Your APA-IL Adventure is Nearly Here...
Online Registration Deadline, Friday, September 21st! REGISTER TODAY!
The 2018 APA-IL State Conference is less than one week away! As such, we have created a handy checklist of things to do and know as you start to pack your bags for Illinois’ Bicentennial Celebration in Springfield. Read on to view the official conference program, local recommendations to make your Springfield-Stay and conference visit the bee’s knees, and things to do on Friday if you’re taking the afternoon Amtrak train back…. Did someone say Pumpkin Cannon and Bicentennial Corn Maze??
Avoid Onsite Registration Rates!
While online registration will end Friday, September 21, 2018, you will still be able to register at the conference. Member rates will increase onsite. Click HERE for the best rates!
Just Released: 2018 APA-IL Conference Program
When, what, where -- From session times and room locations to mobile workshop logistics, social events, hotel wifi and expo demonstrations … we have all the details and answers to your questions! Click here to view the Official APA-IL Conference Program.
Coming Soon: The Official APA-IL Conference App
The APA-IL Conference App will be a available for download in the coming days -- stay tuned for an email update when such is released. This app will include the same details as the printed program but be paired with handy push notifications and social sharing!
Conference Checklist
Below are a few important items and reminders to “check-off” your to-do list if you have not already done so, as well as some daily events to keep in mind / add to your calendar!
Things to Do:
❑ Register
❑ Determine Travel Mode
❑ Download Conference App (coming soon…)
Daily Events + Law / Ethics Sessions
4:30 pm Wednesday Attend Awards Program Reception 4:30 pm Thursday Law Session @ State Capital - Head over 20-min early to get through security 7:00 pm Thursday Social Event at Obed and Isaac’s | Limited Tickets Available ($10) - Click here 9:00 pm Thursday Free Light Show + Landmarks by Moonlight Walking Tour @ Bicentennial Plaza 9:00 am Friday Ethics Session in the Rendezvous Room 12:00 pm Friday Stay + Play! After the conference, stick around and explore Springfield. A few local recommendations are listed below.
Local Lunch Restaurants
We’ve done some searching for you! The five restaurants listed below are within walking distance of the Wyndham and receive at least 4 out of 5 stars on Yelp! Since lunch is on your own, please refer to this handy-dandy list when the lunch bell rings or feel free to explore more - the options are plentiful!
Tacology | 219 S 5th Street | Specialties: Brisket Tacos, Yuca Fries + Street Corn
La Piazza | 218 S 6th St | Specialties: Fig + Prosciutto Pizza, Meatball Appetizer + Cannoli
Long Nine Junction | 5 West Old State Capitol Plz | Specialities: French Dip, Pork Bell Sandwich, Soup
411 Bar and Grill | 411 E Washington St | Specialties: Reuben + Burgers with Pretzel Buns
Cafe Moxo | 411 E Adams St | Specialties: Veggie Friendly, Pork Carnitas Sandy, Soups and Salads
Riding the Amtrak back Friday Afternoon?
Making a weekend of it in Springfield?
Whether you’re looking to kill some time before heading back on the afternoon Amtrak (Departs at 4:56 pm) or you’re staying in Springfield for the afternoon or weekend -- we have some great local (& seasonal) things to do and see!
Pumpkin Cannon, Kittens, and Pumpkin Spice Lattes...
Heaven truly is a place on earth... Wanna launch a pumpkin from a cannon?! That’s a silly question -- of course you do! Head over to Bomke’s Patch (18-minute uber from the Wyndham) to grab a token and push the pumpkin launch button. The cannon is capable of launching pumpkins over ½ mile... Now that’s what we like to call a pie in the sky! While you’re there stroll through the gift shop, snag a Pumpkin Spice Latte, and visit the petting zoo. Basic admission is completely FREE! Bomke’s is open Friday and Saturday, 10am - 5pm. Bomke’s Patch 605 Country Lake Road Springfield, IL 62711
Run the Bicentennial Corn Maze
Got some time to kill?? Let’s get lost! Visit Kristin’s Pumpkin Patch (a 17-minute uber from the Wyndham) to kill some time and enjoy festive fall fun. Admission is completely FREE. Grab a set of clippers and a wagon and pick your own pumpkin! Bring back some tasty items from the gift shop, and best yet -- run the Bicentennial Corn Maze with friends! Kristin’s Pumpkin Patch is open 10am - 6pm, Monday through Friday. Kristin’s Pumpkin Patch 6300 Wind Tree Road Springfield, IL 62712
Get Outside : Nature lovers, we got you! Explore the great outdoors via the local wonders listed below.
Oak Ridge Cemetery -- Locals say you should rub Lincoln's gravestone bust for good luck!
Cultural Fun: As if you didn’t learn enough during the State Conference…
Be like sponge and soak in even more history via Springfield’s cultural gems.
Illinois State Museum - Free Admission
