How to Organize a 3-Day Offsite for Your 35-Person Team in Just 2 Weeks

Did you know that 75% of employees report feeling more engaged after attending an offsite retreat? However, organizing a successful offsite can be daunting, especially with a tight two-week timeline. But fear not! This guide will equip you with practical steps to plan an effective and enjoyable 3-day offsite for your 35-person team in February 2026.

Overview: Why Choose Austin, TX for Your Offsite?

Austin is a vibrant city known for its innovative culture, live music scene, and diverse culinary offerings. February is an excellent time to visit, with mild temperatures averaging around 60°F, perfect for both indoor and outdoor activities. The city is easily accessible, just a 20-minute drive from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS).

Venue Options for Your 35-Person Team

Here’s a curated list of venues that can accommodate your team comfortably, with specific details to help you make an informed decision.

| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | Insider Tip | |--------------------------|---------------------|---------------|--------------------|---------------------|--------------------------------------|-------------------------------------| | The LINE Austin | Downtown Austin | 40 (theater) | $220 | Team bonding | Rooftop pool with city views | Book direct for 15% savings | | Hotel Van Zandt | East Austin | 50 (theater) | $200 | Creative brainstorming| Live music events | Request a room block early | | Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt | East Austin | 35 (rounds) | $210 | Relaxed atmosphere | Outdoor patio for evening gatherings | Check for package deals | | South Congress Hotel | South Congress Ave | 40 (theater) | $195 | Casual meetings | Unique local art displays | Plan for a pre-arrival team dinner | | Omni Barton Creek Resort | West Austin | 60 (theater) | $250 | Outdoor activities | Golf course and hiking trails | Book 4+ months ahead for Q2 dates | | Austin Marriott South | South Austin | 50 (theater) | $180 | Formal presentations | High-tech AV capabilities | Early booking required for best rates| | The Westin Austin Downtown| Downtown Austin | 35 (rounds) | $225 | High-energy events | Rooftop bar with views | Consider weekday bookings for savings| | The Driskill Hotel | Downtown Austin | 60 (theater) | $240 | Historic ambiance | Iconic architecture | Leverage their concierge services |

Our Top Picks

• Best for Team Bonding: The LINE Austin
• Best for Creative Brainstorming: Hotel Van Zandt
• Best for Formal Presentations: Austin Marriott South

Sample 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Team Building

• Morning: Arrive and check-in (9 AM)
• Afternoon: Team lunch at venue (12 PM)
• Evening: Icebreaker activities (3 PM) followed by dinner at a local restaurant (6 PM)

Day 2: Workshops and Strategy Sessions

• Morning: Breakfast at venue (8 AM)
• All Day: Workshops (9 AM - 5 PM) with breaks and lunch included
• Evening: Free time for exploration or group dinner (7 PM)

Day 3: Reflection and Departure

• Morning: Breakfast (8 AM) followed by team reflection session (9 AM)
• Afternoon: Wrap-up and goodbyes (12 PM) before departure

Budget Breakdown for Your Offsite

For a 35-person team, here’s an estimated budget:

| Category | Estimated Cost | Percentage of Total | |------------------|----------------|---------------------| | Venue | $7,000 | 40% | | Food & Beverage | $4,375 | 25% | | Activities | $2,625 | 15% | | Travel | $2,625 | 15% | | Contingency | $875 | 5% | | Total | $17,500 | 100% |

Vendor Coordination Checklist

• 2 Weeks Out:

  • Confirm venue booking
  • Finalize food and beverage menus
  • Arrange transportation to/from the airport

• 1 Week Out:

  • Confirm activity bookings
  • Send out a detailed itinerary to the team
  • Prepare materials for workshops

Risk Mitigation: What Could Go Wrong?

• Problem: Venue double-booked.

  • Mitigation: Confirm details a week prior and have a backup venue in mind.

• Problem: Weather disruptions for outdoor activities.

  • Mitigation: Have indoor alternatives planned.

• Problem: Dietary restrictions overlooked.

  • Mitigation: Collect dietary preferences during registration.

Conclusion

Organizing a successful offsite in just two weeks is entirely feasible with the right planning. Use this guide to select the perfect venue, create a balanced itinerary, and ensure your budget aligns with your goals.

Action Items:

1. Choose your venue from the options listed.
2. Develop your itinerary based on the sample provided.
3. Finalize your budget and coordinate with vendors.