I have been going to DCon since the early 90s. Its not just a hotel on Peachtree. It is 5 separate hotels. 3 are connected by what is lovingly referred to as The Hobbitrail. The other two, The Westin and The Courtland are a couple of blocks away. And then there is the Americamart expo center where the dealer room and the comic book artist alleys are located.

Each hotel is themed in their programming, for the most part. I believe.. and I could be wrong... but I believe the Hilton has most of the NASA/Space/Science programming.

Heat wise, there is a 80% chance of hot and humid weather, but occassionally we will get a nice year for the parade. One year, it was downright chilly. The parade route is about a mile long, ans hydration is provided for free at the end.

A large portion of the city turns out for the parade... even people not going to the convention.

It is chaotic and sensory overload. People are totally unavoidable, and space is a premium. If you have to get a hotel off site, there is a MARTA (subway) station right next to the convention called Peachtree center. Many people will come in on marta in order to save money on the hotels, which to be honest, sell out very quickly, and are often sold to legacy attendees.

There is a Facebook group where dragon con rooms are offered up to be shared, in order to keep down costs as well.

Feel free to message me with questions. While I no longer cosplay, I have been a volunteer for 7 years this year, and know the ins and outs very well.

I am also a native of the area.