How to Experience Gen Con Gaming Convention Indianapolis

Gen Con Indianapolis is more than just a gaming convention—it’s a cultural phenomenon, a pilgrimage for tabletop enthusiasts, video game lovers, roleplaying fans, and collectors from across the globe. Held annually in Indianapolis, Indiana, since 1968, Gen Con is the largest dedicated tabletop gaming event in North America, drawing over 60,000 attendees each year. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran who’s been attending since the 1980s or a first-time visitor curious about the world of dice, cards, and narrative-driven play, Gen Con offers an immersive, unforgettable experience unlike any other.

The convention is not simply a marketplace for new games—it’s a living ecosystem where creators meet fans, stories are born at the gaming table, and communities are forged over shared passion. From the thunderous roar of a packed D&D dungeon crawl to the quiet intensity of a 4-hour board game tournament, Gen Con transforms the Indiana Convention Center and surrounding venues into a playground for imagination.

This guide is designed to help you navigate, plan, and maximize your Gen Con experience. It’s not just about attending—it’s about *experiencing*. You’ll learn how to prepare strategically, avoid common pitfalls, discover hidden gems, connect with others, and leave with memories that last far beyond the final session of the weekend. This is your definitive roadmap to making Gen Con not just a trip, but a transformation.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Your Visit Months in Advance

Gen Con is not a last-minute event. With attendance exceeding 60,000, accommodations, tickets, and popular events sell out rapidly. Begin planning at least six to eight months ahead of the convention date, which typically falls in early August.

Start by visiting the official Gen Con website (gencon.com) to confirm the exact dates for the upcoming year. Once confirmed, mark your calendar and set reminders for key deadlines: early registration, hotel block openings, and event sign-ups. Early registration often provides discounted pricing and priority access to limited events.

Consider your travel logistics. Indianapolis is accessible via major airlines, and the convention center is centrally located. Many attendees fly into Indianapolis International Airport (IND), which offers direct flights from most major U.S. hubs. If driving, plan your route and parking options early—onsite parking is limited and expensive.

2. Choose Your Accommodations Wisely

Hotel availability in Indianapolis during Gen Con is extremely tight. The convention partners with several official hotels within walking distance of the Indiana Convention Center, including the JW Marriott, Hyatt Regency, and Hilton Indianapolis. Staying at an official hotel offers benefits such as early event access, shuttle services, and exclusive vendor discounts.

However, official hotels fill quickly and come at a premium. If budget is a concern, consider staying in nearby neighborhoods like Downtown, Broad Ripple, or Mass Ave, which offer boutique hotels, Airbnbs, and public transit access. Use ride-share apps or the IndyGo bus system to reach the convention center—many routes run frequently during the event.

Pro tip: Book your hotel as soon as the Gen Con housing block opens. Waiting even a week can mean being 10–15 miles away from the action, adding hours to your daily schedule.

3. Purchase Your Pass and Register Early

Gen Con offers several types of passes: 4-Day All-Access, 1-Day, and Kids Passes. The 4-Day pass is the most popular and recommended for first-timers, as it grants full access to exhibits, seminars, tournaments, and open gaming areas.

Registration opens in January each year. Set a calendar alert and be ready to log in at exactly 10:00 AM Eastern Time on the registration launch date. The All-Access pass sells out within minutes. If you miss the initial sale, check the resale portal daily—many attendees resell unused passes due to schedule conflicts.

Register for your Gen Con account well before registration day. Complete your profile, link your payment method, and ensure your browser is updated. Use a desktop computer with a wired internet connection for the fastest response time.

4. Build Your Event Schedule Strategically

Gen Con features over 4,000 events across four days, including board game tournaments, RPG campaigns, workshops, artist alley showcases, and keynote panels. The event schedule is released in stages—initial listings appear in May, with final confirmations in July.

Use the Gen Con mobile app or the web-based schedule planner to build your itinerary. Prioritize events that are: (1) unique to Gen Con, (2) limited in capacity, and (3) led by renowned designers or publishers.

Focus on these categories:

• Live Roleplaying Games (RPGs): Sign up for 4–6 hour campaigns with popular systems like D&D 5e, Call of Cthulhu, or Pathfinder. These fill up within hours of registration.
• Board Game Tournaments: Look for events like “Terraforming Mars Championship” or “Catan World Championship Qualifiers.”
• Designer Panels: Attend talks by industry legends like Reiner Knizia, Elizabeth Hargrave, or Stonemaier Games founders.
• Open Gaming Areas: Reserve time for the massive open gaming zones where you can play free demos or join pickup games.

Never schedule back-to-back events without buffer time. Gen Con is a maze. Walking from one end of the convention center to another can take 15–20 minutes. Leave 30 minutes between events for navigation, rest, and hydration.

5. Explore the Exhibit Hall Like a Pro

The exhibit hall is the beating heart of Gen Con. Spanning over 600,000 square feet, it features hundreds of vendors—from indie publishers to giants like Wizards of the Coast, Hasbro, and Fantasy Flight Games.

Plan your exhibit hall route by priority. Start with publishers you’ve been waiting to meet. Create a “must-see” list: look for new releases, exclusive Gen Con-only products, and limited-edition miniatures.

Arrive early on Day 1. The first hour is the least crowded, and many vendors have their full stock on hand. Bring a collapsible tote bag or rolling cart—many attendees carry multiple purchases. Avoid carrying heavy bags all day; some vendors offer shipping services directly from the show floor.

Don’t just shop—interact. Ask designers about game mechanics, show appreciation for art, and share your own stories. Many creators remember enthusiastic fans and may offer signed copies, promo cards, or even personal advice.

6. Master the Art of Open Gaming

One of Gen Con’s most cherished traditions is open gaming. These are unstructured, drop-in sessions where anyone can join a table and play. Whether you’re looking to try a new game, meet fellow players, or just relax after a long day, open gaming areas are invaluable.

The main open gaming zones are located in the convention center’s lower levels. Look for signs labeled “Open Gaming,” “Pickup Games,” or “Try It!” tables. Many are staffed by volunteers who can teach you a game in under 10 minutes.

Bring 1–2 games you’re comfortable teaching. A lightweight, engaging game like “Sushi Go!” or “Love Letter” works well for newcomers. If you’re a veteran, consider bringing a 2-player strategy game like “Tapestry” or “Azul” to challenge others.

Be respectful of space and time. If a game is in progress, ask before joining. If you’re hosting a table, be prepared to explain rules clearly and keep the pace moving. Open gaming is about community—be the kind of player you’d want to sit with.

7. Attend Seminars and Workshops

Gen Con isn’t just about playing games—it’s about understanding them. Seminars cover game design, publishing, art direction, storytelling, and even the psychology of game mechanics.

Popular sessions include “Designing for the Tabletop Market,” “How to Pitch Your Game to a Publisher,” and “The Art of Narrative in RPGs.” These are often led by industry professionals and are invaluable for aspiring designers or writers.

Bring a notebook or tablet. Many speakers share downloadable resources, playtest templates, or design frameworks. Don’t be afraid to ask questions—most presenters encourage dialogue.

Workshops are hands-on and often require registration. Look for sessions like “Miniature Painting 101,” “Game Testing with Real Players,” or “Creating Accessible Game Rules.” These fill up fast—sign up as soon as they become available.

8. Connect with the Community

Gen Con thrives on human connection. You’ll meet people from every walk of life—teachers, engineers, retirees, teens, artists, and developers—all united by a love of play.

Join official Gen Con Discord servers or Facebook groups before you arrive. These are excellent for finding play partners, carpooling, or even just sharing tips. Many attendees form lasting friendships that extend beyond the convention.

Don’t be shy about approaching others. If you see someone playing a game you like, ask if you can join. Say “Hi” at panels. Compliment someone’s costume or game collection. Gen Con is one of the few places where being enthusiastic about your hobby is not just accepted—it’s celebrated.

9. Manage Your Energy and Health

Gen Con is physically and mentally demanding. You’ll walk 15,000–20,000 steps per day. You’ll be surrounded by noise, crowds, and sensory overload. Prioritize your well-being.

Wear comfortable, broken-in shoes. Bring blister pads, foot powder, and a small towel. Stay hydrated—water stations are available throughout the convention center, but bring a reusable bottle to refill often.

Plan downtime. Schedule at least one 90-minute block per day to rest, eat, or nap. Find quiet corners in the hotel lobby or nearby cafes. Avoid caffeine overload—while energy drinks may seem tempting, they can lead to crashes that ruin your evening.

Bring a small first-aid kit: pain relievers, antacids, allergy meds, and band-aids. The convention center has medical stations, but waiting times can be long.

10. Capture and Reflect on Your Experience

Take photos, write notes, and record your favorite moments. But don’t let your phone dominate your experience. Put it away during games. Be present.

After each day, spend 10 minutes journaling: What game surprised you? Who did you meet? What did you learn? This reflection will deepen your experience and help you remember the details that matter.

Consider creating a Gen Con blog, Instagram feed, or YouTube vlog. Many attendees document their journeys, and sharing your story can inspire others and build your own community.

Best Practices

Arrive Early, Leave Late

The convention center opens at 9:00 AM daily, but the most popular events begin as early as 10:00 AM. Arriving 30 minutes early ensures you get a good seat, avoid long lines, and have time to browse the exhibit hall before it fills up.

Similarly, don’t rush out after your last scheduled event. Many of the best spontaneous games, impromptu panels, and networking moments happen after 6:00 PM. The exhibit hall stays open until 8:00 PM on Friday and Saturday, and the open gaming zones often run until midnight.

Bring Cash and a Card

While most vendors accept credit cards, some small indie publishers and artists only take cash. Bring at least $100–$200 in small bills ($1, $5, $10). ATMs are available, but lines are long and fees are high.

Use contactless payment when possible. It’s faster, safer, and reduces physical contact in crowded areas.

Dress for Comfort and Function

Wear breathable, layered clothing. Temperatures in the convention center vary, and you’ll be moving between air-conditioned halls and warm exhibit booths. Avoid heavy costumes unless you’re participating in the masquerade—most attendees wear casual clothes: t-shirts, jeans, and sneakers.

Label your belongings. Use a name tag or write your name on your bag. Lost items are common. If you bring a laptop or camera, keep it secured in a padded, zippered case.

Be Mindful of Space and Boundaries

Gen Con is diverse. People have different comfort levels with physical contact, personal space, and topics of conversation. Always ask before touching someone’s game pieces, costume, or gear. Respect “Do Not Disturb” signs on tables.

If someone seems overwhelmed or disengaged, give them space. You’re there to enjoy the experience, not to pressure others into playing or buying.

Support Indie Creators

While big names dominate headlines, some of the most innovative games come from small studios. Look for booths labeled “Indie Alley” or “New Publisher Showcase.” These creators often offer lower prices, personal stories, and exclusive rewards.

Buy from them. Share their social media. Leave reviews. Your support helps sustain the next generation of game designers.

Don’t Try to Do Everything

This is the most important rule. Gen Con is overwhelming by design. If you try to attend every panel, play every game, and buy every new release, you’ll burn out by Day 2.

Focus on quality over quantity. Choose 3–5 must-do events. Leave room for spontaneity. Some of the best moments happen when you wander off-script.

Respect the Rules

Gen Con has clear policies: no weapons, no illegal substances, no harassment, no unauthorized filming. Violations result in immediate expulsion. Be a responsible attendee. If you see something concerning, report it to staff or security—they’re there to help.

Leave No Trace

Keep the convention center clean. Use trash and recycling bins. Don’t leave game pieces, notes, or empty bottles on tables. If you use a demo game, return components to their box. Clean up after yourself—it’s how we keep Gen Con welcoming for everyone.

Tools and Resources

Official Gen Con Website and App

The gencon.com website is your central hub. It hosts the event schedule, vendor directory, maps, FAQs, and registration portal. Download the Gen Con mobile app (available on iOS and Android) for real-time updates, push notifications for event changes, and an interactive floor map.

BoardGameGeek (BGG)

BoardGameGeek.com is the largest online community for tabletop gamers. Use it to:

• Read reviews of games before you play them
• Find Gen Con-specific threads and tips
• Join the Gen Con 2024 group for last-minute game meetups
• Track your personal game collection and wishlist

Many attendees use BGG’s “Gen Con Planner” tool to sync their schedules across devices.

Google Maps and Indoor Navigation

Use Google Maps to navigate the convention center. Search “Indiana Convention Center” and enable indoor maps. You’ll see exact locations of exhibit halls, restrooms, food courts, and elevators.

Bookmark key locations: your hotel, nearest water station, first-aid center, and lost-and-found (located at the Guest Services desk).

Spotify and Podcast Playlists

Create a Gen Con playlist with upbeat, instrumental music to keep your energy up during long walks. Popular choices include lo-fi beats, synthwave, or game soundtracks like “Hollow Knight” or “Stardew Valley.”

Listen to podcasts like “The Board Game Show,” “Tabletop,” or “Designing Games with Greg” during your commute to absorb industry insights.

Power Banks and Charging Stations

Bring a high-capacity power bank (10,000 mAh or higher). Your phone will drain quickly from map use, photos, and app checking. Charging stations are available near food courts and restrooms, but they’re often crowded. A portable charger ensures you never lose connection.

Printed Schedule and Map

While digital tools are essential, always carry a printed copy of your schedule and the official Gen Con map. Power outages or app glitches can happen. A paper backup keeps you grounded.

Game Tray and Storage Solutions

If you plan to buy games, bring a game tray, ziplock bags, or a small storage box. Many games come in large boxes—use a duffel bag or rolling suitcase to transport them safely. Label your items with your name and hotel room number.

Language and Accessibility Tools

Gen Con welcomes attendees from all backgrounds. If English is not your first language, download a translation app like Google Translate. The convention offers ASL interpreters for select events—check the accessibility page on gencon.com for details.

For attendees with mobility needs, Gen Con provides wheelchairs, scooters, and priority seating. Contact their accessibility team in advance to arrange accommodations.

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarah, First-Time Attendee from Ohio

Sarah, a 28-year-old teacher, had never been to Gen Con. She registered early, booked a hotel two blocks from the convention center, and spent two weeks studying the event schedule. Her top priorities: a D&D campaign led by a famous dungeon master, a panel on game-based learning, and the new “Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion” demo.

She arrived at 8:30 AM on Day 1, secured a front-row seat for the D&D session, and played for six hours. Afterward, she wandered into the indie booth of a small publisher called “Tumbleweed Games,” where she discovered “The Quiet Year”—a narrative map game about rebuilding after collapse. She bought it, played it that night with new friends, and later wrote a blog post about it.

By the end of the weekend, Sarah had attended 12 events, bought 7 new games, and made 5 lasting connections. She returned home energized, inspired, and already planning for next year.

Example 2: Marcus, Designer from Portland

Marcus had been designing board games for five years. His game, “Echoes of the Deep,” was accepted into Gen Con’s “New Publisher Showcase.” He spent months preparing: printing 200 demo copies, designing a 5-minute pitch, and rehearsing his talking points.

On Day 1, he set up his booth at 7:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, he had a line of 30 people waiting to play. He played 140 demos over four days. He received feedback from experienced gamers, connected with two publishers, and sold out his entire inventory.

He also attended three panels on publishing, met with a graphic designer for his next project, and was invited to speak at next year’s convention. Marcus didn’t just attend Gen Con—he used it as a launchpad for his career.

Example 3: The Johnson Family from Texas

The Johnsons—parents and two teens—attended Gen Con as a family. They bought 1-Day passes for the kids and a 4-Day pass for themselves. They focused on family-friendly events: “Ticket to Ride” tournaments, “Codenames: Pictures,” and a LEGO-building workshop.

The teens played in the “Teen Gaming Lounge,” a dedicated space with age-appropriate games and mentors. The parents attended a seminar on “Games That Teach Empathy.” They ate meals together in the food court, took breaks in the quiet room, and ended each day with a walk around the downtown area.

At the end of the weekend, their 14-year-old daughter said, “I didn’t know people could be this excited about games.” The Johnsons returned home with a new family tradition: monthly game nights.

FAQs

Is Gen Con worth it for beginners?

Absolutely. Gen Con is designed for all experience levels. There are beginner-friendly games, tutorials, and volunteers ready to help you learn. Many first-timers leave feeling like they’ve found their tribe.

How much money should I budget?

A typical attendee spends $500–$1,500, depending on travel, lodging, and purchases. A 4-Day pass is $130–$180. Hotels range from $150–$400 per night. Budget $100–$300 for games and merch. Food and transport add another $50–$100 per day.

Can I bring my own games to play?

Yes! Many attendees bring a collection to share in open gaming areas. Just be respectful of space and ask before introducing your game to a table.

Are there age restrictions?

Gen Con is family-friendly. Children under 12 attend free with a paying adult. There are dedicated kids’ zones, youth tournaments, and age-appropriate games. Teens are welcome everywhere.

What if I get lost or need help?

Visit the Guest Services desk in the main lobby. Staff wear bright vests and are trained to assist with directions, lost items, medical needs, and accessibility requests.

Can I record or livestream at Gen Con?

You may record personal videos for non-commercial use. Do not livestream panels or tournaments without permission. Some publishers prohibit recording of their new games. Always ask before filming.

Is there Wi-Fi?

Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the convention center, but bandwidth is limited during peak hours. Use it for essential tasks, not streaming.

What if I can’t attend in person?

Gen Con offers virtual events through its digital platform, Gen Con Online. While it doesn’t replace the in-person experience, it offers live-streamed panels, digital game demos, and online tournaments.

Conclusion

Gen Con Indianapolis is not merely an event—it’s a celebration of human creativity, connection, and play. To experience it fully is to step into a world where imagination has no limits, where strangers become friends over a shared roll of the dice, and where the joy of discovery never fades.

This guide has provided you with the tools, strategies, and mindset to move beyond passive attendance and into active, intentional participation. You now know how to plan with precision, navigate with confidence, connect with purpose, and honor the spirit of the convention.

Remember: Gen Con is not about how many games you play or how much you buy. It’s about who you become in the process. The quiet moment when you teach someone to play their first game. The laughter echoing through a packed room during a hilarious RPG session. The handshake from a designer who says, “I made this because I thought you’d like it.”

These are the moments that linger long after the convention ends. They are why people return year after year. They are why Gen Con remains not just the largest gaming convention in North America—but the most meaningful.

So pack your bag. Print your schedule. Wear your most comfortable shoes. And step into the chaos, the wonder, the joy.

Gen Con is waiting.