Nashville vs New Orleans: Which City is Ideal for Your Next Team Offsite?

As of January 2026, team offsites are more popular than ever, with 72% of companies reporting improved collaboration and morale after such events. However, choosing the right city for your offsite can be a daunting task, especially when comparing vibrant destinations like Nashville and New Orleans. Both cities offer unique experiences, venues, and activities that can enhance your team's bonding and productivity. This guide will break down the options available in each city, providing you with the data you need to make an informed decision.

Overview: Why Choose Nashville or New Orleans?

Nashville

Known as "Music City," Nashville is not just the heart of country music. It boasts a growing culinary scene, vibrant nightlife, and numerous outdoor activities. The best seasons for offsites are spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded.

Getting There: Nashville International Airport (BNA) is just 10-15 minutes from downtown, making it accessible for out-of-town attendees.

New Orleans

Famous for its rich history, jazz music, and unique Creole cuisine, New Orleans offers a distinct cultural experience. The best months for offsites are February through April and October through November, avoiding the heat and humidity of summer.

Getting There: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is about 30 minutes from the French Quarter, with ample shuttle services available.

Venue Options: Nashville and New Orleans

Nashville Venues

| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | |-----------------------------|---------------------|---------------|---------------------|-------------------------|----------------------------------| | The Westin Nashville | Downtown Nashville | 400 | $175-225 | Large teams | Rooftop bar with skyline views | | The Hermitage Hotel | Downtown Nashville | 300 | $200-250 | High-end retreats | Historic charm and elegance | | The Music City Center | Downtown Nashville | 2000 | $130-180 | Conferences | State-of-the-art AV technology | | The Graduate Nashville | Midtown Nashville | 250 | $150-200 | Creative teams | Unique, collegiate-inspired decor | | The Thompson Nashville | The Gulch | 150 | $180-230 | Boutique experiences | Stylish rooftop bar |

New Orleans Venues

| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | |-----------------------------|---------------------|---------------|---------------------|-------------------------|----------------------------------| | The Roosevelt New Orleans | French Quarter | 400 | $200-250 | Luxury events | Historic ballroom | | The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans| French Quarter | 300 | $250-300 | Executive retreats | Lavish spa services | | The New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center | Warehouse District | 5000 | $120-170 | Large conventions | Flexible space options | | The Ace Hotel New Orleans | Warehouse District | 200 | $150-200 | Creative teams | Rooftop pool and bar | | The Cannery | Mid-City | 400 | $100-150 | Unique events | Historic warehouse charm |

Venue Comparison Table

| Venue Name | City | Capacity | Price/Person | Best For | F&B Included | AV Quality | |-----------------------------|---------------|----------|---------------|-------------------------|--------------|----------------| | The Westin Nashville | Nashville | 400 | $175-225 | Large teams | Yes | High | | The Hermitage Hotel | Nashville | 300 | $200-250 | High-end retreats | Yes | Excellent | | The Music City Center | Nashville | 2000 | $130-180 | Conferences | Yes | State-of-the-art| | The Roosevelt New Orleans | New Orleans | 400 | $200-250 | Luxury events | Yes | High | | The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans| New Orleans | 300 | $250-300 | Executive retreats | Yes | Excellent | | The New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center | New Orleans | 5000 | $120-170 | Large conventions | Yes | High | | The Ace Hotel New Orleans | New Orleans | 200 | $150-200 | Creative teams | Yes | Good |

Activity Recommendations in Nashville and New Orleans

Nashville Activities

1. Live Music Crawl

   • Time Needed: 3 hours
   • Group Size: Up to 30
   • Cost: $50/person
   • Energy Level: High
   • Logistical Notes: Book a local guide.
   • Skip If: Your team prefers quieter settings.

2. Nashville Scavenger Hunt

   • Time Needed: 2 hours
   • Group Size: Up to 50
   • Cost: $30/person
   • Energy Level: Medium
   • Logistical Notes: Ensure smartphones are charged.
   • Skip If: The weather is inclement.

New Orleans Activities

1. Culinary Walking Tour

   • Time Needed: 3 hours
   • Group Size: Up to 20
   • Cost: $75/person
   • Energy Level: Low
   • Logistical Notes: Pre-book for large groups.
   • Skip If: Team members have dietary restrictions.

2. Jazz Riverboat Cruise

   • Time Needed: 2 hours
   • Group Size: Up to 150
   • Cost: $60/person
   • Energy Level: Medium
   • Logistical Notes: Reserve tickets in advance.
   • Skip If: Team members are prone to seasickness.

Sample 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Welcome

• Morning: Arrival at the airport, check-in at the venue.
• Afternoon: Welcome lunch at a local restaurant.
• Evening: Team-building activity (scavenger hunt or culinary tour).

Day 2: Workshops and Networking

• Morning: Workshops at the venue.
• Afternoon: Lunch followed by a guest speaker.
• Evening: Dinner and live music experience.

Day 3: Wrap-Up and Departure

• Morning: Final team meeting and feedback session.
• Afternoon: Lunch and check-out.
• Evening: Departure.

Budget Breakdown for a Typical Team Size (10 people)

| Category | Cost | Percentage | |-----------------------|---------------|------------| | Venue | $2,000 | 40% | | Food & Beverage | $1,250 | 25% | | Activities | $750 | 15% | | Travel | $750 | 15% | | Contingency | $250 | 5% | | Total | $5,000 | 100% |

Conclusion: Which City Should You Choose?

Both Nashville and New Orleans offer vibrant atmospheres, unique venues, and engaging activities that can enhance your team offsite. If you're looking for a creative, music-infused environment, Nashville may be your best bet. Conversely, if you want to immerse your team in rich culture and culinary delights, New Orleans is the way to go.

Action Items:

1. Determine your team's preferences and objectives.
2. Review the venue options and budget breakdown.
3. Choose your city and start planning your offsite!