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!
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
Pool & Spa Show Budget Breakdown
January is the cheapest time to visit Atlantic City. Here's what to budget for a 3-day show trip.
| Expense | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Show Registration | $50-100 | Free for NESPA members, early-bird discounts available |
| Hotel (3 nights) | $250-400 | January off-season = best rates. Sheraton is connected. |
| Meals (3 days) | $150-250 | Convention center food pricey. Walk to casino buffets. |
| Parking (3 days) | $45-75 | $15-25/day at convention center or casino garages |
| Gas/Tolls (avg NJ trip) | $30-60 | GSP/AC Expressway tolls add up |
| Total (Solo Attendee) | $525-885 | Pro tip: Share hotel room with colleague to cut costs |
First-Timer Mistakes to Avoid
Make the most of your show experience by avoiding these common pitfalls.
Trying to visit every booth in one day
You'll burn out by 2 PM and miss exhibitors you actually need to see.
✓ Pre-plan your must-visit booths. Use the show floor map to create a route. Prioritize Tuesday for key suppliers.
Not bringing enough business cards
You'll run out by Day 2 and miss networking opportunities.
✓ Bring 200+ cards minimum. Every vendor, every contact, every new rep wants one.
Wearing dress shoes all day
The convention center floor is concrete. Your feet will be destroyed.
✓ Wear comfortable walking shoes. You'll cover 3-5 miles per day on the show floor.
Skipping the certification courses because "I know my stuff"
Missing out on CEUs, manufacturer certifications, and new industry standards.
✓ At least attend the free seminars. Certification courses (CPO, CSP) are worth the investment.
Not setting up vendor meetings in advance
Key reps are swamped with walk-ups. You'll wait 30+ minutes or miss them entirely.
✓ Email your top 5 vendors BEFORE the show. Schedule specific times to meet.
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.