FAQs

Yes, we encourage all chapter leaders to organize informal gatherings and networking events to build comradery and discuss goals and priorities of your specific chapter. Please complete this form and a member of our meetings team can assist with securing space.

Spring is considered the best time to visit New Orleans because the weather is rather moderate before the hot scorching summer rolls in.

Average April temps hover around a pristine 78 degrees in the day and a cool 60 degrees at night, so pack a light jacket just in case.

MCI is the official housing partner for AORN Global Surgical Conference and Expo. Book online at www.mcievents.com/aorn2026 to receive the best availability and lowest rates in the city.

New Orleans is renowned for its eclectic cuisine that blends flavors and cultures together in a wonderful, delicious combination of influences. While there are great restaurants to be found all throughout the city, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most popular spots near the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

• Two Chicks Cafe – Breakfast & brunch favorite, just steps from the convention center.
• Restaurant Rebirth – Cajun/Creole with bold flavors, perfect for dinner.
• Easy Virtue – Southern comfort food in a relaxed setting.
• Galliano – Elevated Cajun and Southern classics.
• Annunciation – Classic New Orleans Creole dishes.
• Briquette – Upscale seafood in a modern atmosphere.

April is the ideal time of year to explore the Big Easy. Here is a list of just a few of the things to do in New Orleans before, during, or after your time at Expo:

• French Quarter Festival — Live music on 20+ stages, classic NOLA food, street life in the heart of the French Quarter taking place April 16-19.
• Stroll the French Quarter — Wander the cobblestone streets, explore historic architecture, people-watch, find hidden courtyards.
• National WWII Museum — A must-see; powerful exhibits, immersive storytelling.
• City Park & Botanical Garden — Great for relaxing outdoors, walking paths, beautiful blooms (spring is in full effect by April) in the Botanical Garden.
• Garden District & St. Charles Streetcar — Take the historic streetcar, see the grand mansions, brunch or coffee around Magazine Street.
• JAMNOLA — For immersive art / culture: interactive exhibits about the food, music, & spirit of NOLA.
• Napoleon House — Historic charm and classic New Orleans eats & cocktails.
• Madame John’s Legacy — One of the oldest houses in the Quarter. A short stop to soak in history.
• Live Music Nights — Especially in the French Quarter, on Frenchmen Street, or in jazz bars around the city. There are always shows.
• Food Tour / Food Walks — Try iconic local bites: beignets, po-boys, gumbo, seafood. Walking tours are a great way to hit several favorites.

Yes, the AORN Foundation graciously offers professional development grants to help cover registration and travel costs. The application is open through November 30, 2025. Learn more and apply.

Complete the AORN Expo 2026 Meeting Request form by March 31, 2026, and an AORN team member will be in contact with you.

We know that plans change. That’s why we want to assure you that you can register with minimal risk. All cancellation requests received before April 10, 2026, will receive a full refund.

If you booked your hotel within the AORN hotel block through MCI, you will not be subject to a cancellation penalty so long as you cancel your reservation 72 hours in advance.

The airport is about 15 miles (20–30 minutes by car) from the Convention Center. You’ve got a few options:

• Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): The most convenient choice. Pickups are well-marked at MSY, and rides to the Convention Center area usually run $35–$50 depending on time of day.
• Taxi: Flat rate of about $36 for one or two passengers to most downtown hotels, including near the Convention Center. Add a few dollars if you’ve got extra luggage.
• Airport Shuttle: Shared shuttle service runs $24–$44 per person (one-way) and drops at major hotels downtown. Great if you’re solo and don’t mind extra stops.
• Expo 2026 Location: New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
  900 Convention Center Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70130.