Sharpening the tools you use daily is essential. As a programmer, this means staying up-to-date with the latest recommendations and understanding how new features in programming languages solve real-world problems. For me, conferences and training sessions have always been a great way to achieve this.
In 2022, I had the opportunity to attend the CppCon in Aurora, Colorado. Given the long travel distance, I decided to extend my trip by a week to explore the state. Here’s a glimpse into my experience.
CppCon 2022
CppCon, organized by the Standard C++ Foundation, is a premier conference for C++ enthusiasts. It features talks on upcoming features, best practices, beginner-friendly tutorials, and even general software engineering topics. Beyond the technical content, it’s a fantastic social gathering and a chance to meet like-minded people.
I attended the conference with two colleagues, and none of us had been to Colorado before. Since Aurora doesn’t offer much in terms of attractions compared to Denver, we opted to stay in downtown Denver and commute daily to the conference venue.
The conference spanned five days, where I attended five talks each day. While the content was enriching, it was also overwhelming — especially when paired with jet lag. By the end of each day, I was both inspired and exhausted.
The Good
CppCon had many highlights. The talks were well-organized, and the spacing between sessions allowed for networking and relaxation. Coffee, snacks, and drinks were plentiful, keeping everyone energized.
It was inspiring to see the “big names” in the C++ community deliver talks in person. The atmosphere was welcoming, and attendees were eager to connect and share ideas. Some companies even had exhibits, offering insights into their workflows and tools.
The Bad
Not all talks lived up to expectations. A few felt more like product advertisements than technical discussions, which was disappointing.
The location of the conference was another downside. While staying at the conference hotel might have been convenient, the area lacked activities and dining options. The hotel restaurants were expensive. Staying in downtown Denver turned out to be a great decision, as it offered more affordable accommodations and plenty of evening activities.
Exploring Colorado
As someone from Austria, I was curious to see how Colorado compared. Both regions are known for their mountains and skiing, so I expected some similarities. After the conference, I had nine days to explore the state with one of my colleagues, and we planned an itinerary packed with adventure.
Denver
We started exploring Denver right away. Despite the long conference days and jet lag, we managed to enjoy dinners and evening walks around the city. Highlights included the Colorado State Capitol, Union Station, and Coors Field.
As an NFL fan, attending a live game was an awesome experience. Watching the Denver Broncos play the Houston Texans was unforgettable. Overall, Denver offered a great mix of sightseeing and relaxation.
Manitou Springs
With a rental car, we headed to Manitou Springs. On the way, we visited the National Museum of World War II Aviation. The museum was a gem, with passionate staff and fascinating exhibits. We even saw a vintage flight simulator in action.
Driving up Pikes Peak was another highlight. The thin air at the summit was noticeable, but the breathtaking views made it worthwhile. We also visited the Garden of the Gods and explored a charming penny arcade.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Our journey continued to the Rocky Mountain National Park, with a stop at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Having seen concerts online from this iconic venue, it was amazing to experience it in person. I hope to attend a live performance there someday.
Driving through the Rockies from Grand Lake to Estes Park was a mix of awe and reflection. The aftermath of a forest fire was evident, but it was fascinating to see how the landscape was regenerating.
On our way back to Denver, we stopped in Georgetown and rode the historic Georgetown Loop Railroad. We wrapped up the day with classic BBQ before flying home the next day.
Final Thoughts
CppCon was a unique experience. While the talks and networking opportunities were fantastic, some aspects fell short of my high expectations — particularly the prevalence of advertising talks. Nevertheless, I’m glad we stayed in downtown Denver, as it added a lot to the overall experience.
Exploring Colorado was equally rewarding. From Denver’s vibrant city life to the natural beauty of Manitou Springs and the Rockies, the trip showcased the diversity of the U.S. It also reminded me of the challenges of balancing photography with group travel — a lesson I’ll carry forward.
All in all, this trip was a perfect blend of professional growth and personal adventure.
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