INBOUND is always a highlight of the year for marketers, sales pros, and business leaders. This year, though, no one knows quite what to expect. The event is packing up from Boston and heading west to San Francisco’s Moscone Center from September 3–5. A new venue, a new vibe, and maybe even a new purpose are on the table—and that means fresh opportunities (and a few fresh challenges) for attendees.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned INBOUND veteran, this year’s shift brings new logistics to figure out and new ways to make the most of your time. Here’s your go-to plan for getting it right.
1. Your North Star: Goals & Ticket Planning
Before you start mapping out sessions and RSVPs, get clear on your “why.” Are you here to sharpen your skills, find new tools, connect with peers, or all of the above? Knowing your goals will make decisions easier when two sessions you want to see happen at the same time.
General Admission and VIP both get access to incredible programming, but VIP tickets are already sold out. No matter your ticket type, reserve high-demand sessions early through the INBOUND app—you’ll thank yourself later.
2. Get the Lay of the Land: Moscone + Logistics
The Moscone Center is big, but it’s also walkable and easy to navigate if you plan ahead. Download the INBOUND app before you even hit the airport. Use it to explore 11 different zones—including four brand-new spaces for 2025—so you’re not wasting time hunting for your next session.
3. Dress for the City + Stay Comfortable
San Francisco weather is unpredictable. Mornings can be cool and foggy, afternoons warm and sunny. Bring layers so you can adjust throughout the day. Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable—you’ll be doing more walking than you think. Add in snacks, a reusable water bottle, and a portable charger to keep your energy (and your devices) powered all day.
4. What to Bring to Make the Most of INBOUND
Some gear never goes out of style:
- Comfortable shoes you’ve already broken in
- Reusable water bottle
- Portable charger and device cables
- Business cards or a quick way to share your contact info
- Notebook or tablet for quick notes
For San Francisco, add:
- A light jacket or sweater for mornings and evenings
- Sunglasses for bright midday walks
- Compact umbrella for the occasional drizzle
And for 2025 specifically:
- A portable battery with multiple ports so you and a new connection can charge at the same time
- A small tote or backpack for merch from the expanded zones
5. Eat, Walk, Connect
You won’t have to go far for good food and coffee. Favorites like Blue Bottle Coffee, The Grove, and Sightglass Coffee are all nearby. Walking is often faster than rideshare during peak hours, but Muni and BART are there if you need them.
6. Build Your Personalized Agenda
The INBOUND app will be your best friend for this. Balance your can’t-miss Main Stage sessions with smaller, deep-dive breakouts. Leave room for spontaneous opportunities—sometimes the most valuable moments aren’t on your calendar.
7. Learn from the Best: Main Stage Musts
This year’s lineup is packed with talent:
- Amy Poehler—creativity, storytelling, and good laughs
- Marques Brownlee (MKBHD)—tech trends and trust in media
- Sean Evans—spicy conversations that go deeper than you’d expect
- Dario Amodei—AI’s future and how to scale responsibly
- Dominique Crenn—detail-driven excellence from a three-Michelin-star chef
- HubSpot leaders Yamini Rangan, Dharmesh Shah, and Andy Pitre—platform vision and what’s next
8. Network with Strategy (Not Sales Pitches)
Networking at INBOUND is about quality, not quantity. Use the app to connect before you arrive and set up coffee chats or lunch meetings. Focus on real conversations and follow up later—you’ll make a better impression and build stronger relationships.
9. Keep the Momentum Going with INBOUND Afterparties
When the sessions end, the energy doesn’t. INBOUND’s afterparties are where new connections turn into lasting partnerships—and where the fun kicks up a notch. From sponsor-hosted happy hours to themed gatherings, plan to attend at least one. They’re perfect for unwinding, continuing conversations, and seeing a different side of the INBOUND community.
INBOUND is more than an event—it’s an experience. With the right prep, you’ll walk away inspired, informed, and with a few new connections in your corner. Plan ahead, stay flexible, and make time to enjoy everything San Francisco and INBOUND 2025 have to offer. Allow us to POWER UP your INBOUND25 experience!
