Join us for dg.o 2025
The 26th Annual International Conference on Digital Government Research
What to do before the conference:
Arriving in the city a few days or hours before the conference is a good time to explore the city. Porto Alegre is a city with a rich cultural heritage, diverse natural beauty, and modern infrastructure. Here are some of the top attractions in Porto Alegre:
- Iberê Camargo Foundation: This modern art museum showcases the works of one of Brazil’s most famous artists, Iberê Camargo, as well as other contemporary artists.
- Art Museum of Rio Grande do Sul, MARGS: A pedestrian promenade runs into Praça da Alfândega, the leafy square that is home to the Museu de Arte do Rio Grande do Sul. The neoclassical building is an impressive venue for regional artists. On the ground floor, the inviting Bistrot de MARGS takes advantage of the leafy environment, which is a lovely setting for lunch.
- Casa de Cultura Mario Quintana: This ‘house of culture’ named after Porto Alegre’s greatest poet, Mario Quintana, offers a plethora of cultural activities that take place in its many galleries, spaces, libraries, theaters, and cinemas. There is always something going on: an art exhibit, a local theater play, an alternative film, dance and music performances, you name it. There are also cafes and handicraft shops.
- Walk in the Historic Center: Visit the main tourist attractions in Porto Alegre’s Historical Center, which is of Portuguese influence. A beautiful and pleasant guided tour, starting with the Metropolitan Cathedral, Praça da Matriz, São Pedro Theater, and Piratini Palace. History, culture, beautiful sceneries, and an opportunity to know and experience the history and culinary arts of the city.
- Parque Moinhos de Vento: This large park is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists, and it offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It has several walking paths, a lake, and several monuments and sculptures.
- Farroupilha Park: Known for its beautiful gardens, lakes, and fountains, it is also home to several museums, including the Museum of Art.
- Mercado Público: This indoor market is one of the largest in Brazil and offers a wide variety of food and souvenirs. Visitors can try traditional regional dishes, such as churrasco, and sample local sweets and artisanal beers.
- PUCRS Museum of Science and Technology: This museum showcases the latest advances in science and technology and offers interactive exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages.
- Visitors can explore parks, museums, and other attractions and experience the best of southern Brazil.
What to do during the conference:
Several visits can be organized in Porto Alegre during the event, with no additional cost for participants:
- 4th district: The area, which was abandoned for a few decades, has been revitalized through the Complementary Law 960/2022, which established the +4D Urban Regeneration Program of the 4th District and turned the region into a hot spot in the city. With bars and restaurants, the historic area, near the Guaíba River, is an excellent option for sightseeing and a place for dinners and moments of relaxation, as well as to understand the results of this initiative, which is a partnership of Porto Alegre City Hall, universities, state government, and private companies.
- Visit to the Porto Alegre City Government: Meeting with City Hall officials and introduction to their implemented and planned digital public services and collaboration with the private sector.
- Porto Alegre city excursion (1-3 hours): Sightseeing walks in the Historic Center of Porto Alegre under the guidance of a qualified guide.
- The projects of the revitalization of the Historic Center and the Program of the 4th District are part of the initiatives to increment the potential of Porto Alegre as a smart city.
- In addition, there are multiple attractions to see and visit that the participants can see on their own.
What to do after the conference:
For after the conference, the suggestions consider places outside Porto Alegre. Rio Grande do Sul is a fantastic tourist destination with beautiful natural scenery, unique cuisine, and vibrant culture. It is an ideal place for those seeking an authentic experience in southern Brazil.
- Natural scenery: Rio Grande do Sul is famous for its natural beauty, with white sandy beaches, mountains, and green plains. The Serra Gaúcha, for example, is a mountainous region that offers stunning views and a wide variety of outdoor activities.
- Cuisine: The cuisine of Rio Grande do Sul is unique and diverse, with European, German, and Italian influences. The typical dishes include barbecued meats, roast chicken, and rice dishes, as well as artisanal wines and beers.
- Gramado, RS state: A small tourist city in Rio Grande do Sul, known for its European architecture, stunning landscapes, high-quality cuisine, and cultural events. It is a scenic city with German-style construction and exuberant nature, making it a must-visit stop for those visiting Rio Grande do Sul.
- Vineyard Valley, RS state: The Serra Gaúcha (Gaucho Highlands) is a cultural region comprising the mountainous areas in the northeastern portion of Rio Grande do Sul state. The main attraction is to visit the vineyards and taste wines and colonial products.
- National Park Aparados da Serra, RS state: This park is a protected area in southern Brazil, known for its beautiful landscapes, mountains, canyons, and rich biodiversity. It offers hiking trails, rappelling, zip-lining, and hang gliding for nature lovers.
- Pró-Mata Center for Research and Nature Conservation: Located 3:30 hours from Porto Alegre, this center offers research and conservation activities in the region.