How to Organize an Unforgettable Offsite in New Orleans in 60 Days

Planning a corporate retreat can feel daunting, especially with the pressure of creating an unforgettable experience for your team. Did you know that 80% of employees reported feeling more engaged after attending an offsite? The right venue and activities can transform your team's dynamic, but with only 60 days to organize, you need a practical, step-by-step guide. Let’s dive into how to make your offsite in New Orleans a success in just two months.

Why New Orleans?

New Orleans is not just famous for its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine; it's also a unique destination for corporate retreats. With a rich history, lively atmosphere, and a range of venues, it offers an ideal blend of work and play. The best time to visit is from February to May, avoiding the summer heat and enjoying the city’s festivals.

Getting There

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) serves as the primary airport, located just 20 minutes from downtown. Consider booking a block of rooms at your venue to simplify logistics for your team.

60-Day Planning Timeline

8 Weeks Out: Define Goals and Budget

• Define Objectives: What do you want to achieve? Team building, strategy sessions, or brainstorming?
• Budget Breakdown: Allocate your budget as follows:
  • Venue: 40%
  • Food & Beverage: 25%
  • Activities: 15%
  • Travel: 15%
  • Contingency: 5%

7 Weeks Out: Choose Your Venue

Select from the following venues that suit your needs:

| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | |---------------------------------|------------------------------|----------------|--------------------|--------------------|--------------------------------------| | The Roosevelt Hotel | 123 Baronne St, NOLA | 300 | $175-250 | Large Groups | Historic charm with modern amenities | | The Ritz-Carlton | 921 Canal St, NOLA | 200 | $250-350 | High-end Retreats | Luxurious spa and rooftop pool | | Ace Hotel | 600 Carondelet St, NOLA | 150 | $150-250 | Creative Teams | Unique meeting spaces with art | | NOPSI Hotel | 317 Baronne St, NOLA | 200 | $200-300 | Mid-sized Teams | Rooftop bar with city views | | The Warehouse | 700 Magazine St, NOLA | 100 | $100-150 | Startups | Industrial chic vibe | | Hotel Monteleone | 214 Royal St, NOLA | 250 | $175-275 | Elegant Gatherings | Carousel bar, historic significance | | The Jung Hotel | 1500 Canal St, NOLA | 300 | $125-200 | Budget-Conscious | Newly renovated, great location |

6 Weeks Out: Book Venue and Accommodations

• Reserve Your Venue: Book the venue directly to save up to 15% and request a room block early.
• Finalize Accommodations: Ensure all team members have a place to stay.

5 Weeks Out: Plan Activities

Select team-building activities that match your goals. Here are some ideas:

1. Culinary Walking Tour

   • Time Needed: 3 hours
   • Group Size: Up to 20
   • Cost: $75/person
   • Energy Level: Low
   • Skip if: Your team prefers a more structured environment.

2. Mardi Gras World Tour

   • Time Needed: 2 hours
   • Group Size: Up to 30
   • Cost: $50/person
   • Energy Level: Moderate
   • Skip if: The team is not interested in cultural experiences.

3. Escape Room Challenge

   • Time Needed: 1.5 hours
   • Group Size: Up to 12
   • Cost: $30/person
   • Energy Level: High
   • Skip if: Team members are introverted or prefer less competitive activities.

4 Weeks Out: Coordinate Vendors

• Book Caterers: Choose local cuisine to enhance the New Orleans experience.
• Arrange Transportation: Consider shuttle services for easy access to venues.

2 Weeks Out: Finalize Agenda

Create a detailed agenda that includes:

• Daily start and end times
• Breaks and meals
• Activity slots

1 Week Out: Communicate with Your Team

• Send Out Final Details: Share the agenda, packing list, and any necessary travel information with your team.

Risk Mitigation

1. Weather: New Orleans can be unpredictable. Have a backup plan for outdoor activities.
2. Health & Safety: Ensure all venues comply with health guidelines.
3. Budget Overruns: Keep a contingency fund for unexpected expenses.

Sample Budget Breakdown

For a team of 20, here's a potential budget:

• Venue: $4,000 (40%)
• Food & Beverage: $2,500 (25%)
• Activities: $1,500 (15%)
• Travel: $1,500 (15%)
• Contingency: $500 (5%)
• Total: $10,000

Conclusion

Planning an unforgettable offsite in New Orleans is entirely feasible within 60 days. Start by defining your goals, selecting the right venue, and coordinating engaging activities. By following this structured timeline and budget breakdown, you’ll ensure a memorable experience for your team.