How to Select the Right Venue for Your Remote Team's First In-Person Retreat (2026)

Did you know that 70% of employees feel more engaged after attending an in-person retreat? As remote work continues to dominate, planning your team's first face-to-face gathering can feel daunting. Finding the right venue is critical to ensuring your retreat is productive and memorable. In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about selecting the perfect location for your remote team's first in-person retreat in 2026.

Why Location Matters: City Overview

Choosing the right city can dramatically impact your team's experience. Consider factors like accessibility, climate, and local attractions. Here are a few top cities for your retreat:

• Austin, Texas: Known for its vibrant culture, great food, and live music scene. Best visited in spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) when temperatures are mild.
• Denver, Colorado: Offers stunning mountain views and outdoor activities. Ideal for summer (June-August) or early fall (September).
• Miami, Florida: Perfect for those looking for a warm beach retreat. Best in winter (December-February) when temperatures are comfortable and crowds are smaller.

Venue Selection Criteria: What to Consider

When selecting a venue, consider the following factors:

1. Capacity: Ensure the venue can accommodate your team comfortably.
2. Location: Proximity to the airport and local attractions is key for convenience.
3. Budget: Set a clear budget to avoid overspending.
4. Amenities: Look for venues with necessary amenities like AV equipment, breakout rooms, and catering options.
5. Best for: Identify what type of activities or sessions the venue is best suited for (e.g., workshops, team-building activities).

Venue Comparison Table

| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | F&B Included | |---------------------------|------------------|--------------|---------------------|------------------------|--------------------------------------|--------------| | The LINE Hotel | Austin, TX | 50-200 | $175-$250 | Workshops & Retreats | Rooftop pool with city views | Yes | | The Maven Hotel | Denver, CO | 30-150 | $150-$225 | Team Building | Interactive art installations | Yes | | Kimpton EPIC Hotel | Miami, FL | 40-500 | $200-$300 | Large Groups | Rooftop bar with ocean views | Yes | | The Fairmont | Austin, TX | 100-500 | $200-$350 | Corporate Retreats | Luxurious meeting spaces | Yes | | The Curtis Hotel | Denver, CO | 50-200 | $160-$220 | Creative Sessions | Theme-based rooms | Yes | | The Confidante Miami | Miami, FL | 50-300 | $180-$280 | Relaxed Atmosphere | Beachfront access | Yes | | Omni Interlocken | Denver, CO | 80-600 | $180-$290 | Large Conferences | Golf course views | Yes | | Hotel Van Zandt | Austin, TX | 30-200 | $160-$240 | Intimate Gatherings | Live music events on-site | Yes | | The Ritz-Carlton | Miami, FL | 100-500 | $250-$400 | Upscale Retreats | Spa services available | Yes | | The Westin Denver | Denver, CO | 100-400 | $180-$260 | Health & Wellness | Fitness options and wellness rooms | Yes | | South Congress Hotel | Austin, TX | 30-120 | $175-$250 | Boutique Experience | Local art and design focus | Yes | | The Standard Miami | Miami, FL | 50-150 | $220-$300 | Trendy Gatherings | Unique design and atmosphere | Yes |

Our Top Picks

For Small Teams (10-30 people)

• Hotel Van Zandt, Austin, TX: Offers an intimate setting with live music events, perfect for team bonding.

For Medium Teams (30-100 people)

• The Maven Hotel, Denver, CO: Ideal for creative sessions with interactive art installations to inspire your team.

For Large Groups (100+ people)

• The Fairmont, Austin, TX: A luxurious venue that accommodates large corporate retreats with top-notch amenities.

Sample Timeline for Venue Selection

8-12 Weeks Out

• Week 1-2: Define retreat objectives and budget.
• Week 3-4: Research potential venues and create a shortlist.
• Week 5: Contact venues for availability and quotes.
• Week 6: Schedule site visits to shortlisted venues.
• Week 7: Finalize venue selection.
• Week 8: Confirm booking and begin logistics for travel and activities.

Budget Breakdown

Here's a sample budget breakdown for a team of 20:

• Venue: 40% ($2,500)
• Food & Beverage: 25% ($1,500)
• Activities: 15% ($1,000)
• Travel: 15% ($1,000)
• Contingency: 5% ($300)

Total Budget: $6,300 ($315/person)

Risk Mitigation

What Could Go Wrong?

• Venue double-booking: Confirm your reservation with a deposit.
• Weather disruptions: Have a backup plan for outdoor activities.
• Attendee travel delays: Encourage early arrival and provide transport options.

Conclusion: Take Action!

Selecting the right venue for your remote team's first in-person retreat is crucial for a successful experience. Use the above recommendations, compare venues, and create a timeline to keep your planning on track.

Ready to start planning?