Sprouting this spring at hotels from coast to coast: new immersive group experiences spotlighting local artisans, culinary talent and design experts.
Following are a few of the options:
Hyatt Regency Lake Washington
Hyatt Regency Lake Washington at Seattle’s Southport has unveiled a new menu of curated group experiences designed to immerse guests in the culture and creativity of the Pacific Northwest. Through partnerships with local businesses and artisans, the hotel offers hands-on programming ranging from floral design workshops to interactive culinary classes and elevated wine tastings.
- Floral Creations
The hotel has partnered with local floral designer Athina Balahoutis of Athina’s Floral Studio to offer hands-on floral design workshops with step-by-step instruction to guide participants in creating professional arrangements, complete with a ceramic keepsake vase.
Groups can also opt for a “Create Your Own Bouquet” Floral Bar, a more social-style activation where guests design and wrap their own custom bouquets. - Italian Cooking Experience
In collaboration with Sketch of Italy, these immersive culinary classes are customizable based on group size and preferences, with options including full hands-on cooking classes, collaborative team cooking sessions and chef-led demonstration experiences.
A candle-making group experience. - Private Wine Tastings
The hotel has partnered with On Blended Knee, a premier Black-owned winery based in nearby Woodinville, to offer private wine tasting experiences for groups. Led by founders and wife-husband duo La’Rissa and Michael O’Dwyer, these tasting provide insight into the winery’s story, the unique terrain of Washington State and the artistry behind each blend. - Paint & Sip + Candle-Making Experiences
Seattle-based artist Jonarra Swanson, known for highly detailed works celebrating her African heritage, guides participants to create their own works of art.
Pair the experience with a candle-making session with Noir Lux Candle Bar, allowing groups to craft their own luxury candles selecting from a variety of fragrances.
Grand Hyatt Vail Resort & Spa
At Grand Hyatt Vail Resort & Spa, group travel is taking on a more immersive, hands-on approach this summer through Makoto, the resort’s refined Japanese dining concept from Chef Makoto Okuwa. The Sushi Rolling Class and Art of Sake tasting experiences are interactive culinary events designed to bring groups together in a more meaningful way.
- Sushi Rolling Class: Guided by expert chefs, guests learn the fundamentals of sushi-making—from rolling and slicing to presentation.
- Art of Sake: Features four unique sake styles—each hand-selected from different Japanese prefectures. Guests can enjoy 3-oz. pours as experts take you through the flavors, history, and craftsmanship behind each variety.
Whether corporate retreats, celebrations or friends traveling together, these experiences tap into a growing appetite for culturally driven, participatory programming for a memorable way to connect beyond traditional resort activities.
Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club
Book at this Cape Cod resort by July 31, 2026 and enjoy a complimentary beach bonfire, wine tasting and arrival experience your team is unlikely to forget. The offer includes:
- A private beach bonfire on Cape Cod Bay
- A curated wine tasting experience
- Seasonal mocktails + s’mores
- Optional hosted or cash bar
More information: Ocean Edge Meetings
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