“Last week, I attended the 2026 American Alliance of Museums Annual Meeting, and I’ve spent the past few days reflecting on what I’m really bringing home from the experience. There were inspiring sessions, exciting ideas, and meaningful conversations. One of the most valuable parts of AAM is the opportunity to learn from organizations of every size that are willing to openly share what is working, what they’ve learned, and how they’ve evolved. So many presenters are offering their successes, challenges, systems, and strategies in the spirit of helping the rest of us grow alongside them.”

Maggie McKenna
Executive Director, Frederic Remington Art Museum

“Not only did the conference open with a welcome from Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, the Expo Floor included a Puppy Park (Puppy Park!!) – a wonderful touch of joy we all needed. Whether connecting with colleagues, forging new friendships, or learning from some of the most talented minds in our industry, every moment was meaningful.”

Rachel Escusa
Marketing Director, Roto

“This past week I was in attendance at the 2026 American Alliance of Museums Annual Meeting & MuseumExpo. With this being my first time at a conference, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I quickly learned that the AAM annual meeting community was exceptionally invested in the experience of first-timers like myself, ready to welcome me as an emerging professional with open arms. Over the course of the conference, I had a wonderful time attending presentations and panels hosted by visionaries in the field, as well as mingling with fellow museum enthusiasts during the MuseumExpo and throughout the whole city. “

Kallen Mitchell
Collections and Exhibitions Intern, South Street Seaport Museum

“As a first-time attendee and newly appointed director, I loved the 2026 AAM Annual Meeting & MuseumExpo! The sessions were informative, the networking was incredible, and the additional experiences were top notch! This is by far the best conference I have ever attended.”

Sara Elizabeth Phillips
Guntersville, Alabama

“Attending the American Alliance of Museums conference for the first time was both energizing and inspiring. Being surrounded by museum professionals from across the country gave me new ideas, fresh perspective, and a deeper appreciation for the impact museums have in their communities. I left with practical insights I can apply immediately, meaningful new connections, and a renewed excitement for the work we do every day. The conference challenged me to think bigger and reminded me how collaborative and innovative the museum field truly is.”

Alysia Prunier
Indianapolis, IN

“Suddenly I am rethinking everything about our small-but-mighty museum, but in the best way possible! From inspiring awe and fostering community, to imagining audacious exhibitions and making our institutions more accessible and trustworthy, the breadth of learning sessions at the Annual Meeting & MuseumExpo were truly spectacular. There is nothing like a few thousand creatives in a creative space to kick open the world of possibilities. Thank you, AAM!”

Jessy Day
Wichita, KS

“Congratulations to the entire American Alliance of Museums staff team, board leadership, and the Philadelphia Host Committee for delivering one of the best museum conferences in recent times. As the world’s largest museum conference, AAM 2026 truly provided a world-class experience. From the robust lineup of engaging sessions and the strong sense of camaraderie established during the opening session, to the energizing MuseumExpo, the fabulous opening party at the Franklin Institute, and the overall seamless execution — every detail reflected excellence. And thank you for ensuring attendees easily achieved their 10,000-step daily goals while navigating the massive Pennsylvania Convention Center!”

Paula Gangopadhyay
Executive Director, Pittock Mansion

“About two weeks ago I had the pleasure of attending the American Alliance of Museums Conference in Philadelphia. The word amazing is truly an understatement when reflecting on this event. Starting off the conference with a powerful speech from Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro who not only opened the event but addressed our current administration’s ongoing erasure of arts, history, and culture I knew this weekend would be one for the books. Over three days I learned so much more about the museum field than I expected…To be among a room full of museum curators, directors, archivists, and volunteers was a dream come true.”

Nyoka Walters
Philadelphia, PA

“Attending the AAM Annual Meeting for the first time was overwhelming – in the best way possible! I had no idea what to expect and, coming from a very small museum, I thought I would be in over my head when I saw thousands of people flocking to the convention center, but I was welcomed by everyone at AAM and made many meaningful connections with colleagues. I learned so much from this experience, and I can’t wait to learn more next year!”

James Lacefield
Salem, New Hampshire

“Couldn’t have asked for a better AAM conference week in Philly! From hosting our meet up, endless after hours events, an unforgettable AAM party, nonstop conversations at the booth, cheesesteaks, and reuniting with some of our favorite people – it was a week to remember. Thanks to all who made the time there extra special! American Alliance of Museums knocked it out of the park this year 🙌”

Relative Scale

“Supporting staff attendance at the AAM annual conference is one of the best investments a museum can make for its employees. It is an opportunity for individual growth and learning, but also attendees make connections that open up economic and collegial opportunities and partnerships for museums.”

Fiona Shen
Orange, CA