Ultimate Unofficial Guide to GEAPS Exchange 2026 in Kansas City
Dates: February 21–24, 2026
Location: Kansas City Convention Center — Kansas City, Missouri
GEAPS Exchange is the premier annual conference and trade show for the grain handling and grain processing industries. Each year, professionals from operations, maintenance, logistics, and equipment suppliers gather for education, networking, and hands-on access to the latest industry technologies.
This Ultimate Unofficial Guide covers everything you need to know about GEAPS Exchange 2026, plus where to eat, what to see, and how to make the most of your time in Kansas City.
What Is GEAPS Exchange?
GEAPS Exchange is the flagship annual event hosted by the Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS). The conference brings together grain industry professionals from across North America and beyond for several days of education, collaboration, and industry insight.
Attendees can expect:
- More than 45 hours of educational sessions
- A large expo floor featuring hundreds of exhibitors
- Multiple networking events and social gatherings
- Educational tracks covering grain operations, processing, maintenance, and workforce development
Why Attend GEAPS Exchange 2026
Education for Every Experience Level
GEAPS Exchange offers sessions designed for operators, managers, engineers, and executives alike. Topics range from day-to-day facility challenges to long-term operational planning and technology trends.
One of the Largest Grain Industry Trade Shows
The GEAPS Exchange expo floor spans hundreds of thousands of square feet, giving attendees the opportunity to explore new products, technologies, and services in one place.
Meaningful Networking
From structured receptions to informal conversations on the show floor, GEAPS Exchange is known for strong peer-to-peer connections across the grain industry.
GEAPS Exchange 2026 Schedule Overview
While the full agenda is released closer to the event, GEAPS Exchange typically includes:
Saturday, February 21
- Registration opens
- Welcome and networking events
Sunday, February 22
- Opening keynote
- Education sessions begin
Monday–Tuesday, February 23–24
- Full education tracks
- Expo floor open
- Special sessions and networking events
GEAPS Exchange 2026 Floorplan
Before you arrive, it’s worth taking a few minutes to review the GEAPS Exchange expo floor plan. With hundreds of exhibitors spread across the show floor, the floor plan helps attendees understand the layout of the hall, identify key aisles, and plan an efficient route through the exhibits. Whether you’re prioritizing specific vendors, mapping out meetings, or simply getting a sense of the scale of the event, the floor plan is a helpful tool for making the most of your time on the expo floor.
Travel & Logistics
Kansas City Convention Center
301 West 13th Street
Kansas City, MO 64105
Getting to Kansas City
Kansas City International Airport (MCI) is about 20 minutes from downtown. Rideshare services and taxis are readily available, and those driving will find multiple parking garages and surface lots near the convention center.
Getting Around Downtown
Kansas City’s downtown is walkable, and the KC Streetcar provides free transportation between popular districts like the Convention Center, Power & Light District, and River Market.
Where to Stay in Kansas City
Staying downtown puts you within walking distance of GEAPS Exchange and many dining and entertainment options.
Popular areas include:
- Convention Center and Downtown hotels
- Power & Light District
- Crossroads Arts District
- Crown Center area
GEAPS typically offers discounted hotel blocks for registered attendees.
About Kansas City
Kansas City sits at the crossroads of the Midwest and is known for its blend of history, culture, and hospitality. Originally founded as a hub for river trade and rail transportation, the city has long played an important role in agriculture, logistics, and manufacturing — making it a natural host for events like GEAPS Exchange.
Today, Kansas City offers a walkable downtown, a growing food and brewery scene, and a strong sense of local pride. The city is especially famous for its barbecue, live jazz, and historic neighborhoods, but visitors will also find modern convention facilities, easy transportation, and a relaxed pace that makes it easy to navigate during a busy conference week.
With a compact downtown core, free streetcar service, and a wide range of dining and entertainment options close to the Convention Center, Kansas City is an accessible and enjoyable city for both first-time visitors and returning GEAPS attendees.
Where to Eat Near GEAPS Exchange
Kansas City is known for its food scene — especially its barbecue — but there’s plenty more to explore within a short distance of the Convention Center. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite between sessions or hosting a group dinner after the show, these spots are popular with GEAPS attendees year after year.
Kansas City Barbecue Favorites
Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que
One of the most famous barbecue spots in the country, Joe’s is known for its smoked meats, classic sides, and no-frills atmosphere. The original location is inside a former gas station and is well worth the trip.
Q39 Midtown
A modern take on Kansas City barbecue, Q39 offers competition-style smoked meats with chef-driven sides and a polished dining experience. Great for business dinners or groups.
Jack Stack Barbecue – Freight House
Located near Union Station, Jack Stack is known for its upscale barbecue experience, burnt ends, and extensive menu. The Freight House location is especially popular for group dining.
Slap’s BBQ
A local favorite on the Kansas side, Slap’s serves classic Kansas City barbecue with generous portions and a casual atmosphere. Expect bold flavors and long lines at peak times.
Chef J BBQ
A newer but highly regarded spot offering inventive barbecue dishes and rotating specials. Chef J is known for creative sides and a slightly more modern approach to smoked meats.
Dining Near the Convention Center
Power & Light District Restaurants
Just steps from the Kansas City Convention Center, the Power & Light District features a wide range of restaurants and bars — from casual pubs to sit-down dining — making it one of the most convenient areas for meals during GEAPS Exchange.
Crossroads Arts District Cafes & Breweries
The Crossroads Arts District is known for its creative energy, locally owned restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops. It’s a great area to explore if you want something beyond the typical downtown options.
River Market Food Stalls & Local Eateries
Located north of downtown, the River Market offers casual dining, international food stalls, and local restaurants near the historic City Market. A good option for quick lunches or relaxed dinners.
Drinks & Nightlife
Boulevard Brewing Company
One of Kansas City’s most well-known breweries, Boulevard offers tours, a tasting room, and a beer hall atmosphere. A popular stop for visitors looking to experience local craft beer.
Green Lady Lounge
A classic Kansas City jazz club featuring live music nightly in an intimate setting. It’s a favorite for post-dinner drinks and a true KC experience.
Up-Down Arcade Bar
A laid-back arcade bar with vintage video games, pinball machines, and a solid beer list. Great for casual evenings with colleagues.
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The Ship
A unique bar and live-music venue housed in a historic building, known for its nautical theme, craft cocktails, and eclectic atmosphere.
Things to Do in Kansas City
If you have time outside the conference, Kansas City offers a variety of attractions within a short distance of the Convention Center. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply exploring the city, these are popular options for GEAPS Exchange attendees.
Arabia Steamboat Museum
This unique museum features thousands of well-preserved artifacts recovered from the Arabia, a steamboat that sank in the Missouri River in 1856. It’s an easy, fascinating visit that gives insight into frontier-era commerce and life along the river.
National WWI Museum & Memorial
One of the most comprehensive World War I museums in the world, this site includes immersive exhibits and an iconic memorial tower overlooking the Kansas City skyline. It’s a meaningful stop for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike.
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Known for its world-class art collection and expansive sculpture park, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art offers free general admission and is consistently ranked among the top art museums in the country.
Union Station & Science City
A historic landmark, Union Station is home to rotating exhibits, dining options, and Science City, an interactive science center. It’s a good option for extended stays or attendees traveling with family.
City Market (River Market District)
Located in the historic River Market area, City Market features local vendors, food stalls, and specialty shops. It’s a great place to explore on foot and grab a casual meal or coffee.
Tips for First-Time GEAPS Attendees
- Review the schedule ahead of time and plan priority sessions
- Map out exhibitors you want to visit on the expo floor
- Wear comfortable shoes — the show floor is large
- Take advantage of networking events and receptions
- Leave time to experience Kansas City outside the convention center
What Control Chief Will Be Bringing to GEAPS Exchange 2026
Control Chief is proud to be exhibiting at GEAPS Exchange 2026 in Kansas City, where we’ll be showcasing our remote control solutions used across rail-served grain facilities and industrial environments.
Locomotive Remote Control Solutions
At GEAPS, Control Chief will be featuring its locomotive remote control systems designed for use in grain handling and processing facilities with on-site rail operations. These wireless locomotive remote controls allow crews to operate locomotives from the ground and are used in a wide range of rail-served industrial applications.
Our team will be available to discuss how locomotive remote controls are applied within grain operations and how they integrate alongside other control systems used throughout active facilities.
Broader Industrial Remote Control Products
In addition to locomotive remote controls, Control Chief will also be highlighting a selection of industrial remote control systems used for material handling, conveyors, and other equipment commonly found in grain facilities.
Attendees can explore how Control Chief’s remote control solutions support consistent, reliable operation across a variety of industrial environments.
More than a Trade Show
GEAPS Exchange 2026 is more than a trade show — it’s one of the most important annual gatherings for the grain handling and processing industries. With strong educational programming, a massive expo floor, and Kansas City’s food and culture as a backdrop, it’s an event worth planning for.
This Ultimate Unofficial Guide is designed to help you get the most value out of your time at GEAPS Exchange — both inside the convention center and throughout Kansas City.If you’re attending GEAPS Exchange 2026, be sure to stop by the Control Chief booth to learn more about our locomotive remote control systems and industrial remote control solutions used in grain handling and processing facilities. Our team looks forward to connecting, answering questions, and talking through how remote control technology fits into real-world grain operations.
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