Nashville vs. Charleston: Which City is Better for a Summer Offsite? (2026)

Did you know that 92% of executives believe that offsite meetings are essential for team building? Yet, choosing the right location can make or break your retreat. In 2026, both Nashville and Charleston offer unique experiences for summer offsites. But which city is better suited for your corporate retreat? Let’s dive into the details.

Why Choose Nashville or Charleston for Your Offsite?

Nashville: The Music City Vibe

Nashville is known for its vibrant music scene, Southern hospitality, and a plethora of venues that cater to business needs. The warm summer months offer plenty of outdoor activities and a lively atmosphere.

Charleston: Historic Charm and Coastal Beauty

Charleston boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful beaches. The summer season provides a warm climate perfect for outdoor gatherings and team-building activities.

Venue Comparison: Nashville vs. Charleston

| Venue Name | Location | Capacity Range | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | F&B Included | |-----------------------|------------------|----------------|---------------------|------------------------|-----------------------------------|--------------| | The Hermitage Hotel | Nashville | 20-400 | $200-300 | Large Teams | Historic luxury | Yes | | Omni Nashville Hotel | Nashville | 15-500 | $175-250 | All-Hands Meetings | Rooftop pool | Yes | | The Graduate Nashville | Nashville | 10-100 | $150-225 | Small Groups | Unique Nashville decor | Yes | | The Dewberry | Charleston | 10-300 | $250-350 | Executive Retreats | Rooftop terrace with views | Yes | | Charleston Place | Charleston | 20-600 | $200-350 | Large Teams | Spa and wellness facilities | Yes | | The Ryder Hotel | Charleston | 10-200 | $150-225 | Creative Meetings | Local art installations | Yes | | Wild Dunes Resort | Isle of Palms | 50-500 | $175-275 | Team Building Retreats | Beachfront access | Yes | | The Francis Marion | Charleston | 20-400 | $175-300 | Conferences | Historic charm | Yes |

Our Top Picks for Summer Offsites

Best for Large Teams

Nashville: Omni Nashville Hotel
Capacity: 15-500, Price: $175-250, Best for: All-Hands Meetings
Standout Feature: Rooftop pool and live music events.

Best for Executive Retreats

Charleston: The Dewberry
Capacity: 10-300, Price: $250-350, Best for: Executive Retreats
Standout Feature: Rooftop terrace with views of the historic skyline.

Best for Small Groups

Nashville: The Graduate Nashville
Capacity: 10-100, Price: $150-225, Best for: Small Groups
Standout Feature: Unique Nashville decor and a rooftop bar.

Activity Recommendations

Nashville Activities

1. Live Music Tours

   • Time Needed: 3 hours
   • Group Size: Up to 50
   • Cost: $75/person
   • Energy Level: High
   • Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor/Outdoor
   • Skip if...: Your team prefers quieter environments.

2. Nashville Scavenger Hunt

   • Time Needed: 2 hours
   • Group Size: Up to 20
   • Cost: $50/person
   • Energy Level: Medium
   • Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
   • Skip if...: Team members dislike competitive activities.

Charleston Activities

1. Historic Walking Tours

   • Time Needed: 2 hours
   • Group Size: Up to 30
   • Cost: $40/person
   • Energy Level: Low
   • Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
   • Skip if...: Your team isn’t interested in history.

2. Beach Olympics at Wild Dunes

   • Time Needed: 3 hours
   • Group Size: Up to 50
   • Cost: $65/person
   • Energy Level: High
   • Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
   • Skip if...: Team members prefer sedentary activities.

Sample 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Welcome Dinner

• Morning: Arrive at venue.
• Afternoon: Team bonding activity (e.g., Live Music Tour).
• Evening: Welcome dinner at venue restaurant.

Day 2: Strategy Sessions & Team Activities

• Morning: Strategy session in the main meeting room.
• Afternoon: Breakout sessions with lunch.
• Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a night out.

Day 3: Wrap-Up & Departure

• Morning: Final team bonding activity (e.g., Historic Walking Tour).
• Afternoon: Wrap-up session and feedback.
• Evening: Depart.

Budget Breakdown for a Team of 20

| Category | Cost/Person | Total Cost (20) | Percentage of Total | |--------------------|-------------|------------------|---------------------| | Venue | $200 | $4,000 | 40% | | F&B | $100 | $2,000 | 20% | | Activities | $75 | $1,500 | 15% | | Travel | $75 | $1,500 | 15% | | Contingency | $25 | $500 | 5% | | Total | | $9,500 | 100% |

Conclusion

Both Nashville and Charleston offer unique experiences for a summer offsite in 2026. Your choice should depend on your team's preferences for activities, atmosphere, and venue types. To make the most of your planning, consider the specific venues and activities highlighted above.

Action Items:

• Assess your team's preferences and budget.
• Choose your city and venue.
• Book your location and activities at least 4 months in advance for the best rates.