I agree with the overwhelmed. I was the same way. I just had no idea.

If you check out the web site for Quilt Festival, http://www.quilts.com, there is show info posted. It includes parking, shuttle service, and just about everything about the show. Definitely wear comfortable clothing and shoes. My first time, I too was overwhelmed. I will be going again this year. If you can, go to the TQS booth at 1:00 pm for the meet and greet! Hope to see you there, Pat

I haven't been there for a bit. We went at opening time and parked just down the street in front of the stadium near Annunciation Catholic Church. $5 for the day. This was a self pay lot. There were a few other lots in the area with attendants that were ushering cars in. But I haven't been since 2011. Just a block or two from the entrance.

There are also free shuttle busses that run from several of the downtown hotels — the Doubletree, the Hyatt Regency, Embassy Suites, and Crown Plaza are the ones I can think of. If you find a parking garage near one of them, you can use the shuttles that stop in front of the hotels. I know there's a parking garage across the street from the Doubletree, but I don't know how the rates are. I understand, though I haven't tried it, that there is a light rail system, so you can park further out and take that in. And taxis in the downtown area charge just a flat fee (it was $6 last time I tried it) for anywhere in the downtown. Hope that helps! And have fun!! Remember Margo's advice: fashion stops at the knee, so wear the most comfortable shoes you have!

They do have vale parking at the entrance to the show, I think it was about $14 2 years ago. Last year we stayed at the Hilton and walked. It was about 2 blocks (inside the hotel). There was a fee to park at the hotel too about $20 per day if you had a room with them.

I fly in and stay at a hotel by the convention center so haven't ever had to park myself. But there is a parking garage right across the street from the show. Maybe it fills up if you don't get there early. I also don't know how expensive it is.

It is unreal how many people will be there. Very crowded but well worth it. You will have fun. I am jealous, I would love to go again. I am sure you will work it out. Wear comfortable shoes. Be sure and post your reaction after you go.
Donna

Donna46 wrote:
Really one can't park at the show? I'm coming for the first time but with my BFF, Learning-As-I-Go, and she is local so assume she knows the ropes. Just surprised me! I'm not the driver.

I've gone to the IQF shows in Chicagoland and yes, parking is a ways away but at least there are people directing you to parking, etc.

Christina depending on where you are staying it would work good if you take a taxie and have them drop you off at the show. You can be dropped off right in front of the entry doors. Some of the hotels may offer transportation. Whatever you do, do not plan on finding parking for yourself.

I have been lucky enough to go 3 years. The first time I went I had no idea what an experience it would be. I was visiting Houston for Dr. apts and did not even know about the show. We were having breakfast at IHOP and I over heard a conversation from another booth talking about it. Texas is a very friendly place so I did not hesitate to ask them where it was. I ask my husband to drop me off at the show and had my daughter come and pick me up at the end of the day. It worked out good because it is major to find parking.
When I walked through those doors I am sure my mouth dropped open. I was in shock. I walked through the vendors for 7 hours and did not make it to the quilt show. If you enjoy vendors ,this is the place to go. It is fabulous . One of my best experiences ever.

Hi I am Christina from Perth in Australia. I am coming to Houston this year with three friends. We have never been before. All your advice has been invaluable. Thank you.

I'm just catching up on the forum and SO sorry I didn't get to meet you Lois and Terrie. I didn't realize you had to sit at the airport all day too, Terrie! That really would be even more frustrating thinking you might still have a chance to go.

Actually, as today is the last day for Sally's class to be available... Easy mistake to make.

ready for hire....translations r us.

Lorna, at your service