Orlando welcomes you this fall! The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) TRANSform Conference and EXPO 2021 will be held from Nov. 7-10 at the Orange County Convention Center located at 9800 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819. Though the convention was originally scheduled to appear in Anaheim, California, local restrictions on large gatherings have resulted in a change of plans! With the support and guidance of the Orange County Health Department, APTA TRANSForm Conference and EXPO 2021 has developed a comprehensive set of guidelines to ensure this year’s convention is not just safe, but successful.
Though APTA only throws this event once every three years, the TRANSform Conference & EXPO is definitely worth the wait and remains the preeminent exhibition for advancements in public transit. Displays of new services, technology, and products will expose you to improved transportation systems and allow you to learn from industry leaders. In order to maximize your experience, we’ve curated a list of events to seize while at the convention and places to enjoy while in Orlando.
What should I know before arriving?
Keep in mind that Orlando International Airport located at 1 Jeff Fuqua Blvd, Orlando, FL 32827, is the busiest airport in all of Florida, so making sure your flight arrangements are set is crucial. If you are an exhibitor, make hotel reservations via EXPOVISION, APTA’s official housing company. For newcomers, be sure to check in with APTA to be notified of any updates at https://www.aptaexpo.com/apta2021/public/mainhall.aspx. If you’re planning on having a booth at the convention, based on your membership status, be aware of the pricing by going to https://www.aptaexpo.com/apta2021/public/Content.aspx?ID=11739&sortMenu=106002. Also be aware the convention is separated into two main multi-day events: the EXPO and the TRANSform Conference.
What should I do at the convention?
Typically boasting over 15,000 attendees from over 800 industry-leading exhibitors across 65 countries, APTA EXPO 2021 offers unique networking opportunities for businesses trying to navigate the public transit world. In fact, 63% of attendees are experiencing APTA EXPO for the first time, seeking new connections. In order to gain a better sense of the exhibitors and their layout, visit https://www.aptaexpo.com/apta2021/public/EventMap.aspx?shavailable=1&ID=11736&sortMenu=106003.
APTA TRANSform Conference is the second key aspect of the convention. By covering topics affecting the industry including COVID-19 recovery, safety and security, technology, policy, and transit redesign, the TRANSform Conference emphasizes an engaging educational experience. Beginning with an opening ceremony on November 7, TRANSform Conference aims to raise awareness for your burgeoning businesses by teaching you the necessary skills to differentiate yourself and your product, service, and technology from the competition. Visit https://www.aptaexpo.com/apta2021/public/Content.aspx?ID=14248&sortMenu=102002 for more details.
What theme parks should I go to?
We love Orlando so much, we’ve gone in depth in our coverage of what to do in their world-class theme parks!
For tips on how to navigate your Orlando experience from our resident theme-park-connoisseur Kyle, check out some of the links below:
“How to Get the Best Experience During Peak Crowds at the Walt Disney Resorts”
“Best Places to Relax in the Disney World Theme Parks”
“The Best Quick-Service Dining Locations at Each of the Walt Disney World Theme Parks”
“Where to Eat, Drink, and More at Disney Springs- A Complete Guide to Disney Springs”
Where should I eat?
With a name that conjures up quite an interesting image and has even better food to enjoy, The Ravenous Pig is a must-eat destination in Orlando. Located at 565 W Fairbanks Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789, this restaurant boasts a braised pork belly and a short rib brisket burger that locals and tourists alike love, not to mention a rotating selection of phenomenal craft beers. Labeled as one of Orlando’s premier “gastropubs” you won’t want to miss the Ravenous Pig. For more information on their menu and hours, check out https://www.theravenouspig.com.
If you’re a fan of steaks, you won’t want to miss Waldorf Astoria’s Bull and Bear, located at 14200 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane, Orlando, FL 32821. Known for their selection of savory, perfectly-aged beef, dishes like their 38-ounce bone-in 28-day dry-aged Tomahawk Ribeye, Bull and Bear offers many eye-opening, mouth-watering, and jaw-dropping cuts to make your Orlando trip one to remember. The Veal Oscar, B&B Fried Chicken, and Escargot & Gnocchi are among the many signature dishes this establishment cooks up as well. Be sure to check out https://www.bullandbearorlando.com for more information.
Conventionally known as the staple food of broke college students, ramen is a delicious dish anybody would be lucky to devour at Domu, located at 3201 Corrine Dr, Orlando, FL 32803. In particular, their renowned curry ramen can be a shareable delight for a family of four or a hoardable bowl of goodness just for yourself. Though this establishment does not offer take-out or reservations, you can show up and chow down on their pan-Asian cuisine that will have you asking for seconds. Upgrade your bowl with braised pork belly or fried chicken thighs, and check out some of their other bowls at https://www.domufl.com
It’s in the name! Everything Tradeshows is your one-stop shop for all things trade shows, including booth purchases, booth rentals, and complete brand management services. Ready to get started? Have questions? Get in touch by calling us at (954) 791-8882 or by filling out the form below. We can’t wait to hear from you!
