Los Angeles vs New York: Which City Offers Better Corporate Retreat Venues? (2026)

Did you know that 85% of corporate leaders believe that offsite retreats significantly enhance team cohesion and productivity? However, choosing the right city and venue for these retreats can be a daunting task. In 2026, Los Angeles and New York remain two of the most popular destinations for corporate retreats, each offering unique advantages and a range of venues. Let's break down the options to help you decide which city is better suited for your next corporate retreat.

Overview: Why Choose Los Angeles or New York?

Los Angeles

Los Angeles boasts a warm climate, stunning landscapes, and a laid-back vibe. The city is perfect for teams looking to blend work with leisure, offering outdoor activities and a variety of cultural experiences. Best seasons to visit are from March to May and September to November when the weather is mild and crowds are thinner.

New York

New York, on the other hand, is a bustling metropolis known for its dynamic energy and world-class amenities. Ideal for teams seeking inspiration and a fast-paced environment, the best times to visit are from April to June and September to November. The city is a hub for business, making it a convenient choice for corporate leaders.

Venue Comparison Table

| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | F&B Included | |-----------------------------|------------------------|-------------|---------------------|------------------------|--------------------------------|--------------| | The Beverly Hills Hotel | Beverly Hills, CA | 50-150 | $350 | Luxury Retreats | Iconic poolside cabanas | Yes | | The Langham | Pasadena, CA | 20-200 | $275 | Team Workshops | State-of-the-art AV equipment | Yes | | Terranea Resort | Rancho Palos Verdes, CA| 20-500 | $300 | Outdoor Activities | Oceanfront views | Yes | | The Ritz-Carlton | New York, NY | 30-300 | $400 | High-End Meetings | Rooftop bar with skyline views | Yes | | The Standard High Line | New York, NY | 20-150 | $200 | Creative Brainstorming | Unique design and rooftop space | Yes | | Conrad New York Downtown | New York, NY | 50-400 | $250 | Large Conferences | Spacious ballroom | Yes | | Kimpton Everly Hotel | Hollywood, CA | 30-200 | $220 | Film Industry Events | Close to major studios | Yes | | The NoMad Hotel | New York, NY | 40-250 | $300 | Cultural Experiences | Artsy ambiance | Yes | | The Fairmont Miramar Hotel | Santa Monica, CA | 20-150 | $275 | Beachfront Retreats | Beach access | Yes | | 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge | Brooklyn, NY | 20-600 | $325 | Eco-Friendly Retreats | Sustainable design | Yes |

Best Venues for Different Needs

Best for Small Teams

• The Standard High Line (New York): Ideal for creative brainstorming with a capacity of 20-150, priced at $200/person/night.

Best for Large Groups

• Conrad New York Downtown (New York): Perfect for large conferences with a capacity of 50-400, priced at $250/person/night.

Best for Outdoor Activities

• Terranea Resort (California): Excellent for outdoor team-building events, accommodating 20-500 at $300/person/night.

Sample Budget Breakdown for a Team of 20

| Category | Estimated Cost | Percentage Allocation | |------------------|------------------|-----------------------| | Venue | $5,500 | 40% | | Food & Beverage | $3,500 | 25% | | Activities | $2,000 | 15% | | Travel | $3,000 | 15% | | Contingency | $1,000 | 5% | | Total | $15,000 | 100% |

Timeline for Planning Your Corporate Retreat

8-Week Planning Timeline

• Week 8: Define objectives and budget.
• Week 7: Research and shortlist venues.
• Week 6: Contact venues for availability and pricing.
• Week 5: Finalize venue and book.
• Week 4: Arrange travel logistics.
• Week 3: Plan activities and team-building exercises.
• Week 2: Confirm F&B and AV requirements.
• Week 1: Final preparations and communication with the team.

Conclusion: Choose Your City Wisely

Both Los Angeles and New York offer exceptional venues for corporate retreats, but the best choice depends on your team’s needs and preferences. If you prioritize outdoor activities and a relaxed atmosphere, Los Angeles may be the better option. Conversely, if you seek a vibrant cultural experience and high-end amenities, New York could be the right fit.

Clear Action Items:

1. Identify your team's goals for the retreat.
2. Compare venues based on your budget and requirements.
3. Create a detailed timeline to ensure a smooth planning process.