Help UC Beginners en Deel Je UC Tips!

Boo scooters.

https://space.aceparking.com/

Michael,

Thanks for the follow up.

Has anyone had trouble with the scooters and not wearing helmets? I understand on Mission Beach (this was last July), the police were handing out tickets to anyone riding one of the scooters without wearing a helmet since that is a requirement of those electric scooters.

MichaelMontemayor

Adrian - I have had great luck with Ace Parking down there:

It's a 5-10 minute walk to the convention center depending on which lot you choose. If riding a scooter from the parking lot to the convention center is your jam, you can park and arrive quickly using Lime or Byrd scooters.

It's a little bit cheaper at $15 per day.

For some reason, I remember parking on Friday (last day of the conference) being $25 instead of $20, the last two years. The Padres had a game on that Friday two years so maybe that was why?

I'd be curious to know if anyone else has more tips on this!

evtguy

No problem. I should also add that the $20 rate also applies on the weekend. I normally get my registration / map gallery stuff done on Sunday afternoon and paying $20 for about an hour's worth of time at the convention center stinks but it is what it is.

KellyPilarski

Thank you, you answered perfectly!

evtguy

As of last year, parking was $20/day in the Convention Center Parking lot. There are 2 or 3 sublevels of parking underneath the convention center and I've never had any issue finding a spot as long as you're there at the beginning of the day. There have been some years when the Padres have had a day game or a night game during the conference and the baseball fans will then fill in the parking but it's not an issue if you're there at the beginning of the day like you're going to be.

There is an additional parking garage south of the convention center next to the Bayfront Hilton but I don't know the specifics of pricing. The downtown hotels have their own onsite parking for their guests but that's pricey. The trolley can be an option to get to the convention center as well. I've been going for nearly 20 years and have always just parked at the convention center (but it used to be $10/day as recently as 2 years ago).

KellyPilarski

Are there any suggestions for parking? We are unfamiliar with the parking situation at the convention center and the costs that are associated with it.

CharlottePapp

Hi Mark,

There are separate registrations for the Science Symposium and GIS Managers Open Summit as well. Though these are free events. You would also need to register for the 5K and for Morning Yoga. These have an additional fee.

Most other SIGs and Socials will not have a registration. If they do it will say so in the description. Generally refreshments served at socials will be complimentary for attendees. Depending on the social, they may have a cash or open bar. If it is a cash bar then you should plan on it being cash only.

Also, if this is your first time attending, check out the Orientation for New Attendees session on Sunday night!

Let me know if you have any more questions!

Thanks,

Charlotte

If there's a DevMeetup put on by the Esri Dev crew you need to register for that (they usually use a meetup page for that), follow Amy Niessen for updates on that https://community.esri.com/events/2375-geodev-meetup-at-uc-san-diego-ca . Canada night is free but you do need a wristband - it's funny but often its pretty much restricted to Canadians and Esri Canada users/customers, YPN is open and pretty awesome!! Keep an eye open for vendor parties on Tuesday and Wed, there's usually tons of them and ask around about the Water/wastewater party, it can get rocking!! Unsure about plastic etc... I usually use cash - some parties will have a hosted bar

MarkBerry2

Good stuff. I would have created a new '2018' thread but there's enough info here to be helpful for this year for sure.

Other than the thursday night party where you need to get a band for ...do you need to 'register' for any of the other social events or even special interest groups so they have an idea on numbers? (ie. YPN event etc.; years ago i heard about canada nite..is that still around?) Is it cash only (some plastic?) for some things at these extra events(ie. refreshments...or free )? Thanks!

http://www.geo-jobe.com/events/2017-esriuc-10-things-dont-want-miss-uctips/

Indeed there's LOTS to do and lots to plan for.. the key is planning! Last year I shared 10 tips of things you don't want to miss - the list likely still holds again for this year as the events are pretty much the same again... have a good show and see you there maybe!!

ESRIUC and 10 Things You Don’t Want to Miss!

Wifi is usually quite good and dependable. The plenary session can max it out at times but that can be expected - likely due to all the media uploading, particularly video. As a courtesy to all, please don't be sucking up the free wifi and streaming Netflix ;0)

MarkBerry2

Great thread! A lot of info here. What's the wifi usually like at the centre during the event?

JannyPhung2

Bus Passes

You can pay your fare with cash when boarding, at a kiosk, or on the app. They do not give change so be sure to have the exact amount. It's $2.50 one-way and $5 for a day pass. The $2.50 one-way is a better option if you want to take the bus from the airport. You can pay cash when you board.

I've paid with the Compass Cloud app but the minimum is $5 not $2.50. You can also buy a Compass Card from the machine at the airport but there is a $2 fee.

Esri Videos | E360 Videos: GIS, Events, ArcGIS Products & Industries

The technical sessions (and maybe the demo theatre) are recorded and usually available

Or the Esri YouTube channel and the slides and papers for those should eventually be available

Recent Proceedings where you may find some of the papers, but I do not think they record them.

if you prefer to purchase the recording, there is usually a table setup from Sound .of Knowledge that has all the recordings. That allows (different license levels) you to put the videos on a network drive for to share in your office instead of streaming. Worth it if you have others that need to watch.

also, they usually stream the ?Monday Plenary live if there are folks that want to watch back at the office.

AuntyRenee

Question: I am arriving after the research meeting on Sunday. Am interested in paper presentations during the conference; if I miss them, will I have access to the papers for later?

Are any of the conference sessions recorded and available to participants? So tough to choose from so many!

I'm also seeking other participants from Hawai'i 😉

Mahalo!

RitaLavoie

The short list is absolutely perfect! So happy that you shared it.

DavidAllen

In the expo hall, Esri will set up a LARGE area with specialist booths on every aspect of their software. The Esri employees there are very anxious to meet and talk with you. Even if you don't know what a product is or does, stop and ask. You'll discover new things. And especially if you are having issues back home with a product, this is the place to get answers. The people who wrote the code and developed the product you are asking about are probably standing right there and will be really excited to hear from users how their products are being used! I once had an issue with Data Driven Pages, asked around a bit at the expo, and wound up sitting with the guy that wrote Data Driven Pages getting insider info on how to get it to do all kinds of things. This is truly a hidden gem.

There really isn't just one place to find these, and some of are by word of mouth, but these are a few places to check (in no particular order)

UC 2017 Industry Fliers some of these fliers are listing evening activities too
attend the Dev Meetup (can't find the link right now...weds pm, should sign up ahead of time) see edit note below
The UC mobile app has social media connections which may list user driven get togethers. If you don't have the app, you can follow direct with Twitter, FaceBook, etc.
Talk to others as the map gallery and other official events.
Check with you local rep and/or regional user group. User group sessions are usually Tuesday pm...and don't trust the room number in the agenda as some are offsite)
Talk to vendors in the product/vendor showcase area. They sometimes have things going on
Network with others...find someone to go grab lunch or a beverage with.

Not all activities will provide free snacks and beverages, but if you just want o be social, the Gaslamp area is very active at night with UC attendees, so you can always find something going on.

And (no food, but networking), don't forget to check out https://community.esri.com/community/events/user-conference/blog/2017/05/19/geonet-event to hear more about geonet and provide feedback

EDIT: Dev Meetup https://www.meetup.com/DevMeetUpCalifornia/events/239824055 Or, if this doesn't work, check the link in Gavin's reply above

NikAnderson1

I have heard that there are networking events at night throughout the week that you can find or get invited to. When and where are these or what is the best way to find out?

deleted-user-JzIjmzC7H6Ko

Unless you are needing to work on a specific problem with tech support, I would suggest keeping what you carry to a minimum. The days are long and lugging around a laptop can get tiring. depending on where you are staying, dropping it off in your room between the day and evening activities is not always possible.

I've done both, but typically just bring my iPad/tablet these days (I don't have a smart phone), and that's mainly for email, the UC app, and texting when trying to find others. Phones are great for a quick snapshot of a slide, but remember, they usually post all the videos Esri Videos | E360 Videos: GIS, Events, ArcGIS Products & Industries after the conference, and you can get the slides usually from Recent Proceedings

With that said, if you do bring a laptop, they usually have charging stations in the GIS lounge and sometimes scattered around (but don't count on that). If you plan to work on an issue, make sure it is setup so you can access it easily to show the tech. They do have wifi, but connectivity down in the showcase/vendor area is sometimes really slow. They do have computers set up in every product area, so if it is something that can be seen online, or a generic question, they've got you covered. If you want to look at your data, think about loading the fgdb on a thumb drive. Much lighter to carry.

but yes....always good to have pen and paper...and business cards.

I'm curious to poll the ESRI UC community on what the opinions are with bringing [or not bringing] devices (tablet/laptop). I am on the fence. Pen and paper can be mighty efficient at times and less distracting, but a laptop can be nice too. Do folks think it's pain to lug a laptop around? I will have a smartphone. My goal is really to document, absorb and be able to recall what I learned. I don't have anything in GIS I'm going to be showing off or bringing a product to be debugged etc. What do ya'll think? What do you bring (or not) and why?

What a great idea. Eagle Scout here. Moleskin works best if you check your feet often and put it on before a blister forms.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/esri/sets/72157669314345020/

Also, consider bringing a few Band-Aids.

Or better yet (or in addition), carry a few Dr Scholl (spelling?) moleskin patches of various sizes for any blisters. They can stay on for a few days thru pool/shower if needed, and give and extra cushion and protection if you do get a blister. It's hard to enjoy the day walking around with unprotected blisters (voice of experience).

My opinion/experience:

You can purchase them in most stores with the pharmacy section (even grocery stores) either pre-cut or in 3"x5" pads....but again, precut them before you leave home since good scissors can be hard to find when traveling.
If you round the edges rather than cut them with sharp corners, that reduces the corners from catching and peeling.
Although the generic/store-brand version are ok, cushion wise (and cheaper), they tend to peel faster and leave a a gooey-er mess on your skin from the glue. Name brand comes off a bit cleaner when time...guess you get what you pay for so depends on your stickiness tolerance.

EileneNettleton

Thanks for all the wonderful posts!

Are you still confused on what to wear at the conference? Take a look at the past UC photos on Flickr.

I carry an extra pair of shoes and socks in my backpack. I change them midday. It is better than a power nap. You will enjoy walking the 2 million square feet of the conference center when your feet are happy.

Also, consider bringing a few Band-Aids. They are also available at the First Aid centers throughout the conference center. These kiosks will have sunscreen packets too.

Light jacket for the evening/cold conference rooms. One year it rained several days on the weekend. The local stores ran out of umbrellas, so bring a small one too.

Download on your phone a QR code reader. They are used throughout the conference.

Bring a flat empty bag in your suitcase for the extra goodies you might pick up for the trip home. Consider bringing a prepared USPS empty flat package preaddressed & stamped to mail small items home. There is a FedEx kiosk on-site too.

Bring an empty water bottle to use at the airport and through the UC week. There are sold at the UC Store too.

I look forward to meeting new folks throughout the conference! Keep the suggestions coming.

See you soon ~Eilene

DavidHendrick

Whether this is your first time or you’re a returning attendee, there’s a lot to stay on top of. That’s why we’ve created an all-in-one guide to the UC that includes all the critical information—conveniently located in one place for you. Download the brochure and get a head start on your UC planning.

We are looking forward to seeing you in San Diego!

Esri User Conference 2017 Attendee Guide.pdf

http://munigovguy.com/2017/06/road-to-esriuc/

I came across this article today from LinkedIn

It lists some great tips on what to do before, during, and after the UC. Check it out!

ErinOberholser

Ditto to most of what people have said!

Go to the Plenary session, it really sets the tone for the week.

Go to the Orientation session for first time UC visitors.

Study the schedule, and have options for the sessions, some are cancelled or shorter due to presenters not showing.

Go to the store on Sunday or early in the week the gear sells out. Same with the pin bins.

Go to sessions outside of your field. It is amazing what relates, and it is just super cool to learn the breadth of GIS. I work in utilities and made my coworkers go to some archelogical sessions that were interesting.

Don't bring your laptop, be minimal with what you carry, and wear tennis shoes and pedometer.

If you have events at the end of the day be realistic with time. I brought a seperate outfit for evening events, and never had time to change. So either make time to make it back to the hotel to change, or just realize you won't.

Lastly...HAVE FUN!

RexMiller1

Attend the entire conference! Don't waste a minute! Try to do everything! (it's not possible, though). Attend the Plenary. Attend as many tech sessions as you can, 4 each day plus offerings by ESRI and vendors in the exhibit hall.

Major tip: bring your lunch with you so you don't have to waste time in crowded restaurants, instead you can eat on the patio overlooking the harbor at the convention center, then use the remaining lunch hour time to study the maps in the map gallery, seek out information you need in the Exhibit Hall or attend a lunchtime SIG meeting.

Make lists before you go of things you want to learn. I keep a list all year round and add to it as issues arise during the course of my work.

Ride the trolley to the convention center. Don't waste time and money trying to park your car in downtown SD. I don't even bring my car. I park it at LA Union Station and take the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner down, then I buy an MTS pass and use the trolley or bus to go anywhere I want.

Mainly developers. In the past there have been some excellent lightning talks. Door prizes...some based on GIS trivia questions. Top drawing is usually free registration to next year's dev summit. Some snacks and beverages (but typically they run out).

Tell me more about the Esri GeoDev Meetup . Why is it such a hit and what should I expect from it?

DavidHendrick

Hi Devin,

1. The following is a list of the locations, dates, and timeframes for picking up your UC badge:

San Diego Convention Center - Hall D

Saturday, July 8 | 7:30am - 5:00pm

Sunday, July 9 | 7:30am - 5:30pm

Monday, July 10 | 7:00am - 5:00pm

Tuesday, July 11 | 7:30am - 5:00pm

Wednesday, July 12 | 7:30am - 5:00pm

Thursday, July 13 | 7:30am - 3:00pm

Hilton San Diego Bayfront Hotel - Indigo Foyer (Level 2)

Friday, July 7 | 4:30pm - 7:00pm

Saturday, July 8 | 7:30am - 5:00pm

Sunday, July 9 | 7:30am - 5:00pm

Monday, July 10 | 7:00am - 9:30am

San Diego Marriott Marquis & Marina Hotel - Marina Foyer, South Tower (Level 3)

Saturday, July 8 | 7:30am - 5:00pm

Sunday, July 9 | 7:30am - 4:30pm

Manchester Grand Hyatt Hotel - Grand Ballroom Foyer

Saturday, July 8 | 7:30am - 5:00pm

Sunday, July 9 | 7:30am - 4:30pm

2. As far as taking care of your luggage, there is a coat check area run by the San Diego Convention Center in Grand Lobby C.

3. I'm not aware of the ability to purchase bus tickets in the convention center.

4. If you're needing to purchase wristbands for family/friends for the Thursday Night Party in Balboa Park, those can be purchased and picked-up from the Activities Desk in the convention center all week (Sat - Thur). Otherwise, if you're just picking up the wristband that's included with most registrations/badges, those are handed out at the Activities Desk or main Information Desk in the Grand Lobby of the convention center on Wednesday or Thursday. I advise you pickup the wristband that's included with your registration/badge on Wednesday as the lines can sometimes be quite long on Thursday. Please be aware that the wristbands given out as included with a registration/badge must be put on by an Esri staff member at the time of pick-up. So if you pick-up on Wednesday you'd need to wear the wristband until Thursday. The wristbands are waterproof and very durable.

5. The Monday evening Map Gallery Opening & Reception and Thursday Night Party are typically the 2 most popular meetups/parties/events.

JeffWard

Light jacket easily stowed in your bag or backpack.
Water bottle.
Sit at the front - many presentations that have demonstrations (almost all of them) aren't easily seen from the back or middle of the room.
Figure out the public transit system. $5 a day can get you a lot farther than any Uber driver. Trips are easily planned online. I have been to Coronado, Mission Beach, La Jolla and all around downtown. If you get on a bus, don't pay the fare listed at the front of the bus, tell the driver you want an all day fare and feed a fiver into the machine - that ticket is then good for all buses and trolleys.
Skip the Mexican restaurants in Old Town, walk a few blocks south to El Agave. It's more expensive but you won't be pestered by mariachi bands and balloon artists and the food is much, much better - get the mole (mOH-lay).
Eat at some of the places from this story map. Puesto, Crack Shack, and Cafe 222 are good.
Check out a sunset.
Don't be a loner on Thursday night. Make some friends earlier in the week and arrange to go to the party with them.
Don't stop at the first food offering at the Thursday night party. It's usually kid's fare. There is better stuff in the other locations.
Get a selfie with Jack. He wanders around the party.

There really is lots to consider but most of all, prepare and plan. For important sessions and social events, add them to your mobile calendar with alerts, just in case! Some tips off the top of my head (after 18 years attending):

Developer Opportunities:

Monday Lightning Talks are great, up by the map gallery Monday evening at 4:30)
Browse the Application Fair on Monday
DevMeetup on Wednesday is fun and geeky, be sure to register on Meetup
Esri Solution Fair and theater is full of great stuff if you don't know where to go
The Startup Zone has great talent and even some job opportunities

Bring the Family?
Kid's Camp is available, Map Gallery night is family friendly, Offsite evening socials from partners you can bring the spouse usually, Family night on the hall and get loads of swag! Thursday night party is amazing, but we all know that! Amazing things offsite for the family - Balboa Park, hit the beach PB is a zoo but plenty of fun, go to Coronado Island and the Del! Old Town San Diego is a nice treat and there's great food there

Lunch Tips:
Try to get out early (say 11:30ish) or late (after 1)
Look for lunch hour presentations and meets where lunch is provided
Watch for food trucks
Take a walk, Venture out a couple of blocks - follow 4th up to horton Plaza, there's plenty of choices.

Random Tips:
The plenary hall may fill up but you can see from any seat. You can also watch from the upstairs lounge
Want an esri T shirt? Buy it on Sunday or Monday - they go fast!
Party Tip - the Water/Wastewater gig and the YPN social are always big hits.
My must haves to bring - comfy shoes, mints, biz cards, small backpack, portable phone charger, fillable water bottle
Use the mobile agenda planner!
Bookmark this great Gaslamp Story map San Diego Gaslamp Map 2016 - Home
Stick around for the Friday closing session if you can - its great!

Enjoy!

See you there. Please pop by our GEO Jobe booth 2438 - beside the Startup Zone (Hall A) 😉

...and the Double Tree (if it is still called that) in Mission Valley is right across from a trolley station.

JeffWard

The Mission Valley hotels are cheaper and you can use the transit system to get to the conference center from there. A trolley runs through mission valley right to the convention center (green line). San Diego public transit is cheap - $5 for the whole day on trolleys and buses. If you can't find a hotel in Mission Valley, you can take a bus to one of the transit centers - Fashion Valley, Old Town - and take the trolley from there.

GavinRehkemper

Tip for software developers: don't miss the GeoDev Meetup (Wednesday evening)

To add to Adrians.

1. As Adrian mentioned, the pick up is pretty fast these days. Have your registration info and ID out to speed it up. Don't forget to grab the goody bag (assuming they still have a bag to hand out). I tend to get to the convention center early (7:30-8)....better chance to get a coffee/water/tea on the first day, but there is quite a long time to linger with the crowd waiting for the doors to open, so it you don't need coffee and don't mind being towards the back of the plenary, you can go later. Don't worry about getting a good view...there are many large screens that show the stage live...sometimes easier to see that then the actual stage.

2. yes, they usually have luggage storage at the convention center..there is a small charge. It is right in the main open area at the front of the convention center so you should be able to see it. I believe it is open every day since people come and go each day.

3. I know you can pick up bus schedules there, not sure about passes. You can ge trolley tickets right across the street in the machines. If you can, depending on your hotel location, I recommend the "trolley" commuter train. Scheduling is convenient M-F (less often on weekends) and run late. They are clean and safe. Tickets are honor system in that you don't give it to anyone, but they do random checks so make sure you have one. They are relatively cheap and you can get multi-day passes. https://sdmts.com/schedules-real-time/maps-and-routes for info buses, trolley, etc.

4. personally I get the wrist band on Wednesday. I hate standing in lines and I don't even notice the wrist band after a few minutes.

5. the Thursday night part is always great (not always at Balboa Park, but that does seem to be the norm most years now). I like the wednesday night dev meetup....but it is almost getting too crowded now. These is some type of user group meeting almost every night. Check with your regional user group, if you have one, as the may have invites.

As for the favorite learning opportunity (which is always fun), it somewhat depends on your GIS level and workflow. The tech sessions are great and are at all levels. But if you have a specific question or are more focused, I like the showcase floor since it allows you to talk to esri staff one-on-one about your particular issues, there are smaller/shorter/more-specific demo theater presentations, a place to test the software, and many booths to visit to see the latest 3rd party innovations.

deleted-user-JzIjmzC7H6Ko

Hi Devin,

The Plenary starts at 8:30 and you will always be able to find a seat in there (even if you are a little late). You'll see tons of people standing around by the walls and doors but they don't want seats. You just have to move more towards the stage and squeeze in a little - you'll be ok in that manner.

1. Don't be too afraid about packet pick-up. Esri has done a wonderful job of making this a very fast process. Here is a not-so-good pic I took last year of the packet pick-up area:

They herd you into different corrals based on last name (I think) and it goes really quick. If you are in there by 8:00 you should really be fine (though, the earlier the better).

2. I believe there is a luggage storage area at the convention center somewhere. I'm sure someone can answer that.

3. Not sure on buses.

4. Balboa wrist bands are usually available starting late on Wednesday, but I would suggest getting the wrist band on Thursday since it cannot come off and is not transferable (like seriously, don't fight this, haha). But do it early in the day on Thursday since this line can get a little long.

5. My favorite is the Balboa Park outing.

Hello UC Veterans - UC Newbie here. These tips are great! Few practical questions I figured this group could help answer:

Being that I'm staying at a hotel where badge pickup is not available, and that I am coming in late Sunday, how early should I show up at the convention center to get my badge and not miss any of the plenary?
What do folks do with their luggage the last day of the conference after they check out of their rooms? Is there a luggage storage room at the conference?
Are bus passes available to purchase somewhere at the conference?
When and where do you pick up wristbands for Balboa? At check in?
And for fun - What has been your favorite meetup/party/event?

See you at the UC!

KyleWikstrom

Get your badge before Monday
Special interest group meetings during the lunch hour have served boxed lunch in the past
Pick out several sessions during each time slot and know where they are if you decide one that you're in is not what you expected. Have options.
Get your Esri Store gifts right away since some items sell out early.

It's a great week and being prepared yet flexible will help you take advantage of all that is offered.

TimothyHales

Thanks for sharing rastrauch‌! These are great tips coming from an Esri UC Pro!

Very long list....

As a fan of railroads...I'll put this first. Be careful when crossing the tracks. There is a mainline and commuter tracks that must be crossed to get to the Gas Lamp district (ie food). Be careful and do not temp fate. Also, careful when crossing the main road...lots of traffic.
When getting you name tag on the lanyard, if it hangs too low (i.e. on your stomach), shorten it up by tying a small knot in the back. I typically find the middle and tie off about 2 inches down and adjust as needed.
In the past, we have been given a UC tote/bookbag. These are great collector items (I use one everyday to/from work), but typically not as easy to lug around as a small lightweight backpack.
If you miss the plenary, remember you can usually live-stream the action, or watch if after from links on the UC page. During the plenary breaks, there can be long lines at the bathroom. Many use the ones on the second floor. But if you don't mind a walk, head to one away from the plenary hall.
If you can, stay for the closing session on Friday. Part of it is a panel of Esri staff answering questions and/or responding to trending feedback from the week. Impromptu polls (hands of by clapping) allow for some instant feedback from us, the users.
When looking at your schedule and trying to select prioritize sessions, look at the Friday am sessions. There are only a few selections, but may be one you can skip earlier in the week. But keep in mind, these sessions can fill up fast and be standing room only so get there early. (assuming you aren't recovering from the Thursday night part).
If you are still looking for a hotel, and can't qualify/afford the conference rates, there are other hotel not on the conference list. If you get one that is a bit out of walking distance, look for one with easy access to a trolley (the commuter train) station. Another option is arranging for an Uber/Lyft or the bus.
If you come in on the Trolley, get off at the Gas Lamp station, not the "conference center" station, unless you are going to the Marriott on the north end. The Gas Lamp stop is much closer to registration, the plenary, the showcase/vendor floor, and many of the sessions.
Although the rooms can be cold for some people (I'm usually ok), when you go outside, it can be very hot and/or humid. Think about layers.
I think officially the dress is "business casual", but I recommend wearing what akes you feel comfortable. You will see everything from 3-peice suites to shorts and t-shirts. My overall impression over the years is more dress for casual and comfort than 3-peice suits. Theee is a lot happening during the week, and feeling comfortable hopefully takes some of the stress out of it. If you are looking for a job and expect to meet with potential employees, keep that in mind and dress accordingly (but don't be surprised if they are in jeans or shorts).
The event app has gotten better over the years, but not always easy to use when in a rush. Last year they had several large screen showing current and upcoming sessions. Those can come in handy. Keep in mind that these may not list the "demo theater" offerings.
The demo theaters offerings are typically very focused and much shorter than a full session. This can be good, but also may interrupt a longer session you want to attend. They can be excellent follow up sessions to a topic of interest, and are more intimate (i.e. maybe 60-100 vs 1000 people). The chairs can fill up fast, and it can be harder to hear these sessions (due to showcase floor noise), so plan accordingly.
Bling from the booths is nice, but remember you have to carry it with you until you get back to your room. The User Experience area usually has some neat posters....if you think you are going to grab one, think about bringing an empty mailing tube so it doesn't get crunched (and cheaper than buying it from the conf center mailing center. ....but do consider mailing things home if luggage cost is an issue.
If you start exchanging business cards, write a quick note on the card re: what you talked to the person about. It doesn't take long before the UC brain saturation point hits, and once back in the office it's a blur. This is especially important if you get a lot of cards from esri staff you have discussed specific problems with
If, like me, you like to have a bottle of water at all times...bring a refillable bottle and use the water dispensers that are in most tech session rooms. If you drink coffee, keep in mind that it sometimes runs out (dev summit was much better on this issue this year), but it you walk with your coffee, one with a non-spillable top is nice. Less chance of making a mess.
Take enough time on the showcase/vendor hall to ask questions, listen to other discussions about products, and explore something new.
As others have mentioned, if you want the popular t-shirt from the UC store, shore early in the week as they typically will sell out of some/many items. If you can go during a session instead of a general break (maybe when you have a break between demo theater session) that helps. Hours vary per day. They pretty much close up on Thursday, with only a few selected items (no books) available Friday (usually in the upstairs hall). BTW - they do take credit cards.
Don't wait until later Thursday to pick up you party wristband unless you want to stand in line. They usually start handing them out on Wednesday, and although not true fashion, it won't cause any .
The crowd is massive, but very friendly. Meet new people if you can. Talking to others heading in on the trolley is great fun, and you can usually spot those with the name tag around their neck or carrying the UC tote/bag. If like me, you are not real comfortable in huge crowds, just focus on small groups around you. But don't forget to just stand-back and people watch. Take a look at the huge community, and remember, we all do and like GIS!
Make sure you keep an open mind and have some wiggle room in your schedule. I find that I have different priorities after hearing the plenary.
Don't be surprised that by Thursday, you can't remember what you learned on Tuesday. Keep track of what you want to follow up on, or what you didn't have time to see, and either buy the Sound of Knowledge recordings, or watch the free ones posted on Esri Videos | E360 Videos: GIS, Events, ArcGIS Products & Industries or the esri youtube channel. It is nearly impossible to absorb all the information you will hear during the week, so take a few notes...take a few snapshots of a display...pick up (and share) business card...whatever will help spark your memory once back in the office. Then follow up as needed.
Join and be active on the Geonet forums. Want to learn more? Think about attending one of the Geonet specific sessions

If you made it thru that whole list...congrats. I probably could come up with many more suggestions, but that's all for now. Main thing.....have fun and enjoy all things GIS!

StephanieSnider

The giant room for the Plenary session on Monday is freezing cold. Bring a jacket! I told this to my colleagues last year and they were thankful for the warning.
Wear comfortable shoes.
There's never enough time to see all the workshops/sessions you want. If pressed for time, get your lunch ahead of time at the Ralphs (1st and G st).

evtguy

One Map Gallery drink, eh? I guess not everyone is buying AGOL credits..

KimJackson

Resist the temptation to sit with your co-workers at the Plenary or other sessions. Split up and meet new people. Introduce yourself to international visitors and have a business card ready to make new contacts. Even with 15,000 + people, if you make a small effort, you'll be surprised to see some familiar faces by the end of the week.

Put down your phone for a few minutes and enjoy the view over the bridge on the upper floor balconies of the Convention Center.

/blogs/AdrianWelsh/2017/05/26/top-ten-things-a-five-year-old-would-do-at-the-esri-user-conference

I'm adding one more comment to this great comprehensive list. Since Timothy made a top-ten-like blog post, I decided to do so as well, using a five-year-old to tell the story. Enjoy!

The decision was made at the Dept of Interior level (includes USGS, Fish and Wildlife, Bureau of Land management, National Park Service, and others). Given the funding uncertainty for FY18 I would not be surprised if we don't see more limited participation across the entire federal government.

CCatania

Thanks for sharing all the tips and advice, everyone! Such a great collection for UC first-timers! If you haven't seen it yet, here's another useful tool, a handy map of the top 25 things to experience at UC. Enjoy! http://www.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapTour/index.html?appid=98236c04df8644c4a894cb1060ffa36b

ChrisDonohue__GISP

(in fact many feds have had to cancel -- USGS was restricted to 8 attendees)

Just curious - is USGS the only federal agency with reduced attendance at the Conference this year or did other federal agencies suffer attendance restrictions also?

Chris Donohue, GISP

Robert LeClair

Adding to the list of things that make an enjoyable UC experience:

If you're looking to save some money on food, pick up groceries from Ralphs on the SE corner of G Street and 1st Ave. Be sure your hotel room has a refrigerator in the room as some hotels have refrigerators on a request only basis.
If you're a walker/runner, walk/run first thing in the morning! The paths by the marina, embarcadero's all the way to the Midway/airport make for a great way to start your day. You'll see fellow conference attendees and Esri employees getting a head start on their day. Besides after a day of conferencing, there are many events to attend!
Dinner in the Gas Lamp District is great but crowded. Walk or take the train to Little Italy. This area has an eclectic mix of cuisines.
Don't worry about a rental car! Take a taxi, SuperShuttle, Uber, etc. from the airport to your hotel.
Sadly the San Diego Padres are out of town conference week but catching a game is a fun post conference day thing to do to unwind.
Tour the Midway!