two questions. 1. Are tickets still being sold? 2. What is usually there?
As Bryan said, badge for admission is 90 [+9 tax] for 4 days. Event tickets are usually $4 for 4 hour event $2 for 2 hour event although some cost more. Unfortunately, Catalyst Game Labs is one of those. A 2 hour Btech grinder ticket is $4. You can find almost any game being played at the con. From Aquire [one of my favorites] to Zombicide, board, electronic, role-playing, miniature, card games, seminars, anime movies, workshops, tons of stuff to do and the biggest dealer hall that I can think of. Sounds like an advertisement doesn't it? I have been going every year since 1989. I expect 60,000+ people there this year for the 50th anniversary.
I have reserved a room at the Motel 6 on the south side off of Emerson Avenue. It has 2 double beds for $75 a night. I have stayed in this hotel before with no problems. I prefer sharing with someone that I know rather than putting an ad in the con forum for an unknown roommate.