A First Look at the DrupalCon Orlando Venue

Two weekends ago, I met up with some of the DrupalCon Orlando local planning committee at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort to check out the venue and finalize a bunch of plans.

We toured the resort, planned events, sampled food and drinks (strictly for quality assurance, of course), floated around the pools, and spent way too much time talking about all the fun stuff we're putting together.

After seeing everything in person, I'm convinced this is going to be the best DrupalCon ever!

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This DrupalCon is going to feel different (and I think that's a good thing)

If you've been to previous DrupalCons, one thing you'll notice right away is that this one is going to have a different vibe. Normally we're in a downtown convention center where you can walk to bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and whatever else you stumble across.

This isn't that. The Grand Cypress sits in the middle of Orlando's resort area near Disney. If you want to leave the property, you'll probably grab an Uber or Lyft. Disney Springs is only about 10 minutes away, and the parks are just beyond that.

But honestly... I don't think most people are going to want to leave. This resort is awesome.

Instead of everyone scattering around downtown after the sessions end, I think we're going to end up hanging out together around the resort having poolside cocktails, or smores by the fire pits. And after spending the weekend there, I think that's going to make for an even better conference.

The pools are ridiculous

Seriously. The pool area is unlike anything we've ever had at a DrupalCon.

The pools wind around faux limestone cliffs with waterfalls pouring down into them. There's a cave that connects two sections of the pool, a grotto, a waterslide, two hot tubs, and tons of places to spread out.

Then you've got a poolside bar serving frozen drinks, beer, and food just a few steps away. I can already picture dozens of Drupal people hanging out there after sessions.

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Florida in March is basically cheating

If you're coming from somewhere that's still cold in late March... congratulations. This is probably the nicest time of year to be in Florida.

Expect highs around 80°F (27°C), cool evenings, blue skies, and weather that's pretty much perfect for sitting outside all day. It's warm enough to swim without feeling like you're melting.

One of the nicest surprises is the hotel rate that we have. The Drupal Association was able to lock in an incredible rate of just $259/night, and that includes no resort fee. Considering this is one of the best times of year to visit Florida (and a resort like this!) it's an amazing deal. If you're planning to attend, book sooner rather than later: https://www.hyatt.com/events/en-US/group-booking/VISTA/G-DC27.

Everything is actually close together

This might sound boring compared to waterfalls and waterslides, but trust me, it matters. One thing I loved about the venue is how compact the conference space is. No hiking across giant hotel lobbies or speed-walking half a mile to your next session. No wondering which section your talk is actually in.

Everything is clustered together, which means less walking and more time talking to people in the hallways, which is the best part of every DrupalCon anyway.

Drupal's Got Talent is finally happening!

I've been trying to make this happen for years. Every DrupalCon I’d pitch the idea of a talent show, and every year something got in the way. Well... this is the year! It’s happening!

We'll be looking for pretty much anything entertaining:

• Musicians
• Bands
• Stand-up comedy
• Magic
• Singing
• Dancing
• Juggling
• Puppet shows
• Weird talents you didn't think anyone wanted to see (we do)

We’re not taking sign-ups just yet, but keep an eye out!

What should you pack?

Besides your laptop?

• 👙 A swimsuit (trust me)
• 🩴 Flip-flops or sandals
• 😎 Sunglasses
• 🧴 Sunscreen
• 👕 Clothes for warm afternoons and cooler evenings
• 🎤 Your hidden talent

This venue is a little different than what we're used to, but after spending the weekend there, I know it's going to create a totally different kind, and super memorable, DrupalCon.

Instead of everyone disappearing into the city after the sessions end, I think people are going to stick around. Hanging out by the pool. Sitting around the fire pits. Grabbing a drink. Talking Drupal late into the night.

And honestly? I can't wait!