If you’re a part of the eye care world—whether you’re an ophthalmologist, optometrist, researcher, or industry professional—the AAO Annual Meeting in Chicago is one event you won’t want to miss. It’s the largest gathering of eye care professionals in North America, offering a mix of cutting-edge education, hands-on learning, and opportunities to connect with peers and experts.
Whether you want to improve your clinical skills, explore new technologies, or recharge with your professional community, this event delivers the insights and inspiration you need.
📍 When & Where It’s Happening
- Dates: November 14–17, 2025
- Venue: McCormick Place Convention Center, Chicago, Illinois
- Schedule Highlights:
- Day 1: Pre-conference courses and workshops
- Day 2–3: Main program with clinical updates, panels, and exhibits
- Day 4: Final sessions, case challenges, and closing events
McCormick Place is a large, modern venue on the shores of Lake Michigan. It’s right in downtown Chicago, making it easy to pair your professional trip with time in one of America’s great cities.
What’s the AAO Annual Meeting All About?
This meeting stands apart because it’s built by eye doctors for eye doctors—and the rest of their care team. It’s where the latest research meets practical care and where new tech meets real clinics. Here’s what you can dive into:
- Fresh updates in cataract surgery, glaucoma, retina, cornea, refractive surgery, oculoplastics, and more
- Symposia on emerging therapies and technologies—AI, gene therapy, drug delivery, and surgical innovation
- Case challenges that test your diagnostic and treatment skills in real time
- Pre-meeting hands-on workshops in surgery, imaging, diagnostics, and laser techniques
- Poster sessions showcasing new research and trial results
- Exhibit halls featuring cutting-edge devices, software, instruments, and service providers
Who Should Attend
The AAO meeting is tailored for:
- Ophthalmologists in all subspecialties—especially MDs with clinical or surgical focus
- Optometrists and allied eye care professionals
- Ophthalmic technicians, nurses, and office administrators
- Researchers and industry members developing new treatments or devices
- Residents and fellows taking the next step in their careers
- Educators and mentors shaping the next generation of eye doctors
Whether you’re seasoned in the field or new on the path, there’s something here to ignite and support your work.
What You’ll Experience
1. Clinical & Surgical Updates
Sessions led by top experts will present the latest FDA approvals, best practices, surgical techniques, and patient outcomes.
2. Hands-On Workshops
Pre-meeting courses let you practice surgical techniques, advanced imaging interpretation, and use simulation tech under the guidance of faculty.
3. Live Case Challenges
Watch and learn as real patient cases are evaluated and discussed in a fast-paced, interactive format with expert commentary.
4. Exhibit Hall Tours
Walk through vendor booths featuring the newest surgical tools, diagnostic devices, imaging platforms, practice software, and more.
5. Poster Sessions
Detail-focused research presentations—perfect for networking with presenters and diving into trial results, study designs, and outcomes.
6. Professional Networking
Coffee breaks, evening receptions, and special interest groups help you connect with colleagues, mentors, or collaborators in a relaxed setting.
Why Attend?
- Stay at the forefront of eye care with updates on treatments, devices, and care delivery
- Learn hands-on with new tools and technologies you’ll use with patients soon
- Meet industry leaders, expert clinicians, and innovators who shape ophthalmology
- Build professional relationships—great for referrals, jobs, or research partnerships
- Discover products and services that can streamline your practice or enhance patient care
- Earn continuing medical education (CME) credits to maintain and grow your expertise
Cost & Registration
While fees vary depending on membership and registration period, here’s a general idea:
- Physician Member (Early Bird): Approximately $675
- Physician Non‑Member: A bit higher, often $875
- Resident/Fellow/Trainee: Reduced rate in the range of $150–$300
- Allied Health Professional: Mid-level pricing
- One-Day and Workshop Fees: Available for pre-meeting hands-on courses, typically $150–$400 each
Early registration saves money and guarantees access to popular sessions and workshops.
Where to Stay
Lodging options near McCormick Place include:
- Large hotels connected by skyways or shuttles
- Downtown hotels a short train or taxi ride away
- Budget-friendly stays within a few miles, easily accessible
- Rental apartments or Airbnbs for team stays or longer visits
Reserve early to lock in good rates, especially if you want to stay downtown.
Getting Around Chicago
- By Train: The ‘L’ Green Line and metra lines stop right at McCormick Place
- By Bus and Taxi: Convenient for local travel
- Ride-Share Services: Uber and Lyft are plentiful
- Walking: Connecting skyways and trails make downtown accessible and enjoyable
Tips to Make the Most of It
- Plan ahead: Review the agenda early and flag workshops and sessions that match your clinical interests
- Arrive early for workshops: Space fills up fast for hands-on learning
- Visit exhibitors early: Bring questions and try demos while energy is high
- Take part in case challenges: They’re fun, fast-paced, and enormously useful
- Network during social hours: Most connections happen in informal settings
- Follow up afterward: Send a quick message or connect on professional networks to stay engaged
Final Thoughts
The AAO Annual Meeting in Chicago is more than an event—it’s an experience that fuels your clinical work, sharpens your skills, and builds your network with people who share your commitment to sight care. From hands-on surgery labs to debates on emerging therapies, every moment is designed to enrich your practice.
If your work matters to your patients and your profession—this meeting will leave you ready, inspired, and equipped for what’s next.
To learn more and reserve your ticket, visit:
https://www.aao.org/annual-meeting