Do as I do, observe the Yes-Signals, and ignore the rest...
I know what you are saying to some extent, since I operate pretty independently, and I already communicate with everyone whom I need to do business with via the phone and internet. I fret more about not getting some of the work done that I would prefer doing, so I generally try to set up work while at shows.
For me, adult tradeshows are more of a vacation and reunion. I spend very little time on the show floor, and instead focus most of my time shooting content (since several content girls usually attend). Other than that, I enjoy the good local restaurants and sights, and then I spend my nights bullshitting at parties with old friends and business associates.
I'm always happy to get home and back to business on my workstation...
A tradeshow I actually love attending is MacWorld in San Francisco which usually takes place in January, but will be in February this year.
That show offers some incredible hands-on training, and I always come away with lots of ideas and inspiration.
Be sure rap knuckles with me in Vegas, if you see me (I stopped shaking hands since the swine flu epidemic thing)...
ADG