What to do on a Corporate Retreat in Traverse City, Michigan
In today's busy business world, time is valuable. Many companies turn to corporate retreats for relaxation and rejuvenation. But planning these experiences well takes skill and know-how.
Why Use a Corporate Retreat Planner?
Every successful retreat begins with meticulous planning. Organizing effective company retreats requires considerable deliberation and planning. The planning process will span months, drawing time away from regular duties. Coordinating a company retreat for a group of 20 or more individuals presents significant logistical challenges. Securing suitable meeting spaces and making reservations can be a daunting task in itself. Additionally, there's the intricate planning involved in arranging team-building activities to ensure they cater to the diverse needs and preferences of the participants. Moreover, preparing meeting rooms with the necessary technology adds another layer of complexity to the organizational process. Managing all of this requires careful attention to detail and strategic coordination to ensure the retreat runs smoothly and achieves its objectives.
Corporate Retreat Planner in Traverse City
Dashing Departure, a premier corporate retreat planner in Traverse City, crafts customized experiences that align with company objectives. From selecting accommodations to suit your group size to booking engaging team-building activities, we handle every detail with precision and care including things such as making large group dining reservations at the best restaurants in town, and booking transportation to safely get your group from one place to the other.
Why Choose Dashing Departure?
Dashing Departure has a passion for creating unforgettable vacation. They have 20 years of experience of planning vacations, events and experiences worldwide. On top of that they are local to Traverse City, meaning they have personally vetted every hotel, restaurant and activity in the area to ensure it’s the right fit for your group. Their expertise, professionalism, and dedication make them the ideal choice for companies seeking transformative corporate retreats.
What to do on a Corporate Retreat
Best Year Round Group Activities in Traverse City
Spa Day
Looking for a day of relaxation and rejuvenation? Reward your staff with a spa day at the beautiful Grand Traverse Resort. Their spa is one of the best in the area and has a full-service menu with massages, facials, wraps, nail care, and hair artistry. With a wide selection of services, your team is sure to find something perfect for them. Check out their spa menu here.
Winery, Brewery or Distillery Tour
Share a drink and a laugh with your team by embarking on a winery, brewery, or distillery tour. Traverse City is renowned for its exquisite vineyards and craft breweries, offering an array of locally produced wines, beers, and spirits. Check out our blog on the ultimate winery tour guide to learn more about spots we recommend. These tours provide a relaxed and social atmosphere, perfect for team bonding as you explore the scenic vineyards, learn about the brewing process, and enjoy tastings of award-winning beverages. This shared experience can foster camaraderie and spark creative conversations, making it an excellent choice for corporate retreats.
Candle Making
Unleash your team’s creativity with a candle-making workshop at Evil Queen. This hands-on activity allows participants to craft their own unique candles, choosing from a variety of scents, colors, and designs. Candle making is a relaxing and enjoyable experience that encourages creativity and mindfulness. Working together in a calm environment fosters collaboration and conversation, providing a soothing and memorable team-building activity that everyone can take a piece of home.
Rent Out The Movie Theater
Treat your team to a private movie screening by renting out a local theater like the Bayou by theBay or State Theater. Whether you choose a classic film, a recent blockbuster, or a motivational documentary, this activity offers a relaxed and enjoyable setting for team bonding. The shared experience of watching a movie together, complete with popcorn and refreshments, creates a sense of camaraderie and provides a welcome break from the usual routine. It's a simple yet effective way to bring your team together for some downtime.
Pottery Painting
Engage your team in a pottery-painting session at Handz on Art to unleash their artistic potential. Participants can pick ceramic pieces, colors and utensils and go to town on their piece. This hands-on activity promotes creativity, patience, and attention to detail. As team members work on their individual projects, they can share ideas and encourage each other, fostering a collaborative and supportive atmosphere. The finished pottery pieces serve as unique mementos of the experience, symbolizing teamwork and creativity.
Cooking Class
Enhance your team’s culinary skills with a cooking class at Chateau Chantal or Black Star Farms. Guided by professional chefs, participants can learn new recipes and cooking techniques, working together to prepare a delicious meal. Cooking classes encourage collaboration, communication, and problem-solving as team members coordinate their efforts in the kitchen. Afterward, enjoying the meal they’ve created together provides a satisfying sense of accomplishment and a delightful shared experience. This activity is not only fun and educational but also strengthens team bonds through the joy of cooking and dining together.
Bowling
Strike up some fun with a team bowling outing at Incredible Mo’s. Bowling is an inclusive and enjoyable activity suitable for all skill levels, making it perfect for team building. The friendly competition and lighthearted atmosphere encourage camaraderie and teamwork as colleagues cheer each other on and celebrate strikes and spares. The bowling alley offer food and drinks, creating a casual and social environment where team members can relax and bond over a shared experience.
Escape Room
Challenge your team’s problem-solving skills and foster collaboration with an escape room adventure at Alecatraz Escape Room. In this immersive activity, participants work together to solve puzzles and find clues to escape a themed room within a set time limit. The high-pressure environment encourages effective communication, teamwork, and creative thinking. Successfully escaping the room provides a sense of accomplishment and reinforces the importance of working together, making it a thrilling and rewarding team-building experience.
Concert at Interlochen
Treat your team to a cultural experience with a concert at the Interlochen Center for the Arts. This renowned venue hosts a variety of performances, from classical music and jazz to contemporary bands and solo artists. Attending a live concert together provides a shared cultural experience that can inspire and uplift the team. The captivating performances and beautiful setting create a memorable and enriching outing that encourages team bonding and a shared appreciation for the arts.
Comedy Show
Laughter is a great way to bring people together, so why not take your team to a comedy show? The Traverse City Comedy Club feature local and national comedians year round. A night of humor and entertainment provides a fun and light-hearted environment where team members can relax and enjoy each other’s company. Shared laughter breaks down barriers, boosts morale, and fosters a positive team dynamic, making it an ideal activity for a corporate retreat.
Best Summer and Fall Group Activities in Traverse City
Golf
Love a team sport to get the team bonding? Golfing at one of Grand Traverse Resorts (GTR) might be the perfect activity for you. With 3 beautiful courses, the Spruce, The Wolverine and the Bear, GTR can accommodate a team of any size. This makes for a great day of connecting in the sun.
Rent a Boat
Experience the beauty of Traverse City from the water with Nauti-Cat catamaran tours, Discovery Cruises or Traverse Tall Ship Co . Sailing on the clear blue waters of Grand Traverse Bay provides a refreshing break from the routine and a unique perspective of the area’s stunning coastline. These excursions can be customized for team-building activities, including collaborative tasks or simply enjoying the serene environment together. The tranquil setting and breathtaking views offer a perfect backdrop for strengthening team relationships and inspiring new ideas.
Day Trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes
Take your team on an adventure to the breathtaking Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This natural wonder offers various activities, from hiking the picturesque trails to climbing the towering dunes and enjoying panoramic views of Lake Michigan. Check out our blog to see what we recommend for your day trip to Glen Arbor. A day trip here encourages teamwork as employees support each other through the challenging climbs and explore the diverse landscapes together. The shared sense of accomplishment and the awe-inspiring surroundings make this an unforgettable team-building experience.
Day Trip to Leland
Explore the charming historic fishing village of Leland, known for its scenic beauty and unique shops. A day trip to Leland provides a delightful mix of leisure and exploration. Teams can stroll through the quaint Fishtown, visit local galleries, and enjoy fresh seafood. Check out our blog on the best things to do in Leland. This outing fosters a relaxed atmosphere where team members can bond over shared discoveries and conversations, making it a perfect low-key yet enriching group activity.
Ropes Course
Challenge your team with a thrilling ropes course adventure at Crystal Mountain. Ropes courses are designed to test physical strength, agility, and mental toughness while emphasizing the importance of teamwork and communication. Participants navigate various high and low obstacles, working together to overcome challenges and build trust. This activity not only boosts morale but also enhances problem-solving skills and strengthens the bond among team members, making it a fantastic choice for corporate retreats.
Putt Putt
Enjoy some light-hearted fun with a round of putt-putt golf at Pirate’s Cove. Mini golf is a great way to engage the team in a friendly competition, encouraging laughter and camaraderie. Traverse City offers several charming mini-golf courses with creative themes and obstacles. This activity is perfect for all skill levels, providing an inclusive environment where everyone can participate and bond over shared experiences. It's a simple yet effective way to bring the team together.
Kayak, Bike and Brew
Combine adventure, exercise, and local flavor with a unique kayak, bike, and brew tour in Traverse City. Start your day biking to explore the city’s charming streets, culminating in visits to some of Traverse City’s best local breweries. Next, paddle along the scenic Boardman Lake to your next brewery, taking in the natural beauty and tranquility of the water. This multi-faceted activity promotes teamwork, as participants coordinate their efforts on both water and land, and provides plenty of opportunities for bonding over shared challenges and successes. Enjoying a variety of craft beers together at the end of the day adds a fun and relaxing finish, making it an ideal team-building experience.
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Catch a Baseball Game with the Cherry Pit Spitters
Enjoy a fun and relaxed team outing by catching a Traverse City Pit Spitters baseball game . Watching a live game offers an exciting and entertaining atmosphere where team members can unwind and enjoy some quality time together. The casual setting is perfect for informal conversations and bonding over shared enthusiasm for the game. Plus, participating in traditional ballpark activities like cheering for the home team, enjoying snacks, and even partaking in fun promotions makes for a memorable and engaging team-building event.
Picnic on the Beach
Organize a relaxing picnic on one of Traverse City’s beautiful beaches. The scenic lakeside setting provides a peaceful and inviting environment for your team to enjoy a meal together. Pack a variety of delicious foods, spread out blankets, and let your team unwind and socialize in the fresh air. Beach games like frisbee, volleyball, or a simple walk along the shore can enhance the experience, promoting relaxation, conversation, and team bonding in a serene and picturesque location.
Group Yoga on the Beach or in the Vines
Enhance your team’s well-being with a group yoga session with Yen Yoga or Dharamasala on the beach or amidst the tranquil vines of a local vineyard. Practicing yoga together in a serene outdoor setting promotes relaxation, mindfulness, and physical health. A professional instructor can guide the session, catering to all levels of experience. This calming activity helps reduce stress and fosters a sense of unity and harmony among team members, making it an excellent choice for a corporate retreat.
Best Winter Group Activities in Traverse City
Skiing & Snowboarding
For a winter retreat, hit the slopes at one of Traverse City’s nearby ski resorts like Crystal Mountain or Shanty Creek. Skiing and snowboarding are exhilarating activities that promote physical fitness and a sense of adventure. Whether your team members are seasoned skiers or beginners, the slopes offer opportunities for learning and mastering new skills. Group lessons can be arranged, fostering teamwork as colleagues support each other in navigating the snowy terrain. The thrill of winter sports combined with the stunning winter landscape makes this a memorable team-building experience.
Winter Tubing
Experience the thrill of winter with a team tubing adventure at Mt. Holiday. Winter tubing is a fun and exhilarating activity that requires no special skills, making it perfect for everyone on your team. Traverse City offers various tubing hills where participants can race down snowy slopes on inflatable tubes. The shared excitement and laughter as team members zoom down the hill create a joyous atmosphere, encouraging bonding and camaraderie. This activity not only provides a break from the usual routine but also embraces the winter season in a delightful and memorable way.
Snowshoeing
Embrace the winter wonderland of Traverse City with a snowshoeing expedition like Vine to Wine Snowshow Tour. Snowshoeing is an accessible and enjoyable way to explore the snowy landscapes, offering a peaceful and invigorating experience. Traverse City boasts numerous trails that wind through picturesque forests and along scenic ridges. This activity encourages teamwork and communication as team members navigate the trails together, sharing the beauty of the winter scenery. It's a perfect way to promote physical fitness, fresh air, and a sense of adventure, making it an excellent choice for a winter corporate retreat.
Large Group Dining Spots in Traverse City
When it comes to dining with a large group during your corporate retreat in Traverse City, there are numerous venues that cater to your needs. Whether your team prefers a lively atmosphere with communal tables or a more private setting where you can rent out an entire room, the city offers a diverse array of options to suit any occasion. From casual eateries to fine dining establishments, Traverse City's culinary scene ensures that your group will find the perfect spot to relax, recharge, and enjoy delicious meals together. Here are some top recommendations for dining with large groups in Traverse City:
Restaurants for large groups:
Aerie
Filling Station
Poppycocks
Loco Boys
Pangea
Little Fleet
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Restaurants with room rentals
Red Ginger
The Parlour
Blue Tractor
Black Star
North Bar
Mission Proper
Mission Table
Brengman Brothers
Large Group Transportation
There are a variety of transportation options for large groups in town from SUVs, to sprinter vans, to buses to trolleys. Check out some of our top recommended vendors: