Remember your purpose

Whether you’re planning for a big new product or just working on team building skills, you need to remember why you’re having this retreat. Tailor events so that they all help to build towards you ultimate goal.

Start getting your coworker’s attention before the retreat

Use the tools in your office to get coworkers involved in the retreat before the actual retreat date. Send out memos, post info on bulletin boards, and have conversations with people in your office to raise people’s curiosity and excitement.

Make sure everyone’s on the same page before the retreat

Everyone should know what the purpose of the retreat is. Spell it out as simple as possible so everyone can be prepared. You don’t want to show up and have people lose interest because they were expecting a different subject or environment,

Plan, plan, plan

Have the timing and schedule of your retreat down to a science. You don’t want everyone sitting around for an hour hungry and waiting on lunch. You also don’t want there to be any confusion of what will be happening when, so make sure to include a schedule and information package for everyone.

Eliminate distractions

Step one is to get out of the office. Often people will have a “head down and get work done” attitude while in the office. While that’s great it isn’t exactly ideal for a retreat environment. Choose a location that fits your purpose and doesn’t make everyone feel like it’s just another day in the office. As another step to avoid distractions get rid of the smartphones. Everyone needs to be focused, not checking their latest emails or text messaging. Sit aside the smartphones and you’ll be amazed at how much work gets done.

Don’t let one person dominate the retreat

While it’s great if you have a dynamic leader in your company it isn’t always great to let them take control of your retreat. Try to guide people to join in the conversation and have their voices heard.

Make sure your location works

Whether it’s a need for wifi access or cooking facilities it’s important that your location can accommodate all your needs. At Hidden Mountain we have several locations for such events. Wherever you choose to have your event make sure to make sure and clarify with the venue what will be included, what facilities are available, and information about all fees involved. The last thing you want after planning a great retreat is having to find a new venue because your original one won’t fit the plan.

Amenities include: Wireless Internet, gas fireplace, Foosball table, screened porch with porch swing, stainless steel gas grill, hot tub, 4 TV’s, 2 VCR’s, 1 DVD player, and access to a community swimming pool (Open Easter to October.)

Deer Farm Petting Zoo

The little ones will love getting out to see all the exciting animals at the Deer Farm Petting Zoo. Visitors have a chance to feed reindeer, emus, kangaroos, guanacos, and zebras! If just feeding the animals isn’t enough for you, they also offer pony and horse rides. This is a great chance to give your little one an up-close experience with some of these incredible animals.

Forbidden Caverns

If you’re looking for something to do in the Sevierville area with a little more history check out Forbidden Caverns. These caves under the Smoky Mountains have been used by Native Americans and moonshiners alike. You and your family can take a guided tour through the cavern and see the awesome stalactites and stalagmites highlighted by incredible lighting setups. You don’t have to worry about breaking a sweat though; the caverns stay a cool 58° all year long.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park covers 814 square miles and gives you the opportunity to see nature in all its glory. The park is 95% covered with forest including old growth forests with many trees predating European settlement of the area! You’re sure to get a good look at some of the local wildlife from the more than 200 species of birds to the 50 species of fish, and maybe even the famous black bear. Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers visitors the chance to see the park in a variety of ways, including hiking, bicycling, and horse back riding.

White Water Rafting

If you’re looking for a little more adventure in your next vacation then white water rafting is the ticket for you. The thrill of the rapids and the chill in the water are sure to thrill everyone along for the ride. While rafting can have some risks children as young as 3 can go on some white water rafting trips. After your first white water rafting excursion you’ll be ready to start planning your next one as soon as you get out of the raft!

Zip Lines

If white water rafting isn’t enough of a thrill ride for you (Or maybe you just don’t like getting wet!), a Smoky Mountain Zip Line Tour is just the thing to get your blood pumping! These tours give you the chance to see the Smokies like you’ve never seen them before. Zipping from platform to platform among the scenic Smokies at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour is sure to get your blood pumping!

From mild to wild we think we’ve given you some great choices, but we may have left your favorite off. Let us know your favorite area outdoor attraction in the comments!

Relax

Easier said than done, right? Just remember: you’re on vacation. This time is for you and your family. Don’t try to cram as many things as possible into a day; otherwise you’ll always be in a rush. Take your time and enjoy the sites, sleep in, turn off your cell phone (even if it’s for a few hours each day), take a dip in the ocean/lake/pool! Be on vacation — work and all the other stresses can wait until you get back home.

Listen to the Locals

Everywhere you go has local secrets! Keep your ears open for the places that local folks keep talking about. It might be the best barbecue in town or the most beautiful location to watch a sunset. You’ll be amazed at the places that aren’t in any visitor’s guide.

Try new things

Whether it’s zip-lining or trying sushi for the first time, a vacation is a great chance to have new experiences. You’ll be sure to have some great memories from all your vacations if you’re willing to try something new.

Slow down

If you’re the type who schedules everything down to the second: Stop! You’re taking the fun out of your vacation. I’m not saying to wander around aimlessly, but don’t have a strict schedule that you have to follow. It’s stressful to always be on the run to the next attraction, slow down and relax. If you feel the need for a schedule, make sure to build in some wiggle room. That way if you and your family find a place that is enjoyable, you have the freedom to take a little more time.

Ask for help

If you’re spending your time with us then feel free to ask us for help! We’ll be glad to suggest local attractions, the best restaurants, and help you out with anything else you might need. Remember you’re on vacation, make the most of it. We’re happy to help.

Have a vacation tip you want to share? Leave a comment!

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