20 Top Team Building Activities for Workplaces in Chicago

Feeling stuck in a rut of boring meetings in Chicago? Break free from the boredom! It is time to spark that creativity and uplift your team with fun team-building activities in Chicago designed to bring your crew closer.

As we all know, developing a cohesive team is about creating a space for connection and shared adventures. Hence, group activities in Chicago offer the perfect solution to this.

So be ready to unlock those hidden talents, build trust within the team, and boost your productivity — all while exploring the Windy City in a new light!

Planning a team-building event in Chicago? Let us help you make it exceptional! Book a demo to see our customized and engaging team-building experiences in action.

1. Escape Rooms

Do you think your team can crack the code under pressure? Put their teamwork and problem-solving skills to the test with a heart-pounding escape room challenge!

Here is the challenge: Within a set time limit, your team must work together to decipher hidden messages, manipulate objects, and uncover cryptic clues. These clues will ultimately lead you to the key and — hopefully — freedom!

Consider escape rooms like Escape The City Box – Chicago Fulton Market. This exciting activity turns Fulton Market into an outdoor escape room, complete with clues and puzzles that test your teamwork skills while providing a fun experience. 

There is more to escape rooms than meets the eye. Let us explore the benefits.

• Teamwork: Communication and collaboration are crucial for deciphering clues and solving puzzles as the clock ticks down.
• Logic and Problem-Solving: Your team must think critically, analyze situations, and approach challenges creatively.
• Team Bonding and Camaraderie: The shared experience of working jointly towards a common goal fosters a sense of accomplishment and strengthens team bonds.

Can’t make it to Chicago? No problem! We offer virtual escape room experiences that capture the same collaborative thrill.

2. Scavenger Hunt

This is not your average worksheet hunt. The scavenger hunt is tailored to your specific needs, whether you want to do the following.

• Explore Iconic Landmarks: Navigate to Millennium Park, snap a pic with Cloud Gate (“The Bean”), and learn about its unique design.
• Unearth Hidden Gems: Seek out quirky museums, historic architecture, or vibrant street art in Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods.
• Incorporate Team Goals: Craft clues that subtly weave in your team’s current projects or strategic objectives, adding a layer of meaningful challenges.

A Chicago scavenger hunt is not just about finding hidden treasures. Here are the benefits that await you on your adventure.

• Boosting Communication: Deciphering cryptic clues together fosters open communication and active listening.
• Sharpening Problem-Solving Skills: Working collaboratively to overcome challenges strengthens critical thinking and creative problem-solving.
• Building Stronger Teams: The shared experience of navigating the city and achieving goals as a unit builds confidence, camaraderie, and a sense of accomplishment.

So, prepare for a scavenger quest and discover a new side of Chicago while building a stronger, more cohesive team.

3. Kayaking on the Chicago River

Challenge your team and experience Chicago like never before with a kayaking adventure on the scenic Chicago River!

This fun team-building activity will have your team paddling through the heart of the city’s downtown core, navigating urban waterways surrounded by iconic skyscrapers.

For an optimal kayaking experience, partner with a reputable local kayaking outfitter. Look for companies online and search “team building activities Chicago.”

Check if the company offers corporate packages specifically designed for team building. For you to have an idea, these packages typically include the following.

• High-quality kayaks and paddles
• Life jackets and safety briefings
• Knowledgeable and engaging guides

Kayaking on the Chicago River offers a powerful combination of team building and rejuvenation. The collaborative effort of navigating the water strengthens communication and problem-solving skills.

Meanwhile, the physical activity and fresh air provide a welcome break from the office routine, leaving your team feeling energized, bonded, and ready to tackle any challenge!

4. Urban Orienteering

Turn the bustling streets of Chicago into your team’s adventure course with a thrilling urban orienteering challenge!

This fun team-building activity goes beyond sightseeing, turning Chicago into an interactive puzzle waiting to be solved. Here is how it works.

• Your team will be equipped with specialized, high-resolution maps of a designated urban area.
• Cryptic clues will guide them towards various hidden checkpoints scattered around the city.
• Your team deciphers the clues and uncovers Chicago’s iconic and lesser-known landmarks.

This challenge is not just about following directions! You can expect intriguing puzzles and brain teasers while racing against the clock.

To maximize your team-building experience, partner with a professional event company specializing in urban orienteering. These experts tailor the challenge to your team’s size, skill level, and desired difficulty.

Urban orienteering is more than just a fun activity; it is a powerful team-building tool that boosts problem-solving skills, enhances communication, and strengthens bonds.

5. Cooking Classes

Turn up the heat on team building with an engaging cooking class! This activity is a recipe for nurturing friendships and collaboration in a fun and dynamic environment. Here is what is in store for you.

• Expert chefs as your guides
• Side-by-side collaboration
• Laughter, shared experiences, and a delicious meal

Cooking schools and event venues across Chicago offer team-building cooking classes designed for corporate groups. Some classes cater to vegetarian, vegan, or other dietary restrictions to ensure an inclusive team-building experience.

Cooking classes offer a unique blend of team-building benefits. They enhance communication, collaboration, problem-solving, critical thinking, and uncover hidden talents.

6. Food Tours

Unite your team and tantalize your taste buds with guided walking food tours in Chicago. These culinary team-building activities are not just about the food (though that is a big perk!); they offer a unique way to experience the following.

• Discover Chicago’s Vibrant Food Scene: Explore iconic neighborhoods like West Loop or Chinatown, venturing beyond tourist traps to hidden gems locals favor.
• Savor Diverse Flavors: Sample a variety of ethnic specialties, from classic deep-dish pizza to authentic Vietnamese Pho.
• Learn Fascinating Food History: Expert guides will share insightful stories about Chicago’s rich culinary heritage and the cultural influences that shaped it.

Many companies offer tours designed for corporate groups, allowing you to focus on a particular cuisine or trendy district to create a customized culinary journey.

Food tours are a win-win for any group. Here is why.

• They provide a fun and memorable team-building activity.
• They foster a sense of connection and shared adventure.
• And, of course, they offer a chance to indulge in delicious food worldwide!

7. Deep Dish Pizza Making Class

Deep-dish pizza is synonymous with Chicago. And what better way than to treat your team and get hands-on with a deep-dish pizza-making class?

This team-building activity goes beyond just a meal; it is a journey into the heart of Chicago’s culinary heritage. Working together, your colleagues will learn to do the following.

• Master Dough Preparation Techniques: Kneading, proofing, and shaping the perfect deep-dish crust.
• Craft a Flavorful Sauce: Learn the art of balancing sweetness and acidity for a delicious base.
• Layer with Precision: Discover the secrets to creating an even distribution of cheese and toppings.

Add some of these friendly competition ideas to make it a truly memorable team-building experience.

• Host a pizza-making competition
• Award prizes for best crust, sauce, or overall pizza

Deep-dish pizza-making classes are a rewarding way to promote team confidence, maintain communication, and create lasting memories that your team will talk about for years to come.

8. Improv Workshops

Improv workshops are interactive sessions that are disguised as fun and engaging games. The following is a breakdown of what you can expect in this activity.

• Hilariously Unexpected Exercises: Facilitators guide you through exercises designed to spark spontaneous responses. These exercises include “Yes, And…” prompts, freeze frames, and off-the-wall scenarios!
• Building Scenes on the Fly: Teams learn to unite and actively listen, building impromptu scenes and stories. It is about supporting each other’s ideas and creating something unique.
• Side-Splitting Moments and Unexpected Discoveries: Teams tackle challenges and discover hidden talents. You might be surprised by who emerges as the improv star of the group!

Improv workshops offer many benefits that extend far beyond having a good time. Teams learn to think on their feet and react to unexpected situations with confidence and creativity.

To get you started, here are the initial actions required.

• Hire an Improv Facilitator: Experienced facilitators can bring the improv fun directly to your workplace, tailoring the workshop to your team’s specific needs and goals.
• Hit the Improv Theater: Many improv theaters offer dedicated workshops for corporate teams. It is a great way to experience a unique venue and experience the real improv world.

9. Art Workshops

Art workshops offer a variety of fun team-building activities designed to cater to all artistic levels, from complete beginners to seasoned doodlers.

Explore painting, sculpting, digital art, or even themed graffiti or pottery-making workshops.

Experienced instructors will guide your team in a collaborative studio setting, fostering a safe space for experimentation and self-expression.

Time to roll up your sleeves! Here is how to get started.

• Step 1. Research local art studios or community centers offering private group workshops.
• Step 2. Discuss your team’s interests and goals with the provider to tailor the team-building experience.
• Step 3. Book your session and get ready to unleash your team’s inner artist!

Here are some additional tips for a successful art workshop.

• Consider offering refreshments or team lunches before or after the workshop to create a more social team-building experience.
• Encourage participants to showcase their finished artwork in the office to foster pride and team spirit.
• Take pictures throughout the workshop to capture the fun and document the team’s creative journey.

10. Indoor Skydiving

Chicago is home to several world-class indoor skydiving facilities. This activity offers a unique and unforgettable team-building experience beyond the typical conference room or ropes course.

No prior skydiving experience is required for this team-building activity. Before taking flight, your team will participate in a pre-flight training session led by certified instructors.

The instructors will guide you through proper body positioning and hand signals for maneuvering in the wind tunnel. They will also provide all the necessary gear, including a jumpsuit, goggles, and helmet.

Indoor skydiving fosters trust and confidence as team members rely on each other and their instructors for a safe and enjoyable team-building experience. Here are more key benefits.

• Unforgettable Team Building Experience: Create lasting memories with your team.
• Conquer Fears Together: Build trust and confidence as you overcome challenges.
• Boost Communication: Effective communication is key to navigating the wind tunnel.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Work together to achieve a common goal.
• Increased Morale: A fun and exhilarating team-building activity can boost team spirit.

Ready to bring your team building to new heights? Book an indoor skydiving session in Chicago today!

11. Group Fitness Bootcamps

Invest in your team’s health with group fitness bootcamps! These bootcamps promote a culture of health and well-being within your organization.

Certified professionals lead these sessions, ensuring safe and effective workouts for all fitness levels.

Workouts can be modified to accommodate a range of abilities, from beginners to fitness enthusiasts. Want to add some excitement to your routine? Try these dynamic workouts!

• Cardio
• Strength Training
• Flexibility and core
• Team challenges like obstacle courses and relay races

Cannot decide between an indoor or outdoor boot camp? Do not worry; there are great options for everyone!

• Indoor Bootcamps: Many gyms and fitness centers offer dedicated bootcamp classes for corporate teams. These sessions can be scheduled before, during, or after work hours to fit your team’s schedule.
• Outdoor Bootcamps: Take your workout to the fresh air! Explore options for park-based boot camps, offering a scenic backdrop and a chance to connect with nature.

Select a boot camp program catering to your team’s fitness, ensuring everyone feels challenged but comfortable participating. Many programs offer modifications for different abilities.

12. Sports Leagues

Strengthen your team by joining a corporate sports league in Chicago! These organized leagues provide a fun and engaging platform for friendly competition in various sports.

Many Chicago leagues cater to different skill levels, providing a fun and inclusive experience for everyone, regardless of athletic background. Here are some resources to help you find the right fit.

• Chicago Sport & Social Club (CSSC)
• S3 Leagues Chicago
• Players Sport & Social Group

Investing in your team’s well-being through sports leagues can direct to a more positive, productive, and successful work environment. These are some of the other benefits.

• Physical Activity and Well-being: Regular exercise improves overall health, reduces stress, and boosts energy levels.
• Team Building and Camaraderie: Working together towards a common goal fosters stronger bonds and a sense of belonging.
• Communication and Collaboration: Strategies in the field translate to better communication and teamwork in the office.

13. Axe Throwing

Break the mold and create a truly unforgettable axe-throwing team-building event. Axe throwing offers a powerful combination of stress relief, friendly competition, and team bonding.

Your session will begin with a comprehensive safety briefing led by qualified instructors. They will ensure everyone feels comfortable and understands proper throwing techniques.

Under expert guidance, your team will learn to throw axes at wooden targets in a controlled environment. So get ready for satisfying bullseyes and cheers of encouragement.

Chicago is a hotbed for axe-throwing venues that cater to corporate events. Many offer special packages designed for team building, including the following.

• Dedicated event spaces for your group
• Experienced instructors tailored to team-building exercises
• Food and beverage options to fuel the fun

Book your axe-throwing team-building experience today, and get ready to unleash your inner lumberjack!

14. Environmental Clean-Ups

Spend a day revitalizing your city’s cherished park, beach, or green space. You will be making a visible difference that everyone can enjoy.

Local environmental groups can connect you with needed areas and guide you on best practices for clean-up and waste disposal. They can also provide essential supplies like gloves, trash bags, and recycling bins.

Here are the teamwork and environmental benefits of environmental clean-ups.

• Build Cohesion: Working together towards a common goal fosters a sense of camaraderie and responsibility within your team.
• Raise Awareness: Environmental clean-ups provide a hands-on opportunity to learn about local environmental issues and their impact.
• Connect with Nature: Escape the office and get active outdoors! Enjoy the fresh air and reconnect with the natural world, all while making a positive impact.
• Boost Morale: The accomplishment after a successful clean-up energizes and motivates. Your team will return to the office feeling proud and recharged.

Ready to start this team-building activity? Here are some practical tips for organizing a successful clean-up.

• Decide on a date, time, and place that works for your team. Coordinate with your chosen environmental group well in advance.
• Get everyone excited by creating flyers and sending out emails with information about the clean-up and the environmental benefits.
• Comfortable, closed-toe shoes and clothes you do not mind getting dirty are ideal. Sunscreen, hats, and reusable water bottles are also recommended.
• Create a playlist for the team-building event, or have a friendly competition for the most interesting piece of trash collected.
• Thank your team for participating, and acknowledge the environmental impact you made together.

By organizing a clean-up, you are not just giving back to the community but investing in your team’s well-being and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility. It is a win-win for everyone!

15. High-Tech Challenges

High-tech challenges are no longer the stuff of science fiction. These corporate team-building activities leverage the latest technology to create immersive and engaging scenarios that push your team’s boundaries and unlock hidden potential.

Ready to take the plunge? Get started by partnering with reputable tech hubs or gaming centers specializing in corporate team building. These facilities offer a wealth of benefits.

• Seamless Execution: They provide all the necessary equipment, from VR headsets to high-powered computers, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
• Technical Expertise: Benefit from the guidance of experienced facilitators who can troubleshoot any technical hiccups and keep your team focused on the challenge.
• Curated Experiences: Choose from pre-designed team-building packages or work with the experts to tailor an activity that aligns perfectly with your company goals.

Invest in high-tech team building and watch your team thrive! It is a fantastic way to identify new solutions, spark creativity, and build a team ready to conquer any challenge.

16. Virtual Reality Gaming

Leave the conference room behind and enter a virtual reality (VR) experience, where location and even reality itself become fluid concepts.

Chicago’s VR gaming centers have the most advanced hardware and software, creating unparalleled realism. Prepare to be amazed by the following.

• High-resolution visuals that blur the lines between the virtual and real world
• 360-degree tracking that allows for natural body movements
• Haptic feedback simulates physical sensations

So, how do you craft a perfect VR team-building experience? Here are some useful tips you need to keep in mind.

• Variety is Key: Choose from a wide range of VR experiences specifically for team building, ensuring an engaging and collaborative activity for your group.
• Find Your Fit: Consider your team size and desired difficulty level when selecting a VR experience. Some games are ideal for smaller, close-knit teams, while others can accommodate larger groups.
• Expert Guidance Available: Many centers offer experienced staff who can act as your virtual tour guides, providing clear instructions and ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.

VR gaming is a powerful tool for enhancing team dynamics. It boosts communication and collaboration, strengthens bonds, creates memories, and sharpens problem-solving skills.

17. Hackathons

Take your team building to the next level with an exhilarating hackathon! These intense team-building events are designed to push your team’s creativity and problem-solving skills to the limit.

Hackathons focus on pre-defined problems relevant to your industry, ensuring solutions directly benefit your business.

Teams work together over a set timeframe, merging their coding expertise and fresh perspectives to tackle real-world challenges.

The foundation of a successful hackathon lies in careful preparation. Here is your guide to getting ready!

• Clearly Defined Challenges: Start by crafting well-defined challenges that resonate with your team’s daily work and ignite their innovative spirit.
• Optimized Workspace: Provide a dedicated space with everything your team needs – think high-performance computers, blazing-fast internet, and access to relevant software development platforms.
• Expert Mentorship: Elevate the experience by inviting experienced tech mentors. These industry veterans can offer invaluable guidance and support to participating teams throughout the team-building event.

Hackathons can unlock this wealth of benefits for your team.

• Sharpened Skills: Collaboration in innovative solutions strengthens coding proficiency and problem-solving abilities.
• Creative Spark: The fast-paced environment fuels out-of-the-box thinking and encourages a deep dive into product development strategies.
• Unleash Hidden Gems: Hackathons provide a unique platform to uncover hidden talents within your team.
• Idea Generation Engine: These team-building events spark a flurry of new ideas, fostering a culture of innovation that propels your business forward.

Incorporating a hackathon into your team-building strategy will boost skills, unearth hidden talent, and ignite a desire for innovation to drive your business to new heights.

18. Group Yoga Sessions

Unwind, recharge, and boost team spirit with a unique addition to your fun well-being activities: group yoga sessions! This team-building activity offers a welcome break, allowing your team to focus on mindfulness and physical well-being.

Hire a certified yoga instructor with experience leading corporate yoga sessions to ensure everyone feels comfortable. They can tailor the session to adapt to different skill levels, from complete beginners to seasoned yogis.

Look for instructors who can incorporate team-building exercises into the session. These exercises, designed for corporate settings, can enhance team members’ communication, collaboration, and trust.

Group yoga sessions offer a multitude of advantages for your team.

• Stress Reduction and Improved Mental Clarity: Yoga helps your team de-stress and clear their minds, allowing them to return to work feeling refreshed, refocused, and ready to tackle new challenges.
• Enhanced Flexibility and a Healthy Lifestyle: The gentle physical yoga practice improves flexibility, posture, and strength, promoting overall well-being among team members.
• Mindfulness for a Positive Work Environment: By focusing on mindfulness and inner peace, yoga fosters a more optimistic and productive work environment, leading to better communication and collaboration.

So, consider incorporating a group yoga session next time you plan fun well-being activities for team meetings. Your team will thank you for it!

EXPERT TIP: Provide yoga mats and water bottles for your team members, and consider offering healthy snacks after the session to keep the positive vibes flowing.

19. Spa Days

Treat your team to an unforgettable experience with a custom-designed spa day. Here is what this amazing team-building activity has in store.

• Soothing Massages
• Glowing Facials
• Manicures and Pedicures
• Aromatherapy Treatments

Ready to begin? These tips will set you on the right track.

• Group Spa Packages: Look for spas offering corporate packages designed for team-building events. These often include discounted rates and customized treatment options.
• Accommodation for All: Choose a spa that comfortably fits your team size and offers a variety of treatments to cater to everyone’s preferences, including deep tissue massages, prenatal massages, or even sports massages.
• Private Group Areas: Many spas offer dedicated relaxation lounges for groups, allowing your team to unwind, chat, and enjoy refreshments privately.

Spa days are an investment in your team’s health and happiness. By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, you will see the following benefits.

• Boosted Morale: A relaxed and happy team is a more productive team.
• Reduced Burnout: Combat fatigue and create a more sustainable work environment.
• Increased Productivity: Well-rested and rejuvenated employees bring their A-game to work.
• Improved Workplace Satisfaction: Show your team you care about their well-being and create a positive work culture.

20. Charity and Community Service Projects

Empower your entire team and give back to the community by incorporating impactful charity and community service projects into your team-building strategy. Let us delve into the mechanics of how this works.

• Shared Purpose: These corporate team-building activities unite your team towards a common goal that benefits others, promoting a sense of purpose and society engagement. Team members connect with a cause they care about, creating a more meaningful experience.
• Stronger Bonds: Working collaboratively towards a goal builds camaraderie and strengthens team bonds. Shared values and experiences create a foundation for a more cohesive and collaborative team.
• Develop Valuable Skills: Many volunteer opportunities allow your team to develop valuable skills. From communication and problem-solving to leadership and project management, these experiences enhance professional growth.
• Boost Company Image: Participating in community service projects showcases your company’s commitment to social responsibility. This builds positive relationships with the community and strengthens your brand image.

Get matched with the perfect project using these insights.

• Partner with Local Nonprofits: Nonprofit organizations in your area whose mission aligns with your company’s values. Many welcome corporate volunteer groups and can tailor projects to your team’s size and schedule.
• Variety of Options: Volunteer opportunities range from assisting in food banks or soup kitchens to organizing charity runs, park clean-ups, or mentorship programs. Consider your team’s interests and skill sets when choosing a project.

Investing in your team through charity and community service projects is an investment in your company’s success. It fosters purpose, builds strong teams, and creates a positive impact in the community — a mutual benefit for all!

Key Takeaways on Team Building Activities for Workplaces in Chicago

In conclusion, fostering a strong and collaborative team is not just about work — it is about creating shared experiences that build trust, spark creativity, and unlock hidden potential.

Chicago’s vibrant energy provides the perfect backdrop for this transformation, offering the best team-building activities guaranteed to reignite your team spirit.

Invest in your team’s success — choose an unforgettable team-building activity in Chicago today and watch your team soar to new heights!