Things to do in Atlanta

Corporate Events in Atlanta: Comprehensive Guide to Venues, Activities, and Catering

Ever wondered what makes corporate events in Atlanta stand out from the rest? From stunning venues to innovative themes, Atlanta offers a vibrant backdrop for any corporate gathering. In this text, we’ll investigate into why Atlanta is the go-to city for corporate events and share some insider tips to make your next event unforgettable.

One of the biggest challenges in planning a corporate event is finding the right location that balances accessibility, amenities, and wow factor. Atlanta checks all these boxes with its diverse range of venues, from sleek downtown hotels to unique spaces like the Georgia Aquarium. We’ll investigate these options and discuss how to choose the perfect spot for your needs.

What are the Best Venue Options for Corporate Events in Atlanta?

Southern Exchange Ballroom

Southern Exchange Ballroom stands out as a top venue for corporate events in Atlanta. Located downtown, this historic space offers a grand environment perfect for making a memorable impression. It features state-of-the-art AV equipment, making it ideal for presentations, conferences, and large meetings.

We can host up to 2,500 guests, ensuring it suits any large company gathering. The venue also offers in-house catering services, streamlining the planning process. If we're looking for elegance and functionality, Southern Exchange Ballroom is the way to go.

The Biltmore Ballrooms

The Biltmore Ballrooms provide an elegant setting for corporate events. These ballrooms, located in Midtown, boast stunning architecture and a rich history. They offer a range of spaces perfect for meetings, conferences, and social gatherings.

We can accommodate both small and large groups, as the venue features two grand ballrooms and several smaller meeting rooms. In-house catering and event planning services ensure every detail is covered. If we want a sophisticated and historic landmark in Atlanta, Biltmore Ballrooms is an excellent choice.

Atlanta Tech Village

Atlanta Tech Village is ideal for tech-savvy corporate events. Located in Buckhead, it provides a modern and innovative atmosphere tailored for tech companies. The space includes multiple meeting rooms, conference spaces, and even a rooftop area.

With high-speed internet and advanced tech amenities, it keeps our team connected and engaged. The venue also offers various catering options, making it a convenient choice. Atlanta Tech Village is perfect for companies looking to host tech-driven events in a dynamic setting.

Illuminarium

Illuminarium offers a unique experience for corporate events. Situated on the Atlanta BeltLine, this venue immerses guests in cutting-edge, interactive digital environments. It's perfect for creating unforgettable events with customized themes and visuals. The space can accommodate up to 1,200 guests, making it suitable for large groups.

Catering options are available, allowing us to plan seamless events. If we want to impress our attendees with a novel and immersive setting, Illuminarium is a top contender.

Georgia Aquarium

Georgia Aquarium provides a mesmerizing backdrop for corporate events. Located downtown, this venue offers a stunning underwater ambiance that is sure to engage guests. It features multiple event spaces, including a ballroom with views of aquatic life. We can host a range of events, from small meetings to large galas. The in-house catering services ensure a hassle-free planning experience.

For a truly unique event that combines business with marine beauty, Georgia Aquarium is an excellent pick.

Skyline Park

Skyline Park is a fun, outdoor venue perfect for informal corporate events. Perched atop Ponce City Market, it offers breathtaking views of the Atlanta skyline. The park features a variety of games and attractions, making it ideal for team-building activities and casual gatherings.

We can enjoy catering options that include everything from street food to gourmet meals. If we're looking to host a laid-back, interactive event with spectacular city views, Skyline Park is the place to be.

How to Choose the Right Venue for Your Corporate Event?

Choosing the ideal venue for your corporate event in Atlanta can be a game-changer. From layout to amenities, various factors should align to make it perfect and memorable.

Capacity and Layout

Capacity and layout play crucial roles in selecting the right space. We should start by calculating the number of attendees. A venue like the Southern Exchange Ballroom, which hosts up to 2,500 guests, fits large events perfectly.

For smaller groups, the Biltmore Ballrooms offer intimate settings with luxurious interiors. It’s essential to ensure the layout aligns with your event’s goals, whether it's a team-building exercise or a product launch. Flexible spaces like those at Atlanta Tech Village can adapt to different needs, making planning easier.

Accessibility and Parking

Accessibility and parking affect guest experience significantly. Look for venues in central locations with ample parking options. Downtown hotels often provide easy access and multiple transportation links. The Georgia Aquarium, for example, is centrally located with parking facilities nearby.

For a venue to be convenient, public transport and ride-sharing options should be readily available. Having valet services or designated parking areas simplifies logistics for your attendees, helping make your corporate event run smoothly.

On-site Amenities (AV, Catering, etc.)

On-site amenities are crucial for a seamless event. AV equipment, catering services, and Wi-Fi need to match your requirements. Venues like the Illuminarium offer state-of-the-art AV setups for immersive experiences. Catering options should also suit your guests’ preferences.

The Biltmore Ballrooms provide in-house catering, ensuring high-quality food and service. Additional amenities like breakout rooms and event staff add value and ease the organizational burden. Spaces offering these full-service packages, like the Atlanta Tech Village, provide a hassle-free planning experience.

What are the Most Engaging Team-Building Activities in Atlanta?

The Great Guac Off (Guacamole-Making Competition)

The Great Guac Off is a fun way to bond over tasty food while participating in a guacamole-making competition. Team members create their best guac, competing against each other for the top spot. This activity is perfect for groups looking to blend culinary creativity with some friendly rivalry. Held at various venues throughout the city, it provides an engaging experience guests won't forget.

Escape Rooms at Big Escape

Big Escape offers thrilling escape room experiences designed to test your team's problem-solving skills. Participants work together to uncover clues and solve puzzles to "escape" the room within a set time limit. This activity fosters communication and teamwork, making it ideal for corporate events. Different themed rooms cater to a variety of interests, ensuring a unique experience for everyone.

Goat Yoga at Red Wagon

Goat Yoga at Red Wagon offers an unusual and entertaining team-building experience. Participants practice yoga while friendly goats wander around, creating a relaxed and playful atmosphere. This activity reduces stress and fosters camaraderie among colleagues. It's perfect for groups looking to unwind and connect in a fun, unconventional setting.

Center for Puppetry Arts

The Center for Puppetry Arts provides a unique team-building experience through puppet-making workshops. Participants build and bring puppets to life, working together to design characters and create stories. This creative activity enhances collaboration and communication. It's a fun way to investigate the art of puppetry while fostering team spirit.

Civil Rights Tours

Civil Rights Tours offer an educational team-building experience, exploring Atlanta's rich history in the civil rights movement. Participants visit key historic sites, guided by knowledgeable experts who provide insights into significant events and figures. This tour fosters empathy and understanding, bringing teams closer as they reflect on important social issues.

What Catering Services Make Corporate Events in Atlanta Memorable?

King of Pops (Popsicle Carts)

Atlanta's King of Pops brings a unique twist to catering. Their popsicle carts add a fun and refreshing element to events, offering guests a variety of flavors like chocolate sea salt and raspberry lime. These carts fit perfectly in outdoor and indoor venues, making them a versatile choice.

They create memorable experiences by providing a cool treat that’s perfect for warm Atlanta days. King of Pops also supports local farmers by using fresh, high-quality ingredients, ensuring a delightful and sustainable choice for your next company event.

Tap Truck Atlanta (Mobile Bar)

A mobile bar in a vintage truck, Tap Truck Atlanta offers a range of beverages that enhance any corporate gathering. They provide beer, wine, and custom cocktails, all served from a beautifully restored vehicle.

This service is great for creating a relaxed and engaging atmosphere, whether hosting a conference or a casual team-building event. Tap Truck Atlanta handles all the details, including setup and takedown, making it a hassle-free option. Their flexibility and charm make them a popular choice for various business events across the city.

Wolfgang Puck Catering at Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium offers more than stunning aquatic views; it partners with Wolfgang Puck Catering to provide top-notch culinary services. Known globally for his innovative dishes, Wolfgang Puck delivers a wide variety of gourmet options tailored to your event.

This combination of world-class food and unique venue creates an unforgettable experience for guests. Suitable for large groups and private meetings alike, the Georgia Aquarium with Wolfgang Puck Catering ensures high standards in both dining and atmosphere. This partnership makes it a standout choice for corporate events.

Atlanta-based Food Trucks

Atlanta’s vibrant food truck scene adds flexibility and flavor to corporate events. Options range from Southern BBQ to international cuisines, allowing event planners to tailor the food selection to their audience.

Food trucks provide a casual yet exciting dining experience, perfect for outdoor gatherings or festival-style setups. They cater to both small and large groups, ensuring everyone finds something they enjoy. These mobile kitchens not only offer delicious meals but also contribute to a lively and interactive atmosphere.

Contacting local food trucks can transform a standard event into a culinary adventure.

Refuge Coffee Co. (Mobile Coffee)

Coffee lovers will appreciate the service from Refuge Coffee Co., a mobile coffee experience. Their trucks offer expertly crafted beverages, from espresso to cold brew, made by skilled baristas. This service is an excellent addition to morning meetings or as an afternoon pick-me-up for guests.

Refuge Coffee Co. also supports a meaningful cause by providing jobs and training for refugees, making your event not only enjoyable but also impactful. With high-quality coffee and a positive mission, Refuge Coffee Co. is a memorable choice for corporate event catering.

How to Plan a Successful Corporate Event in Atlanta?

Making a corporate event successful in Atlanta involves careful planning and attention to detail. Now, let's investigate into the key steps for ensuring a memorable experience.

Define Event Goals (Networking, Team Building, etc.)

Event goals guide our planning process. Determine what we want to achieve. Is it networking, team building, or showcasing a product? Networking events might focus on creating spaces perfect for conversation, like cocktail receptions at the Biltmore Ballrooms.

Team building activities could include group challenges at Big Escape or creative projects with Songblazers by Cirque du Soleil. Knowing our goals helps us decide on the perfect venue and activities that align with our objectives.

Establish a Budget Early

Budgeting early makes planning smoother. Calculate all expenses, including venue rental, catering services, entertainment, and decorations. In Atlanta, we can find venues ranging from high-end spots like the Southern Exchange Ballroom to more budget-friendly options like local parks.

Considering costs upfront allows us to allocate funds appropriately and ensure we don’t overspend. Whether planning a large company meeting or an intimate holiday party, having a clear budget helps us make the best decisions.

Set Timelines for Booking Venues and Vendors

Setting timelines is crucial for successful event execution. Book popular venues early, especially during peak seasons. Secure vendors like catering services, AV equipment providers, and entertainment in advance to avoid last-minute issues. For instance, if we're planning an event at the Georgia Aquarium, it's important to lock in Wolfgang Puck Catering ahead of time. Timely bookings give us ample room to coordinate all elements, ensuring a hassle-free event day.

What Are Some Pro Tips for Hosting Corporate Events in Atlanta?

Use of Magnetic Nametags

Nametags make networking easier and more engaging. Unlike traditional stickers, magnetic nametags avoid damage to clothing. They also ensure a professional look, which is especially important when hosting high-profile business events.

Using magnetic nametags can help attendees remember names, making conversations smoother. Nametags designed with the event’s logo or theme give a unified, polished appearance. For large groups, these little details contribute to a well-organized corporate event.

Creating Custom Swag Bags

Custom swag bags create a memorable experience for guests. Include items that reflect the event and the city, such as branded merchandise or locally sourced goodies like King of Pops treats. This ensures attendees leave with a lasting impression and practical items they'll use.

Choose unique, useful items that align with your company’s image to ensure the best impact. A well-thought-out swag bag can spark conversations and keep your brand in mind long after the event ends.

Incorporating Local Atlanta Music and Performers

Live entertainment makes events vibrant and engaging. Atlanta has a rich music scene, offering a range of genres from jazz to hip-hop. Hiring local performers supports the community and provides guests a taste of the city’s culture.

Acts like local bands or artists add an exciting element and make the event unique. Whether it's background music during dinner or a full-on performance, this addition can create an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

Providing Interactive Breakout Sessions

Interactive breakout sessions offer a break from traditional lectures and engage participants. Use these sessions for team-building activities, workshops, or creative problem-solving tasks.

Envision small group discussions or hands-activities to make the sessions more fun and effective. These sessions help attendees on connect on a deeper level and retain more information.

For example, using spaces like Atlanta Tech Village ensures access to various meeting rooms equipped with the latest technology, making planning and execution seamless.

More articles about