The Road to Austin

Road To Austin Logo As you know, the National Preservation Conference will take place in Austin, Texas, this October. And as part of your membership benefits, the Forum office is putting together pre-conference materials for all Forum members -- those coming to the National Preservation Conference, those attending virtually, or even those just interested in this year’s theme “Next American City, Next American Landscape.” These materials -- collectively known as ‘The Road to Austin’ -- will include reading lists, live chats, blog posts, and of course, the inside scoop on the National Preservation Conference.

Conference Theme

This year’s conference theme -- Next American City, Next American Landscape -- looks to the future of preservation. Attendees will explore how preservation supports and revitalizes vibrant cities, maintains and restores our traditional landscapes, and leads the charge on true sustainability.

On one level we’ll focus on the conventional and controversial issues that arise in urban or rural settings across the United States; on another, we’ll examine all types of landscapes, be they cultural, intellectual, sustainable, tangible, or intangible. Our goal: to encourage conversation and interaction while spotlighting 21st century preservation imperatives.

Frequently Asked Questions: National Preservation Conference

Can’t come to Austin? Visit www.preservationnation.org/conference next week for information on how to be a virtual attendee.

The Basics

1. I’ve registered but I don’t know where to stay. Help!
Aside from scouting around yourself, the Historic Intercontinental Stephen F. Austin hotel has extended the conference rate of $218 until October 15. To make reservations, call toll-free 800-327-0200, with group code IIJ or give the group name or go on the website www.austin.intercontinental.com and enter group code IIJ.

2.    Ok. So I’ve got my flight, I’ve got my hotel room….how do I get around town?
Austin is well served by bus lines and affordable taxis. For trips much beyond downtown or University of Texas, Car2Go, offers free registration (normally $35) until the end of October. They’re everywhere, so there’s no reason NOT to sign up! (www.Car2Go.com) That being said, most of the conference events are walkable so bring comfy shoes.

For more specifics about traveling around town visit here.

3.    Feed Me! Where should I get some good grub?
Like most major cities Austin boasts a variety of places to eat. One of your best resources for some interesting fare is the map we put together earlier in the year (Frigid Frog, Breakfast Burritos, Cupcakes!) or check out the list of fare on Austin’s official website.

4.    Should I be packing shorts and a t-shirt? What’s the weather like in Texas this time of year? Hot right?
Generally, Austin weather is pleasant in October. A quick look at weather.com says that temperatures have been in the low to mid 80’s during the day with 50’s and 60’s in the evening, so I would bring a light jacket as it may be a bit cool. Remember that there are many outdoor activities, most of which happen rain or shine, so be prepared. We’re a hardy group. Do check the program for the rain contingency location for the Opening Reception, but the Candlelight House Tour, the Friday Night Fling and the field sessions won’t change if it’s raining. The Austin Bike Tour field sessions will only be canceled in the event of lightning.

While I’m at the Conference

5. The 411 on the new Conference Format.
This year’s conference has been changed to make it more accessible, interactive, and enjoyable. In addition to our opening and closing plenary we have two general sessions on Thursday and Friday that focus on The Next American City and The Next American Landscape. We also have a special salon hosted by Next American City magazine (see question number 7) along with our normal education sessions, luncheons, and the candlelight house tour. Be sure to study your Final Program (which you’ll pick up when you get there) closely to see what your options are, and don’t hesitate to ask questions at registration.

Also, the Center for Preservation Leadership will host roundtable discussions with staff from various National Trust departments on Thursday and Friday. Stop by the CPL booth in the Exhibit Hall to sign up for scheduled information sessions

6.    How do I know what sessions have continuing education credits?
Easy! Check out this handy-dandy chart to all the education, affinity, field and plenary sessions.

7.    What’s the Next American City Salon?
The Next American City presents a special film screening and a salon-style discussion casting art and historic preservation as tools for social change. THIRD WARD TX, directed and produced by filmmaker and Austin resident Andrew Garrison, features the captivating story of Project Row Houses, a nonprofit organization in Houston and a model for inner-city urban renewal through community engagement. Moderated by John Cary, President and CEO of Next American City, Andrew Garrison and Project Row Houses founder Rick Lowe will take audience questions about this unique example of social activism.

8.    General Conference Logistics: I need extra tickets, forgot to register a guest, need to register myself. Where are the sessions taking place anyway?
The final program for the conference, which you will receive when you pick up your registration package, will list the locations of all conference activities. Note that all education sessions and the exhibit hall are located in the Hilton Austin, and all field sessions depart from the Hilton. If you have a seat in one of the all-day field sessions on Tuesday, you will be able to pick up your registration package when you return from the session – and we will have a list of attendees at the line for the bus so that you need not worry about not having your ticket with you.

Registration, located on the 6th Floor of the Hilton Austin, will be open during the following hours:
Tuesday, October 26                   3 – 6pm
Wednesday, October 27               7am – 5:30pm
Thursday, October 28                  7am – 5pm
Friday, October 29                       7am – 5pm

And don’t forget that tickets are still available for many field sessions, luncheons, and the Mad About Mod party at the Belmont.

Chat Schedule

All the Road to Austin Live Chats have been completed. Check out our chat archives here.

August: Next American City-August 18, 2010 2-3pm EST
September: Modernism + the Recent Past-September 1, 2010 2-3pm EST
October: Next American Landscape-October 5, 2010 2-3pm EST
Solar Panels-October 12, 2010 2-3 pm EST

The Road to Austin

Conference Theme

Frequently Asked Questions: National Preservation Conference

The Basics

While I’m at the Conference

Chat Schedule

Recommended Reading

Next American Landscape

Next American City

Who We Are

Support Us

How to Get in Touch