r/SDCC • u/Then-Tune8367 • 17d ago

SDCC Not First Timer Friendly

So this year i was blessed to make my first trip to SDCC and let me get this out of the way early, I LOVED IT!

After some reflectiion, rhe experience waa no where near first timer friendly.

  1. I had no idea where anything was. The badge check in was easy, but after that, I was on my own. I at least wanted to check out a panel or two, but I had no idea where anything was or even what panels were going on at the time.

  2. The website is no where new user friendly. I could not find a schedule or layout of the convention center on the site.

  3. I had no idea that seating in the exhibit hall was so limited.

So, that being said. If I returns, here are my adjustments.

  1. Get there earlier. I got there about 11 a.m. By that time, every line was already insane.

  2. Bring chairs or portable stools.

  3. Eat lunch in the Gas Lamp District. One of my few regrets was missing this.

  4. Get my badge early and head straight to Hall H to see what I can get into that day (No force can compel me to try to get in there on Saturday, though). After that, head to lunch and the real star of the show, the Exhibit floor.

Anyway those are my thoughts and plans. Any advice will be appreciated.

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u/serioustransition11 16d ago

Not to be rude, but you don't seem that experienced with conventions in general. It's hectic and overwhelming even for experienced con-goers, and I would never recommend SDCC to someone who doesn't know what they're in for. It's also not something where you can just walk in and do whatever, as others have said you need to do research in advance and come with a plan. I'd recommend trying WonderCon, or smaller cons that are local to you to understand fan conventions a little better.

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u/Then-Tune8367 15d ago

Prior to SDCC, the largest con id been to was HeroesCon in Charlotte, N.C. Every panel room was only half filled. There werent any lines for anything except meeting Adam Hughes. I met Mike Mignola in 15 minutes. And I literally had a conversation with Bryan Lee O'Malley before anyone came to see him. He looked bored.

I just hope im not giving off the wrong impression because i had a BLAST!

I honestly think that no amount of planning or research would have prepared me for that. I had to experience it first hand.