Welcome to the giant and expensive world of Quilting! I am so fortunate to live in the Houston TX area and that is the only show I usually go to. I've been like 3-4 times, and last year I didn't even take photos. I didn't seen anything that I felt was photo-worthy. Don't get me wrong, I appreciate and honor the work that went into each and every quilt, but I saw more art quilts than traditional, and I prefer the traditional patterns...
Anyway, my recommendation is Crocs shoes (they are wonderful), and a fanny pack and a backpack. The Houston show does not allow bags that you can pull behind you, and I agree with taking the baby - it would be worth paying a babysitter to enjoy the day unencumbered with the responsibilities that small children demand. I know how bad this sounds, but if the only way I could go to a quilt show is with a small child in tow, I would just as soon stay home.