Frequently Asked Questions


What should I wear?

We’re a pretty laid back bunch, so no need to wear your Sunday best! Think Casual Friday at the office—jeans, sweaters, polos, button downs, and university apparel are all solid options. We want you to be comfortable throughout the conference (but not too comfortable—keep it office appropriate, please!).

November in Pasadena tends to be warm during the day with cooler evenings, but be sure to check the weather before you pack. Since conference spaces can be chilly, be sure to bring some extra layers.

What meals are provided?

Check the conference schedule for specifics regarding meals, but the main meals provided include: dinner on Monday, appetizers during Tuesday’s vendor reception, and breakfast on Wednesday. There are plenty of nearby restaurants (including one on-site in the hotel) to grab a quick bite during the day and even more options to explore for an evening dinner out with some new friends.


How should I get to the hotel from the airport?

The Transportation from the Airport: Whether you're arriving at Los Angeles International, Burbank, or Ontario airport, you have several transportation options to get to Pasadena. We recommend taking a rideshare or taxi for the fastest route. Public transit is available, but requires multiple transfers.

  • Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) or Taxi:

    • Readily available at all airports. Prices vary based on traffic and time of day.

  • Rental Cars:

    • All major rental agencies are available at LAX, BUR, and ONT. Valet parking is available at The Westin Pasadena for an additional nightly rate of $28.

  • Public Transit from LAX: (Prices of Flyaway and Metro will vary)

    • Take the FlyAway Bus to Union Station, then transfer to the Metro A Line to Pomona (formerly Gold Line) and exit at Memorial Park Station which is about a 10-minute walk to the hotel.

    • Take Metro C Line to Norwalk, exit Willowbrook/Rosa Parks Station, walk downstairs and take Metro A line to Pomona, exit Memorial Park Station and a 10-minute walk to the hotel.

  • Public Transit from BUR: (Prices of Metrolink and Metro will vary)

    • Take Metrolink Antelope Valley to Union Station, walk to Metro A Line station, take toward Pomona, exit Memorial Park Station and walk about 10 mins to the hotel.

  • Public Transit from ONT: (Prices of Metrolink and Metro will vary)

    • From Terminal 2, take line 61 to Fontana via Ontario, exit Fontana Metrolink Transit Center, walk to Metrolink and take to L.A. Union Station, walk to Metro A Line and take to Pomona, exit Memorial Park Station and walk 10 minutes to hotel.

Will the sessions be recorded or live streamed?

The mainstage and breakout sessions during the conference will not be recorded in full. We know it’s tough to choose between the concurrent breakout sessions, but find a friend or coworker who attended another session and compare notes!

Is there free WiFi?

Yes! There is complimentary WiFi in the conference spaces. Refer to the information you receive at hotel check-in for guest room internet access.

What is there to do in Pasadena?

There are so many things to explore in Pasadena outside of the conference—many of which are within walking distance of the hotel. We’ve compiled a short guide, but that only scratches the surface. Check out visitpasadena.com or the conference Slack for even more recommendations.

How do I access the conference Slack workspace?

Instructions for accessing the dedicated conference Slack workspace were included in the Know Before You Go email that went out prior to the conference. Join the workspace and create an account (note that this is a separate workspace from the UCDA Member Slack, so you’'ll need to create an account to join). There will also be information included in your registration materials. If you need help, send us an email!

What if I have a question that’s not listed here?

Check out the Know Before You Go web page for more detailed information that might answer your question.

Still stumped? Prior to the conference, email us or post on Slack for assistance. During the conference, stop by the registration desk or send a message on Slack in the #help channel.