Nashville vs Savannah: Which City is Better for Your Next Team Retreat? (2026)

Did you know that companies that invest in team retreats see a 25% increase in employee engagement? Planning the perfect corporate retreat can be a daunting task, especially when choosing between vibrant cities like Nashville and Savannah. Both cities offer unique experiences, venues, and activities that can elevate your team's motivation and cohesion. Let’s dive into the specifics to help you make an informed decision for your next offsite in 2026.

Overview: Why Choose Nashville or Savannah?

Nashville: The Music City Magic

• Best Seasons: Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November) for mild temperatures and vibrant events.
• Getting There: Nashville International Airport (BNA) is a 15-minute drive from downtown, with numerous direct flights available.

Savannah: The Southern Charm

• Best Seasons: Spring (March to May) when the gardens bloom and Fall (September to November) for pleasant weather.
• Getting There: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is about 20 minutes from the city center, with a variety of airlines servicing the route.

Venue Comparisons: Nashville vs. Savannah

Venue Options in Nashville

| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | |---------------------------|-------------------|------------------|---------------------|---------------------------|-------------------------------| | The Hermitage Hotel | Downtown Nashville | 300 (theater) | $200-275 | Large groups | Historic luxury | | Omni Nashville Hotel | Music City Center | 1,000 (theater) | $250-350 | Big conferences | Live music every night | | The Westin Nashville | Midtown | 400 (theater) | $225-300 | Creative workshops | Rooftop bar with skyline views| | The Bell Tower | East Nashville | 200 (theater) | $175-225 | Intimate gatherings | Unique architectural design | | The Music City Center | Downtown | 2,000 (theater) | $300-400 | Large conventions | State-of-the-art AV |

Venue Options in Savannah

| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | |---------------------------|-------------------|------------------|---------------------|---------------------------|-------------------------------| | The DeSoto Hotel | Historic District | 400 (theater) | $180-250 | Team-building activities | Rooftop pool | | Savannah International Trade & Convention Center | River Street | 1,500 (theater) | $200-300 | Large conferences | Waterfront views | | The Marshall House | Historic District | 200 (theater) | $150-225 | Smaller retreats | Historic charm | | Hyatt Regency Savannah | Riverfront | 600 (theater) | $220-300 | Networking events | Scenic river views | | The Alida Hotel | River Street | 250 (theater) | $200-275 | Creative workshops | Art-filled spaces |

Venue Comparison Table

| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | F&B Included | AV Quality | |---------------------------|--------------------|------------------|---------------------|---------------------------|--------------|------------| | The Hermitage Hotel | Downtown Nashville | 300 (theater) | $200-275 | Large groups | Yes | Excellent | | Omni Nashville Hotel | Music City Center | 1,000 (theater) | $250-350 | Big conferences | Yes | Excellent | | The DeSoto Hotel | Historic District | 400 (theater) | $180-250 | Team-building activities | Yes | Good | | Savannah International Trade & Convention Center | River Street | 1,500 (theater) | $200-300 | Large conferences | Yes | Excellent | | The Westin Nashville | Midtown | 400 (theater) | $225-300 | Creative workshops | Yes | Excellent | | The Marshall House | Historic District | 200 (theater) | $150-225 | Smaller retreats | Yes | Good |

Activity Recommendations

Nashville Activities

1. Live Music Experience

   • Time Needed: 3 hours
   • Group Size: Up to 100
   • Cost: $50/person
   • Energy Level: High
   • Logistical Notes: Book in advance for popular venues like The Bluebird Cafe.
   • Skip if: Your team prefers quieter settings.

2. Nashville Scavenger Hunt

   • Time Needed: 2-3 hours
   • Group Size: 10-200
   • Cost: $30/person
   • Energy Level: Medium
   • Logistical Notes: Customizable routes available.
   • Skip if: Team members dislike walking.

Savannah Activities

1. Ghost Tour

   • Time Needed: 2 hours
   • Group Size: Up to 20
   • Cost: $25/person
   • Energy Level: Low to Medium
   • Logistical Notes: Evening tours recommended for the best experience.
   • Skip if: Your team is sensitive to spooky themes.

2. Culinary Class

   • Time Needed: 3 hours
   • Group Size: Up to 15
   • Cost: $85/person
   • Energy Level: Medium
   • Logistical Notes: Reserve early for popular classes.
   • Skip if: Team members have dietary restrictions.

Sample 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Team Building

• Morning: Arrival at venue
• Afternoon: Icebreaker activities
• Evening: Welcome dinner at local restaurant (e.g., The Catbird Seat in Nashville)

Day 2: Workshops and Exploration

• Morning: Workshop session 1
• Afternoon: Group activity (e.g., scavenger hunt)
• Evening: Dinner and live music (e.g., The Grand Ole Opry in Nashville)

Day 3: Reflection and Departure

• Morning: Workshop session 2
• Afternoon: Team reflection and wrap-up
• Evening: Departure

Budget Breakdown for a Typical Team Size of 15

| Category | Cost Per Person | Total Cost | |--------------------------|-----------------|-------------| | Venue | $200 | $3,000 | | Food & Beverage | $100 | $1,500 | | Activities | $50 | $750 | | Travel | $150 | $2,250 | | Contingency (5%) | - | $500 | | Total | - | $8,000 |

Conclusion: Making Your Choice

Both Nashville and Savannah present compelling options for team retreats in 2026. Nashville excels with its energetic atmosphere and extensive venues suitable for large groups, while Savannah offers charm and intimate settings perfect for smaller teams.

Action Items:

1. Determine your team's size and budget.
2. Decide on preferred activities and venue types.
3. Book your chosen venue 4-6 months in advance for the best rates.