Pool & Spa Show Guide
Your complete guide to the PSP Expo in Atlantic City. Best hotels near the convention center, tips for industry professionals, and everything you need for a productive show experience.
Quick Facts
January
Last week typically
Tuesday-Thursday
11,000+
Industry Professionals
From across the Northeast
400+
Exhibitors
Largest NE show
Off-Season
Hotel Rates
Best deals of the year
What is the Pool & Spa Show?
The Pool & Spa Show (PSP Expo) is the Northeast's largest trade event for pool, spa, and outdoor living professionals. Each January, over 11,000 industry professionals gather at the Atlantic City Convention Center for three days of education, exhibits, and networking. The show kicks off the new season with the latest products, technologies, and business strategies for the pool and spa industry.
Organized by the Northeast Spa & Pool Association (NESPA), the Pool & Spa Show has been a January tradition for decades. It's timed perfectly—giving industry professionals a chance to see new products, attend training, and plan their season before the busy spring rush begins. The show has grown to become one of the largest pool industry events in the country.
Who Attends?
Where to Stay
January is the off-season in Atlantic City, which means excellent hotel rates. The Sheraton is connected directly to the convention center—ideal for the show. Casino hotels offer entertainment after show hours.
Pro tip: January hotel rates are the lowest of the year in Atlantic City. Treat yourself to a nicer room or an extra night—you have earned it!
Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel
Connected to convention center. Industry group rates often available.
Tropicana Atlantic City
January rates are excellent value. The Quarter has dining and entertainment.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Modern rooms, great for entertaining clients.
Caesars Atlantic City
Boardwalk location with upscale dining options.
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
Luxury option for client entertainment. Best spa in AC.
Compare Hotel Prices
January rates are the best of the year. Combine the show with casino entertainment.
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Show Schedule
The show typically spans three days with certification courses starting earlier. Check the official website for exact dates.
Monday (Pre-Show)
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
What to Expect
- ✓Massive exhibit hall with 400+ exhibitors
- ✓Latest pool, spa, and outdoor living products
- ✓Educational seminars and workshops
- ✓Certification courses (CPO, APSP, etc.)
- ✓Business management sessions
- ✓New product showcase
- ✓Networking events
- ✓Manufacturer demonstrations
Getting to the Show
By Car
From North Jersey: Garden State Parkway South to Exit 38, then AC Expressway. January traffic is typically light. Many attendees drive from surrounding states—PA, NY, CT, MA.
By Train
NJ Transit Atlantic City Rail Line from Philadelphia. The AC Rail Terminal is about 1.5 miles from convention center—taxi or jitney recommended.
Parking
Convention center parking is $15-25/day. January hotel rates often include parking. Casino hotels typically offer free self-parking with player's card.
Where to Eat
Quick Lunch Near Convention
- •Coastal Craft (Sheraton) - convenient, good quality
- •Tanger Outlets food court - fast and close
- •The Walk - multiple quick options
Client/Team Dinner
- •Dock's Oyster House - classic AC seafood
- •Chart House - great for groups, marina views
- •Buddakan (Borgata) - impressive Asian fusion
- •Carmine's (Tropicana) - family-style Italian
Industry Networking
- •Hard Rock Cafe - casual, lively atmosphere
- •Irish Pub - low-key, good for conversation
- •Casino bars - late night accessibility
Insider Tips for Show Success
Weather & What to Bring
January Weather
Late January in Atlantic City is cold—expect highs around 40°F and lows in the 20s. Wind off the ocean makes it feel colder. You'll be mostly indoors at the convention center, but dress warmly for walks between hotel and venue.
Packing List
- ☐Warm winter coat for outdoor walks
- ☐Comfortable walking shoes (exhibit floor is huge)
- ☐Business casual attire
- ☐Business cards (networking is key)
- ☐Notebook/tablet for seminar notes
- ☐Rolling bag for collecting literature
- ☐Layers for varying convention center temperatures
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Pool & Spa Show open to the public?▼
No, the PSP Expo is a trade-only event for pool, spa, and outdoor living industry professionals. You must work in the industry or be a NESPA member to attend. This ensures quality networking and serious business discussions.
How much does it cost to attend?▼
Registration fees vary. NESPA members receive discounts. Early registration offers savings. Exhibit hall-only passes are less expensive than full seminar access. Certification courses have separate fees. Check the official website for current pricing.
Are there certification opportunities at the show?▼
Yes! The show offers various certification courses including CPO (Certified Pool Operator), service technician certifications, and APSP courses. These typically run before and during the show. Register early as they fill up.
Should I attend all three days?▼
It depends on your goals. Serious industry professionals often attend all three days—two for education and exhibits, one for deeper vendor meetings. If you're just browsing, one or two days may suffice. The exhibit hall is huge and takes time to cover properly.
Is January a good time to visit Atlantic City?▼
For a trade show, yes! January offers the lowest hotel rates of the year, no crowds, and easy parking. The casinos are fully operational. Just dress warmly—it's cold. Consider extending your trip for some affordable casino entertainment.
How do I maximize my time at the show?▼
Plan ahead: Review the seminar schedule and exhibitor list before arriving. Pre-register for sessions. Schedule vendor meetings. Bring comfortable shoes and a rolling bag. Focus on your goals—whether that's education, new products, or networking.
Related Guides
Have a Successful Show!
The Pool & Spa Show is the perfect way to kick off your season with new products, training, and connections. Take advantage of great January hotel rates and combine the show with some Atlantic City entertainment.
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