The USDLA conference always provides plenty of activities – learning, social, and health – to stay involved!
Certain on-site activities will also be made available virtually when possible and are indicated as such below. We understand that many had experienced “virtual fatigue” – it happens when you are spending up to half your day (or more) conferencing in front a computer or mobile device. All activities are meant to be relaxing rather than a mind drain so please plan to join us in person if possible and see some of the old USDLA family while meeting new friends along the way.
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner – Please refer to the schedule here for all meals provided.
Monday June 23rd – Opening Reception – Join us Monday evening for some social interaction! We will welcome conference attendees from around the world and have music to provide some food for the soul.
Tuesday June 24th – Morning Exercise – Meet us for some morning Yoga starting at 6:30AM in the fitness center. The purpose of yoga is to build strength, awareness and harmony in both the mind and body. While there are more than 100 different types, or schools, of yoga, most sessions typically include breathing exercises, meditation, and assuming postures (sometimes called asana or poses) that stretch and flex various muscle groups. Join us for a morning class to prepare yourself for an amazing day of learning.
Tuesday June 24th – Dinner on the Town in St. Louis – If you’ve never been to St. Louis you are in for a culinary treat! Once known as the Garment District in the early 1900’s, Washington Avenue has transformed into an 8-block avenue of local eateries (no chain restaurants), boutique shopping, nightlife and entertainment – ALL within walking steps from the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark.
- 360 Rooftop Bar (top floor of the Hilton)
- Ballpark Pizza (attached to the Hilton)
- Bullock Rooftop Bar and Lounge
- Ballpark Village
- Jazz St. Louis
- Polite Society
- Stage Left Grill
- Southern
- Bulrush STL
- Bowood by Niche
- The Fountain on Locust
USDLA board members will be at several locations for those interested in some one on one time conversations around today’s most important topics.
Wednesday June 25th – Bill Jackson Memorial Sunrise Walk/Run – Join us in the lobby at 6:30am. Perhaps you’ve heard that USDLA is tight knit family. That is especially true of our annual national conference. We will carry on a tradition that is near and dear to our hearts to help remember a past USDLA President that was taken away from us back in 2011. Join us for a morning walk, jog, or run to help us celebrate a life lost far too early.
The rest of our day will be spent learning from a community that is broader than our own!
Wednesday June 25th – International Awards Luncheon – Join us for a premiere recognition event. Enjoy a fantastic plated lunch while we recognize some of the most respected world leaders in the distance/digital learning industry for 2024-2025. For those who are virtual attendees we will be streaming the awards live and you can access the webcast via Zoom (see virtual page for details)
Surrounding Area Activities
The Events team is actively researching area excursions to network off-site with other attendees. When you register, please let us know your interest in the following activities and the committee will leverage during conference planning.
- Gateway Arch Tour & Riverboat Cruise (EST Cost $37) -Approximately 2hr excursion starting with the unique Gateway Arch tram lifting you 630 feet up to the top of the tallest monument in the United States and then a one-hour St. Louis Riverfront Cruise
- Skyline Dinner Cruise (EST cost $59) – A scenic two-hour cruise featuring a chef-inspired menu and captivating views of the St. Louis Skyline.
- Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tour, plus VIP Clydesdale Tour (EST Cost $45) – Explore the Anheuser-Busch brewery, campus, and learn about brewing methods on a Day Fresh Tour, then get up close and personal with the legendary Budweiser Clydesdales
- City Museum tour (EST Cost $20) – Whether you’re interested in art, history, architecture or Instagram opportunities, the City Museum is not just for kids-grab a drink at 1st floor bar fashioned after a 19th-century cabin, admire art by renowned contemporary artist and fascinating mix of salvaged architectural pieces, take a ride on our Big Eli Ferris Wheel for a whole new view of downtown St. Louis.
- National Blues Museum (EST Cost $20) –Blues, baby, is the root of all American music, here you will see just how deep those roots go through exhibits that’ll take you back to the early days of the blues, where it all began. You’ll see how this beautiful music has touched and influenced every corner of the U.S. and beyond.