Nashville vs Savannah for Your Next Team Retreat: Which City Wins?
Nashville vs Savannah for Your Next Team Retreat: Which City Wins? (2026)
As of February 2026, team offsites are more critical than ever, with studies showing that 70% of employees feel more engaged after a well-planned retreat. But choosing the right destination can be daunting, especially when weighing the vibrant music scene of Nashville against the historic charm of Savannah. This guide breaks down both cities to help you make an informed decision for your next team retreat.
Why Choose Nashville?
Nashville, known as Music City, offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality and vibrant culture. It’s easily accessible, with Nashville International Airport (BNA) just 10-15 minutes from downtown. The best times to visit are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and events are plentiful.
Venue Options in Nashville
| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | |---------------------------|------------------------|------------------|--------------------|--------------------|-----------------------------------| | Omni Nashville Hotel | Downtown Nashville | 1,500 (total) | $200-$300 | Large Groups | Rooftop pool with city views | | The Graduate Nashville | Midtown Nashville | 200 (meeting) | $150-$250 | Creative Retreats | Vintage college-themed decor | | The Hermitage Hotel | Downtown Nashville | 300 (banquet) | $250-$400 | Luxury Retreats | Historic architecture | | The Westin Nashville | Midtown Nashville | 350 (theater) | $175-$275 | Wellness Retreats | Full-service spa | | The Bell Tower | East Nashville | 125 (meeting) | $100-$200 | Small Teams | Unique industrial setting | | 21c Museum Hotel | Downtown Nashville | 200 (banquet) | $180-$300 | Art Lovers | Contemporary art installations | | Music City Center | Downtown Nashville | 2,000 (total) | $20-$50 (venue fee)| Conferences | State-of-the-art meeting space |
Why Choose Savannah?
Savannah captivates with its historic squares, moss-draped oaks, and rich Southern culture. With Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) just 20 minutes from downtown, it’s an easy destination to access. Ideal visiting times are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Venue Options in Savannah
| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | |---------------------------|------------------------|------------------|--------------------|--------------------|-----------------------------------| | The Kimpton Brice Hotel | Historic District | 200 (banquet) | $175-$275 | Boutique Retreats | Outdoor pool and garden | | The Westin Savannah Harbor| River Street | 600 (theater) | $200-$350 | Large Groups | Waterfront views | | Savannah Marriott Riverfront| River Street | 400 (banquet) | $150-$250 | Corporate Retreats | Rooftop terrace | | The Desoto Hotel | Downtown Savannah | 300 (theater) | $120-$220 | Business Meetings | Central location | | The Pirate's House | Historic District | 150 (banquet) | $100-$200 | Themed Events | Historic dining experience | | The Thompson Savannah | Riverfront | 200 (meeting) | $250-$400 | Luxury Retreats | Rooftop bar with skyline views | | Savannah Cultural Arts Center| Downtown Savannah | 500 (total) | $30-$60 (venue fee)| Arts and Culture | Flexible event space |
Nashville vs Savannah: Venue Comparison
| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | F&B Included | AV Quality | |---------------------------|------------------------|------------------|--------------------|--------------------|--------------|------------| | Omni Nashville Hotel | Downtown Nashville | 1,500 | $200-$300 | Large Groups | Yes | Excellent | | The Kimpton Brice Hotel | Historic District | 200 | $175-$275 | Boutique Retreats | Yes | Good | | The Hermitage Hotel | Downtown Nashville | 300 | $250-$400 | Luxury Retreats | Yes | Excellent | | The Westin Savannah Harbor| River Street | 600 | $200-$350 | Large Groups | Yes | Excellent | | 21c Museum Hotel | Downtown Nashville | 200 | $180-$300 | Art Lovers | Yes | Good | | The Westin Nashville | Midtown Nashville | 350 | $175-$275 | Wellness Retreats | Yes | Excellent | | The Desoto Hotel | Downtown Savannah | 300 | $120-$220 | Business Meetings | Yes | Good |
Top Activities in Nashville and Savannah
Nashville Activities
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Live Music Tour
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
- Group Size: Up to 30
- Cost: $50/person
- Energy Level: High
- Logistics: Book a local guide; venues provide transportation.
- Skip If: Your team prefers quieter activities.
-
Nashville Scavenger Hunt
- Time Required: 2 hours
- Group Size: 10-100
- Cost: $30/person
- Energy Level: Moderate
- Logistics: Self-guided; download app.
- Skip If: Team is not competitive.
Savannah Activities
-
Historic Walking Tour
- Time Required: 2 hours
- Group Size: Up to 20
- Cost: $25/person
- Energy Level: Low
- Logistics: Book with a local historian.
- Skip If: Team prefers active adventures.
-
Kayaking on the Savannah River
- Time Required: 3 hours
- Group Size: Up to 15
- Cost: $60/person
- Energy Level: High
- Logistics: Rent kayaks; guides available.
- Skip If: Team has mobility issues.
Sample 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Welcome Dinner
- Morning: Arrive and check into the hotel
- Afternoon: Team bonding activity (choose between Nashville music tour or Savannah walking tour)
- Evening: Welcome dinner at a local restaurant
Day 2: Team Meetings and Activities
- Morning: Strategic planning session (venue meeting space)
- Afternoon: Team-building activity (choose between scavenger hunt or kayaking)
- Evening: Free time to explore local nightlife
Day 3: Wrap-Up and Departure
- Morning: Final meeting to recap and set goals
- Afternoon: Depart for home
Budget Breakdown for a 10-Person Team Retreat
| Category | Cost Estimate | Percentage Allocation | |----------------------|-----------------------|-----------------------| | Venue | $2,500 | 40% | | Food & Beverage | $1,500 | 25% | | Activities | $750 | 15% | | Travel | $1,000 | 15% | | Contingency | $250 | 5% | | Total | $6,000 | 100% |
Conclusion
Choosing between Nashville and Savannah for your next team retreat depends on your team's culture and objectives. Nashville offers vibrant nightlife and a music-centric atmosphere, while Savannah provides a historic and relaxed setting.
Action Items:
- Decide on your team size and budget.
- Choose a city based on your team's preferences.
- Book your venue at least 4 months in advance to secure the best rates.
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