Are you planning your first convention at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida? If so, you will want to know what to expect and how to prepare. Join me as I share my first-timer’s experience at Collect-A-Con Orlando. After reading this post, you will learn the ins and outs, from navigating the convention center to where to stay nearby and make lasting memories here in Orlando.
This post is all about Orange Country Convention Center first-timer guide in Orlando, Florida.
Collect-A-Con is a massive card trading, anime, and pop culture convention, which is held at Orange County Convention Center. Besides trading and buying collector cards, it’s also a busy marketplace where you’ll find everything from rare Pokémon cards to vintage sports cards and memorabilia. Even if you aren’t a hardcore collector, buyer, or trader, it’s still an exciting and fun experience to explore, dress up as your favorite character, and shop for cute and fun merchandise. So, as a newbie to this world, I was amazed by the sheer number of people passionate about this hobby.
For many, card collecting is more than a hobby; it’s a business. Rare cards become valuable currency, traded across a variety of games like Pokémon and classic sports. Although I’m not a collector myself, my childhood memories of Pokémon cards resurfaced as I navigated the convention.
The – main reason for my visit was to support my best friend from Atlanta, a successful Pokémon card trader. His thriving business is built on buying, selling, and trading cards and is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit found within his community. Andrew was a vendor at the convention. Also, he is a streamer and showcases and sells his valuable cards online.
I went there with my friends Janelle and Claire, and we had a great time shopping around. The best part for me was exploring original artwork. However, I have no place in my apartment for merch but I did get myself some things to gift to my sister because she’s a huge Sanrio and Studio Ghibli fan.
Besides card trading, Collect-A-Con, which is held over the weekend, features special guest appearances. Some of my favorites were Amy Jo Johnson, the pink Power Ranger, and Charles Martinet, the voice of Mario, Luigi, and Wario. Also, we watched musical performances by Travie McCoy from Gym Class Heroes and Jason Paige, the singer from the Original Pokemon theme Song.
Furthermore, the convention floor was filled with vendors showcasing unique merchandise, many of them were small businesses and entrepreneurs. Being new to the anime and gaming scene, I was excited to explore this vibrant culture. I’ll be attending more conventions in Orlando, and for those interested, I’ve included a link to upcoming events.
Link: Orange County Convention Center Events List
If you are planning a trip and you are from out of town, I would highly recommend staying at the Hyatt Regency Orlando. The Hyatt Regency Orlando is newly renovated, has a great pool and it’s conveniently across the street. We had a friend that stayed here and it’s so nice how easy it is to walk especially considering you say so much headache with parking.
https://www.booking.com/hotel/us/hyatt-regency-orlando
1. Set a Budget: Conventions can be tempting as everyone is there to buy and sell exclusive merchandising, in-person discounts, rare finds, and original pieces. Decide on a spending limit and factor in food costs. I highly recommend eating beforehand as the food selection at the last couple of conventions I’ve been to there are maybe 3-4 vendors and the lines get super long.
2. Plan Your Itinerary: Check the convention schedule online for panels, workshops, autograph sessions, and other experiences. Prioritize what is important and if it’s worth the money or waiting in line as it’s impossible to see everything.
3. Buy Tickets in Advance: Avoid the long lines and potential sell-outs by purchasing tickets online. Early bird discounts are usually available for these kind of events. Always book directly with the official website or their preferred third-party website to avoid getting potential headaches.
4. Book accommodations early: If you’re traveling to Orlando, book your hotel or Airbnb in advance since conventions also coincide with peak tourist season.
5. Research Transportation Options: Parking is pricey and public transportation or hotel transportation may be available.
6. Pack Strategically: Bring comfy shoes, a small bag or empty tote for purchases, a portable charger, and a reusable water bottle. Even though Small bags are accepted (at the time of this post), they will be searched by security upon entry. Also, bring cash for vendors who do not accept cards. Most vendors will do Zelle, Venmo, CashApp, and PayPal nowadays.
7. Arrive Early: This will give you plenty of time to explore the layout and snag limited-edition items before they sell out.
8. Network and Mingle: This is a great time to meet fellow attendees, vendors, or cosplayers. It’s a great place to make new friends and connections with those who share the same interests.
9. Take advantage of the events: There is so much to see and experience but don’t get disappointed if you can’t cram everything into one day.
10. Have Fun! and Share on Social Media: Conventions are a blast! Embrace the atmosphere, make new memories, meet up with friends, and share your favorite vendors on social media to support their businesses so they can keep working on their passion.
Whether you’re a seasoned card collector, an entrepreneur, or like me, a supportive friend, Collect-A-Con offers a fun and engaging experience. I hope this mini-guide helps you plan your next Orlando Convention Adventure.
Read more posts on www.kristinakayla.com
SHOP
SHOP
SHOP
SHOP
SHOP
SHOP
SHOP
SHOP
@ Kristina Kayla. All Rights Reserved. Design By Sugar Studios | PRIVACY | TERMS
Sagittarius ☼ Leo ☾ and Scorpio ↑
Kristina is an Orlando-based web designer, dog mom of two, foodie, lover of adventure, and creator of digital magic. Let's connect!
Take a peek at Kristina's past UGC work.
Take a look at Kristina's previous client work.
Be the first to comment