The Gluten-Free Guide to Convention Center Dining

Orange County Convention Center-Orlando, Florida

Attending a convention, conference, or expo can be an exciting opportunity—whether it’s for work, school, or just for fun. But if you have celiac disease or follow a gluten-free diet, it also comes with a big question: What am I going to eat?

Convention centers aren’t exactly known for their gluten-free friendliness. The food is often pre-packaged, mass-produced, or laden with hidden sources of gluten. But don’t stress—with the right preparation and resources, you can navigate any convention center safely and confidently.

Here’s what you really need to make it through your next event gluten-free and stress-free.

1. Do Your Homework: Research the Venue

Start by checking the convention center’s website. Look for:

• A list of on-site dining options

• A downloadable vendor map or app

• Any notes on allergen-friendly dining

• Contact information for guest services or food/beverage managers

Reach out ahead of time if possible. Ask specific questions about gluten-free offerings and how food is prepared (cross-contact is often a bigger issue than ingredients).

Gluten-free on-the-go snack options

2. Pack Your Own Essentials

Even if you’re hopeful about the food options, always pack a gluten-free safety net. Your convention bag should include:

• Gluten-free protein bars, nuts, or granola

• Portable meals like GF instant oatmeal, tuna packs, and protein shakes

• A refillable water bottle

• Wipes and hand sanitizer (shared tables = shared germs and crumbs)

For multi-day events, consider bringing a small cooler with additional food for lunches or snacks.

3. Download the Right Apps

Traveling gluten-free is easier when you’re armed with tools. Some of the best apps to have on hand:

• Find Me Gluten Free – Reviews of restaurants with gluten-free options near the venue

• Google Maps Lists – Make a custom map of safe restaurants nearby

• Gluten Dude App – Reviews of restaurants with safe gluten-free options

• GF Scanner App – Use to check barcodes or ingredients while traveling

  
  

Picking up gluten-free food at the grocery store

4. Know the Nearest Grocery Stores

Sometimes the best GF meals are the ones you make yourself. A quick grocery run can give you access to:

• Pre-packaged gluten-free salads and snacks

• Yogurt, fruit, deli meats, and hard-boiled eggs

• GF frozen meals if you have a microwave in your hotel

Use your travel apps or hotel concierge to find nearby stores (Target, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, or even local grocery stores).

5. Locate the Nearest Hospitals—Just in Case

No one wants to think about getting sick on a trip, but it’s smart to know where the nearest urgent care or hospital is—especially if you have celiac disease or a serious gluten sensitivity. Save addresses and phone numbers in your phone ahead of time.

6. Stay Where You Can Control the Kitchen

If you haven’t booked lodging yet, consider:

• Hotels with in-room kitchens or kitchenettes

• Airbnb or short-term rentals with full kitchens

• Staying near a Whole Foods or an area that is known to have lots of gluten-free options

The more control you have over your food, the more peace of mind you'll have during the convention.

Final Thoughts: You Can Do This

Gluten-free travel doesn’t have to mean sacrifice—and attending a convention shouldn’t mean going hungry or taking unnecessary risks. With a bit of planning, the right tools, and a solid stash of snacks, you can fully participate in your event and still take care of your health.

Gluten-Free Convention Guide for Anaheim, CA

💼 Headed to a convention soon? I’ve done the work for you with my Gluten-Free Convention Guides! Each guide comes with restaurant recommendations, packing tips, local grocery stores, and hospitals. Don't see the convention center you are looking for? Send me a direct message, and I'll create one for you!

You deserve to focus on your goals—not your gut. Safe travels!