10 BEST TEAM BUILDING ACTIVITIES IN BUFFALO

Let your team shine brightly in the ‘City of Lights’

Buffalo is the second largest city in the state of New York, teeming with history and featuring a colorful cityscape. If you ask us, it’s the perfect place to host your next company retreat

The city has undergone a remarkable transformation and now presents a cultural hub filled with delicious eateries, breweries, and of course views of the ever impressive Niagara Falls. 

If you have your sights set on Buffalo for your next company retreat, keep reading to find out which team experiences you’ll want to try! 

Would you like to book any of these activities?

These team-building activities are available as part of our retreat package.

Get a quote

See the breathtaking spots and views around Niagara Falls

  • Marvel at the wonders of Niagara Falls with tours by land or by boat for a unique bonding experience that is sure to be memorable. 
  • Opt to tour by land or water or by combination of both with multiple tour options available (private tours can be customized but for additional fees). 
  • With extremely knowledgeable guides, sit back and unwind as you’re taken through the history of the region, its landmarks and some of the most breathtaking spots and amazing views around Niagara Falls. 
  • It is recommended to dress in layers as temperatures cool significantly by the water and to wear comfortable walking shoes as you take in the sights. 
  • The price tag for this experience can run quite high but it may be worthwhile for teams looking for a longer experience without the hassle of organizing. 

Try a taste of Buffalo with a food tour

  • A food tour offers a fun-filled way to experience the vibrant food culture that Buffalo has to offer.
  • Have your team bond as they enjoy tasting an assortment of food at different restaurants, bars and cafes with up to 7 stops per tour.  
  • Although you don’t cover extensive ground, your team members will still be able to enjoy a unique perspective of the city with just the right amount of exercise. 
  • Tours run rain or shine so be sure to take a look at the forecast and dress accordingly with comfortable shoes. 
  • While this is a bit of a pricier team building option, it’s a great alternative to traditional team meals. Just keep in mind that while some tours can accommodate certain dietary restrictions it’s best to inquire ahead of booking. 

Beat the clock with an escape room  

  • Try your hands at an escape room to encourage problem solving, team participation and of course time management as your team works together before the time runs out. 
  • With different room themes available, work together in a single room or separate into teams and begin at the same time to see which team can come out on top. 
  • Deciphering clues and solving puzzles will require each team member to be engaged and contribute, an exhilarating challenge that will help build morale. 
  • Instructors are available to answer any questions and can even walk a team through the challenge if they are unable to escape on their own. 
  • Most locations will change their themes frequently, making this a perfect spot in Buffalo for both new and returning groups.  

Get creative with a wood crafting class

  • Get creative and make memories with a wood crafting class so that team members can bring home a one of a kind keepsake.
  • All supplies are provided including wood pallet signs, stencils, and all painting gear for a stress-free experience. Plus, instructors are very knowledgeable and able to assist with every step along the way.
  • You and your colleagues can head into the studio or inquire further about hosting in your own private location. 
  • Wine, beer and cider are often available for purchase and you can bring in your own food to snack on while the team is busy creating. 
  • You can bring your own snacks to the studio and wine, beer and cider are available for purchase.
  • The cost ranges by the chosen craft but for the most part this is perfect for the budget-conscious team looking to try something new! 

Take in the city’s history with a boat cruise 

  • Experience the historical wonders of the city with a unique perspective when you and your team take to the waters of the Buffalo River.
  • Relax and unwind with your colleagues and enjoy the open air while you make memories together.
  • Your team members will learn about the Erie Canal, the history of the city with the largest grain port in the world and the largest collection of grain elevators getting up close and personal. 
  • This is a fairly affordable team building option with various boat sizes that can accommodate a wide range of group sizes. 
  • Catering is available to enhance the experience and ensure your team is well fed and completely satisfied with their boat tour. 

Get competitive with laser tag 

  • Surprise team members with multiple rounds of laser tag, promoting cooperation, healthy competition and above all fun. 
  • Depending on the size of your retreat, play on a single team or separate into two teams and battle it out with your colleagues.
  • Providing just the right amount of physical activity, this is an affordable option in Buffalo for even larger groups.
  • Staff provide a briefing prior to gameplay and explain how the equipment works, tactics and the goals of each round. 
  • Keep in mind that what you wear may give you an advantage! Bright colors will be illuminated while darker colors will have you hiding in the shadows. 

Paddles up for kayaking 

  • Build new skills with team members, enjoy the outdoors and unwind while exploring Buffalo’s waterfront and the river landscape via kayak! 
  • Perfect for all skill levels, staff will walk you through everything you need to know from safety instructions to how to paddle, making it easy for first-time kayakers.
  • Don’t forget the sunscreen! It’s advised to dress like a day at the beach but pack light otherwise.
  • Your knowledgeable guides will offer plenty of fascinating information on the region's ever changing culture and history with emphasis on Buffalo’s development.
  • Keep in mind that team members will need some time to rest and recuperate following this experience.

Enjoy the views with a pedal tour 

  • Get active and enjoy the sights of Buffalo with a pedal tour either by land or water. 
  • With various tour options available, working together to move a boat or bike together turns employees into teammates all while taking in the view. 
  • Group sizes can range from a minimum of 8 to a maximum of 42, which makes this a great option for teams of all sizes.
  • Tours generally last for a few hours and include a few stops that you can predetermine or select based on your guide’s recommendation.
  • Rain or shine, the tours are well protected against the elements which means you don’t have to worry about rescheduling due to inclement weather. 

Test your aim with ax throwing 

  • If you’re looking to have some fun, get active and learn a new skill, try ax throwing for your next team retreat. 
  • Extensively trained instructors will guide you through all the safety protocols, offer tips on mastering techniques and lead you through practice, round robin matches and a final tournament.
  • Encourage friendly competition between your team members and cheer on your colleagues all while enjoying a wide assortment of alcoholic beverages. 
  • Keep in mind that locations do have food options but for larger groups we’d recommend inquiring ahead of time to ensure you can be accommodated.
  • This is a cost-effective experience for teams on a budget and a good choice for groups of all sizes.

Reach new heights with rock climbing 

  • Try rock-climbing to get the blood pumping and promote communication and trust between team members. 
  • Friendly instructors are on hand to make your experience safe and fun, with careful instruction and tips for getting the most out of your climbs. 
  • All equipment is provided, including harnesses, rock climbing shoes and much needed chalk. It is recommended to wear comfortable tighter-fitting athletic attire. 
  • Many facilities offer a wide range of course options so that all skill levels are accommodated and everyone can feel accomplished with their achievements. 
  • Include some healthy competition by hosting races between colleagues or by creating thrilling challenges as your team members reach new heights. 

Would you like to book any of these activities?

These team-building activities are available as part of our retreat package.

Get a quote

Check out more team building activities in 

USA and Canada