Nashville vs. Savannah: The Ultimate Comparison for Southern Corporate Retreats (2026)

Planning a corporate retreat in the South? You're not alone. A recent survey revealed that 78% of companies believe offsite retreats significantly boost team morale and productivity. However, choosing the right destination can be a daunting task. In 2026, two standout cities for corporate retreats are Nashville, Tennessee, and Savannah, Georgia. Both offer vibrant cultures, unique venues, and a variety of activities, but they cater to different needs. Let’s dive into the specifics.

Why Choose Nashville or Savannah?

Nashville: The Music City

Nashville is renowned for its rich musical heritage and vibrant nightlife. Known as the "Music City," it's perfect for teams looking to blend work with entertainment. Spring and fall are the best seasons to visit, with mild weather and numerous local festivals.

Savannah: The Historic Gem

Savannah offers a charming Southern atmosphere with historic architecture and lush gardens. It's ideal for teams seeking a more relaxed environment. The best times to visit are late spring and early fall when the weather is pleasant, and the city is buzzing with activity.

Getting There

• Nashville: Nashville International Airport (BNA) is 20 minutes from downtown.
• Savannah: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is about 15 minutes from the Historic District.

Venue Comparison Table

| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | F&B Included | |--------------------------------|-------------------|----------------|---------------------|-------------------|------------------------------|--------------| | The Hermitage Hotel | Nashville, TN | 200 | $250 | Luxury Retreat | Historic hotel with spa | Yes | | The Music City Center | Nashville, TN | 1,000 | $175 | Large Conferences | State-of-the-art AV | No | | The Thompson Nashville | Nashville, TN | 150 | $225 | Modern Retreat | Rooftop bar with skyline view| Yes | | The Marshall House | Savannah, GA | 100 | $180 | Intimate Meetings | Historic charm | Yes | | Savannah Convention Center | Savannah, GA | 1,500 | $150 | Large Events | Flexible space | No | | The Desoto Hotel | Savannah, GA | 300 | $200 | Full-Service Retreat| Rooftop pool | Yes | | The Cotton Sail Hotel | Savannah, GA | 120 | $175 | Boutique Experience | Waterfront views | Yes |

Venue Groupings by Capacity

Best for Large Groups

• The Music City Center: Ideal for conferences and large gatherings.
• Savannah Convention Center: Perfect for expansive events.

Best for Small to Medium Teams

• The Hermitage Hotel: Great for luxury retreats.
• The Marshall House: Offers a unique historic experience.

Best for Modern Vibes

• The Thompson Nashville: Trendy accommodations with a rooftop view.
• The Desoto Hotel: Combines modern amenities with Southern charm.

Our Top Picks for Different Scenarios

1. Best for Luxury Retreat: The Hermitage Hotel, Nashville - $250/person/night
2. Best for Budget-Conscious Teams: Savannah Convention Center - $150/person/night
3. Best for Unique Experiences: The Cotton Sail Hotel, Savannah - $175/person/night

Sample 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Welcome

• 3:00 PM: Check-in at your chosen hotel
• 5:00 PM: Welcome reception at the hotel
• 7:00 PM: Dinner at a local restaurant (e.g., The Palm Nashville)

Day 2: Workshops and Activities

• 9:00 AM: Morning workshops at the venue
• 12:00 PM: Lunch catered by venue
• 1:30 PM: Team-building activity (e.g., scavenger hunt in Savannah)
• 6:00 PM: Dinner and live music at The Bluebird Cafe, Nashville

Day 3: Wrap-Up and Departure

• 9:00 AM: Final team meeting
• 11:00 AM: Checkout and optional city tour
• 2:00 PM: Depart for the airport

Budget Breakdown for a Typical Team of 15

| Category | Cost/Person | Total Cost (15) | Percentage Allocation | |------------------|-------------|------------------|-----------------------| | Venue | $200 | $3,000 | 40% | | F&B | $150 | $2,250 | 25% | | Activities | $100 | $1,500 | 15% | | Travel | $100 | $1,500 | 15% | | Contingency | $50 | $750 | 5% | | Total | $700 | $10,000 | 100% |

Conclusion: Making Your Decision

Both Nashville and Savannah offer unique advantages for corporate retreats in 2026. Nashville is perfect for teams looking for excitement and modern amenities, while Savannah provides a calm, historic backdrop that fosters creativity.

Action Items:

• Determine your team size and budget.
• Decide on the type of atmosphere you want (vibrant vs. relaxed).
• Explore venues and reach out for availability and quotes.