08/13/2026
Registration is Open for the 2026 State Conference
September 30 – October 2, 2026
Hilton Orrington/Evanston, Evanston, IL
Grab your seat for the premier planning event of the year! Learn how planning serves as the ultimate connector: linking housing, transit, sustainability, equity, and communities across Illinois.
2026 APA-IL State Conference
September 30 – October 2, 2026
Hilton Orrington/Evanston
1710 Orrington Ave, Evanston, IL 60201
#APAIL26
Why You Should Attend
From the first sketch of a vision to building sustainable infrastructure, planning connects professions, disciplines, and people. At APAIL26, you'll gain actionable tools, network with leaders, and discover how to leverage planning as a bridge across sectors—whether you're working on transit equity, downtown revitalization, or zoning reform.
What’s in Store:
- Session Topics: public engagement & equity, transportation, economic development, housing, policy, career development, and more!
- Mobile Workshops: Experience Evanston and the larger the North Shore.
- Networking & Celebrating: Speed internships, AICP prep, mini-golf, night at the mall, social gatherings, and the annual Awards Program.
- Plan Commissioner Training: A dedicated full-day track on October 1st.
Volunteer!
Great conferences happen when people connect! Volunteer for half a day and receive free registration for that same day. Sign Up to Volunteer »
Hotel & Accommodations
Hilton Orrington/Evanston
1710 Orrington Ave, Evanston, IL 60201
Located steps from downtown Evanston, Northwestern University, the lakefront, and transit.
If you joined us in 2019, you may remember that the venue presented some challenges. We want you to know that the APA-IL and Hilton’s management team are collaborating closely to make sure everything, from climate control to crowd flow, is addressed to ensure you receive a seamless conference experience. Book your room today.
Support the APA-IL
We offer a wide range of sponsorship packages to fit your goals and budget.
If you know a company that should be front and center at the best planning event in Illinois, give them a nudge by forwarding this email.
Download the prospectus or email Shelly Greenwood at CGi.
Questions?
Don't hesitate to contact us:
- 2026 Conference Chair: Kate Portillo, AICP
- 2026 Sponsorship Sales: Shelly Greenwood at CGi
- APA-IL Executive Director: Paula Freeze