Updated on July 7, 2021
Team building activities are a fun way to help employees get to know each other better. Looking for one that’ll boost your team’s communication and problem-solving skills? Check out these engaging and affordable ideas that can often be found close to home and are sure to build morale.
Armed with a mystery to unravel, find clues and solve puzzles with your small group locked in an enclosed room. The venue will provide your team with one to two hours to figure out how to unlock your escape room. If the time lapses and you still haven’t figured it out, the venue unlocks the door.
At Lancaster’s Escape Room, you can choose from themed rooms, including 50’s Diner and Ancient Greece. It’s perfect for team building because the activity is short, engaging, fun, and affordable. If you’re bringing a group of 12 or more, call ahead for reservations and special pricing.
Axe throwing originated in Canada, but Philadelphia is home to the first competitive axe throwing center in the U.S. Check out Bury the Hatchet located in South Philly. Bury the Hatchet caters to group events and can be fun for various ages.
Axe throwing is similar to throwing darts. The thrower hurls an axe down a short lane that’s walled on either side. Individuals and teams can play in tournaments to see how quickly the thrower can land a bullseye. You might even find that your team building event encourages a few new hobbyists.
Was it Mr. Plum in the ballroom with the candlestick? Gather your group and solve a caper together. Murder Mystery activities will emphasize the use of soft skills – like communication, critical thinking, and problem solving – in a fun, interactive way.
You can choose from different themes and have your coworkers involved in the crime as suspects. Find a company like Murder Mystery Co. in Pittsburgh that organizes the event for you, from costumes and props to pre-written roles and intricate storylines. Your team will feel like detectives as they work together to crack the case.
Have you ever been in a cave? If not, you’re in for a treat. Cave tours are great for all ages, and you and your team can take your time exploring or hire a guide for an in-depth tour.
For nearly 90 years, Lincoln Caverns & Whisper Rocks has been a top PA attraction, and group tours are available. There are miles of trails underground and above ground, and additional activities include panning for gemstones and viewing flora and fauna.
You won’t believe the otherworldly formations and bright colors. And if you go on a hot day, you’ll appreciate how cool it stays underground. Planning a winter team building event? Don’t worry – caves stay roughly the same temperature all year long.
If you want the party to come to you, then consider hiring a games expert to come to your property. This custom solution is ideal for all-sized groups – anywhere from 20 to 400. You can also tailor the activity to fit your budget, and it works for indoor or outdoor spaces. Your game consultant can design team and one-on-one competitions, perform emcee duties, arrange for a DJ or background music, give awards, and more.
TeamBonding is one such consultant that’s willing to create a fun event anywhere in the state, indoors or out. From Erie to Philadelphia, the options for team building gameplay are nearly limitless.
Cooking together is a great way to emphasize the importance of teamwork. Hands-on cooking classes, like those offered at The Kitchen Shoppe in Carlisle, can teach your team kitchen skills and how to work together to execute a multi-course meal. You’ll often be able to choose from a variety of menu choices and can put together options that meet everyone’s needs and dietary requirements.
Once your team has finished cooking, you’ll satisfy everyone’s taste buds by enjoying the meal you’ve created together.
What better way to grow a sense of shared responsibility than by spending quality time giving back to your community? You can accomplish your corporate social responsibility goals while boosting morale. And you don’t have to wait until the holiday season to get into the spirit of giving.
Bike building is one such activity. During this event, you and your colleagues will build bikes and donate them to a local charity. Offered by Professional Teambuilding & Leadership Development, you can choose the location and timing of your event, so no matter where you are in PA, you can participate.
Your next corporate retreat doesn’t have to feature trust falls or flow charts. Think outside the box instead, and you can return a sense of fun to your workplace – and maybe even see a new side of your colleagues.
Make sure to show your team you appreciate them outside of these special events, as well. Offering free benefits, such as credit union membership, can help your employees manage their money and feel less stressed every day. See how your workplace can become a Select Employee Group through PSECU.