It is rare to find a successful organization today that doesn’t depend on the strength of its team. The more that workers in an organization get along, the better they deliver results. Many companies organize annual retreats and team building events for their staff members, and when it comes to strengthening a team, it’s all about location, location, location. Below are five ideal destinations to consider when planning your next company trip.
Orlando
The sunny, year-round summer and unique attractions make Orlando, Florida one of the most popular destinations in the US. The city is no stranger to conventions and tourism, and its hotels and resorts can deliver unique, creative opportunities and resources that tap into the magic of the city’s iconic theme parks.
Orlando stays in full bloom year-round—the accommodating weather means that its parks and attractions don’t take breaks. For a group that seeks flexibility, excitement, and adventure, Orlando has a “wow factor” that won’t disappoint.
Orlando also delivers when it comes to convention space: The Orange County Convention Center boasts over 2.1 million square feet of exhibition space, making it suitable for small groups and large conventions.
New York
With its iconic tourist landmarks, including Times Square and Central Park, unique twists on bagels and cheesecake, and the hustle and bustle that’s found nowhere else, it’s easy to see why so many companies love New York as a team building destination.
In addition to being a cultural mecca, New York offers accommodations to fit any size gathering. The Javits Convention Center in Manhattan offers 840,000 square feet of convention space, giving it unmatchable versatility in a location close to the sights and sounds of the city.
Keep in mind that New York hotels are often lousy with staff union rules, and it may be well worth it to work with a professional event planner to ensure these rules don’t hinder an otherwise unforgettable gathering.
Las Vegas
It is said that what happens in Las Vegas stays there, but the city offers a bright and dazzling experience that attendees will be sure to take home. From the flashy neon of casinos and theaters along the Las Vegas Strip to the five-star restaurants, Vegas is no stranger to tourism and can offer an accommodating experience from start to finish.
The city boasts more than 10.5 million square feet of exhibition space, including the Las Vegas Convention Center, Cashman Center, and Mandalay Bay Convention Center, in addition to the “mega resorts” along the Strip that offer dining, entertainment, and gambling all under one roof.
In addition to the glitz and glamor, Vegas may be one of the more cost-effective destinations out there: With over 150,000 available rooms and accommodating group rates, hotel expenses can cost as little as a third less than other destinations.
Honolulu
Hawaii has more to offer than gorgeous, idyllic beaches—its capital, Honolulu, offers an exotic destination that will blow all other locations out of the water. Honolulu is a travel destination all year round due to its tropical climate, and the city has played host to some of the United States and Pacific Rim’s largest meetings, such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Congress meeting in 2016.
The stunning beauty of Honolulu even permeates the city’s premier convention space, the Hawaii Convention Center. Tucked into the Waikiki district, the center’s glass facade is open to the blue sky and gorgeous scenery, while the courtyards and meeting spaces are filled with palms, plants, and other verdant décor.
Although Honolulu may be the least accessible destination, the city can offer a wide range of outdoor group activities that will leave lasting impressions, such as sea kayaking, a hike up the Diamond Head volcano or a tour of one of Honolulu’s many historical sites.
Chicago
A multi-cultural hub jam-packed with sights like no other, Chicago makes an ideal destination for teams to gather in and explore. The city was made for visitors: a walkable downtown is loaded with cultural attractions, such as the Art Institute of Chicago, Wrigley Stadium, and the Navy Pier, as well as the Magnificent Mile, a shopping district crammed with retail shops, hotels, and restaurants.
Chicago is home to the nation’s largest convention center in the world, McCormick Place, with 2.6 million square feet of exhibition space. Nearby O’Hare airport serves as the nation’s second-busiest airport, making Chicago one of the most accessible and accommodating destinations for an annual convention or gathering.
The distinctive neighborhoods in Chicago, including the largely Hispanic community of Pilsen, Greektown, Chinatown, and more, offer sights, sounds, and smells like no other destination can.
Final word
For your next team outing, don’t just leave the location up to chance. Keep in mind that these five ideal destinations each have their own unique quirks that will leave lasting impressions on all attendees.