Many are exhausted from video chatting and need the connection of getting things done together, in person.
The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs is observing the trend of being “zoom-ed out” firsthand as it hosts an increasing number of small corporate groups and associations drawn to the resort because of its ample space to spread out indoors and in the surrounding outdoor venues around the main campus.
“The 40 person and the smaller group has become our new normal,” said Pepper Dombroski, The Broadmoor’s director of sales.
Small groups are getting together (with social distancing) at the property. Many opt to modify the meetings and have continued with a select group of executives, curated teams or “inner circle” attendees to create hybrid meetings and bringing in other team members virtually.
The Broadmoor has a diversity of meeting space offerings from boardrooms to grand ballrooms and even wilderness properties including Emerald Valley Ranch, The Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing Camp, and Cloud Camp. These boutique venues have overnight lodging for groups between 20 and 60, are all-inclusive and offer a great escape for exploring ideas as big as the commanding scenery. Cloud Camp offers its own dedicated meeting space called The Overlook a 1,500 square foot room with floor to ceiling windows. Providing stunning views of Colorado Springs from the large deck, it is perfect for groups of ten to 60 people seeking a unique and memorable setting at 9,200 feet elevation.
Back down at the main hotel, The Gatsby-Esque Estate House is a 12,000 square foot home complete with croquet gardens and a library, while the rustic Fish House is an Adirondack style cabin located on the 6th hole of the historic East Golf Course. The phrase “there’s space for everything” truly fits at The Broadmoor.
But with more than 90 meeting rooms of assorted shapes and sizes, what was once specialized space to meet the needs of groups is now more space to spread out. From lawns, patios, balconies, the “hallways” are the outdoors, and guests enjoy the beautiful Colorado weather as they move throughout the resort. Some groups utilize the resorts recently completed 125,000 square foot Exhibit Center for private dining and meeting space. Individuals can be seated six feet apart, and the 32 breakout rooms ranging in size from 350 square feet to 650 square feet, can accommodate smaller gatherings without crowding.
“Because we have so much square footage, we’re able to spread out our groups that are here in person and make everyone feel more comfortable and socially distanced,” Dombroski explained.
Dining has also evolved in the current climate. Meals and breaks are meant for socializing. With the square footage of The Broadmoor, this is accomplished. Breakfast may be an organized event at one of our restaurants or breakout rooms or an individual venture such as a Lavazza coffee and housemade pastry from Cafe Julies. Lakeside seating offers the perfect spot to have a one-on-one meeting while enjoying the beauty of Cheyenne Mountain as the backdrop. Call it a “lunch on the go” as meeting attendees enjoy three and four-course bento boxed lunch. When the meeting breaks, boxes are distributed while observing all of the current guidelines. Because many meeting venues offer indoor and outdoor space, it’s not unusual to see attendees enjoying them on an outside patio or within the spacious meeting space. When it comes to dinners, both modified buffets and plated events are available. Social distancing is paramount for both options. Guests observe the six feet apart guidelines and the tables are set to adhere to the current parameters, which allows for interaction and networking in a safe environment.
Apart from the socially distant meetings, attendees are spending as much time outdoors taking advantage of The Broadmoor’s two championship golf courses, tennis and pickleball, and even ziplining (soaring above the resort’s stunning Seven Falls). Hiking has also been a popular choice this summer, from heart-pounding outings to more accessible, informational hikes with a naturalist. Mountain biking, both guided experiences and self-guided, and a bike rental only (gear is sanitized between use), has also seen an increased demand. Bulk rentals are available to accommodate groups interested in keeping attendees together while enjoying the outdoors. Corporate groups are also showing an increased interest in picnics, movies under the stars (complete with individual snack items and lawn seating), and outdoor team-building exercises via Broadmoor Outfitters.
The Broadmoor and its Wilderness Experiences encompass a total of 5,000 acres within the breathtaking Pikes Peak region. As the longest-running, consecutive recipient of both the Forbes Five-Star, AAA Five-Diamond awards, the main resort has 784 guest rooms and suites, two championship golf courses, an award-winning spa, unique retail and 20 diverse restaurants, cafes, and lounges. The Broadmoor’s unparalleled combination of an illustrious history of innovation and distinctive culture of service has made it one of the country’s premier event destinations for over 100 years.
Colorado Springs Airport, 15 minutes from The Broadmoor, is serviced by non-stop flights via Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier and United. With connections to worldwide destinations, Denver International Airport, 70 minutes north of Colorado Springs, is serviced by all major airlines. Regularly scheduled door-to-door shuttles from both airports is available through Gray Line.
Learn more about the Broadmoor by visiting broadmoor.com.
