Finding the perfect destination for your corporate group event can feel overwhelming. With so many options available, how do you choose a location that will deliver real results for your team whilst managing the complex logistics of group travel?
We spoke to Dave, President and Co-Founder of GoGather, a full-service corporate meeting and event agency, to get his insights on the destinations that consistently deliver exceptional experiences for business groups. With over 20 years of experience in the event management industry, Dave knows what it takes to create high-impact events that promote brand messages, business goals, and values.
Here are Dave’s recommendations for the best group travel destinations for corporate events. From hidden gems perfect for intimate retreats to powerhouse cities that can handle your largest events, here are the locations that should be on every corporate travel planner’s radar.
Hidden Gems: Tampa, Florida
Why Tampa is trending: According to Dave, this Gulf Coast city is quickly becoming a favourite for corporate groups seeking a fresh alternative to traditional business destinations. He explains that Tampa combines urban sophistication with waterfront charm, offering that perfect blend of productivity and relaxation.
What makes it work for groups: The JW Marriott Tampa Water Street serves as an ideal basecamp with modern luxury amenities and seamless group coordination. Your team can enjoy private dinner cruises on Tampa Bay, catch games across multiple professional sports venues, or explore the historic Ybor City district with its vibrant food and brewery scene.
The logistics advantage: Dave highlights one of Tampa’s biggest selling points: Tampa International Airport sits just 10-15 minutes from downtown—one of the quickest airport-to-venue commutes in the country. This means less travel stress and more time for what matters: your actual event.
Spring/Summer Escapes: Colorado Rockies
Why the mountains matter: Dave notes that when your team needs to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with each other, the Colorado Rockies provide an inspiring backdrop that naturally encourages collaboration and fresh thinking.
Group experiences that bond: Dave recommends The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch for mountain luxury with private group spaces, whilst the surrounding area provides guided hiking and mountain biking trails, fly fishing, whitewater rafting, and comprehensive wellness and spa retreats. He says these shared outdoor experiences create lasting memories and strengthen team dynamics.
Getting there: Groups can fly into Denver International Airport for a scenic two-hour transfer, or choose Eagle-Vail Airport for a quick 30-minute shuttle directly to the resort area.
Autumn/Winter Warmth: Marco Island, Florida
The winter escape solution: Dave explains why Marco Island works so well: when the rest of the country is dealing with cold weather, Marco Island offers warm, tropical conditions that energise teams and create an immediate sense of reward and relaxation.
Beach-based team building: The JW Marriott Marco Island provides expansive resort facilities with private beach event options. Your group can participate in custom beach Olympics, enjoy bonfire experiences, or take sunset catamaran excursions—activities that are impossible to replicate in a traditional conference room.
Travel considerations: Fort Myers Southwest International Airport (RSW) is 45 minutes away, while Miami and Fort Lauderdale airports offer additional options for international attendees with arranged group transfers.
Large Group Logistics: Dallas, Texas
Why Dallas handles big events: According to Dave, for conferences, large incentive trips, and major corporate gatherings, Dallas offers the infrastructure and variety that big groups require. The city’s central location makes it accessible from anywhere in the country.
Uniquely Texan experiences: The Gaylord Texan Resort provides extensive convention facilities with on-site activities, whilst the city offers professional sports across all major leagues, authentic experiences at the Fort Worth Stockyards, and diverse dining options from the historic West End to trendy Deep Ellum.
Seamless logistics: Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport is just 15 minutes away, with abundant motorcoach and group transport options that make moving large numbers of people straightforward and stress-free.
Luxury Incentives: French Polynesia
When extraordinary is required: Dave is passionate about this category, explaining that for executive retreats or high-value incentive trips where exclusivity matters, French Polynesia delivers experiences that participants will discuss for years to come.
Intimate luxury: The Brando, a sustainable private island resort with just 35 villas, creates an exclusive environment perfect for small, high-level groups. Activities include snorkelling, paddleboarding, eco-tours, Polynesian cultural experiences, and private chef dinners under the stars.
Worth the journey: Dave acknowledges the logistics, whilst reaching Tetiaroa requires flights to Papeete, Tahiti, followed by a private charter, the exclusivity and transformative experience justify the logistics for groups where impact matters more than convenience.
Urban Sophistication: Chicago, Illinois
The best of both worlds: Dave explains Chicago’s appeal: the city combines major-city sophistication with Midwest hospitality, offering world-class cultural attractions alongside excellent business infrastructure.
Culture meets business: Groups can enjoy river architecture tours, private events at The Art Institute or Soldier Field, and culinary adventures in Fulton Market or Michelin-starred establishments. Hotels like Loews Chicago, The Langham, and Fairmont Chicago provide excellent group facilities in the heart of the action.
Access and mobility: Two major airports (O’Hare and Midway) provide direct global access, whilst the city’s excellent public transport and walkable downtown loop make it easy for groups to navigate independently.
Dave’s Final Advice
Dave’s years of experience have taught him that the best group travel destination isn’t just about amenities. He says it’s about finding the location that aligns with your event’s objectives whilst handling the practical realities of group logistics. Consider your group size, seasonal preferences, budget parameters, and the type of experience you want to create.
Whether you’re seeking an intimate executive retreat, a large-scale team event, or a reward trip that truly motivates, Dave emphasises that the right destination becomes a strategic tool for achieving your corporate goals. The key is partnering with specialists who understand both the destinations and the unique requirements of corporate group travel.
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Authors
Dave Wagner
Dave, President & Co-Founder of GoGather, brings 20+ years' experience creating high-impact events that align with your brand and goals. He’ll act as your executive sponsor and support seamless event execution from start to finish.
Kim Meier
Highly experienced in delivering in-person and virtual events of all kinds, Kim brings a wealth of knowledge and understanding of the events world to Hire Space as the Head of Growth.
