Getting Started: First-Time Attendee Guide to the CNS Annual Meeting

Welcome to the 75th Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS) Annual Meeting—CNS Connects, October 11–15, 2025, in Los Angeles, California!

Welcome to our milestone gathering celebrating 75 years of neurosurgical excellence while embracing the future of innovation and human connection. Expect cutting-edge science, hands-on learning, and vibrant networking in the heart of LA.  Whether this is your first CNS Annual Meeting, or you’re an annual attendee, here are tips and suggestions to make the most of your time in Los Angeles.

Meeting Overview

• Dates & Location: October 11–15, 2025, Los Angeles Convention Center, with certain social events at the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE.
• Mobile App: Download the CNS Annual Meeting App to create your schedule, view maps, and receive real-time updates. Remember to login to sync your personal schedule.
• What to Pack: Professional attire for sessions; cocktail or dressy casual for evening receptions; athletic wear for Pickleball and the CNS 5K; comfortable shoes for exploring LA.

Registration and Badge Pick Up

• Badge Pick-Up: Registration desks are located at the Los Angeles Convention Center: West Building and the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE
• Wi-Fi : Complimentary Wi-Fi  is available throughout the meeting.
• Network: CNS2025
• Password: LosAngeles
• Plan Your Days: Use the app to bookmark your must-attend sessions, such as General Scientific Sessions, Section Sessions, or hands-on Symposia.

Must-See for New Attendees

• General Scientific Sessions I–IV – featuring renowned speakers such as Spike Lee (Apuzzo Lecturer), Andre Agassi, Dan Buettner (Walter E. Dandy Orator), and Lisa Ling (Dorothy Nash Lecturer).
• Guidelines Sessions – CNS is proud to present high-quality clinical practice guidelines to improve patient outcomes. Join us for these early-morning sessions reviewing the most up-to-date guidelines to bring back to your practice!
• Symposia– from Data Science and AI for Neurosurgeons to Operative Spine Video Theater. View all sessions
• CNS Xperience Lounge-- Stop by the CNS Xperience Lounge in the Exhibit Hall for:
• Live Surgeries – watch live telemedicine surgeries during Exhibit Hall breaks.
• CNS Café – enjoy free coffee and lattes while you connect with colleagues
• Art of Neurosurgery – Browse our exhibition of selected works created by Neurosurgeon-artists and Medical Illustrators
• CNS Membership Desk – Stop by and connect with CNS Staff to learn more about the programs we offer, ask questions, and take part in exciting giveaways throughout the meeting
• Peak Performance Energy Breaks – Our partners at Johnson & Johnson MedTech and Evolve Leadership will guide you through recovery techniques to enhance mental clarity, physical energy, and emotional balance.
• Honored Guest Presentation – Dr. Daniel K. Resnick on “Connections in the Community of Neurosurgery” during the General Scientific Session on Monday. Register for the Honored Guest Luncheon Seminar: “Forks in the Road: Early Career Decisions and Lessons from a Neurosurgeon’s Journey” held on Tuesday at 12:20 pm.
• Residents – Check the Resident webpage on the CNS Annual Meeting website for a selection of events and sessions curated just for you!

Network & Connect

• International, Resident, and Foundation Reception (Saturday, 5:00 pm | JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE Pool Deck) – Join colleagues from around the globe at this reception for international attendees, residents, and CNS Foundation awardees and donors. Stick around after the event ends at 6:30 for the Stryker after party!
• Opening Reception (Sunday, 6:30 pm | JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE) – Mix and mingle with peers over cocktails and culinary delights immediately following the Opening General Scientific Session.
• Interactive Poster Sessions with Wine & Cheese (Monday and Tuesday 4:30 pm | Los Angeles Convention Center, Exhibit Hall & Petree Hall) – Take part in scientific presentation and discussion, complemented by wine and cheese. Selected abstract presenters will present 3-minute oral presentations of their posters from various presentation areas in the poster halls, highlighting key advances in each field.
• CNS 5K Runs (Monday, 6:30 am, Tuesday, 5:00 pm | JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. Live Lobby) – Participate in the third annual CNS 5K at the 2025 CNS Annual Meeting!
• Pickleball on the Plaza (Monday – Wednesday | Los Angeles Convention Center) – Step away from the science to break a sweat on the court. Play a match against your peers or join our partners from Joola for skills clinics throughout the meeting! Reserve your timeslot today! [Link to sign up]
• CNS Xperience Lounge – informal drop-in space for networking and collaboration.  Open during all Exhibit Hall hours

Finding Your Way

• Venue: Los Angeles Convention Center; social events at JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE.
• Shuttles & Transit: Most CNS-designated hotels are within walking distance to the convention center; check the app for social event shuttle details departing from the lobby of the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE.
• Maps & Ambassadors: Interactive maps in the app and CNS “Ask Me!” Ambassadors to help guide you onsite.

FAQs & Help

When is the 2025 CNS Annual Meeting?
The meeting will be held October 11-15, 2025, at the Los Angeles Convention Center, with select social events at the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE.

What does my registration include?
Standard registration provides access to the General Scientific Sessions, Abstract Sessions, Guidelines Sessions, Interactive Sessions, Section Sessions, Exhibit Hall, Xperience Lounge events, and most networking activities. Certain symposia, lunch and dinner seminars require separate ticketing.

Is the Exhibit Hall important to see?
Yes. The Exhibit Hall showcases the latest neurosurgical technology, live surgery presentations, Crossroads of Innovation, Neurosurgical Discoveries Skills Challenge, and the Device Innovation Showcase. Come check out the new Lifestyles Lounge, or enjoy a complimentary latte in the CNS Xperience Lounge. It is open Monday, October 13, through Wednesday, October 15.

Are continuing medical education (CME) credits available?
Yes. Most scientific sessions and symposia are eligible for CME credit. Details will be provided in the CNS Annual Meeting mobile app.

How do I navigate the meeting venue?
Interactive maps are available within the official CNS Annual Meeting mobile app. CNS "Ask Me!" Ambassadors and clearly marked information booths will also be available onsite for assistance.

Can I bring guests or family members?
Yes. Registered guests may attend select education and social events such as the Opening Reception and General Scientific Sessions. Los Angeles offers numerous attractions—including museums, and entertainment venues—ideal for accompanying family members.

Who should I contact for additional information?
For questions before the meeting, email info@cns.org. During the meeting, visit the Registration Desk or LA Information Booth located in the Los Angeles Convention Center lobby, or head to the CNS Membership Desk at the Xperience Lounge inside the Exhibit Hall during open hours.