First time at Gen Con - Need some tips

[Guilberwood]

Hi Guys,
I live in Brazil, but this year I'm finally going to Gen Con for the first time! Can you guys give me any tips about what is it like (the “do” and “don’t’”) so I do not make a lot of newbie mistakes?
While attending the convention me and my wife would like to visit other sites in the city of Indianapolis as well . Are there other places worth visiting, like a restaurant or other tourist places?
Also, a friend of mine who’s also going collects action figures in general (mostly from movies, comics, etc.) and he was wondering what was the best place to buy this kind of thing in Indianapolis. Is there a good store in town? Can he find it on Gen Con?
Thanks in advance
Guilberwood

 

[Rodrigo Istalindir]

Some previous threads on the same topic:


(2010) http://www.enworld.org/forum/general-rpg-discussion/270367-going-gencon-indy-first-time.html

(2008) http://www.enworld.org/forum/genera...t-time-going-gencon-need-advice-tips-etc.html

(2007) http://www.enworld.org/forum/general-rpg-discussion/202135-advice-first-time-gencon-visitor.html

(2005) http://www.enworld.org/forum/genera...4-first-ever-gencon-what-should-i-expect.html

http://www.enworld.org/forum/general-rpg-discussion/136965-first-gencon-20-years.html

(2002) http://www.enworld.org/forum/general-rpg-discussion/8461-how-can-i-enjoy-my-first-gencon.html

To summarize:

* bathe at least once a day
* carry snacks and water
* eat well when you can
* no one wants to hear about your character
* bathe at least once a day
* check out the ENWorld GenCon forum for unofficial games and events
* don't plan on sleeping
* the official web page is wrong; GenCon now seems to start on Tuesday and end the following Monday
* bathe at least once a day
* text messaging is a much less expensive way for overseas visitors to keep in touch with everyone
* Go to the Ram once just so you can say you did
* Go to the ENnies

 

[Inferno!]

While attending the convention me and my wife would like to visit other sites in the city of Indianapolis as well . Are there other places worth visiting, like a restaurant or other tourist places?

To quote myself from one of the previous threads...

Of course it depends upon what you're looking for. There are many museums within walking distance. The Indiana State Museum and Eiteljorg are a block away from the convention center. If you like auto racing, there is the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum and Hall of Fame. The Indianapolis Children s Museum is the largest in the world, and it's not just for children. There are many others. If you have any specific questions or interests, I'd be glad to offer a local's insights.

I'd also suggest Conner Prairie which is a living history museum of an 1836 frontier town with costumed reenactors. On our last vist, the local doctor opined about the current president (he wasn't a fan of Andrew Jackson). When children asked the local school master what the kids did in school, the teacher was appalled at the idea baby goats would be allowed in his school. You can see a real blacksmith at work, and purchase the items he makes in the gift shop.

I've lived in Indianapolis my entire life. As I mentioned above, if you have any specific questions or interests, I'd be happy to offer a local's insights

 

[Guilberwood]

Thanks man, this list is awesome!

 

[Nytmare]

It might be too late, but if there are any openings, sign up for the True Dungeon. Do it RIGHT NOW.

Also, if there's anything that looks good to you, sign up as quickly as possible. Nothing sucks quite as much as being at Gencon only getting the table scraps of the games you want to play.

[EDIT] Also, here's a link: http://truedungeon.com/

 

[Greatwyrm]

Go look at all the other info, but I'd add one more thing. Since you're coming in from outside the U.S., be sure you take a look at the U.S. and Brazilian customs regulations. You don't want to risk anything you really need being confiscated when you get here. You also don't want to spend your whole budget on new toys and then not be able to pay any duties or taxes on it when you get back home.

 

[Klaus]

Hi Guys,
I live in Brazil, but this year I'm finally going to Gen Con for the first time! Can you guys give me any tips about what is it like (the “do” and “don’t’”) so I do not make a lot of newbie mistakes?
While attending the convention me and my wife would like to visit other sites in the city of Indianapolis as well . Are there other places worth visiting, like a restaurant or other tourist places?
Also, a friend of mine who’s also going collects action figures in general (mostly from movies, comics, etc.) and he was wondering what was the best place to buy this kind of thing in Indianapolis. Is there a good store in town? Can he find it on Gen Con?
Thanks in advance
Guilberwood

The only good place for toys in general is a Toys 'R' Us that is quite away from the convention center. Took me about 20 minutes by cab to get there (on East Washington Street).

The Indianapolis Zoo is said to be very good, but I haven't been there yet.

If you have a refrigerator in your room, I strongly recommend hitting the Farmer's Market that happens at the Indianapolis City Market on Wednesday morning. There's also a Marsh Supermarket a few blocks north of the "convention area", and I recommend stocking up on stuff like apples, bread and other basic foods to help save some money.

I had some problem with breakfast in Indy because the bread felt like I was chewing wood. For a "brazilian" type breakfast (i.e., not the usual egg + bacon + toast stuff), I recommend Cafe Patachou, which is just across the street from the convention center.

Finally, I'd be remiss not to recommend at least one lunch at Indy's Fogo de Chão. The churrasco is very good. and much cheaper than in Brazil. And the pão de queijo is delicious!

Let me know if you have any questions!

 

[Nytmare]

Finally, I'd be remiss not to recommend at least one lunch at Indy's Fogo de Chão.

I have been trying to remember the name of this place for EVER. Thank you thank you thank you.

 

[Rodrigo Istalindir]

You have no idea how much it amused me to see Klaus coming to Indy from Brazil to rave about the Brazilian steakhouse.

 

[RatPunk]

Hi Guys,

Also, a friend of mine who’s also going collects action figures in general (mostly from movies, comics, etc.) and he was wondering what was the best place to buy this kind of thing in Indianapolis. Is there a good store in town? Can he find it on Gen Con?

Comic Carnival is a comic book store in downtown Indy that also carries action figures. It is located one block east of the Circle and is within walking distance of the con.

There will also be a number of vendors at the con selling action figures of all kinds.