This was a tiring work week. I was working extremely long days which led to me coming home and passing out on my couch. The break from writing was much needed. I wanted to recap my sixth CONvergence. This year was different because CONvergence moved hotels from the DoubleTree in Bloomington to the Downtown Minneapolis Hyatt. This CONvergence was one of my favorite years I attended due to the change in the hotel.

The Downtown Minneapolis Hyatt Hotel was a perfect location for CONvergence. Since the hotel is located in the heart of Minneapolis, it’s easier to drive to. I ended up staying with a friend who lives slightly south of the cities, but we ended up taking an Uber each way which was convenient. It’s freeing to not have to worry about the status of my vehicle and whether or not I’m parked in an illegal space. This was the first CONvergence where I didn’t have my car on site and it was worth it.

One of the highlights of CONvergence besides the hotel was the accessibility to the gaming floor. In the DoubleTree hotel, the gaming floor was on the 22nd floor. To play a game, you had to leave the festivities on the main level and wait for an elevator only to get to the 22nd floor with all gaming slots being filled. Instead, this year, there were more empty tables to play games with friends. Additionally, since the gaming room was on the fifth floor, it was easier to play a game here and there while being able to return to the con at any given moment.

Finally, being in Downtown Minneapolis meant there was access to great food. There were many restaurants, breweries, and taverns located within walking distance. We visited the local brewery, Lakes and Legends, quite a few times. I may have been the only one in cosplay at the brewery, but I had no shame.

This CONvergence was one to remember. Severe con depression sank in the Monday I returned to work because of how great my weekend was. CONvergence is always a highlight of my summer and I always count down the days till next year.