“I always enjoy the Exhibit Hall, but I’m the kind of person who will spend some time there and try to see as much as I can in one trip,” she said. “I may pop back in here and there, but probably not go every day of the convention. At the end of the first day, I’d probably go to dinner somewhere downtown like Whiskey Street, White Horse, Current, or Copper Common. Or consider Aker—which is more upscale—or Franklin House, which has great cocktails and delicious food.”

ACEP25 DAY TWO: Monday, Sept. 8

The second day is tricky because Dr. Smith starts early, but she knows the EMRA party is at 10 p.m.

After a quick cup of coffee, or something small for breakfast, she will attend some education sessions and catch up with old friends in the hallways. Because ACEP25 attendees aren’t locked into sessions they choose in advance, Dr. Smith said flexibility allows for a more enjoyable conference, more time for networking, and more time to recharge.

Lunch is usually another walkable local spot—Eva’s Bakery, Red Rock Brewing, or Laziz Kitchen are great options—followed by more time in the education halls. A couple of hours later, she will have been inside for a huge portion of the conference so far, and that’s too much.

“I try to be present every day, but I also give myself permission to step outside.” she said. “It’s only 10 minutes from downtown to some trails, so I’d suggest you rent a city bike and ride around or head up to the Foothills for a hike and great views of downtown and the Great Salt Lake!” One hike she recommended is called The Living Room, which has chairs of stone at the top that look out over the entire Salt Lake Valley.

Back at the convention center, panel discussions featuring high-profile speakers or hot topics will close out the day. Dr. Smith loves infectious disease and anything related to public or global health.

Dinner gets Dr. Smith ready for the EMRA party.

“I love the EMRA party because I’m able to catch up with old friends I haven’t seen in years,” she said. “It’s always a great time.”

ACEP25 DAY THREE: Tuesday, Sept. 9

Dr. Smith said there’s a good chance she will have to work a shift on one of the final two days of the convention, so it’s time to fit in some things she has missed. Rather than go out for lunch on this day, she might try to find a noon session—perhaps one of the lunch education sessions in the Exhibit Hall. She might stop by Research Forum and see what’s at the EMF Silent Auction. This might be another day to slip away for a hike for a couple of hours.