15 Best Virtual Team Building Activities for Remote Teams

The growing popularity of remote work has led to flexibility and a more accessible talent pool, but it has also created challenges for team cohesion. 

This is because the remote work setup can lead to communication gaps, feelings of isolation, and a lack of camaraderie.

Fortunately, virtual team-building activities can promote interaction and team bonding, keeping remote teams engaged, connected, and productive. 

If you are planning a remote activity day, you can book a demo to find an activity that will suit your team.

Below is a list of 15 virtual team building activities that can help maintain a sense of unity, encourage collaboration, and support morale.

1. Virtual Escape Rooms

Virtual escape rooms are online problem-solving games that prompt teams to solve puzzles, discover clues, and complete objectives within a set timeframe to “escape” a virtual environment. 

These games simulate the experience of a physical escape room through video conferencing platforms and specialized websites or apps.

Participants collaborate in real-time, navigating themed virtual spaces, solving challenges, and progressing through the game as a team.

Choose a platform that offers a variety of themes and difficulty levels to organize a virtual escape room.

After splitting into groups, each group will access the escape room scenario as a team. The group will share ideas and coordinate to solve puzzles before the timer runs out.

A game moderator can facilitate the event, ensuring everyone understands the rules and guiding the teams if needed.

Virtual escape rooms promote collaboration, creative problem-solving, and communication skills. They also create a sense of camaraderie and accomplishment, boosting morale and improving team cohesion.

2. Virtual Murder Mysteries

Virtual murder mysteries are interactive role-playing games where participants solve a fictional crime by uncovering clues, interrogating suspects, and piecing together the mystery. 

These games take place in a virtual setting and have storylines where team members assume the roles of detectives or suspects, each with unique backgrounds and objectives. 

The goal is to determine who the “murderer” is before time runs out.

To organize an online murder mystery for remote teams, choose a platform that offers different scenarios or customize your own. 

Participants will be assigned roles beforehand, and materials like character profiles and clues will be distributed via email or through the platform. 

During the event, participants join a call, follow the script, and interact with one another, sharing information and solving the crime. A facilitator or game host can guide the event, keeping it on track and ensuring smooth gameplay.

Online murder mysteries promote problem-solving, teamwork, and communication. These games encourage collaboration in a fun and immersive way, helping to break the ice and enhance team bonding while stimulating critical thinking and creativity.

3. Virtual Trivia Games

Virtual trivia games are interactive, knowledge-based competitions conducted in a virtual environment. In these games, teams or individuals will answer questions from various categories in real time. 

To organize online trivia games for remote teams, select a trivia platform or create your own set of questions using quiz tools. 

Divide your team into smaller groups to encourage collaboration, or choose individual participants for a friendly competition. 

The game is typically structured in rounds with increasing difficulty to maintain engagement. 

Online trivia games promote team bonding and encourage communication as participants collaborate or compete in a fun, low-pressure environment. Trivia also stimulates cognitive skills, promoting quick thinking and engagement. 

In addition, it allows remote workers to take a break from work stress, enhancing team morale and creating positive social interactions that strengthen team dynamics.

4. Digital Scavenger Hunts

Digital scavenger hunts are virtual team-building activities where participants search for specific items, complete tasks, or solve clues online or in their physical environment. 

These hunts can challenge teams to find objects in their homes, take photos, or complete virtual tasks that encourage creativity and quick thinking.

To organize a digital scavenger hunt for remote teams, create a list of items or tasks for participants to find or complete. 

The list can include common household items, like a book or a coffee mug, or digital tasks, such as finding a specific website or solving a riddle. 

Assign a time limit and have participants share their findings via webcam or post pictures in the chat. You can also divide the team into smaller groups to encourage collaboration and teamwork. 

Digital scavenger hunts can foster teamwork, encourage problem-solving, and break up the monotony of remote work. They also spark creativity and provide a fun way for teams to bond and stay connected in a virtual environment.

5. Virtual Icebreakers

Virtual icebreakers are fun, interactive activities designed to help remote teams get to know each other and build rapport in a virtual environment. 

These activities can range from simple introductions and fun facts to more structured games like quizzes or “Two Truths and a Lie.”

Choose activities that are easy to participate in and do not need much preparation. The activity should encourage engagement to let everyone contribute. 

For instance, you can ask team members to share something unique about themselves or showcase their remote workspaces.

Virtual icebreakers help create a sense of community between remote workers. They can also foster trust and improve communication. 

They can also reduce feelings of isolation by creating opportunities for informal interaction, making team members feel more comfortable and connected.

6. Virtual Happy Hours

Virtual happy hours are online social gatherings where remote team members come together to relax, unwind, and socialize in an informal setting through video conferencing platforms. 

Like traditional happy hours, participants share drinks, snacks, and casual conversation — but from the comfort of their homes. 

These events foster team bonding, allowing colleagues to connect beyond work tasks and get to know each other on a more personal level.

To organize a virtual happy hour for remote teams, choose a time that works for all participants, considering different time zones. Encourage everyone to bring their favorite drink or snack to the virtual gathering. 

Use icebreakers, trivia games, or themed discussions to keep the atmosphere lively and engaging. For a more interactive experience, teams can also participate in cocktail-making classes, online games, or casual contests during the event.

Virtual happy hours help build stronger relationships within remote teams by creating a relaxed environment where employees can interact, which fosters a sense of camaraderie and improves communication. 

This informal interaction helps reduce feelings of isolation, boosts team morale, and enhances engagement, contributing to a more cohesive and motivated team.

7. Online Workshops and Webinars

Online workshops and webinars are interactive, educational sessions aimed at providing learning and skill development for remote teams. 

Workshops are typically more hands-on and interactive, where participants engage in activities or discussions. Meanwhile, webinars are often more lecture-based, where a speaker or panel presents information to a larger audience. 

Both formats are useful for delivering professional development, training, or knowledge sharing, and can be tailored to suit your team’s needs.

To organize virtual conferences for remote teams, select a relevant topic that aligns with team goals or interests. Invite experts or internal team members to lead the session, and ensure the content is engaging and tailored to the team’s needs. 

For workshops, include hands-on exercises, group activities, or Q&A sessions to promote interaction. Webinars should also have a well-structured presentation with time for questions at the end.

Online workshops and webinars provide opportunities for professional growth, enhance knowledge, and encourage team collaboration. They also help remote teams stay connected and engaged, fostering a culture of continuous learning with shared goals.

8. Virtual Coffee Breaks

Virtual coffee breaks are short, informal social meetings where remote team members connect and chat over drinks like coffee or tea.

These virtual gatherings mimic in-person coffee breaks. They provide team members an opportunity to engage in casual conversation, relax, and bond outside of work tasks. 

Virtual coffee breaks typically last around 10 to 30 minutes and can be held through video calls.

To organize virtual coffee breaks for remote teams, set a regular meeting that works across different time zones. Invite team members to join a casual video call and encourage them to bring their favorite beverage. 

The conversation should be light and non-work-related, focusing on personal interests, hobbies, or general topics.

You can also introduce icebreakers or light activities, like sharing a fun fact or a quick show-and-tell, to keep the session engaging.

Virtual coffee breaks create a sense of community by providing space for informal interactions and helping team members build stronger relationships. These breaks also reduce feelings of isolation, boost morale, and enhance team cohesion.

9. Virtual Fitness Challenges

Virtual fitness challenges are online physical activities designed to promote health, wellness, and team bonding for remote teams. 

These challenges encourage participants to engage in various fitness activities (like walking, running, cycling, or even yoga) over a set period. They also often involve competing or collaborating to reach personal or team goals. 

To organize virtual fitness challenges for remote teams, first decide on the type of activity and duration of the challenge. It could be a daily step count competition, a collective goal to walk 100 miles as a team, or a daily yoga routine for a week. 

Use fitness tracking apps and devices like Fitbit, Strava, or MyFitnessPal to monitor your and your team’s progress. This will help keep the team motivated.

These apps can also serve as a platform for participants to share their achievements and encourage one another. Team leaders can also introduce weekly check-ins or offer rewards for milestones, such as virtual badges or small prizes.

The benefits of virtual fitness challenges extend beyond physical health. They also foster team spirit, promote healthy habits, and provide a much-needed break from desk work, improving overall well-being. 

On top of that, they reduce stress, increase energy levels, and enhance focus and productivity.

10. Virtual Book Clubs

Virtual book clubs are online gatherings where team members read and discuss selected books, to create a shared intellectual experience and foster deeper connections. 

These book clubs regularly meet via videoconferencing platforms to discuss themes, characters, and ideas from the books. This allows participants to engage in meaningful conversations outside of work tasks.

To set up a virtual book club for remote teams, choose a book or genre that aligns with the team’s preferences. 

Create a reading schedule that allows participants enough time to complete the reading before each meeting. 

Assign a moderator for each session to guide thought-provoking discussions and encourage participation. Depending on the team’s availability and the length of the book, meetings can be held weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.

Virtual book clubs encourage intellectual growth, spark creativity, and provide a break from routine work discussions. They also strengthen team relationships by promoting open dialogue and diverse perspectives.

11. Online Drawing Games

Online drawing games are interactive virtual activities where team members engage in creative, fun drawing challenges to foster collaboration and communication. 

These games usually involve one player drawing a picture based on a prompt while others try to guess what it is, similar to Pictionary. 

Online drawing games can use specialized apps like Skribbl.io, Drawasaurus, or built-in whiteboard tools in Zoom or Microsoft Teams.

To organize online drawing games for remote teams, you should first choose a platform or app for the activity. Divide participants into teams or allow individual play, depending on the group size. 

Assign a drawing prompt or use the app’s random generators, and have one team member start drawing while the others try to guess. Set a time limit for each round to keep the game dynamic and engaging.

Online drawing games can foster creativity, improve communication, and build teamwork. The casual, non-work-related activity helps participants relax and bond in a lighthearted atmosphere. 

It also encourages team members to collaborate to guess drawings, helping to improve team cohesion.

12. Virtual Talent Shows

Virtual talent shows allow remote team members to showcase their unique talents and skills like singing, playing instruments, or performing magic tricks. 

These fun, informal events allow colleagues to bond in a relaxed, non-work setting, promoting a sense of camaraderie and team spirit.

To organize a virtual talent show for remote teams, announce the event well in advance to give participants time to prepare. 

Encourage team members to sign up to perform and provide guidance on the time limits for each act. Use video conferencing platforms with screen-sharing features to help performers showcase their talents. 

Consider having a host to introduce performers and maintain a lively, interactive atmosphere. You can also include a voting session where team members choose their favorite performances or give out awards like “Most Creative” or “Best Entertainer.”

Virtual talent shows foster team bonding, boost morale and provide a platform for team members to express their creativity. 

These shows help break down social barriers and reduce stress by allowing colleagues to connect on a more personal level.

13. Online Office Olympics

Online Office Olympics are virtual competitions where remote team members participate in fun, engaging challenges that mimic the spirit of the Olympics, encouraging friendly competition and team bonding.

These challenges usually include games and activities like trivia, virtual scavenger hunts, or desk chair races (via creative videos).

You can also hold online versions of traditional office games like paper toss, typing speed contests, and problem-solving puzzles. 

First, create a schedule of events and challenges that cater to diverse skills and interests. Then, divide participants into teams and assign points for each challenge. 

Set clear rules and time limits for each event, ensuring that the games are accessible and fun for all. Include a scoreboard to track team progress. At the end of the event, announce the winners and distribute virtual awards or certificates.

Online Office Olympics foster team spirit, improve communication, and boost morale. By engaging in lighthearted competition, remote teams also build trust and camaraderie. 

These activities provide a break from routine work, reduce stress, and enhance collaboration, leading to a more cohesive and productive remote team.

14. Virtual Tasting Experiences

Virtual tasting experiences are online events where remote team members gather via video call to sample and explore different types of food or beverages from their own homes. 

These experiences are often guided by an expert or sommelier who provides insights into the products and teaches participants about flavors, origins, and tasting techniques. 

To organize a virtual tasting experience for remote teams, first choose a product theme (such as wine, coffee, or chocolate). Next, arrange for participants to receive the tasting items in advance — either by sending a tasting kit or providing a list of items they can buy themselves locally. 

On the day of the event, invite an expert to guide the tasting, explaining how to properly sample the products and providing interesting information about them. 

Participants can share their thoughts, reactions, and preferences during the session, creating an interactive and engaging experience.

The benefits of virtual tasting experiences include fostering team connections in a relaxed, social setting. 

These events encourage team members to unwind, share opinions, and engage in fun conversations, enhancing morale and providing a memorable bonding experience in a remote work environment.

15. Online Charitable Events

Online charitable events are virtual initiatives where remote teams participate in activities aimed at raising funds or awareness for a chosen cause, fostering both team spirit and social responsibility. 

These events can range from virtual charity runs and donation drives to fundraising competitions, online auctions, or even virtual volunteering sessions. These events bring teams together to make a positive impact while building a sense of purpose and community.

To organize an online charitable event for remote teams, you should first choose a cause that resonates with the team’s values. 

Decide on the type of event — such as a virtual walk-a-thon where participants pledge donations based on the distance walked, or a fundraising competition where teams raise money for a chosen charity. 

You can use platforms like GoFundMe, JustGiving, or custom event pages to facilitate donations. Set up regular check-ins or team meetings to motivate participation and track progress. 

You can also invite speakers or charity representatives to share insights and further inspire the team.

Online charitable events foster team collaboration and a sense of purpose and give employees the opportunity to contribute to something meaningful. 

This collective effort strengthens team bonds while enhancing employee satisfaction and organizational culture.

Benefits of Virtual Team Building Activities for Remote Teams

Incorporating team-building exercises into work culture offers many benefits that can positively impact team dynamics, communication, and productivity.

• Improved Communication: Team-building exercises encourage open dialogue and collaboration, improving intrateam communication. This leads to better information sharing and fewer misunderstandings during work-related tasks.
• Enhanced Collaboration: By working together in non-work-related activities, employees learn to trust one another and build stronger collaborative skills, making it easier to work as a cohesive unit during projects.
• Boosted Morale: Fun and engaging activities help to break the routine and reduce workplace stress. Team-building exercises can uplift employees’ spirits, increasing their overall job satisfaction and motivation.
• Stronger Relationships: These activities help break down social barriers, allowing employees to get to know each other better and foster friendships within the team.
• Increased Creativity: Participating in creative and problem-solving challenges helps employees think outside the box and encourages innovation, which can carry over into their work.
• Improved Problem-Solving Skills: Many team-building exercises involve overcoming obstacles or solving puzzles, helping employees develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Employee Retention: A positive, connected work environment contributes to higher job satisfaction. This can reduce turnover and foster long-term engagement.

Key Takeaways on 15 Best Virtual Team Building Activities for Remote Teams

Virtual team-building activities can help foster connection, engagement, and productivity among remote teams. 

By implementing creative and interactive events like online games, virtual workshops, or fitness challenges, organizations can strengthen communication, boost morale, and enhance collaboration despite physical distance. 

These activities help combat isolation, promote a sense of belonging, and create a positive work culture, leading to a more cohesive and motivated team. 

As remote work continues to grow, investing in regular team-building exercises is important for maintaining strong relationships and driving long-term success in a virtual environment.

Searching for a unique bonding activity perfect for work teams and friends? Our Escape The City games transform popular hangout spots in multiple cities into an outdoor escape room. Solve puzzles, find clues, and make unforgettable memories. Book a demo with us to learn how our Escape The City games can upgrade your next team building session!