In today’s fast-paced world, business travel no longer means a strict itinerary of meetings, conferences, and networking events. Enter "bleisure" travel—a blend of business and leisure—where professionals turn work trips into opportunities to explore, unwind, and experience new destinations.

The concept of mixing business with pleasure is nothing new, but its popularity has surged in recent years. A growing number of professionals are extending their business trips to include personal time, taking advantage of company-funded travel to explore new places without additional airfare expenses. According to recent studies, nearly 60% of business travelers now add leisure elements to their work trips—whether by arriving early, staying later, or squeezing in sightseeing between meetings.

With the lines between work and play increasingly blurred, destinations and hospitality providers are adapting to meet the needs of bleisure travelers.

Here’s what they’re looking for:

1. Seamless Workspaces

Reliable Wi-Fi, co-working spaces, and business-friendly accommodations are essential for today’s bleisure travelers. Hotels with comfortable work areas, business centers, and meeting rooms make it easier to balance work responsibilities while enjoying a destination. In Decatur, we recommend any of our great hotel partners: the Riverfront DoubleTree by Hilton, the Courtyard Marriott, or the brand-new Hampton Inn, set to open in April 2025.

2. Local Hot Spots

Travelers love discovering local hot spots because they offer an authentic, immersive experience beyond typical tourist attractions. Whether it’s a cozy café known for the best cold brews, a hidden hiking trail with breathtaking views, or a live music venue where locals gather, these gems provide a true taste of a destination’s culture, flavor, and personality.

We recommend trying The Mallard, Highpoint Market, and XEO Brewery for great local coffee. For nightlife, check out Josie’s, 609 Social Market, or The Little Cigar Shoppe. For a unique experience, visit the iconic Princess Theatre’s Listening Lounge or the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge.

3. Cultural & Recreational Experiences

Bleisure travelers seek authentic experiences, from exploring historical landmarks and museums to engaging in local food tours. Cities that offer unique cultural attractions and outdoor adventures tend to be more appealing to those looking to mix work with personal enrichment.

Decatur, Alabama, is home to the Cook Museum of Natural Science, which was voted #1 in USA Today's Best New Museum 2021—a must-see attraction.

4. Wellness & Relaxation Options

The stress of work travel can take a toll, so bleisure travelers often seek hotels with spa services, fitness centers, and wellness programs. Whether it’s a sunrise yoga session or a post-meeting massage, self-care is a key element of the bleisure experience.

For relaxation in Decatur, Shine Salon in Downtown Decatur is a 10/10 experience. One of the best scalp massages you will ever receive!

5. Family-Friendly Amenities

As remote work becomes more common, many professionals bring their families along on work trips. Destinations that offer family-friendly attractions, kid-friendly hotels, and activities for all ages are highly appealing.

For summer trips, bring the kids and experience Point Mallard Water Park, one of America’s first water parks. Or take a stroll through the Carnegie Visual Arts Center for a cultural escape.

For tourism boards, hoteliers, and local businesses, the rise of bleisure travel presents a prime opportunity. Offering packages that combine work-friendly accommodations with sightseeing options, promoting weekend getaways for business travelers, and partnering with companies to highlight extended-stay perks can all help attract this growing market.

Bleisure travel is reshaping the tourism landscape, blending productivity with relaxation in a way that benefits both travelers and destinations. As more professionals embrace this hybrid approach, destinations catering to bleisure travelers will continue to thrive.

Whether it’s a corporate retreat in a scenic location or a conference near a bucket-list attraction, the future of business travel is all about balance. So, next time you book a work trip, why not extend your stay and make the most of the journey?