10 BEST TEAM BUILDING ACTIVITIES IN CLEVELAND

Have a blast in the birthplace of rock n’ roll.

Situated along the southern shore of Lake Erie, Cleveland boasts an ever-growing cultural and music scene that’ll make this midwest metropolis one you’ll want to visit again and again. 

With expansive, beautiful parklands, access to waterways and a thriving city center, it’s the perfect place to host your next company retreat

If you’re planning a corporate get-together in Cleveland, keep reading to find out which team experiences you won’t want to miss!

Would you like to book any of these activities?

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

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Take to the water with a kayak adventure

  • Take your team on a kayak adventure where you’ll enjoy the fresh air, explore Lake Erie and get a workout, all at once!
  • Instructors will ensure safety is the utmost priority and that rules are easy to understand so even novice kayakers can enjoy themselves. 
  • Everything is provided including kayaks, spray skirts, paddles and life jackets plus meals and any other arrangements, taking the stress out of planning for you and your team. 
  • The water in this area of Cleveland is fairly calm and a popular spot for kayaking so you won’t feel too isolated. 
  • Kayaks will go out rain or shine (except in extreme weather) so be sure to dress appropriately.

Build problem solving skills with an escape room 

  • Challenge your team members with an escape room that will test their problem solving skills, communication and time management with intricate puzzles and games. 
  • Generally accommodating up to 12 people per one room, larger groups can split into teams to play against one another and see who ‘escapes’ first. 
  • You and your coworkers can choose between several themes to explore, searching for hidden clues, cracking codes and working together to beat the clock. 
  • Game masters will take your team through their missions and are available to walk you and your team through solutions should you run out of time. 
  • This is an affordable option for even larger teams on a budget. 

See Cleveland like never before with a walking tour 

  • A walking tour offers a fun-filled and educational way to experience Cleveland while taking in the beauty of the city's many historic sites.
  • Various tours are available covering different aspects of both the past and the present of this vibrant and interesting city.  
  • Knowledgeable guides will offer commentary throughout the tour and can answer any questions you and your colleagues may have.  
  • Although team members won’t be on their feet the entire duration of the tour (which runs about 2 hours), it’s important to dress comfortably with an emphasis on footwear. 
  • Private tours are available for a wide range of group sizes and can even be customized to include particular areas of interest. 
  • While on the pricier side, this is definitely an experience you don’t want to miss if it’s within your team’s budget. 

Stir up some fun with a cooking class 

  • Make memories while enjoying delicious food cooked by your very own team. 
  • Explore new dishes without being overwhelmed as instructors take you step by step through preparing your meal, providing insights, tips and assisting with any techniques. 
  • All ingredients, equipment and utensils are provided for preparation and some locations even allow outside alcoholic beverages. 
  • Classes generally run about 2-3 hours and include time to enjoy your finished meal together after cooking. 
  • The price for this experience is definitely on the higher end, however, if you’re looking for a more dynamic and exciting alternative to your typical group meal this is worth the price tag. 

Beers + boats = your next corporate retreat

  • Take in the sights and enjoy a unique perspective of the city along the Cuyahoga river in Cleveland.
  • Your team will have to work together as they paddle the boat along the water, or skip the pedaling and simply take in the views on traditional bar stools. 
  • Tours generally last just under two hours, and most tours do not provide food or alcohol but will allow you to bring your own. 
  • This activity is ideal for smaller teams, as most ferries can only accommodate up to 14 guests at a time plus a certified US Coast Guard Master to drive your barge.
  • Most ferries do not include a bathroom, so be sure to keep that in mind while you indulging in beverages on your tour.

Blow off steam with WhirlyBall 

  • Try your hand at a completely new game that is sure to challenge and entertain your team members.
  • Whirlyball is a combination of jai alai, basketball, and hockey where the object is to take a whirly ball from one end of the court to the other. 
  • In-house restaurants and catering are often available but generally do require placing an order a few days prior to the reservation.  
  • Perfect for groups of all sizes and budget-friendly for teams looking to save without taking away from an experience together. 
  • Discounted prices are often available when booking more than one session, make sure to inquire when booking! 

Search for clues at a murder mystery dinner 

  • Let your inner detectives shine during a memorable and interactive murder mystery dinner in Cleveland.
  • Actors are typically hidden in the audience and anyone in the audience (including your co-workers) may be potentially selected to be part of the show!
  • Enjoy a delicious four-course meal as you unwind and bond with your colleagues. 
  • Generally alcoholic beverages can be purchased at additional cost to sip while you enjoy the mystery unraveling around you. 
  • Be aware that these types of shows often include prop guns, simulated gunshots, and short lightning blackouts. 

Race around the track with GoKarts 

  • Unwind with colleagues as you race around the go kart track for a top-notch experience that your whole team is sure to love.
  • You’ll be provided with all the necessary equipment including safety gear, helmets and high-performance race karts plus instructions on how to stay safe and have fun. 
  • Race against up to 9 team members at a time or set up a round robin tournament to see who will come out as the ultimate driver. 
  • Some facilities require the purchase of an inexpensive annual license to race, so be sure to inquire at booking.  
  • This team building experience is affordable and additional discounts are often provided when you book additional races. 

Let your inner artist shine with a paint night 

  • Choose a paint night for your next team building experience and unwind while coworkers get creative working on their own masterpieces. 
  • Instructors will take you step by step as you paint, providing advice on colours and techniques.
  • You’ll be provided with all the materials you’ll need from canvases and brushes to easels, paint and aprons. 
  • Many facilities will even allow you to bring your own food and beverages, so you can sip and snack while you create. 
  • A good fit for even larger groups, choose this team experience if you’re looking for a unique, fun and memorable experience.

Aim for the bullseye with ax throwing 

  • Let your next retreat include a new experience for your team members as they try their hands at ax throwing in Cleveland.  
  • Introduce a healthy competition between co-workers by participating in round robin tournaments. 
  • Staff will be available to provide clear and concise instructions on game play, provide tips and will run through all the safety protocols - remember, closed toed shoes are absolutely mandatory.
  • Groups of all sizes can be accommodated - some facilities will even provide group discounts depending on numbers. 
  • Many locations will also allow you to bring in your own alcoholic beverages and food to enjoy while you are mastering the ax alongside your team members.

Would you like to book any of these activities?

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

Get a quote

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