Visiting Pennsylvania Convention Center: Entrances, Events and Local Tips
Pennsylvania Convention Center spans multiple downtown blocks. The most important detail is not simply the address: it is knowing which entrance serves your event, how to reach it and whether your ticket requires separate registration.
Which Pennsylvania Convention Center Entrance Should You Use?
The official mailing address is 1101 Arch Street, but event-specific arrival instructions may direct visitors to 12th and Arch Streets or North Broad Street. The venue’s 2026 operations guidance separates entrances by exhibit hall.
| Event hall or space | Recommended entrance | GPS destination |
|---|---|---|
| Halls A, B, C, F | 12th & Arch Street | 1201 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 |
| Grand Hall / Ballroom A&B | 12th & Arch Street | 1201 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 |
| Halls D, E, G | North Broad Street entrance | 119 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 |
| Broad Street Atrium / Terrace Ballroom | North Broad Street entrance | 119 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 |
Simple entrance decision
- Find your hall or room number on the event ticket.
- Identify whether it is located near 12th and Arch or Broad Street.
- Choose the matching pedestrian entrance, transit exit and parking garage.
- Allow additional indoor walking time for a large exhibition.
Pennsylvania Convention Center Upcoming Events
The venue holds public shows, association meetings, business conferences, conventions and exhibitions. The following selected dates appear on its official 2026 calendar.
| Date | Event | What visitors should check |
|---|---|---|
| Oct 25–28 | LeadingAge | Professional registration and credential requirements |
| Oct 27–28 | Reuters Events: Pharma Customer Engagement | Delegate registration and program |
| Oct 28–29 | Future Labs Live USA | Conference registration and exhibition access |
| Oct 28–30 | LMC Expo | Event-specific access requirements |
| Nov 5 | Pennsylvania Conference for Women | Ticket or conference registration |
| Nov 6–8 | Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show | Public admission and show hours |
| Nov 12–15 | Society for Neuro-Oncology Annual Meeting | Meeting registration and attendee credentials |
| Nov 19–22 | NCTE Annual Convention | Delegate badge and sessions |
| Dec 4–7 | PAX Unplugged | Passes, entry policy and event schedule |
Schedule reviewed October 18, 2026. The event calendar may display an early administrative start time that differs from public doors. Confirm admission and hours through the individual event.
View Full Official Event Calendar ↗Tickets, Registration and Entry Rules
The convention center does not charge one universal admission fee. Some events sell public tickets, while other conventions require paid registration, exhibitor credentials or invitations.
How to prepare your entry
- Find your event. Open the official calendar and select the correct date.
- Check the organizer. Look for an event registration portal or approved ticket company.
- Confirm your admission type. Determine whether you need a ticket, conference badge, invitation or visitor registration.
- Read the event rules. Review bag sizes, prohibited items, photography, re-entry, child admission and accessibility guidance.
- Save your confirmation. Keep your ticket, registration email and badge collection location available.
Parking Near Pennsylvania Convention Center
Parking is available in independently operated garages and surface lots around the venue. There is no single universal convention center parking price. Parking rates depend on the operator, event, length of stay and reservation conditions.
| Your priority | Where to look | Verify before paying |
|---|---|---|
| 12th & Arch entrance | Garages around 11th–13th and Arch/Race | Actual pedestrian exit and event hours |
| Broad Street entrance | Garages around Broad, Race and nearby blocks | Walking route and elevator availability |
| Full-day convention | Daily-rate or prepaid parking | Exit time, re-entry and maximum charge |
| Oversized vehicle | Operator-approved parking only | Height clearance and allowed dimensions |
| Accessible parking | Garages or designated public spaces | Permit rules and accessible path to entrance |
Before reserving parking
- Confirm the garage address and entry driveway.
- Choose a garage close to your event entrance, not just the convention center’s map pin.
- Review height limits, closing times and overnight rules.
- Check whether online reservations allow re-entry.
- Allow extra time for major events and Center City traffic.
Official parking operator listings ↗
SEPTA Jefferson Station and Airport Transportation
The convention center sits above SEPTA Jefferson Station, making rail travel one of the simplest ways to arrive without paying downtown parking fees.
Jefferson Station
Regional Rail trains serve Jefferson Station beneath the convention center district. Follow station exits and venue signs toward the entrance assigned to your event.
Airport Line
SEPTA’s Airport Line connects Philadelphia International Airport with Center City stations, including Jefferson. Review current train times, fare, and terminal stops before traveling.
Subway and bus
Nearby SEPTA services provide additional connections across the city. Choose the station exit most convenient for your event hall.
PATCO and NJ Transit
Regional visitors can use rail connections into central Philadelphia and walk or connect onward to the convention district.
From Philadelphia Airport to the venue
- Locate the SEPTA Airport Line station serving your airport terminal.
- Check the next train toward Center City and purchase the appropriate fare.
- Ride to Jefferson Station.
- Follow signs for the relevant street-level exit.
- Walk to the 12th & Arch or Broad Street entrance indicated by your event.
Official SEPTA trip planning, fares and schedules ↗
Convention Center Map and Driving Directions
Mailing address: 1101 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Driving from common directions
| Travel origin | Typical highway approach |
|---|---|
| Western and northern suburbs | I-76 East toward I-676 and Center City |
| Airport / Delaware | I-95 North to the I-676 Center City connection |
| New York / northern New Jersey | I-95 South toward I-676 |
| South Jersey | Benjamin Franklin Bridge and Center City street network |
| Pennsylvania Turnpike | I-476 / I-76 connections toward Center City |
Routes are general orientation. Check live traffic and the exact parking facility before leaving.
Hotels Near Pennsylvania Convention Center
Several hotels are either connected to the convention center or directly across nearby streets. For a multiday conference, proximity to the assigned entrance can save time and transportation costs.
Philadelphia Marriott Downtown
1201 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
A large conference hotel connected to the convention complex. Useful for attendees who want hotel facilities and convenient indoor access.
Best for: Conferences, larger groups and business travel.
Aloft Philadelphia Downtown
101 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Located near the Broad Street side of the facility and linked to the convention center. A practical option for attendees who prefer a smaller hotel.
Best for: Broad Street entrances and short stays.
Hampton Inn Center City–Convention Center
1301 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Near the convention center’s northwestern side and convenient for attendees who value breakfast and an easy downtown location.
Best for: Practical business and weekend stays.
Hilton Garden Inn Philadelphia Center City
1100 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Across from the center with easy access to Reading Terminal Market and Jefferson Station.
Best for: Rail travelers and short convention visits.
Loews Philadelphia Hotel
1200 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Full-service accommodations near City Hall, shopping, restaurants and the convention district.
Best for: Upscale business trips and leisure extensions.
Four Points by Sheraton Philadelphia City Center
1201 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Located across from the facility in a convenient downtown position.
Best for: Straightforward hotel accommodation near event entrances.
Floor Plans, Exhibit Halls and Meeting Capacity
The Pennsylvania Convention Center combines historic building sections with modern exhibit and meeting areas. The official floor plans identify several levels, each serving different types of gatherings.
| Level | Main spaces and features |
|---|---|
| 100 / Street Level | Broad Street Atrium, exhibit halls F and G, access toward Jefferson Station and nearby streets |
| 200 / Exhibit Hall Level | Exhibit halls A through E, Grand Hall and meeting rooms |
| 300 Level | Ballroom A&B, meeting facilities and overlook areas |
| 400 Level | Terrace Ballroom and associated circulation areas |
Notable spaces
- Grand Hall: A historic former Reading Railroad train shed with roughly 34,000 square feet.
- Broad Street Atrium: Approximately 23,400 square feet, featuring the Broad Street entrance environment.
- Terrace Ballroom: Approximately 55,408 square feet on the upper level.
- Exhibit halls: Suitable for trade shows, exhibitions, large meetings and customized event setups.
Official downloadable floor plans and capacity charts ↗
Food, Reading Terminal Market and Visitor Amenities
Reading Terminal Market is immediately beside the convention district. It is a convenient food option for attendees who are allowed to exit and re-enter their event.
Practical lunch plan
- Confirm re-entry rules before leaving your event.
- Expect long lunch queues during major conventions.
- If your schedule is tight, locate a concession or café inside the assigned area.
- For dietary restrictions, check individual vendor options in advance.
- Allow sufficient time to pass through event security again.
Useful facilities inside the venue
| Facility | Visitor details |
|---|---|
| Complimentary Wi-Fi | Provided on public concourses and in the Grand Hall; private meeting-room services may be charged separately. |
| Lactation suites | Four Mamava suites: 13th & Arch near room 109AB, Broad Street Atrium, Registration Bridge-West and Hall E Concourse-South. |
| UnConventional Gift Shop | Second level near the 12th & Arch area; opening times correspond to relevant event hours. |
| Concessions and café areas | Food services are managed by the venue’s approved provider; opening depends on the event. |
| Accessibility support | Accessible restrooms, braille signage and mobility-related services. |
Accessibility and Special Assistance
The convention center provides facilities for visitors with mobility, visual, hearing and other accessibility needs, and has received Sage Inclusion accessibility certification.
Accessible routes
Accessible entryways, restrooms and vertical circulation facilities help visitors move between the building’s multiple levels.
Mobility equipment
Scooter rental arrangements and other mobility support options are described by the venue. Confirm availability before attending.
Private nursing spaces
Four Mamava lactation suites offer private facilities for nursing or pumping.
Event-specific accommodations
Quiet rooms, sensory supports and related arrangements can vary by organizer and event.
Exhibitor Loading, Wi-Fi and Event Rental Information
Exhibitors have different needs from regular ticket holders. The venue provides designated unloading arrangements and separate operational rules for show labor, utilities and installation.
Using your own vehicle for exhibit materials
- Read the event organizer’s exhibitor service manual.
- Check the assigned unloading area and permitted move-in time.
- Use a personally owned, noncommercial vehicle only under the venue’s applicable rules.
- Unload promptly and remove the vehicle after completion.
- Do not park in freight, loading or emergency areas unless specifically authorized.
Services for organizers
| Need | Planning consideration |
|---|---|
| Internet | Free public-concourse Wi-Fi differs from paid event and dedicated hardwired service. |
| Catering | Aramark Culinary Services is the venue’s exclusive food and beverage provider. |
| Utilities | Electrical/data setup and distribution are subject to approved service arrangements. |
| Event setup | Venue and contractor work rules depend on equipment ownership and labor jurisdiction. |
| Capacity | Room layouts and maximum occupancy must be approved for the event setup. |
Event Services: (215) 418-4850 · eventservices@paconvention.com
Show Services: (215) 418-4800
Last-Minute Visitor Checklist
- Confirm the correct event name, date and opening time.
- Save the registration location and hall number.
- Use the 12th & Arch or Broad Street entrance appropriate to your hall.
- Book parking close to your chosen entrance if driving.
- Check SEPTA schedules and service updates if traveling by rail.
- Save your mobile ticket or conference badge information.
- Review event-specific prohibited items, baggage and re-entry policies.
- Allow extra time for large conventions and security screening.
- Ask for accessibility assistance before arrival if required.
Pennsylvania Convention Center FAQs
1. What is the Pennsylvania Convention Center address?
The official mailing address is 1101 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107. Public entry may be at 12th & Arch or North Broad Street depending on your event hall.
2. Where should I enter for halls A, B, C and F?
The usual entrance for halls A, B, C and F is 12th & Arch Street, using 1201 Arch Street for GPS. Follow your event organizer’s specific entrance instructions.
3. Which entrance serves halls D, E and G?
The venue’s operations guidance directs visitors for halls D, E and G toward the North Broad Street entrance, with 119 North Broad Street as a GPS reference.
4. Is parking free at Pennsylvania Convention Center?
No universal free parking is offered. Nearby parking garages and lots are independently operated, and charges vary by location, duration and event.
5. Which train station serves the convention center?
SEPTA Jefferson Station is directly beneath the convention center district. Regional Rail and the Airport Line provide convenient access.
6. How can I find upcoming Pennsylvania Convention Center events?
Visit the venue’s official event calendar at paconvention.com/events, select the event and check the organizer’s ticket, registration and entrance information.
7. Which hotels connect to the convention center?
Philadelphia Marriott Downtown and Aloft Philadelphia Downtown are connected to the convention center. Other hotels are located within a short walk.
8. How many exhibit halls and meeting rooms are there?
The venue provides seven exhibit halls totaling approximately 679,000 square feet, 82 meeting rooms and two major ballrooms.
9. Is the Pennsylvania Convention Center accessible?
Yes. It provides accessible facilities and services including restrooms, braille signage and mobility-support arrangements. Contact your organizer about event-specific accommodations.
10. Is Pennsylvania Convention Center the same as Greater Philadelphia Expo Center?
No. Pennsylvania Convention Center is in Center City Philadelphia at 1101 Arch Street. Greater Philadelphia Expo Center is a separate facility in Oaks, Pennsylvania.