AUA2026 (May 15 – 18, 2026) brings urology’s most influential voices — along with the All Star team — to Washington, D.C. for four days of breakthrough science, education, and connection.
There’s no backdrop more fitting than the nation’s capital — a city defined by big ideas, pivotal decisions, and lasting impact. It’s the kind of place where progress feels tangible — and where even a short break can turn into something memorable.
Whether you’ve got 20 minutes or a few hours to spare, here’s how to make the most of your time in D.C.
When You’ve Got 20–30 Minutes
Sometimes you don’t have time to plan — you just have a gap. That’s enough.
Walk the Capitol Grounds
Looking to reset between sessions? This is one of the simplest ways to do it. Expansive open space, clean architectural lines, and sweeping views of the Capitol create a sense of clarity and perspective. A little fresh air and movement go a long way during a full day indoors.
Step Inside the Library of Congress
A quick stop, but one that leaves a lasting impression. Ornate ceilings, historic reading rooms, and intricate details serve as a quiet reminder that there’s more to this moment than the conference itself. Even a few minutes here feel well spent.
Catch a Glimpse of the White House
You don’t need a full tour to feel the impact. A short walk along Pennsylvania Avenue, a pause at the gates, and the moment is unmistakable — you’re in Washington, D.C.
When You’ve Got an Hour
This is the sweet spot — the time window where you can actually settle into something without rushing it.
Wander the National Gallery of Art
Looking for something worthwhile without overcommitting? This is an ideal choice. More approachable than many of the city’s larger museums, yet impressive in all the right ways — with light-filled galleries, recognizable works, and space to explore without feeling overwhelmed.
Choose One Smithsonian
You won’t see everything — and you don’t need to. Choose one museum, spend an hour, and focus on what draws you in. It’s a simple way to step outside the rhythm of the conference and into something entirely different.
Take in the United States Botanic Garden
Tucked near the Capitol, this spot is easy to overlook — and well worth a visit. Warm, quiet, and filled with greenery, it creates an immediate sense of calm. Spend an hour here, and you’ll leave feeling noticeably more at ease.
Explore Georgetown (Skip the Main Street, Find the Canal)
Georgetown gets crowded fast — but a few steps off the main street, everything changes. The C&O Canal runs quietly behind the storefronts, shaded and calm, with brick paths that offer a welcome distance from the crowds. It’s the kind of place where your pace slows without effort.
Visit the National Zoo
If you’re looking for something outdoors that still feels engaging, the zoo is a strong choice — and perfect for families. Larger than expected, it offers plenty of space to walk, pause, and explore without feeling rushed, even in a short window.
When You’ve Got a Few Hours
If you find a longer stretch of time, this is where the city really opens up.
Get Lost in Rock Creek Park
There comes a point in any conference when everything begins to blur together. This is where you reset. Within minutes, the noise fades, the air shifts, and the rhythm softens. Follow a trail, wander for a bit, and give yourself space to disconnect — the difference is immediate.
Head Out to the National Arboretum
If you have the time and are looking for something quieter, this is well worth the trip. Sprawling grounds, tree-lined paths, and stunning gardens create a setting that feels far removed from downtown. Uncrowded and unhurried, it offers space to move — and a chance to slow down.
After Sessions Wrap
When the day winds down, the city shifts with it.
Grab a Meal at the Wharf
At the end of the day, head to D.C.’s waterfront to unwind. Walkable and easy to navigate, the Wharf offers a wide range of restaurants and open views of the Potomac — an easy place to grab a bite and ease into the evening.
Take a Capitol River Cruise at Sunset
There’s something magical about seeing D.C. from the water at the end of the day. The light softens, the skyline shifts, and the city feels quieter from a distance. It’s an easy way to close things out — unhurried, unplanned, and defined by a different vantage point.
And One More Thing
This is the one most people miss.
The best moments here aren’t always scheduled — an unexpected event, a place you didn’t mean to find, something you almost skipped because you were tired.
In May, D.C. makes those moments easy. Events like Passport DC pop up across the city, and if you can stay an extra day, Fiesta Asia (May 16) brings everything out into the streets — food, music, and a completely different pace from the conference.
You just have to leave a little room for it.
You’re coming to AUA2026 for the sessions — the science, the insights, and the conversations that move the field forward.
But it’s often the moments in between that round out the experience — when you step outside, take a different turn, or make the most of an hour you didn’t expect to have.
While you’re making your way through the conference hall, be sure to visit All Star Healthcare Solutions at booth #2568. We’ll leave the clinical work to you — but when it comes to urology opportunities (and a reminder to stay hydrated), that’s where we come in.
We’ll also be hosting a giveaway for an Oura Ring — stop by to learn more or enter here for your chance to win.