The Insider’s Guide to Attending WorkX San Diego

Whether you’re a seasoned conference attendee or a first-time participant, AVUITY has crafted this comprehensive guide to ensure you extract the maximum value from your WorkX San Diego experience.

Over the years, AVUITY has participated in and gleaned insights from countless conferences. Drawing upon this wealth of knowledge, we aim to provide you with an insider’s roadmap to fully engage with WorkX San Diego. From packing essentials to exploring the vibrant local dining scene, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s get started on this exciting journey to unlock the best of WorkX San Diego.

WorkX San Diego is the premier destination for professionals seeking to elevate their business through innovative workplace strategies, technological advancements, and people-centric solutions. This conference provides a remarkable platform for learning, networking, and immersing oneself in the vibrant atmosphere of San Diego. And with this guide from AVUITY, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most out of it.

Discover the Future of Work at WorkX San Diego

WorkX San Diego, set to kick off on August 8th, is not just another conference. It’s a hub for innovation, thought leadership, and collaboration within the realms of corporate real estate, facilities operations, and strategic acquisitions, integrated with HR, People, Culture, and Employee Experience. The event draws a wide spectrum of attendees, including senior professionals from various sectors, all eager to gain insights from global thought leaders and share best practices.

Focused on driving forward-thinking and fostering creativity, WorkX presents a plethora of innovative ideas and inspirational learning experiences to its community. Its multi-track learning format ensures that participants can fully engage in each session, providing a seamless blend of insightful presentations, networking opportunities, and well-deserved breaks.

Registration for the event begins at 8:00 am, setting the stage for a day filled with knowledge sharing and connection building. The deliberate structure of the day enables attendees to fully immerse themselves in the conference while also creating space for invaluable interactions with industry peers.

WorkX San Diego Conference Details

Venue:

Omni San Diego

675 L Street

San Diego, CA 92101

Date: August 8th-10th | Registration starts at 8:00 am

How to Prepare for WorkX Conference in San Diego

Navigating a conference as comprehensive as WorkX requires careful preparation. Ensuring you have the right tools at your disposal will help maximize your experience. In this section, we’ll cover the essentials you need to pack and provide helpful information for those last-minute needs.

Packing Essentials for Productivity

To make the most of the WorkX conference, there are a few essential items you should consider bringing along. These items will not only facilitate your active participation but also ensure you stay connected and comfortable throughout the event.

Business Cards: An excellent tool for networking, don’t forget to pack enough business cards to share with your new connections.
Notepad and Pen: While digital note-taking methods are convenient, having a good old-fashioned notepad and pen handy can be a lifesaver.
Laptop and Chargers: Ensure you pack your laptop, phone, and their respective chargers. You wouldn’t want your devices running out of battery in the midst of an engaging session.
Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so prioritize comfort when choosing your footwear.
A Light Jacket or Sweater: Conference halls can sometimes be chilly, so it’s a good idea to carry something warm, just in case.

Forgotten Something? No Worries!

Even with careful packing, you might find yourself needing an item you left at home. Thankfully, there are three CVS Pharmacies within walking distance from the Omni San Diego Hotel in different directions!

Staying on Top of Your Work

We understand that while the conference is a priority, your day-to-day work responsibilities continue. If you need to catch up on some work between sessions, the Omni San Diego offers a great place to focus as well as high-speed internet. For a change of scenery, consider taking a short walk to a quiet, local coffee shop like Roast Coach or Achilles Coffee Roasters.

Navigating San Diego

San Diego, with its perfect weather and welcoming atmosphere, is an amazing city to explore. This section will guide you on getting to the venue from the airport, provide information on local transportation options, and introduce you to the fantastic amenities of the Omni San Diego.

How to Get to Omni San Diego from San Diego International Airport

San Diego is well connected, and getting to the Omni San Diego from the San Diego International Airport is fairly straightforward. Here’s a general guide:

By Car: The drive from San Diego International Airport to the Omni San Diego typically takes about 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Both car rental services and taxis are readily available at the airport. A taxi costs between $15-$24 from the airport.

Rideshares: Services like Uber and Lyft operate extensively in San Diego, providing a convenient and often cost-effective way to get around. You should note that all rideshares pick up at the transportation islands.

By Public Transport: San Diego has a bus system, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) and it costs about $5 to get downtown from the airport

San Diego’s Transport Highlights

Experience San Diego’s iconic “moving landmark” – the San Diego Trolley, conveniently located just a few steps away from our front door. It offers easy access to Old Town, Mission Valley, and East San Diego, with departures every 15 minutes.

Explore the beauty of the coast with the North County Coaster, covering 42 scenic miles from Del Mar to Oceanside, stopping at various picturesque locations along the way.

An Introduction to the Omni San Diego

Immerse yourself in the San Diego experience by staying at the Omni San Diego, the conference venue. With its prime location in the lively Gaslamp Quarter and across from the San Diego Convention Center, the Omni offers comfort and convenience in one package. Here’s what to expect:

Rooms and Reservations: The group rate for WorkX attendees is $299. To reserve a room at this rate, click on the Omni San Diego Reservation Link.

Leisure and Recreation at Omni San Diego Hotel

The hotel offers extraordinary views of the San Diego Bay, downtown skyline, and the ballpark right from the guest rooms. An outdoor terrace features a pool, fireplace, and the Terrace Bar & Grill.
The 8,000-square-foot outdoor terrace includes a heated swimming pool, Jacuzzi, stone fireplace, and tanning deck.
A complimentary full-service fitness center and in-room fitness kits are available for guests seeking physical activity.
Massage therapy sessions can be booked in the hotel’s treatment room for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Easy access is provided to walking and jogging trails, over 70 miles of beaches, parks, and golf courses.
The hotel is situated minutes away from top attractions like the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, Balboa Park, Seaport Village, La Jolla, and more.

Guest Services at Omni San Diego Hotel

The Power of One® – Omni’s commitment to Excellence in Service – is a cornerstone of the guest experience.
24-hour dining services cater to guests’ culinary needs around the clock.
A complete business center, serviced by The UPS Store™, meets the professional needs of guests.
For convenience, express check-in and check-out, laundry/dry cleaning services, valet and self-parking are provided.
Safety is prioritized, with a safe provided in every room and at the front desk.
WiFi Internet service keeps guests connected.
The concierge team, members of Les Clefs d’Or, are at the ready to assist with any requests.
A full-service restaurant and Morsel’s coffee and gift shop offer a variety of dining options.
The hotel provides childcare service referrals and post/parcel services.
As part of the Omni Kids Crew, child-friendly amenities and services are offered.
The Omni San Diego Hotel serves as an elegant wedding venue for those special moments.

Nearby Attractions

The Omni San Diego’s location places you in the heart of the city in the historic Gaslamp Quarter, with easy access to some of San Diego’s top attractions. Explore Balboa Park, embark on a relaxing harbor cruise, or catch a Padres game at Petco Park.

Things to Do in San Diego

While in San Diego, take advantage of your downtime by exploring the local attractions. Walk the pedestrian skybridge over to Petco Park for a Padres game, take a relaxing harbor cruise, or explore the area’s boutique shops and galleries. Looking for some culture? There are over 20 museums nearby!

Exploring San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter

San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, a lively and dynamic neighborhood, is the perfect place to unwind after a full day of conference activities. Here’s how you can explore and experience this vibrant locale during your time at WorkX.

An Introduction to the Gaslamp Quarter

The Gaslamp Quarter, adjacent to the Omni San Diego, is a historic district buzzing with activity day and night. The neighborhood boasts over 200 restaurants and bars, making it an epicenter for gastronomy and nightlife in San Diego.

The quarter offers an impressive selection of eateries that cater to various tastes and preferences, many of which provide the perfect setting for a business meeting. Whether you prefer a formal dining experience or a more casual atmosphere, you’ll find a venue to suit your needs.

Coronado Island

Just a stone’s throw away from downtown San Diego, across the expansive Big Bay, lies the charming Coronado Island. This delightful beach town, renowned for its award-winning beaches, is a favored destination among conference attendees seeking a slice of coastal relaxation.

The island’s diverse charm is spread across five distinctive regions. You’ll find Bayside & the Ferry Landing brimming with shops and eateries, while Historic Downtown encapsulates Coronado’s rich heritage. Then there are the pristine Beaches offering ultimate relaxation, Glorietta Bay for a delightful blend of sports and leisure, and Silver Strand for those seeking a tranquil retreat.

Whether attendees of WorkX wish to unwind on a sun-drenched beach, indulge in outdoor sports, explore sailing adventures, delve into the local history, or even engage in camping, Coronado Island extends an array of experiences tailored to enrich your visit beyond the conference.

Seaport Village

Seaport Village serves as an idyllic spot for retail therapy, gastronomic delights, and al fresco entertainment. Boasting more than 50 unique shops and 17 diverse restaurants, this vibrant hub is an ideal choice for conference-goers looking to unwind.

Treat yourself to a memorable dining experience with a stunning view of the bay, or indulge in tranquil strolls along the water’s edge. A must-visit attraction within Seaport Village is the historic carousel, a magnificent hand-carved masterpiece dating back to 1895. Your trip to San Diego wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the charm and fun of this iconic locale.

Old Town San Diego

Old Town San Diego is a captivating blend of history and culture, teeming with charming streets that echo past traditions. This historic district encompasses three significant parks and is nestled beside a State Park, which houses 32 historic sites and a variety of shops.

Of notable interest is the Presidio, marking the site of the city’s first mission. A visit to Old Town offers conference-goers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of San Diego’s history, providing a stimulating contrast to the modernity of the WorkX conference.

San Diego Trolley Tours

Want to see it all? Explore the highlights of “America’s Finest City” with a dynamic two-hour narrated city tour of San Diego and Coronado on a uniquely themed trolley. This fast-paced tour covers a diverse range of approximately 25 miles and over 100 points of interest. With the flexibility to hop on and off at various stops, attendees can customize their sightseeing experience throughout the day.

The tour route incorporates significant locales such as Old Town, San Diego Harbor, Seaport Village, Marriott/Convention Center, Gaslamp Quarter, Hilton Bayfront, Coronado and its renowned Hotel Del Coronado, Little Italy, and Balboa Park. The Old Town Trolley city tour pairs engaging storytelling with meticulously researched historical details, offering a perfect blend of education and entertainment. Indeed, an excursion on the Old Town Trolley Tour is an essential part of any San Diego visit!

Dining in San Diego

Food is an essential part of any travel experience, and San Diego doesn’t disappoint with its culinary scene. Here’s where you can grab a quick bite or savor local cuisine during your stay.

Quick Bites Near the Venue

If you’re pressed for time, there are plenty of options for coffee or a quick bite around the Omni San Diego and the Gaslamp Quarter:

Roast Coach – 800 ft.
Starbucks – 600 ft.
Achilles Coffee Roasters – 0.3 miles
Coffee & Tea Collective – 0.2 miles
Fresh Co – located inside the Omni San Diego
La Conde – 0.2 miles
West Coast Social – located inside the Omni San Diego
Union Kitchen & Tap – 0.2 miles

Eating Like a Local in the Gaslamp Quarter

If you’re looking to explore local cuisine, the Gaslamp Quarter is a food lover’s paradise with over 200 restaurants and bars. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find diverse food options in this vibrant neighborhood. Here are our top 5 Gaslamp Quarter restaurants & bars within walking distance of the Omni San Diego:

1. Water Grill San Diego – Best for Seafood and Private Dining Rooms

Emerging from the lineage of the King’s Seafood family, a family-owned venture with over 70 years in operation, the Water Grill is renowned for its ever-changing specials menu and fresh raw bar. Highlights include Maryland soft-shell crabs sourced directly from Crisfield, Maryland. Open for lunch and dinner every day.

2. Meze Greek Fusion – Best for Shared Plates / Late Night

Ranking among the noteworthy Greek and Mediterranean restaurants in San Diego, Meze Greek Fusion brings a unique California twist to traditional Greek dishes. With extensive spaces for large events, it is a choice location for experiencing the fusion of cultural cuisine. Open for lunch and dinner every day.

3. Lumi by Akira Back – Best for Creative Business Dinner

From the kitchen of celebrity chef Akira Back, Lumi presents San Diego with Nikkei cuisine, a delightful blend of Japanese and Peruvian influences. Set amidst a stunning backdrop with downtown views and outdoor fire pits, this rooftop restaurant is a must-visit for lunch or dinner. Open for dinner every night, lunch on weekends.

4. The Nolen – Best for Drinks & View

Located on the 14th floor, The Nolen offers an awe-inspiring vista of the downtown skyline. Its open-air rooftop bar entices visitors with cocktails crafted from locally-sourced, small batch spirits. Open for dinner every night, brunch on weekends.

5. Huntress – Best for Traditional Business Dinner

Pairing a top-tier steakhouse with a bar that showcases an impressive selection of Japanese whisky, the Huntress provides a stylish venue that champions culinary excellence. It offers prime cuts such as dry-aged porterhouse, tomahawk steaks, and ribeyes, complemented by an array of high-quality seafood. Open for dinner. Dress Code is Upscale Casual.

Maximizing Your Conference Experience

As the conference draws near, it’s essential to plan how to get the most out of your WorkX experience.

Navigating the Conference Agenda

The conference offers multiple tracks, workshops, and networking sessions. It’s vital to go over the agenda and highlight sessions that align with your interests and professional development goals.

Tips for Success

Engage actively in sessions, ask questions, and participate in discussions. Remember, the conference is a fantastic opportunity to learn from and connect with industry trailblazers. Additionally, ensure you take advantage of the networking opportunities to build professional relationships and expand your knowledge.

Staying Connected with AVUITY

While you’re absorbing insights and forging new connections at WorkX, don’t forget to visit the AVUITY booth. As an exhibitor sponsor, we’re thrilled to be part of this conference. Our team will be on hand to answer your questions, showcase our solutions, and learn more about your unique business needs. Remember to grab some of our exclusive conference swag!

Concluding Your WorkX San Diego Journey

As your enriching journey at WorkX San Diego nears its end, it’s an ideal time to pause and reflect on the novel ideas, inspirational thoughts, and best practices you’ve gained. With its unique focus on integrating workplace, technology, and people, the knowledge and insights gathered here will be invaluable.

Don’t forget to keep the lines of communication open with the new professional contacts you’ve established during networking sessions, and explore potential avenues for future collaborations. As we wrap up this comprehensive guide, we hope it has been instrumental in helping you navigate the conference, experience the best of San Diego, and create a memorable WorkX experience. We’re eagerly looking forward to meeting you there!

This guide was brought to you by AVUITY. Stop by our table and say hello to Jay Berkemeyer or Sarah Holmes. Subscribe to our newsletter for a free copy of our keynotes from the conference.