on-site rates applying afterward.
It offers more than 300 hours of continuing education with a strong research and clinical science emphasis. Highlights include the Plenary Session on research redefining clinical practice, section and SIG symposia, hands-on workshops, ACE courses, and an exhibit hall with more than 170 companies.
John Wayne Airport (SNA) is the closest, about 14 miles away and roughly a 20-minute drive. Los Angeles International (LAX), Long Beach (LGB), and Ontario (ONT) are also options. Rideshare, taxis, hotel shuttles, and the Anaheim Resort Transportation (ART) shuttle serve the convention center.
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