Choosing the right destination can make all the difference in the success of your next corporate event. Grand Dynamics has been delivering executive retreats, team building events and experiential leadership training at inspiring destinations across the USA, and globally since 1998. These experiential team and leadership experiences offer powerful ways to:
- inspire the best performance from your workforce of employees and teams
- get strategic perspective
- learn leadership and communication skills
- build stronger relationships with one another, and
- improve productivity.
The destination you choose for your executive retreat, team building event or experiential training is one of the critical elements that shapes the kinds of activities you can do, the travel costs and the general flavor of the experience.
Here are our top 12 suggestions for the best Executive Retreat and Team Building destinations in the US, based on our 21 years of experience in Corporate Leadership Development and Team Building. We also include location resources and resort recommendations for each location in no particular order.
If you want help designing your next Executive Retreat and choosing the destination that would best meet your requirements, please Contact Us, and we’ll be glad to help.
Jackson, Wyoming
1. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole is such a special place that it deserves its own category. This our company HQ and where we founded Grand Dynamics in 1998. Having delivered countless programs in our backyard, we have an intimate understanding of how to optimize every minute of your Jackson Hole experience. Jackson Hole is where the last of the Wild West meets modern day adventure with the towering Teton mountains hosting outdoor experiences that will be etched in your mind forever. Add in world class hotel and resort options along with award winning restaurants and cultural experiences, and you have the perfect recipe for the ultimate executive retreat or team building destination. Not to mention that you will land in the only airport located in a National Park and be in the center of it all with a short 15 minute drive into downtown Jackson.
Our Jackson Hole experiences offer a wide range of outdoor programs on our local mountains, Snow King Mountain and the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort as well as river based scenic and whitewater adventures on the Snake River. Our featured downtown event is the Jackson Hole Scavenger Hunt and we even offer an “Around the Hole” Amazing Race style event where participants get to experience scenic views and fun activities, all while circumnavigating Jackson Hole.
Location Resources:
Recommended Resorts:
- The Four Seasons at Teton Village
This Five-Star alpine Resort is surrounded by some of America’s most rugged peaks, celebrated ski runs and an inspiring variety of wildlife in nearby Grand Teton National Park. - Hotel Terra
Named Wyoming’s Best Hotel by Travel+Leisure. Wake up to stunning mountain views and crisp alpine air with access to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Yellowstone National Park or the mighty Snake River. - Snow King Resort
Located at the base of Snow King Mountain, just a few blocks from downtown Jackson and 20 minutes from the Jackson Hole Airport, Snow King Resort Hotel boasts breathtaking views of the Teton Mountain Range and offers a wide variety of activities and amenities. - Amangani
Residing in 600 acres of the Colorado Plateau, and requiring an Act of Congress to be passed so it could be built here, Amangani blends into countless untouched square miles of red rock country. - Spring Creek Ranch
Spring Creek Ranch is located on a wildlife sanctuary almost 1,000 feet above the town of Jackson and has spectacular views of the Teton Mountain Range, including the world famous 13,700-foot Grand Teton. - The Wort Hotel Jackson Hole
Opened in 1941, The Wort Hotel exemplifies historic charm while providing luxury amenities and services, making it one of Jackson Hole’s finest boutique hotels. - Snake River Lodge and Spa
Situated at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain in the heart of Teton Village, Snake River Lodge and Spa is just 300 feet from the world-famous Jackson Hole Mountain Aerial Tram and one mile from Grand Teton National Park. - Grand Teton Lodge Company
Grand Teton Lodge Company places you inside the Grand Teton National Park boundaries, with its signature skyline, lush green valleys and sparkling lakes.
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Western US
2. Zion National Park, Utah
Zion’s surreal desert landscape and towering cliffs offer breathtaking hikes, views and arguably the best canyoneering in the USA, which happens to be one of the best moderate team adventures for executive teams. This global destination for adventure tourism is also a fantastic location for small to medium sized executive and professional development retreats. Its vast landscape is a prime backdrop for big ideas, change, and challenge. Have you ever experienced the power of rope bridge building, a walk through the Narrows or an Argentinian bonfire cook-out? We’re here to show you the best of the best and the inner workings of how to make the most of your team experience in a world class inspirational setting.
Location Resources:
Recommended Resorts:
- Nama-Stay, Springdale, UT
For groups up to 30 people, this newly built out boutique Zen-feeling hotel has 12 private suites and 3 ensuites plus a dining room facility for private meals, and a 1,200 square foot meeting space. - Cable Mountain Lodge, Springdale, UT
For larger groups, we recommend the Cable Mountain lodge with its wide breadth of room types, close proximity to Zion (100 yards), and excellent meeting space facilities for up to 125 people.
3. California
Whether it’s towering redwood forests meeting the Pacific, rolling vine covered hills, or some of the world’s greatest beaches, California never fails to deliver. Napa, Marin, San Francisco, and Big Sur are just a few of our favorite Northern California program destinations. Our signature San Francisco event includes a San Francisco Amazing Race and Private Yacht to Angel Island with hiking and special event options on the island. Our Monterey team events feature tandem biking down the coast and a variety of scenic team activities in local parks.
Location Resources:
Recommended Resorts:
- Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa, Monterey, CA
Perched dramatically on historic beachfront property above the crashing surf of the Pacific, Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa delights its guests with classic, California coastal experiences animated by an irresistible spirit of conviviality and play. Here you’ll be welcomed with warm hospitality and elegantly-appointed guest rooms with thoughtful extras and luxury touches. - InterContinental The Clement Monterey, Monterey, CA
This hotel features 16,000 square feet of meeting and event space, including two elegant ballrooms, a sky-lit terrace, and an ocean front courtyard overlooking the sapphire waters of Monterey Bay. Located next to the Monterey Bay Aquarium on historic Cannery Row, this hotel is steps from boutiques, eateries, galleries, attractions, beaches and a vibrant street scene.
4. Las Vegas
Often known as a world famous entertainment center with nicknames including the ‘Entertainment Capital of the World,’ ‘Sin City’ and ‘City of Lights,’ Las Vegas is also home to some of the largest conferences and business events in the US. Las Vegas has something for everyone; music concerts, magic shows, theaters, casinos, art displays, museums and much more. There are also outdoor adventures like ziplining, race car driving, horse riding and a host of desert activities. The capacity for large group conferences makes this a featured destination for our unique Mountain Seminar event, where we literally create a one-of-a-kind mountain experience in an indoor conference facility.
Location Resources:
Recommended Resorts:
- MGM Grand, Las Vegas, NV
The MGM Grand in Las Vegas is one of the largest hotels in the world with 4,996 modern and well-appointed rooms and suites. This vibrant resort also features a state-of-the-art, nonsmoking conference center, a spacious casino floor, the Grand Spa, Cristophe Salon and an inviting 6.5-acre pool complex. It also houses numerous shops, night clubs, restaurants and the largest casino in Clark County. The opening of the new MGM conference facility offers over 850,000 square feet of indoor conference space limited only by the imagination. The MGM is one of our favorite places to deliver Grand Dynamics’ most innovative indoor event, The Mountain Seminar.
5. Albuquerque / Santa Fe, NM
Albuquerque is an oasis in the high desert, full of rich history and inspiring ideas. More than 310 days of sunshine per year make it possible to ski the slopes of the Sandia Mountains and play a round at an award-winning golf course, all in the same day. Known as the hot air ballooning capital of the world, and famous for its Mexican inspired cuisine, Route 66, and outdoor adventure sports, Albuquerque’s spectacular landscape and cultural activities are sure to inspire.
Santa Fe boasts legendary history and culture, an art scene that spans from traditional to contemporary, accommodations with a local feel yet world-class status, and award-winning cuisine that’s as eclectic as it is sumptuous. Walking through its adobe neighborhoods, or around the busy plaza that remains its core, there’s no denying that Santa Fe has a timeless, earthy soul.
Some of our favorite events in this area include a customized desert adventure course, river rafting, epic mountain biking, and a downtown artistic scavenger hunt.
Location Resources:
Recommended Resorts:
- Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado, Santa Fe, NM
In Santa Fe, rugged beauty surrounds this intimate, 65-room Resort. Set on 57 rolling acres in the Sangre de Cristo foothills, and just 10 minutes from downtown’s shops and galleries. Rancho Encantado is a beautiful setting for business events. Hiking, a world class spa, elevated cuisine, blazing sunsets and vast night skies set the stage for many possible events and activities. - Los Poblanos Historic Inn and Organic Farm, Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, NM
Set among 25 acres of lavender fields, enormous cottonwood trees and lush formal gardens, Los Poblanos is one of the most magnificent historic properties in the Southwest. With its 50 guest rooms, it is an ideal setting for retreats and special events. Designed in 1932 by New Mexico’s foremost architect, John Gaw Meem, the “Father of Santa Fe Style”, Los Poblanos is located on an organic farm in the heart of the Rio Grande River Valley.
6. Oregon
If you combine forest-clad winding rivers, a volcanic mountain rising out of the desert, breathtaking rock formations, and one of the sunniest climates in the country, what do you get? Central Oregon. This is one of our favorite destinations for multi-day retreats and team building programs. Our programming includes activities at our favorite resort properties along the Deschutes River, throughout downtown Bend, and, of course, the magical Smith Rocks.
Location Resources:
Recommended Resorts:
- Brasada Ranch, Bend / Powell Butte, OR
With cozy fireplaces, comfortable western style, and stunning Cascade views, Brasada Ranch has been named the Best Resort in the Pacific Northwest by Condé Nast Traveler for the past three years. - Riverhouse, Bend, OR
Immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of picturesque Central Oregon at Riverhouse on the Deschutes River. This re-imagined hotel in Bend, Oregon has been completely redesigned to provide guests with modern sophistication and world-class amenities. Its close proximity to downtown Bend and local parks makes Riverhouse a highly convenient program location.
7. Colorado
Remarkable in its diversity, beauty and grandeur, Colorado delivers endless powder runs, outdoor adventures, cosmopolitan arts and dining scenes, and 300 days of sunshine a year. Prepare to give yourself over to nature when you travel to Colorado, home of the Rocky Mountains’ highest peaks. From the youthful and cosmopolitan feel of downtown Denver to the natural splendor of the Rockies and its surrounding ski resorts to the sparsely populated prairie lands with their picturesque buttes and canyons, a visit to Colorado offers an opportunity to marvel at an endless array of natural and urban wonders.
Location Resources:
Recommended Resorts:
- Dunton Hot Springs, Dolores, CO
Dunton Hot Springs is a small and exclusive resort nestled deep in the San Juan Mountains of the Colorado Rockies. Just across the mountain from Telluride, Dunton Hot Springs is a romantic 1800’s ghost town set in an extraordinary alpine valley. This perfectly restored ghost town thrives on contradictions blending the best of the old rustic history with exquisite modern amenities. The entire town can be rented exclusively for corporate retreats, family reunions and weddings. We love this location for the hiking, mountain biking, tyrolean traverse bridge building and our many inspiring outdoor programs.
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Eastern US
8. The Adirondacks and Lake Placid, New York
Lake Placid is a unique village in the Adirondack mountains, and few things make that more evident than the jewel of Mirror Lake. Its sparkling waters beckon from behind the downtown buildings. Water birds float alongside paddlers, and standing on the lake’s shore reveals stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Our programs on Whiteface Mountain, rock climbing and rappelling, outdoor hiking trails and Olympic themed events keep Lake Placid as one of our favorites.
Location Resources:
Recommended Resorts:
- Mirror Lake Inn, Lake Placid, NY
One of the most stunning Adirondack hotels, Mirror Lake Inn is truly a gem in one of America’s prettiest towns. Award-winning dining options, a renowned spa, and warm, personable service combine to make Mirror Lake Inn and Resort a top choice among Lake Placid Hotels.
- Whiteface Lodge, Lake Placid, NY
Evoking the Gilded Age splendor of the historic Adirondack Great Camps in its rustic timber design, Whiteface Lodge is tucked into the picturesque woodlands of the Adirondacks’ High Peaks region in upstate New York. Close by lies the village of Lake Placid and six million spectacular mountain acres of Adirondack Park.
- Rock and River, Keene, NY
Located just outside of Keene, NY, Rock and River’s 1800′s homestead is an experience, not just a night’s lodging. Situated in a secluded valley at the end of a country road and bordered by park wilderness on three sides, activities such as hiking, skiing, rock climbing and mountain biking are available, all from your doorstep. The two lodges on the property can sleep 27 people.
9. The Catskill Mountains, New York
Located in Southeast New York State, just a few hours’ drive or train ride north of New York City, the Catskills offer breathtaking natural attractions. The area is famous for its number of maintained hiking trails, ski resorts, lakes, and rivers for visitors to explore. Find Catskill trails that lead to stunning waterfalls or trailside beer gardens, meander through arboretums or book a table at one of the famed Catskill restaurants and savor the bounty of the harvest.
Location Resources:
Recommended Resorts:
- Hunter Mountain, Hunter, NY
The Kaatskill Mountain Club is Hunter Mountain’s premier on-site lodging. With a number of accommodations and room types to suit a variety of party sizes, slopeside lodging offers convenience and comfort at affordable rates.
10. Lake George, New York
Lake George is an impressive 32 miles long and is often called the “Queen of American Lakes”. Full of lodging, attractions, eateries and just about any form of recreation you can name, it also holds a significant place in American history as the site of two great forts, Fort William Henry and Fort Ticonderoga, both open to the public.
Location Resources:
Recommended Resorts:
- The Sagamore Resort, Bolton Landing, NY
Discover a legendary island playground that has welcomed guests for over a century. This AAA Four-Diamond resort offers celebrated dining, diverse lodging options, and year-round activities that embrace the splendor of the Adirondacks.
11. The Berkshires, Massachusetts
Nestled within the rolling Appalachian mountains and neighboring New York, Connecticut and Vermont, the Berkshires breathe a calm, yet vibrant energy amid an illuminated landscape. The Berkshires are rich in culture & made up of picturesque towns filled with outdoor recreation, as well as farm-fresh dining and breathtaking four-season scenery.
Location Resources:
Recommended Resorts:
- Cranwell Spa and Golf Resort, Lenox, MA
Perched high on a hilltop in Lenox, MA, Cranwell Resort offers spectacular views for every season. Elegant accommodations, fine dining, outstanding amenities and exceptional service on 380-acres snuggled in the heart of the Berkshires. Our Amazing Race in the neighboring quaint town of Lennox is not to be missed!
12. Greater Boston Area, Massachusetts
Boston is a treasure trove of Americana – a quintessential blend of colonial history and cutting-edge innovation. It’s an ideal destination to explore diverse neighborhoods, visit civic landmarks, and see the iconic grounds of Harvard University and Fenway Park. Surrounding the city are a host of scenic areas and activities including Cape Cod, Massachusetts Bay, and state and national parks. Our Boston Amazing Race and Portsmouth Search and Discover programs are as good as it gets when exploring these iconic and historic cities.
Location Resources:
Recommended Resorts:
- Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, Harwich, MA
Nestled on the elbow of Cape Cod, this meticulously landscaped hideaway features 120 lavish guest rooms and suites, five acclaimed restaurants, two magnificent pools, two extraordinary beaches, boating and water sports, four Har Tru tennis courts and eighteen holes of golf. - Woodstock Inn and Resort, Woodstock, VT
This Vermont retreat boasts one of the most beautiful properties on the East Coast. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city, The Woodstock Inn & Resort was named 2014 Travel & Leisure Best Hotel in the World!!! You really can’t get better than that, especially considering it was also named one of America’s top 100 Golf Courses by Golf Magazine. - Wentworth by the Sea, New Castle, NH
Wentworth By the Sea, commands the island of New Castle, one of New Hampshire’s oldest settlements. Masterfully blending historic elegance with 21st century convenience, this luxury hotel provides a memorable backdrop for executive retreats and business events. Many of the 161 elegant rooms and suites showcase ocean views. If you’re hosting an event in the Portsmouth area, this hotel offers 10,000 square feet of flexible space and expert planning services. - Cliff House, Cape Neddick, ME
Cliff House is one of the most captivating waterfront destinations of its kind following a landmark transformation. This iconic Maine resort, which welcomed its first guests in 1872, inspires a new community of travelers today with remarkable sightlines and amenities. Just over an hour north of Boston, Cliff House stretches across 70 oceanfront acres with 226 luxury rooms and suites and 25,000 square feet of event space on the southern coast of Maine, overlooking the ocean’s edge and Nubble Lighthouse.
And there you have it! Our top 12 US destinations for executive retreats and team building events. If you would like help designing your next Executive Retreat and choosing the destination that would best meet your requirements, please Contact Us, and we’ll be glad to help.
ARNO ILGNER
ASHLEY CHAPMAN