At RubyConf 2024

RubyConf 2024 🔗

I’m starting this post from Terminal B in Logan Airport (Boston). Waiting for my plane, I figured I might put together a post to document a quick and loose exploration of what I see while I’m in Chicago.

Travel 🔗

I had a surprisingly uneventful airport experience. Got there bright and early. Left and arrived without issue.

For anyone landing at Midway, look for the “Ground Transportation” signs, and eventually “CTA”. The Orange Line Loop to Roosevelt will get you close to the conference hotel.

Chicago Transit Authority Orange Line Map

Hotel 🔗

I’m staying at the conference hotel. I’ve got myself a fancy city view. It’s only MOSTLY a view of HVAC systems from the next building (not pictured).

After checking in, I immediately saw Matz in the lobby with a group. I didn’t say hi, but it confirmed I’m in the right place.

A Walk in the Park 🔗

The hotel is right by a series of parks, so I wandered around for a while on my own.

I stretched my legs.

A series of legs made of what looks to be bronze castings

I marveled at the existence of dedicated bike infrastructure.

Unlike at RailsConf in Detroit this year, I could not see Canada from across the water.

I still managed to make a splash.

The waves from the lake splashing along the walking path

It was a bit unseasonable to stay at the beach, so I just walked by.

I unexpectedly ran across some fairies.

A statue of what I think are fairies in a garden. I must admit, I've seen more beautiful fairies.

Some of the walk was for the birds.

A sign that says McCormick Bird Sanctuary

I scoped out a venue for my next speaking engagement.

Towards the end I realized I walked around the entire globe.

After I returned, it was time for early registration. I met some #RubyFriends and passed the afternoon with them.

It seems like Kitty O’Sheas is the conference bar of choice after hours. At least, it was tonight.

Day 1 🔗

I went to Yolk for breakfast and had french toast. It was good! It’s a few blocks straight down the street from the conference hotel.

I had already pre-registered, but I headed down to the ballroom area after eating to see how things were coming together.

I have this weird strategy at conferences: I go to the talks. Today I was in sessions with Matz, Murray Steele, Ahmed Omran, Noel Rappin, Brandt Sheets, Samuel Giddens, Martin Emde, Marty Haught, Sara Jackson, Aaron Patterson, and Nickolas Means.

Everyone did a great job. I’ll have my recap post later. On to the random pictures of the day…

At lunch they served coconut creme brulee in these tiny mugs. It was tasty and unexpected.

A serving of creme brulee and chocolate cake

Do you think the hotel has these rubies in this display case all the time, or just for us?

A display case with jewelry and trinkets that displays large rubies