Beyond the Ordinary: Undiscovered Gems for Events in the USA, UK, and Germany
Have you ever been tasked with producing an event that needs to wow your audience? Whether it’s a high-stakes board meeting, an exclusive executive retreat, an incentive programme, or a dynamic sales conference, finding unique destinations and standout venues can make all the difference. Let’s go beyond the chain hotels and explore undiscovered towns and venues in the USA, UK, and Germany—all with local insights that inspire creativity and connection.
USA: Hidden Gems for Memorable Events
Local Insights: Cities Off the Beaten Path
- Asheville, North CarolinaTucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Ashevillecombines breathtaking natural beauty with a vibrant arts scene. It’s perfect for organisations seeking inspiration and tranquillity. Attendees can fly into Asheville Regional Airport, just 25 minutes from downtown. For those driving, the city is a two-hour journey from Charlotte and four hours from Atlanta, making it a scenic road trip option.
Hidden Food Gem: Don’t miss out on the iconic Tupelo Honey Café, a Southern dining experience offering locally sourced comfort food.
Wellness Tip: Incorporate a session at Shoji Spa and Retreat, offering Japanese-style hot tubs and forest bathing.
- Bend, OregonKnown for its outdoor adventure culture, Bendis an ideal spot for companies wanting to blend business with nature. Roberts Field (Redmond Airport) is just 25 minutes away, making it easily accessible by air. Bend is also a three-hour drive from Portland and a six-hour drive from Seattle, providing breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains along the way.
Hidden Food Gem: Explore Spork, a casual eatery blending global flavours with a sustainable ethos.
Wellness Tip: Encourage your team to unwind with yoga or paddleboarding at the serene Deschutes River.
Standout Venues
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., Asheville Host an intimate corporate dinner or a larger reception in one of its rustic-chic event spaces. The brewery’s commitment to sustainability aligns with eco-conscious brands. As an event management company USA professionals rely on, this venue is a top choice for creative and eco-friendly events.
Brasada Ranch, Bend This upscale resort offers panoramic views, luxurious meeting spaces, and a wide array of outdoor activities—perfect for incentive programmes or leadership retreats. It’s a favourite among event planners in the USA who value nature-inspired elegance.
UK: Unveiling Characterful Event Locations
Local Insights: Unique Destinations
- Edinburgh, ScotlandWhile Edinburgh itself is well-known, nearby gems like South Queensferryoften go overlooked. This historic town boasts cobblestone streets, views of the Forth Rail Bridge, and waterfront venues perfect for smaller gatherings. Edinburgh Airport is only 15 minutes away, and frequent rail services connect the town to Edinburgh city centre in under 20 minutes.
Hidden Food Gem: Enjoy freshly caught seafood at The Boathouse, a cosy waterfront restaurant.
Wellness Tip: Treat attendees to a guided nature walk along the John Muir Way.
- Hebden Bridge, EnglandNestled in West Yorkshire, Hebden Bridgeis an artistic town with quirky charm. Leeds Bradford Airport is under an hour’s drive, and the town is well-connected by train, with direct routes from Manchester and Leeds.
Hidden Food Gem: Savour handmade pies at The Stubbing Wharf, a historic pub by the canal.
Wellness Tip: Arrange a yoga session at Hebden Therapy Centre to energise your team.
Standout Venues
Hopetoun House, South Queensferry This stately home offers grandeur and versatility, from intimate meeting rooms to large-scale banquet halls. Its manicured gardens provide a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities. Recognised by leading events agencies in the UK, it’s an ideal location for prestigious gatherings.
The Birchcliffe Centre, Hebden Bridge A converted chapel with stunning architecture, this venue is ideal for creative workshops or intimate conferences. Its eco-friendly credentials will resonate with sustainably-minded brands. If you’re seeking a trusted event agency UK teams can count on, this venue ensures impactful results.
Germany: A Blend of Heritage and Modernity
Local Insights: Undiscovered Cities
- LübeckKnown as the “City of Seven Spires,” Lübeckoffers a mix of historical charm and modern amenities. Hamburg Airport is an hour’s drive away, and the city is easily accessible by train, with direct connections from Berlin and Hamburg.
Hidden Food Gem: Sample marzipan treats at Café Niederegger, a local institution.
Wellness Tip: Schedule a relaxing boat tour along the Trave River to unwind.
- Freiburg im BreisgauSituated on the edge of the Black Forest, Freiburgis a dream location for eco-conscious gatherings. Basel-Mulhouse Airport is just 45 minutes away, and the city’s efficient tram system makes getting around effortless. Direct trains connect Freiburg to major cities like Frankfurt and Zurich.
Hidden Food Gem: Try regional wines and hearty German fare at Hausbrauerei Feierling.
Wellness Tip: Include a hike in the Black Forest or a visit to the city’s thermal baths for relaxation.
Standout Venues
Radisson Blu Senator Hotel, Lübeck This waterfront property blends contemporary design with historical charm, offering versatile event spaces with stunning views of the Trave River. It’s a favourite for venue sourcing Berlin and beyond.
Konzerthaus Freiburg Known for its modern architecture and state-of-the-art facilities, this venue is ideal for large-scale conferences or cultural events. For an event planner Germany trusts, it’s an excellent choice.
Spotlight: Lake Tegernsee, Germany
Nestled just 55 minutes from Munich Airport, Lake Tegernsee is a haven of tranquillity and luxury. It’s an idyllic choice for leadership retreats or corporate offsites. The DMC Lake Tegernsee ensures seamless event coordination in this picturesque region. The area is accessible by direct train from Munich, or attendees can enjoy a scenic drive through Bavaria’s lush landscapes.
Standout Venue: Bachmair Weissach Resort
This resort blends Alpine elegance with contemporary amenities, offering a range of spaces for events—from intimate strategy meetings to gala dinners. Its wellness offerings, including a Japanese onsen spa and yoga sessions, make it a rejuvenating escape.
Hidden Food Gem: Enjoy refined Bavarian cuisine at the resort’s MIZU Sushi Bar.
Wellness Tip: Incorporate mindfulness workshops or forest walks around the lake for a holistic experience.
Thought Leadership: Why Unique Locations Matter
In today’s competitive business environment, the success of your event often hinges on the experience you create. Choosing a destination that’s unexpected yet thoughtfully curated not only surprises and delights attendees but also fosters deeper connections. As event professionals, we must challenge the status quo and embrace the potential of these hidden gems. By sourcing venues that reflect the character of a locale—rather than defaulting to generic options—we can elevate the entire event experience.
Over to You
Are you ready to break free from the ordinary? Whether you’re planning in the USA, UK, or Germany, the right destination can transform your event from routine to remarkable. What challenges do you face when sourcing unique venues or destinations? Share your experiences or aspirations, and let’s explore how we can redefine your next event together. Let’s start the conversation! Reach out to discuss how we can help you craft an unforgettable experience.
Email us at info@thedmccollective.com to get started.
📍 Visit us at International Confex 2025, Stand EN5. Book now a meeting with our team.
Let’s make 2025 the year of impactful, value-driven events. What resolutions are you setting to elevate your events this year? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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