20 Unique Company Retreat Ideas in Philadelphia, PA

By: | Updated: May 02, 2024

You found our list of the best company retreat ideas in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Company retreat activities in Philadelphia are games, seminars, and events organized by corporations to increase employee cooperation, engagement, and respect. Examples include Treetop Quest, Reading Terminal Market, and Franklin Square. These activities help workers who collaborate closely to get to know one another outside work and learn to communicate more effectively.

These ideas can inspire company retreat venues and retreat activities for groups. These experiences are similar to Philadelphia company outings and fun things for groups to do in Philly.

This article includes:

  • corporate retreat ideas for big groups in Philadelphia
  • corporate retreat ideas for small groups in Philadelphia
  • company retreat entertainment ideas in Philadelphia
  • company retreat locations in Philadelphia
  • staff retreat activities in Philadelphia
  • team retreat ideas in Pennsylvania

Here we go!

List of company retreat activities in Philadelphia

The community spirit earned Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the nickname “The City of Brotherly Love,” which is palpable throughout this historic U.S. metropolis. With so many historical sites and modern attraction points, many locations for staff retreat activities in Philadelphia abounds.

1. Penn Museum

The museum has nothing to do with the city’s most famous son, William Penn. Instead, the Penn Museum focuses on the cultural insights and anthropological marvels that make up our world. The broad range of cultures and traditions portrayed one of the most intriguing company retreat locations in Philadelphia.

Extensive study and travel have culminated in a museum that vividly conveys the beauty of our planet. If you want to develop a deeper knowledge of the world, visiting the Penn Museum is a great place to start.

Learn more about Penn Museum.

2. The Art of Storytelling (Team Favorite)

Through our immersive experience, your team can unleash the power of storytelling to foster meaningful connections.

The Art of Storytelling includes the following:

  • 120 minutes with expert facilitators
  • valuable insights that enhance your team’s storytelling abilities
  • strategies to help participants engage audiences
  • the five elements of an engaging narrative
  • time for participants to hone their new skills
  • in-depth feedback from the hosts

We can lead this experience at any venue you choose, and we will bring all the needed supplies. By mastering the art of storytelling, your team will connect and inspire others through engaging narratives.

Learn more about The Art of Storytelling.

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3. The Great Guac Off™️ (Highly Rated)

The Great Guac Off is a thrilling team building experience featuring engaging icebreakers, mini-games, and a guacamole-making competition! Teams will boost their communication skills while having a great time.

Here is what to expect:

  • 90 minutes with an incredibly entertaining host
  • thoughtfully designed mini-games and avocado-based trivia
  • delicious guacamole ingredients and chips for dipping
  • an optional secret ingredient to shake up the recipes
  • a high-energy guacamole-making competition

To make planning simple, we will bring all the needed ingredients to the location of your choice. If you are looking for an experience that will improve teamwork and collaboration, then check out The Great Guac Off!

Learn more about The Great Guac Off.

4. The University of Pennsylvania’s Morris Arboretum

Morris Arboretum at the University of Pennsylvania is one of the greatest locations to visit for reconnecting with nature. This Philadelphia arboretum provides a deeper connection with plants. This arboretum has many interesting features, including the fernery, the Horticulture Center, and the Japanese Garden.

To get the most out of your visit, come prepared with a list of must-sees, or let the sights sweep you off your feet. Visitors can see and learn about plants at Penn’s Morris Arboretum.

Learn more about Morris Arboretum.

5. Franklin Institute

The best time to visit the Franklin Institute, one of Philadelphia’s finest museums, is at sunset. Each Science After Hours season has a unique theme, such as a speakeasy, a celebration of pride, and a wizard school. The events, demonstrations, and displays revolve around this central theme. The speakeasy event, for instance, included magic shows, cabaret acts, specialty cocktails, and displays detailing the era of Prohibition. Plus, fun costumes are part of the experience.

Learn more about Franklin Institute.

6. On the Goga

On the Goga offers workshops that mix yoga with other health routines to assist your team members to flourish, making for a more enjoyable company retreat. On the Goga emphasizes doable practices like “desk yoga” to maintain flexibility even when you do not have time to roll out the yoga mat.

In addition, the company provides culinary demonstrations, such as “DIY Overnight Oats,” that will teach you and your team how to prepare a quick and nutritious breakfast for the weekdays. If you prefer corporate retreat ideas for small groups in Philadelphia, then consider hosting a personalized event at your workplace or rented retreat location.

Learn more about On the Goga.

7. Full & Happy

Lack of motivation to cook at the end of the day is a common complaint among employees with full-time jobs. Therefore, the culinary lessons at Full & Happy are about more than simply having a good time with coworkers. A major focus is on providing guidance on how to make delicious, nutritious meals at home.

Each participant will receive hands-on instruction from a professional chef on preparing a seasonal dish using only the freshest local ingredients. Also, you will get a high-resolution picture album documenting your time in the kitchen, along with a recipe and shopping list. You may be confident that every team member will enjoy this team retreat activity and get tangible benefits.

Learn more about Full & Happy.

8. Treetop Quest

Many cities hardly have zip lines within their borders. However, Treetop Quest is in scenic Fairmount Park, just a 15-minute drive from the city center. With over 60 obstacles placed among the trees, your team can spend hours playing on the zip lines and ropes courses. This location has great corporate retreat ideas for big groups in Philadelphia, so you can request a tailored estimate to include a workshop and team-building activities in your event. This activity is a wonderful way to get away from the workplace without going too far out of town.

Learn more about Treetop Quest.

9. Thirsty Dice

When another round of drinks specials at the local bar does not suffice for your next company retreat, take the gang to Thirsty Dice. You and your team can play some of your favorite board games while enjoying tasty drinks and local beer. More than 800 board games are available at Thirsty Dice, the first board game café in the city. If you have a group of 12 people or more, you may reserve the whole shop for your party. You can play classics like Apples to Apples or more modern strategy games like Pandemic or Ticket to Ride.

Learn more about Thirsty Dice.

10. Libertee Grounds

At Libertee Grounds, you may experience a unique spin on a classic pastime. You can bring your team and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this mini golf course, which gives off a welcoming yet casual warehouse vibe. You can reserve an exclusive space for your company’s retreat. Alternatively, you can schedule activities for late afternoon and swing over for a game. After a game, you can enjoy the local beer and their excellent Pan-Asian foods. This option is one of the simplest team retreat ideas in Pennsylvania since not much preparation is needed.

Learn more about Libertee Grounds.

11. Science History Institute

Philadelphia, PA, is an amazing place for any science lover to spend time. Curious minds of all ages will find a wealth of resources at the Science History Institute. These displays include several one-of-a-kind items that many visitors will find exciting. The Scientific History Institute contributes to Philadelphia’s reputation as a city for thinkers since it is among the top ten science museums in the United States.

The Science History Institute emphasizes the significance of preserving scientific research, particularly in chemistry, the biological sciences, and chemical engineering.

The Science History Institute provides a wealth of information on how science as an endeavor evolves over time. Your group can visit the Science History Institute for the finest options in entertainment and education.

Learn more about Science History Institute.

12. Reading Terminal Market

Reading Terminal Market is a wonderful place for locals and visitors to mingle. Located in the heart of Philadelphia, this vast marketplace has served the city for over a century. Many sightseeing and shopping opportunities abound. At Reading Terminal Market, over a hundred different sellers offer their wares. The delicious cuisines at this Philadelphia market are not its only major highlights. You will also find books, arts & crafts supplies, and even garments. If you are looking for fun activities as a group, you should visit the market.

Learn more about Reading Terminal Market.

13. Franklin Square

Franklin Square is a fantastic spot for people of all ages to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. Established by William Penn himself, this location is among the city’s most popular tourist destinations. You will understand why the square gets so much reverence when you visit. This square is perfect for company retreat entertainment ideas in Philadelphia, with options like miniature golf and carousel rides. You also need to experience the wonder of Franklin Square up close. This destination has a brilliant design that many visitors find alluring.

Learn more about Franklin Square.

14. Philadelphia Museum of Art

When it comes to art museums, the Philadelphia Museum of Art ranks as one of the best. You will find hundreds of thousands of art collections, many of which are works from “masters of the craft.” This impressive Philadelphia Museum has works by such luminaries as Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, and Jasper Johns.

Even if you do not see the entire exhibit in one visit, the museum should still provide a comprehensive learning experience. The Philadelphia Museum of Art is a great institution deserving of its robust reputation.

Learn more about the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

15. The Oval

The Oval in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is one of the best locations to be on a sunny day. With the largest outdoor beer garden in the city, a 108-foot-tall movable Ferris wheel, and other family-friendly attractions, the possibilities for enjoyment are almost endless. The park and green space is located directly across from the Philadelphia Museum of Art and features exhibits honoring Philadelphia-area chefs, artists, musicians, and business owners.

If you visit The Oval, you may choose from various exciting activities, including playing the giant versions of traditional games like chess and checkers. In addition, the Oval is a great spot to relax and unwind with the rest of the team. Aside from the live musical performances, the venue also offers fitness activities, educational events, and movie nights.

Learn more about The Oval.

16. Adventure Aquarium

You can bask in the sight of amazing marine life and landscapes without needing a snorkel at Adventure Aquarium. Exploring Adventure Aquarium is an exciting experience. The marine animals here include sharks, penguins, eels, and octopi. Experiences like swimming with sharks and stingrays are among the unique interactions on offer. Although the aquarium is in Camden, New Jersey, it is close to downtown Philadelphia, making it a convenient stop for your team.

Learn more about Adventure Aquarium.

17. Elfreth’s Alley

Elfreth’s Alley is undoubtedly among the most historically significant neighborhoods in any American city. You and your team will experience what life was like for the pioneers of Philadelphia. Elfreth’s Alley is fascinating since it is one of the first residential streets in the United States and the first in Philadelphia.

The diversity of its residents contributed to the vitality of its culture. Elfreth’s Alley enabled Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to become the incredible metropolis that it remains. Exploring this neighborhood is one of the best ways to enjoy your time here. The significance of Elfreth’s Alley as a Philadelphia attraction is without dispute. This idea is excellent if your team is visiting Philadelphia for a company retreat.

Learn more about Elfreth’s Alley.

18. Talula’s Garden

Talula’s Garden is a unique restaurant in Philadelphia that offers its dishes with style and substance. If you seek a restaurant in Philadelphia that can reawaken your sense of taste, then you should eat in the garden. Talula’s Garden has a way of making visitors feel at home from the moment they step foot inside.

The menu will only serve to reinforce your suspicions. This Pennsylvania eatery’s menu changes with the seasons, but you can always bet on high-quality food. Enjoying a meal at Fond is like something out of a culinary fairytale. For your company retreat in Philadelphia, plan an unforgettable evening for your team by attending an event like a concert and enjoying the entire experience.

Learn more about Talula’s Garden.

19. Valley Forge National Historical Park

Valley Forge is famous as the location where American forces dealt with harsh winters during the Revolutionary War. Listed among the top historical sites in Pennsylvania, Valley Forge National Historical Park is a great retreat venue.

The park offers almost 30 miles of trails for hiking if your team craves physical activity. If you want to learn more about the history, then a park ranger can describe the ordeal George Washington and the Continental Army experienced. Visiting Valley Forge National Historical Park is one way to honor the soldier’s sacrifices and honor their memory.

Learn more about Valley Forge National Historical Park.

20. Split Rock Resort & Golf Club

Lake Harmony in the Pocono Mountains is home to Split Rock Resort & Golf Club, a beautiful retreat location that will help you and your team recharge. This location is about two hours from Philly and is a great option if you want to take a road trip. The conference rooms at Split Rock can accommodate anywhere from 15 people in a more intimate setting to 1,500 people for more significant events like expos, tradeshows, and summits.

Split Rock is an excellent option for companies organizing a retreat to strengthen the group dynamic, thanks to its extensive roster of team-building activities. Some group-oriented activities include culinary competitions overseen by the resort’s chefs, continuing fitness challenges, and inspirational art workshops.

Learn more about Split Rock Resort & Golf Club.

Conclusion

Philadelphia offers several company retreat locations. While a day at the bowling alley could be up one team’s alley, another group might find an afternoon at The Oval a perfect alternative. Corporate retreats help develop soft skills like communication, creativity, and problem-solving, as well as productivity, morale, and work satisfaction.

Next, check out Philadelphia team building activities and corporate events in Philly.

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FAQ: Company retreat ideas in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Here are frequently asked questions about company retreat ideas in Philadelphia.

What are some good corporate retreat ideas in Philadelphia?

Some good corporate retreat ideas in Philadelphia include visiting the Valley Forge National Historical Park to learn about history, booking a reservation at Fond to enjoy the incredible food, or exploring the exhibition at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

How do you hold a fun team retreat in Philadelphia?

The most important decision you will have to make about your company retreat is where in you want to visit. The effectiveness of your retreat is may depend in large part on the location and the activities. You could get more out of your trip if you visit a location that caters to your group’s specific demographics, interests, and requirements.

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Author:

People & Culture Director at teambuilding.com.
Grace is the Director of People & Culture at teambuilding.com. She studied Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell University, Information Science at East China Normal University and earned an MBA at Washington State University.

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