Most of you are on your way, and some of you are already here! Welcome to Denver! Here are some final reminders and tips to get you situated at ONA16.
Weather + what to wear: Bring comfortable shoes for walking the Exhibit and Midway floors, fancy ones for the OJAs, receptions and parties, and sneakers for walking, biking and running, if you’re so inclined.
Warm days in the 70s and cool nights in the 50s (and high 40s) require a wardrobe that includes jackets, jeans, sweaters and pants, as well as lighter pieces for getting outside during the sunny days. Most events and sessions are casual, but we love it when people get glammed up for the the OJA awards banquet on Saturday. Also, meeting space is always fairly cold so stuff something into your ONA attendee bag to warm you up during sessions.
An artsy hotel: The Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center is full of local artwork, including a striking set of climbers headed up the soaring wall in the main lobby. If you’re headed to your room alone and hear the sounds of the ocean or children laughing, don’t freak out. It’s just part of the moving art found in each guest elevator. The front desk has details on of the hundreds of pieces and designs in the hotel.
Oops, I forgot … There is a large Walgreens on the 16th Street Mall, 3 blocks from the host hotel, open from 5:30 am to midnight. Champa Fine Wines & Liquor is four blocks away on the 16th Street Mall and Champa Street, and carries 50+ Colorado spirits and wines and an extensive craft beer selection. The hotel also has a 24-hour store in the lobby, stocked with emergency toiletries, coffee, snacks and wine.
Denver! We hope you get a chance to explore the city while you are here. Growth in innovation, entrepreneurship and abundant outdoor recreation has attracted tons of new residents in the last decade. Just look out the window at those mountains!
Another thing that has changed the face of Colorado in the last few years is the legalization of marijuana. Here’s some tips from our friends at 5280 on how to explore the local pot world safely and legally.
Food scene: From microbrews, donuts and food carts to lobster crepes, we have suggestions on cheap eats and restaurants that you shouldn’t miss in Denver.
Hydrate, hydrate, stretch, stretch: The elevation here is no joke. We offer ideas on how to stay healthy and refreshed while you’re at ONA16.
Network & have fun: Don’t say we never encouraged you to have a good time. From special events for first-time attendees (there are nearly 1,000 of you!), to our exciting opening night event at the nearby Ellie Caulkins Opera House, our sponsors and supporters really brought it again this year. Don’t forget to bring your badge to get in!
Job hunt! Even if you aren’t looking, it can’t hurt to see what’s out there. You know, for a friend. ONA16 features lots of ways to connect with recruiters and network with your peers. See you at the Big Board, located in the Capitol Foyer!
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