Whether you're bringing your remote teams together, building your company culture, or are just looking to inspire your team, here are our top reasons why you should host your next company retreat a short drive from the Big Apple in Upstate New York:
- Big Variety of Activities: From mountain biking to high-end shopping, Upstate New York has such a wide variety of activities to please your guests.
- Temperate Weather: From spring to fall, Upstate NY’s mild temperatures are ideal for outdoor activities and sports.
- Cool History: New York State is teeming with monuments, towns, and landmarks rich in US history, and is great for history buffs keen to learn about the area!
- Friendly Folks: People from Upstate NY are known to be a step friendlier than their big-city counterparts (we’re looking at you NYC!).
- Travel Friendly: Travel is important for a corporate retreat, and getting to Upstate NY is simple via NYC, Albany, or Buffalo.
Upstate New York is a vibrant and diverse region that stretches from the historic cities of Cooperstown or Albany, across to the scenic Hudson valley, down to the summer-favourite Finger Lakes or Catskill Mountains. It is a tapestry of rich history, stunning landscapes, iconic landmarks, and bustling urban centres. Venture over to Ellicotville for some action sports, and take in the stunning landscapes and panoramic views from the top of Mount Beacon.
Head north to catch Niagara Falls in Buffalo, or stop over in Ithaca, said to be the birthplace of the ice cream sundae. From the stunning foliage of the Adirondacks to the majestic beauty of the Thousand Islands, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes to explore. Perfect for both incentive travel and company retreats, Upstate NY is sure to have something for everyone. The serene environment of Upstate New York offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it an ideal location for relaxation and adventure. There are so many great reasons to host your next company retreat in Upstate New York, and here are our favourites
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The Wick
The Wick is a repurposed 1860's candle factory that has been lovingly restored into a contemporary boutique hotel located steps away from the Hudson River. With easy access to an array of restaurants, cafes and The Hudson Opera House. Perfect for incentive travel or smaller corporate retreats, The Wick offers something unique amidst the quaint town of Hudson.
- Number of Rooms: 55
- Number of Meeting Rooms: 1
- Hote Website Link
High Peaks Resort
Boasting an impressive location, on the shores of Mirror Lake, High Peaks Resort is a modern resort that offers the best of both world a quiet retreat as well as being only a short walk from the Main Street shops and restaurants. An ideal corporate retreat venue in Upstate NY, the resort also offers complimentary loaner kayaks and paddleboards, a fitness center, spa, 3 pools as well as a casual American restaurant, and cozy bar.
- Number of Rooms: 133
- Number of Meeting Rooms: 10
- Hotel Website Link
The Sagamore Resort
Perched on the edge of Lake George lies the historic Sagamore Resort occupying its very own 72-acre island. Built in 1883 the hotel has been lovingly reimagined to reflect the rich heritage and honor the Victorian architecture. With stunning views, a range of dining options and a list of activities to keep you busy from sunrise to sunset this resort has it all.
- Number of Rooms: 387
- Number of Meeting Rooms: 14
- Hotel Website Link
Accommodations and Amenities
Choosing the right venue for your corporate retreat is crucial to its success. Look for locations that offer a blend of comfort, functionality, and unique experiences. Ideal corporate retreat venues should provide:
- Comfortable and Spacious Meeting Spaces: Ensure there are well-equipped areas for presentations, workshops, and discussions.
- A Range of Accommodation Options: From cozy rooms to luxurious suites and private cottages, variety is key to catering to different preferences.
- Delicious and Varied Dining Options: On-site restaurants, catering services, and private dining rooms can enhance the culinary experience.
- Access to Outdoor Activities: Venues that offer hiking, biking, water sports, and other outdoor activities can add an adventurous element to the retreat.
- Relaxation and Wellness Amenities: Spas, pools, and fitness centers provide opportunities for relaxation and wellness.
- State-of-the-Art Technology and Audiovisual Equipment: Ensure the venue is equipped with the latest technology for seamless presentations and communications.
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Company Swag & Gifting
Upstate NY's serene landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for company retreats, fostering team cohesion through outdoor activities and shared experiences. Perfect for bringing fully remote company team members together for some face time. Whether it's navigating challenging ropes courses or bonding over campfire conversations, these retreats create lasting connections and enhance collaboration among team members.
Treetop Adventure Course
One of the best corporate retreat activities in Upstate NY. Take in the stunning mountains from the heights with this exhilarating treetop adventure. You will receive a safety briefing before getting strapped in to climb up zipping from tree to tree, overcoming obstacles, and taking in a slice of the rolling Eastern landscape and taking in the fragrant sugar maples and towering pines.
Guided Hiking Tour
Led by an expert local guide depart mid-morning for a hike into the beautiful mountains and through the peaceful Adirondack mountains. Tours can be customized based on the group's fitness level, spring water and trail snacks will be provided. Simply pack your hiking shoes and the rest will be taken care of.
Brewery Tour
Whether stopping at Ithaca Beer Co, or Big Slide Brewery in the stunning Lake Placid, a brewery tour is a great way to get the team mingling! See how beer is made, and enjoy local drinks, cocktails, and appetizers.
1. Plan in Advance - While this may seem like an obvious tip, ensuring you have your itinerary sorted well in advance is key. Unlike bigger cities, guests can’t just hop from one place to another easily, so having both the travel and agenda planned is important.
2. Research Your Towns - Upstate NY is home to many small towns, all with something different and unique to offer. Do your research in advance so you have an idea of where you want to go, and what you want to see!
3. Bring Comfy Shoes - We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: comfy shoes make all the difference!
4. Enjoy The Food - There are several 5-star restaurants in the area that serve farm-to-table food, and source fresh and local ingredients.
Just like any destination, it’s always safer to travel in groups. As most areas in Upstate NY are not overly populated, a bigger concern is nature-based! As most towns are within the Adirondack or Catskills mountain ranges, be aware of local wildlife. While most animals are non-threatening, keep yourself safe by respecting the boundaries, and not overstepping into animal territory. Make lots of noise when travelling through the mountains, and always make sure you tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back!
How to Plan a Successful Retreat
Planning a successful company retreat requires careful consideration and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you plan a successful retreat:
- Define Your Goals and Objectives: What do you want to achieve with your company retreat? Are you looking to improve team bonding, increase productivity, or simply provide a relaxing break for your employees? Having clear goals and objectives will help guide your planning decisions.
- Choose the Right Location: As mentioned earlier, the location of your retreat can make or break its success. Choose a location that offers the right amenities and atmosphere for your team.
- Plan Engaging Activities: Team-building activities are a crucial part of any company retreat. Plan activities that are engaging, fun, and relevant to your team’s interests. Whether it’s a ropes course, a cooking class, or a scavenger hunt, these activities can help strengthen team dynamics and foster collaboration.
- Provide Opportunities for Relaxation and Downtime: While team-building activities are important, it’s also essential to provide opportunities for relaxation and downtime. Consider offering spa treatments, yoga classes, or simply providing a quiet space for employees to unwind. This balance ensures that your team returns to work refreshed and recharged.
- Encourage Participation and Feedback: Encourage all employees to participate in activities and provide feedback throughout the retreat. This will help ensure that everyone feels included and valued, and it can provide valuable insights for future retreats.
By following these tips, you can plan a successful company retreat that meets your goals and objectives, fostering a stronger, more cohesive team.
Budgeting and Cost
Planning a corporate retreat involves careful budgeting to ensure a successful and cost-effective event. Here are some tips to help you manage your budget:
- Determine Your Budget and Stick to It: Establish a clear budget at the outset and make sure to adhere to it.
- Consider the Costs of Accommodations, Food, and Activities: Factor in all expenses, including lodging, meals, and planned activities.
- Look for Venues Offering All-Inclusive Packages or Discounts: Many venues provide packages that can simplify planning and reduce costs.
- Plan Ahead and Book in Advance: Early booking can help secure better rates and availability.
- Consider the ROI: Evaluate how the retreat will benefit your company in the long run, justifying the investment.
Timing and Scheduling
The timing and scheduling of your corporate retreat are critical to its success. Here are some tips to ensure a well-planned event:
- Choose a Date That Works for the Majority: Select a time that accommodates most of your team members’ schedules.
- Consider the Time of Year: Seasonal factors can impact the availability and suitability of activities and accommodations.
- Plan Ahead and Book Early: Secure your venue and activities well in advance to avoid last-minute changes and ensure availability.
- Create a Detailed Schedule: Outline a clear itinerary to keep the event organized and on track.
- Leave Downtime for Relaxation: Incorporate free time into the schedule to allow for relaxation and spontaneous activities.
By following these guidelines, you can plan a corporate retreat that not only meets your objectives but also provides a memorable and enriching experience for your team.
Not Sure Where to Start with Planning Your Retreat?
Check out Moniker's How to Plan a Retreat Guide - Filled with expert tips and tricks to ensure planning your next corporate retreat is a breeze!
- Budget Guidelines
- Agenda Templates
- Tips on Scoring Discounts
- Hotel Negotiation Tricks
- & More!
Why Moniker for Your Company Retreat?
Moniker is a leading provider of company retreats and team-building activities. With over a decade of experience, we have helped numerous companies plan and execute successful retreats that meet their goals and objectives.
Our team of experts will work with you to understand your needs and preferences, and provide personalized recommendations for your retreat. We offer a range of services, including venue selection, activity planning, and catering options. Whether you’re looking for a high-energy adventure or a peaceful escape, we have something for everyone.
At Moniker, we believe that company retreats are an essential part of building a strong and cohesive team. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing the highest level of service and support to ensure that your retreat is a success. Our retreats are designed to foster team building, creativity, and relaxation, providing a memorable and enriching experience for your team.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you plan an unforgettable company retreat.
Request a Complimentary Retreat Proposal
We'll provide you with an array of hand-selected destinations, potential team activities as well as the corresponding budgets and flights costs for each proposed location.
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