Atlanta is known for its southern charm and modern business landscape, so it’s no wonder it has become a go-to destination for corporate events. With its world-class convention centers, excellent dining and hotel options, and plenty to see and do, Atlanta offers everything event planners need to organize successful events that will have your attendees raving.Â
In fact, Atlanta was ranked the #4 Best City to Host Conventions by SmartAsset in a 2022 study that analyzed over 30 major US cities, thanks to its affordability, safety, and ease of transportation, among other factors. Â
Whether you’re planning an intimate company retreat or a large-scale convention or conference, this dynamic city offers plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories for your attendees. Read on for our favorite corporate event ideas to make the most of your event in Atlanta.
1. Bowl away at Bowlero Atlantic Station
Bowlero is not the bowling alley of your youth. Boasting 34 lanes of fun in a sleek, upscale atmosphere, this is a great spot for an off-site networking outing. Cheer each other on as you hit the lanes, mingle near the bar, or head to the arcade to play retro games like Pacman. The alley has landslide food services, and a variety of F&B packages to keep you attendees fueled while they compete. Â
Photo: Georgia Aquarium
2. Make a splash at the Georgia Aquarium
The expansive and stunning exhibits at the Georgia Aquarium will have any visitor feeling a childlike wonder, and they provide a beautiful backdrop for receptions, galas, awards dinners, conferences, and more.
The aquarium offers several ballrooms that can accommodate groups of various sizes, and boasts an impressive capacity of 5,000 people for a full buyout. Catering is managed by Wolfgang Puck Catering for an upscale dining experience. With event bookings, your group also will receive access to private viewing windows for exhibits where you can get up close and personal with marine life. Planners can add on full aquarium access to enhance the experience.Â
3. Rev your engines at K1 Go Kart Racing
K1 Indoor Go-Kart racing offers the perfect mix of friendly competition and fun. Attendees will mount up in K1’s fleet of electric go-karts (no noxious fumes!) and go head-to-head in timed races on the track to help their team earn points and clinch a spot on the podium, or enjoy other activities like a relay competition or a pit crew challenge.
And unlike most Go Kart spots, K1 is oriented towards corporate groups with private meeting rooms equipped with AV, catering packages, team-building packages and much more.Â
4. Hit the boardwalk at Skyline ParkÂ
Located atop Atlanta’s Ponce City Market, Skyline Park is a unique rooftop amusement park that provides a variety of activities for your attendees to enjoy, along with tons of flexible event space. Step right up to carnival games like skee ball or horse derby to earn prizes, play a few rounds of mini golf, or enjoy classic carnival treats on the Coney Island-inspired Boardwalk.
Skyline Park offers full-venue buyouts for up to 700 people. But there are also a variety of smaller meeting spaces to rent including the Rooftop Terrace and RFD Social, a flexible indoor meeting space that includes 2 conference rooms, a catering kitchen, and a bar with vintage parlour games.
5. Meet and stay at the Georgian Terrace
If you’re seeking a unique venue with overnight accommodations, the Georgian Terrace Hotel in Atlanta is an excellent choice. With its rich history dating back to 1911 and past guests including iconic figures such as F. Scott Fitzgerald and Walt Disney, the hotel exudes elegance and charm, and the opulent, Beaux Arts-inspired ballrooms and ample meeting spaces can accommodate groups of varying sizes.
In addition to its beautiful architecture, the hotel boasts a collection of artwork from Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) graduates and fine art photographers, thanks to a partnership with the college. The collection lines the walls of the hotel, transforming it into a gallery and adding a creative flair to any event hosted on property.Â
6. Explore the city on a CityHUNT scavenger hunt Â
Explore the city in teams as your group solves clues and completes photo or video challenges in various locations to earn points. Whether your group is from Atlanta or visiting from elsewhere, you’ll be sure to discover new parts of the city along the way. Plus, the scavenger hunt is fully customizable and you have the option to incorporate clues specific to your company or event for a truly unique challenge.Â
Photo: Atlanta Botanical Garden
7. Let experiences bloom at Atlanta Botanical GardenÂ
The Atlanta Botanical Garden is the perfect venue for planners looking for an out-of-the-box location for their next event.
The garden features a variety of indoor spaces including larger lecture halls and smaller breakout spaces that are great for conferences or meetings, or you can choose one of their outdoor venues, like the Fragrance Garden, Skyline Event Lawn, or Rose Garden, to take advantage of the beautiful grounds.Â
8. Enjoy a sweet treat with King of PopsÂ
King of Pops is a local Atlanta business offering popsicle pushcart rentals that make a perfect pairing for any event. The popsicles come in a variety of unique flavors like Candy Corn, Blueberry Lemonade, and Pina Colada, and are made with locally sourced, wholesome ingredients, making them a healthy and refreshing treat.
King of Pops prides itself on providing not just popsicles, but UMOHs (Unexpected Moments of Happiness), and when their popsicle carts arrive at your event, complete with their signature rainbow umbrellas and frosty treats, they’re sure to put a smile on attendees’ faces.Â
9. Enjoy a taste of the city with Food Tours AtlantaÂ
Atlanta is known for its Southern comfort food, and you can experience the flavors of Atlanta with a guided walking tour from Food Tours Atlanta. Choose from two options for the tour: the Modern Southern Food & History Tour in Inman Park or the Ponce City Market Food, Art, & History Experience. On either tour, your group will be accompanied by an experienced guide who will teach your group about the city’s rich history and culinary culture as they nibble their way through a variety of delicious tastings at local restaurants.Â
Planning a Corporate Event in Atlanta?
Are you feeling inspired to plan your Atlanta corporate event? Allow our experienced event planners to help you plan a fun and engaging experience that will create a lasting impression for your attendees, no matter the occasion.Â