Philadelphia, Pennsylvania • Arch Street Visitor Guide • October 2026
Pennsylvania Convention Center on Arch Street: Entrances, Parking, SEPTA & Events
The Pennsylvania Convention Center at 1101 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, is one of the largest convention venues in the United States. Its Center City location puts it next to Reading Terminal Market, SEPTA Jefferson Station, downtown hotels and major Philadelphia attractions.
However, the convention center covers more than six city blocks. Finding the correct 12th & Arch or Broad Street entrance can make a major difference when arriving for an exhibition, conference or professional meeting.
Phone: 215-418-4700
Pennsylvania Convention Center: Essential Visitor Information
| Official venue | Pennsylvania Convention Center |
|---|---|
| Common search name | Philadelphia Convention Center |
| Address | 1101 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 |
| Telephone | 215-418-4700 |
| Toll-free | 800-428-9000 |
| info@paconvention.com | |
| Location | Center City Philadelphia, across multiple blocks surrounding Arch Street |
| Main entrance | 12th Street and Arch Street |
| Other major entrance | North Broad Street, between Arch and Race Streets |
| Public opening hours | Vary by event, registration and building access schedule |
| Total exhibition area | 679,000 gross square feet |
| Contiguous exhibition area | 528,000 gross square feet |
| Exhibit halls | Seven, designated A through G |
| Meeting rooms | 82 |
| Ballroom space | 86,920 gross square feet across major ballroom facilities |
| Transit | SEPTA Jefferson Station beneath the complex |
| Parking | Independent paid garages and lots; prices vary |
| Official website | paconvention.com |
Which Entrance Should You Use: Arch Street or Broad Street?
The facility’s official February 2026 operations guide identifies different arrival zones by hall. This is especially important for large events using only one part of the building.
12th & Arch Street Entrance
GPS reference: 1201 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107.
Generally used for: Exhibit Halls A, B, C and F, Grand Hall, and Ballroom A/B.
The official driving directions describe entrances at the northeastern and northwestern corners of 12th and Arch Streets.
Broad Street Entrance
Location: North Broad Street, between Race Street and Arch Street.
Generally used for: Exhibit Halls D, E and G, Broad Street Atrium, and Terrace Ballroom.
The glass-fronted Broad Street entrance serves the western portion of the building.
Entrance Decision Table
| Assigned event space | Official suggested entrance |
|---|---|
| Halls A, B, C | 12th & Arch |
| Hall F | 12th & Arch |
| Grand Hall | 12th & Arch |
| Ballroom A/B | 12th & Arch |
| Halls D, E, G | North Broad Street |
| Broad Street Atrium | North Broad Street |
| Terrace Ballroom | North Broad Street |
| Other meeting rooms | Check room number and organizer’s designated entrance |
How to Avoid the Wrong Entrance
Check your ticket, convention app, email or registration instructions.
Use the Arch Street or Broad Street guidance shown above.
For 12th & Arch, the official operations guide suggests 1201 Arch Street; for Broad Street, navigate toward the entrance between Arch and Race.
Your organizer might move check-in to another lobby, even if your event is in the listed hall.
Pennsylvania Convention Center Events: October–November 2026
The official Pennsylvania Convention Center calendar lists trade shows, professional conventions and public exhibitions. Selected upcoming events include:
Professional aging-services convention. Confirm registration eligibility, program times and meeting-room assignments with the organizer.
Industry conference. Admission and access may require professional registration.
Laboratory technology and innovation event. Review the current exhibitor and attendee registration process.
Trade event. Check organizer registration and assigned exhibit-hall entrances.
Professional conference. Review ticket or badge instructions and the latest speaker/session schedule.
Public arts event. Check current tickets, opening hours and exhibitor information.
Professional medical meeting. Confirm conference registration, credentials and event rooms.
Education-focused convention. Consult its organizer for the current daily schedule and admission instructions.
How to Find Current Tickets and Registration
- Open the official convention center website and select the event calendar.
- Choose the correct event and date.
- Follow the organizer’s official registration or ticket instructions.
- Check the hall, entrance, badge pickup and prohibited-item rules.
- Save your confirmation before leaving for the venue.
Parking Near Pennsylvania Convention Center on Arch Street
Parking around the Pennsylvania Convention Center is provided by independent garages and surface lots. The venue does not publish a single standard public parking rate for every visitor.
The official parking guide recommends checking prices with the Philadelphia Parking Authority or individual garage operators. Rates vary by duration, event, day and advance reservation.
| Nearby parking option | Location | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Convention Center Parking | 1324 Arch Street | Event rate, height clearance, entrance and availability |
| Parking near 12th & Filbert | 12th and Filbert Streets | Operator, hours and pedestrian route |
| Arch Street parking lots | Around 8th–10th and Arch Streets | Availability and whether valet or self-parking applies |
| 11th & Race area garages | Near 11th and Race Streets | Entrance restrictions and current day rate |
| Broad & Race area | North Broad Street convention district | Convenience for Broad Street halls and posted rates |
Parking Prices: What Can Be Confirmed?
Venue-Wide Parking Rate
No fixed price.
The convention center explicitly states that nearby garage rates vary and that operators are independent.
Advance Parking
Some private garage operators offer online reservations and event pricing. Confirm vehicle clearance, final fees, cancellation rules and the actual entrance address.
Overnight Parking
Not every lot permits overnight stays or re-entry. Hotel guests should confirm whether an independent garage’s rules suit their itinerary.
Accessible Parking
Look for accessible spaces and a suitable step-free route. Ask the garage and venue about entrance access and any mobility needs.
Garage Height and Oversized Vehicles
The venue’s parking operations documents list different clearances for individual garages. Some have ceilings unsuitable for taller vans, vehicles with roof-mounted equipment or oversized SUVs.
Do not assume a height listed in an older venue map is current. Confirm the restriction with the operator before arrival.
Parking Checklist
Arch Street and Broad Street require different walking approaches.
Check total pricing, walking distance, operating hours, height clearance and re-entry.
Do not enter 1101 Arch Street as your vehicle’s destination after reserving a separate garage.
Keep the receipt, garage level, space number and pedestrian directions for your return.
Pennsylvania Convention Center Map: 1101 Arch Street
The convention center is in Center City Philadelphia, close to Reading Terminal Market, Chinatown, City Hall and Market East/Jefferson Station.
Official Driving Approaches
| Starting direction | General official route |
|---|---|
| Western and northern suburbs | I-76 East → I-676 East → Broad Street/Route 611 exit → Vine Street → 12th Street |
| Philadelphia Airport and Delaware | I-95 North → I-676 West via Exit 22 → downtown Broad Street approach |
| New York and northern New Jersey | I-95 South → I-676 West via Exit 22 → downtown Broad Street approach |
| Pennsylvania Turnpike | I-476 South → I-76 East → I-676 East → Broad Street exit |
SEPTA Jefferson Station, Airport Train and Amtrak
Public transit is one of the convention center’s strongest advantages. Jefferson Station is directly beneath the facility, connecting it with SEPTA Regional Rail services.
SEPTA Jefferson Station
Convenient Regional Rail station beneath the convention center complex. Follow signs toward the convention center and your event-designated entrance.
Philadelphia Airport Line
SEPTA’s Airport Line connects Philadelphia International Airport with Center City, including Jefferson Station.
Confirm the current fare, station access, departures and travel time through SEPTA.
Amtrak at 30th Street Station
Amtrak travelers arrive at William H. Gray III 30th Street Station. Continue by SEPTA Regional Rail to Jefferson Station or use another local transportation option.
Subway, Bus and PATCO
SEPTA subway and bus services, plus PATCO from South Jersey, provide additional transit options. The most convenient final walk depends on the chosen station and event entrance.
From Philadelphia International Airport
Follow ground-transportation signs and check current train schedules.
Choose a train stopping at Jefferson Station.
On arrival, use station signage and accessible routes to reach street or convention level.
Do not assume the first building door is the closest to your event registration.
SEPTA official schedules and fares — confirm departures, prices and service notices for your travel date.
Exhibit Hall Sizes, Ballrooms and Floor Plans
The 2026 Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau sales brochure provides an updated facility summary covering the entire Pennsylvania Convention Center.
| Venue component | Published size or count |
|---|---|
| Total exhibition space | 679,000 gross sq. ft. |
| Contiguous exhibition space | 528,000 gross sq. ft. |
| Street-level exhibit space | 151,000 gross sq. ft. |
| Exhibition halls | Seven, A through G |
| Meeting rooms | 82 |
| Meeting-room area | 240,542 gross sq. ft. |
| Ballrooms combined | 86,920 gross sq. ft. |
| Ballroom A/B | 31,512 gross sq. ft. |
| Terrace Ballroom | 55,408 gross sq. ft. |
| Grand Hall | 34,960 gross sq. ft. |
| Broad Street Atrium | 23,400 gross sq. ft. |
| Total saleable space | More than 1 million gross sq. ft. |
Which Floor Plan Do You Need?
200 Level
Exhibit halls, meeting rooms and Grand Hall. Useful for many trade shows and professional conventions.
300 Level
Meeting facilities and overlook areas. Check your room assignment for the correct elevators and escalators.
Ballroom A/B and Terrace Ballroom
Separate ballroom plans provide important information about entrance locations, configurations and adjacent meeting space.
Street Level
The building-level kit shows circulation, building entrances and access around surrounding streets.
Using the Official Floor Plan
- Open the official Pennsylvania Convention Center floor-plan page.
- Choose Interactive Floor Plans or the PDF matching your level.
- Find the event hall or meeting room printed on your confirmation.
- Locate the appropriate entrance, escalator or elevator.
- Check whether event registration is in a separate foyer or lobby.
Official 2026 Philadelphia Convention Center sales brochure (PDF).
Hotels Near Pennsylvania Convention Center on Arch Street
The convention center is surrounded by Center City accommodation, including hotels directly connected to the facility and properties a short walk away.
| Hotel | Location advantage | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia Marriott Downtown | Connected to the convention center and convenient for multiday meetings | Official room block, parking charges and assigned hall |
| Aloft Philadelphia Downtown | On the west/Broad Street side, convenient for some western hall arrivals | Walking route and conference-room rates |
| Hilton Garden Inn Philadelphia Center City | 1100 Arch Street, close to Reading Terminal Market and the convention center | Breakfast, parking and event-block rates |
| Home2 Suites by Hilton Philadelphia Convention Center | 1200 Arch Street, near the 12th & Arch entrance | Breakfast, extended-stay facilities and overnight parking |
| Hampton Inn Philadelphia Center City–Convention Center | Downtown hotel option within the wider convention district | Final room price and actual walking route |
Hotel Selection Checklist
- Verify the exact entrance for your event.
- Compare refundable and nonrefundable room rates.
- Check breakfast and parking inclusions.
- Confirm late checkout or luggage storage if needed.
- Reserve accessible room features in advance.
- Check whether the hotel has an indoor convention connection or requires a street crossing.
Accessibility, Sensory Services and Attendee Amenities
Pennsylvania Convention Center provides accessibility features across public meeting and event spaces. In 2025, the venue announced Sage Inclusion accessibility certification, covering entrances, circulation, restrooms, meeting spaces and other services.
| Visitor need | Published venue feature |
|---|---|
| Step-free movement | Accessible circulation routes and elevators |
| Accessible restrooms | Facilities available across appropriate public levels |
| Room identification | Braille room signage |
| Mobility equipment | Scooter rental arrangements |
| Lactation facilities | Mamava lactation suites |
| Service animals | Service animal facilities and accommodation planning |
| Sensory needs | Sensory and quiet-room arrangements may be available for specific events |
| Event accessibility | Seating, audio and room-layout needs should be confirmed with organizer |
Accessibility Planning Steps
Use your registration confirmation or the official floor-plan PDF.
Ask whether Arch Street or Broad Street offers the best route for your requirements.
Communicate mobility, hearing, seating or sensory needs to the event organizer in advance.
Ask about scooter rental, lactation suites or designated quiet spaces instead of assuming every service is available during all events.
Exhibitor Guide: Freight, Loading Docks and Event Services
Pennsylvania Convention Center has event-specific loading, labor, freight, technical and catering arrangements. Exhibitors should use the official show manual and venue operations plan rather than public guest directions.
Freight and Loading
The building’s loading docks are shown on the venue operations and floor-plan documents. Confirm the approved route, loading time and assigned dock before dispatching vehicles.
Union and Labor Arrangements
Philadelphia convention exhibits may involve labor rules and approved service providers. Obtain show-specific information from your organizer.
Utilities and Technology
Plan electrical supply, network connectivity, audiovisual equipment and any booth-specific rigging through authorized channels.
Food and Promotional Items
Food sampling, demonstrations, signage and distributions may require prior approval. Check the event exhibitor manual and catering requirements.
Before Sending Exhibition Freight
- Confirm the show name, booth number, hall and load-in date.
- Obtain the latest exhibitor service manual.
- Check the assigned loading address rather than shipping to 1101 Arch Street by default.
- Order electrical, internet and other technical services by the applicable deadline.
- Confirm labor, insurance, safety and permitted booth-height conditions.
- Arrange truck parking independently from attendee parking.
Official 2026 operations plan for event professionals (PDF).
How to Request Pennsylvania Convention Center Event Space
The Pennsylvania Convention Center hosts major conventions, consumer shows, professional conferences, receptions and corporate gatherings. Availability and venue rental pricing depend on the requested rooms, event schedule and service requirements.
Prepare the proposed dates, guest count, exhibit requirements, session types and hotel needs.
Review the seven exhibit halls, ballrooms, Grand Hall and smaller meeting rooms.
Include catering, freight, audiovisual technology, staffing, security and accessibility.
Visit paconvention.com for planning resources or call 215-418-4700.
Confirm availability, exact rooms, capacities, service charges and planning deadlines.
Check deposits, cancellation terms, insurance, labor requirements and authorized contractors before signing.
Things to Do Near the Convention Center
The Arch Street setting is particularly convenient for exploring Center City Philadelphia between event sessions.
Reading Terminal Market
Historic indoor market adjacent to the convention center, with vendors selling meals, snacks, produce and local specialties.
Chinatown
Restaurants and cultural businesses immediately north and east of the convention district.
Philadelphia City Hall
Famous civic landmark on Broad Street near the convention district.
Independence National Historical Park
Historic Philadelphia attractions, including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, farther east in Center City.
Fashion District Philadelphia
Shopping and dining district with connections to Market East transportation.
Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Major cultural boulevard leading toward the city’s prominent art museums and attractions.
Local tip: Reading Terminal Market is particularly convenient for lunch, but popular stalls may be busy during major conventions. Check vendor operating hours if your event has a short break.
Visitor Checklist Before Leaving
- Save the official address: 1101 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107.
- Find the actual event hall, ballroom and entrance.
- For the 12th & Arch approach, consider the official 1201 Arch Street GPS reference.
- For Halls D, E or G, check the Broad Street entrance.
- Compare current independent parking garage rates.
- Consider SEPTA Jefferson Station for easier downtown arrival.
- Confirm ticket, registration and bag policies with the organizer.
- Request accessibility arrangements before the event if needed.
- Bring credentials, ID and any required event materials.
- Save the venue phone: 215-418-4700.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Pennsylvania Convention Center address on Arch Street?
The official address is 1101 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107. For the main 12th & Arch entrance, the venue’s February 2026 operations guide uses 1201 Arch Street as a GPS reference.
2. Which entrance should I use at Pennsylvania Convention Center?
Official planning guidance generally directs Halls A, B, C and F, Grand Hall and Ballroom A/B to 12th & Arch; Halls D, E and G, Broad Street Atrium and Terrace Ballroom generally use Broad Street. Your event organizer may designate another entrance.
3. Is parking free at Pennsylvania Convention Center?
Visitors generally use paid independent garages and lots. The center does not offer one universal free-parking or daily-rate program for attendees.
4. How much does Pennsylvania Convention Center parking cost?
Parking charges vary by garage, event, time and duration. Check live rates with the parking operator and verify access, height limits and overnight rules.
5. What train station is closest to Pennsylvania Convention Center?
SEPTA Jefferson Station is directly beneath the convention center and serves Regional Rail trains, including Airport Line connections.
6. How big is Pennsylvania Convention Center?
The 2026 official sales brochure lists 679,000 gross square feet of exhibit space, including 528,000 contiguous square feet, 82 meeting rooms and more than one million square feet of overall saleable space.
7. What events are coming to Pennsylvania Convention Center in 2026?
Upcoming official listings include LeadingAge on October 25–28, Pennsylvania Conference for Women on November 5, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show on November 6–8, 2026.
8. Which hotels are near Pennsylvania Convention Center?
Nearby hotels include Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, Aloft Philadelphia Downtown, Hilton Garden Inn Philadelphia Center City and Home2 Suites by Hilton Philadelphia Convention Center. Compare walking routes to your event entrance.
9. Is Pennsylvania Convention Center wheelchair accessible?
The convention center provides accessible entrances, restrooms, elevators and other accommodations. Contact the venue and organizer for your event’s specific accessible entrance, seating and support arrangements.
10. How do I book an event at Pennsylvania Convention Center?
Review official floor plans and prepare dates, attendance, required spaces and technical services. Contact venue sales through paconvention.com or call 215-418-4700 to discuss availability and obtain an event proposal.
Official Philadelphia Convention Center Resources
Final Visitor Recommendation
Pennsylvania Convention Center is easy to reach by regional rail and is surrounded by hotels, restaurants and downtown attractions. However, its size makes it essential to know your assigned hall before arriving.
Best approach: confirm the event entrance first, use Jefferson Station when transit suits your trip, and compare independent garage prices before driving. For Halls A–C or F, begin with 12th & Arch; for Halls D, E or G, investigate the Broad Street entrance.
Independent Philadelphia visitor guide based on official Pennsylvania Convention Center operations documents, the 2026 Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau sales brochure and current visitor information, reviewed October 2026. Event dates, entrances, parking and transportation arrangements may change.