11 Great Youth Retreat Ideas

Searching for a few meaningful, modern youth retreat ideas? We get it! At Peerspace, we offer you access to one-of-a-kind venues to help bring your events to life. In fact, we have thousands of stunning retreat spaces in cities across North America and beyond, all available to book by the hour.

Youth retreats are a great way for a high school class, church group, or scouting troop to spend time together in a meaningful way. It can be where they can take part in leadership exercises, discussion groups, games, and other fun youth retreat ideas. The event can focus on a particular theme or you can offer participants a variety of activities to take part in. Whether you’re planning an overnight retreat, a day trip, or a campout, check out these 11 great youth retreat ideas to get inspired.

1. Choose the right role models

Having a memorable guest speaker or facilitator is key to hosting a great youth retreat. After all, one of the appeals of going to a retreat is getting away from all of the usual pressures of life and learning from new role models and mentors.

One great way to get participants invested is to invite slightly older teenagers or young adults to lead discussion groups. Ideas that kids might roll their eyes at when they come from authority figures might be more welcomed when they come from peers they can relate to. Likewise, finding a local business leader, musical artist, or another successful figure to deliver a keynote speech can help set the tone. It can be a wonderful way to inspire your attendees, which is what the retreat is all about.

2. Rent a unique Peerspace venue

Finding a memorable venue to host your youth retreat is another good place to start. That way, you can design activities based on what’s available at your location. Peerspace has a range of venues suitable for youth retreats, from converted churches turned into event spaces, to rural retreat spaces in scenic natural settings.

You’ll also find plenty of spaces with game rooms, such as this retreat space with customizable options and a meeting room in Philadelphia, or this private bowling alley and lounge room in Seattle. Just search Peerspace for even more great youth retreat ideas in your area.

Plus, many Peerspace venues come with A/V gear, on-site kitchens, and even catering options, making it easy to plan an event. However, if you book a venue without the specific amenities you need, reach out to Peerspace’s Concierge service and have it delivered to you!

3. Enjoy a campout

Whether you’re planning an overnight event or a single-day retreat, having a campfire is a great way to bring your event to a close. If you live in L.A., you don’t even have to leave the city to make it happen, with spaces like this magical cabin in Echo Park (pictured above) available to host your activities. Or, rent this garden in Laguna Beach with a beautiful backyard firepit and 360-degree views of the canyon! Beautiful cabins and other outdoor retreats such as these are available in cities across the country, too.