Pickleball, Pints and Orlando Nights: Make the Most of ACA’s 2026 Convention

From ACPAC’s Paddles & Pints to nearby dining, shopping and classic Orlando attractions, ACA’s 2026 Convention & Expo attendees will have plenty to enjoy when the day’s programming wraps up.

06/19/2026 3:00 P.M.

ACA International’s 2026 Convention & Expo will bring members to Orlando, July 22–24, for education, networking and industry insight.

But let’s not pretend the best Convention moments only happen in session rooms.

They also happen over dinner, during hallway conversations, in the Expo Hall, at our infamous “Dinners with Strangers,” or on a shuttle ride with someone you just met — and this year, possibly on a pickleball court.

ACA members tell us repeatedly that some of their favorite moments at association events are the connections they build with other members — the conversations, introductions and shared experiences that continue long after the event ends.

As you get ready for this year’s Convention at Rosen Shingle Creek, here are a few ways to build some fun into your Orlando itinerary.

Start With Paddles & Pints

That’s right, game on!

ACPAC’s Paddles & Pints, sponsored by Nationwide, will take place Thursday, July 23, at Crush Yard Orlando.

No paddle skills? No problem.

Attendees can join a friendly competition on the courts, try a low-pressure match or cheer from the sidelines while connecting with fellow ACA members. A fully hosted dinner, bar (sponsored by REPAY) and transportation are all part of the experience.

The Pickleball Classic at Paddles & Pints is also sponsored by VoApps DirectDrop Voicemail. Registered Convention attendees with a Paddles & Pints event ticket can sign up solo or as a team. Solo players will be paired by ACA in collaboration with Crush Yard to create balanced and fun matchups.

All skill levels are welcome, which means the competition can be as serious — or unserious — as attendees want it to be.

The event benefits ACPAC’s Administrative Fund.

Want to stay close to the hotel? Here’s what to do:

Rosen Shingle Creek gives attendees plenty of ways to relax without leaving the property.

The resort features multiple dining options, golf, spa services, pools and outdoor spaces, making it easy to turn a break in the schedule into a little recharge time.

Grab dinner at one of the 15 resort restaurants and lounges, plan a casual meet-up with colleagues, take a dip in one of the pools or hot tubs, or enjoy the peace and serenity on a quiet walk outside on the vast property before heading back into the energy of the Convention.

Want an easy Orlando outing? Here’s what to do:

If you are bringing family, traveling with colleagues or adding a few vacation days to your trip, Orlando has plenty of options that do not require overplanning.

Head to ICON Park on International Drive, where you can find restaurants, attractions, shopping and entertainment in one walkable area.

The Orlando Eye is one of the most recognizable stops at ICON Park and gives visitors a view of the city from above. This is an easy option for a group that wants dinner, drinks, a photo-worthy Orlando moment or a casual place to explore after a full day of learning at the Convention.

SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and Madame Tussauds Orlando are also located at ICON Park for attendees looking for something fun beyond dinner.

If you’re looking for restaurants, shopping, entertainment and nightlife, Universal CityWalk is another nearby option. It can be a good fit for groups that want the Universal Orlando energy without having to plan a full theme park day.

Want a classic Orlando experience? Here’s what to do:

If you are arriving early or staying after the Convention, consider making time for one of Orlando’s well-known theme parks or entertainment districts.

Disney Springs offers dining, shopping and entertainment in a walkable setting, making it a good option for a team dinner, casual night out or memorable Orlando stop without needing a park ticket.

Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay and Epic Universe are all nearby.

Love shopping? Here’s what to do:

Orlando has plenty of shopping options, whether you are looking for souvenirs, gifts or a little treat for yourself.

Disney Springs offers a wide mix of shops, restaurants and entertainment, while ICON Park has shopping and attractions in a walkable outdoor setting.

Orlando International Premium Outlets and the Mall at Millenia are also nearby options for attendees who want to fit in some shopping before heading home.

Want something memorable but low-key? Here’s what to do:

Plan a casual dinner with colleagues at Mi Casa Tequila Taqueria. Meet someone new in the Expo Hall and keep the conversation going over coffee at Smooth Java. Take a group photo at ICON Park. Cheer on a coworker at Paddles & Pints (tickets required). Spend an hour by the pool before the next session.

Our Advice?

Do not overpack your itinerary. The Convention is packed with education, but it is also one of the best opportunities all year to build relationships across the ACA community. Leave room for the dinner invite, the last-minute group outing or the conversation that keeps going long after the session ends.

And don’t forget to join the conversation on The Exchange, ACA’s exclusive online community. ACA has a dedicated Convention community where attendees can ask questions, share thoughts on upcoming sessions and swap tips with first-timers and longtime attendees alike.

Go Home with More Than Notes

ACA’s Convention is designed to give members education, industry insights and practical ideas they can bring back to their agencies.

But the value of the Convention also comes from the people.

It’s the dinner conversation that sparks a new idea. The Expo Hall introduction that turns into a future solution. The colleague who understands exactly what your agency is working through. The group photo, the inside joke, the unexpected connection — and maybe the pickleball match no one lets you forget.

Come to Orlando to learn, make time for fun, and go home with momentum.

Haven’t registered yet? No problem, do it here. And while you’re at it, book your room by June 30 so you lock in our special rate!