Delaware may be the second smallest state in the country, but it’s big on flavor. From steamed crab and fresh-caught fish to farm-fresh ice cream and saltwater taffy, there is plenty to tempt the group’s collective palate throughout the state.

The trio of cities that make up the Triad region of North Carolina—Greensboro, High Point and Winston-Salem—welcome groups with a variety of after-hours attractions and activities, including everything from a pub crawl to an escape room to a great meal at a local restaurant.

Montana is home to a vast lineup of unique venues that host off-site gatherings. Billings features a historic railroad depot and an independent movie theater, while elsewhere in the state planners will find event spaces that range from a ranch to a science center or a music venue to an art gallery. 

Rather than winding down, attendees can get ready for action when the sun sets on Mississippi. It’s the perfect time of day to enliven a group agenda with any of the many outings that incorporate area arts, casinos, and great food and drink.

Following are six standout ideas in State College that will positively engage attendees outside the meeting room, including fun teambuilding activities, special event spaces for brainstorming sessions and picturesque receptions, and attractions that range from unique museums to a lively ballpark.

Arts experiences in Greater Springfield, Mass., and the Berkshires are positively popping off the page, from a museum showcasing the delightful works of Theodor Geisel, aka Dr. Seuss, to music venues that will have attendees singing the praises of the meeting long after it’s over.

Maryland was given the nickname “America in Miniature” because it’s blessed with diverse terrain and locales, from Chesapeake Bay to a portion of the Appalachian Trail and from small charming towns to major metro areas. America in Miniature also fits when considering Maryland’s grand array of off-site event venues that represent many of the country’s notable pastimes, including baseball, theater and fine dining. Throughout the state, groups with various interests will find a home away from the host hotel for memorable receptions, banquets and more. Following are eight great ideas.

Michael Drudy is executive director with Railway Systems Suppliers, Inc. in Jacksonville, Florida.

The list of great off-site venues for group events in Nebraska is as sprawling as its prairies and as high as its tallgrass. There are many interesting options to choose from throughout the state, including popular tourist attractions that have impressive meeting spaces, and equally impactful stand-alone venues. A world-class museum, a lakeside meeting hall and a furniture factory turned event venue are a few ideas in the following lineup of possibilities for planners to consider. 

Entertaining outings and team-bonding opportunities are available throughout Washington for groups interested in a fun evening away from the convention center or host hotel. Among the possibilities? Everything from escape rooms and group dining to laser tag, mixology classes and bioluminescent sea kayaking will positively punctuate a day of meetings in the Evergreen State.