20 BEST TEAM BUILDING ACTIVITIES IN CHICAGO

Discover deep dish pizza, jazz music and more with co-workers in the Windy City.

Chicago is known for a lot of things from its beautiful architecture to 1920’s mobsters and culinary delights like deep dish pizza and Chicago-style hotdogs. Add to that scenic river views and a bustling music scene, and you’ve got an ideal spot to host your next team retreat.

From culinary tours to skyline cruises, there’s plenty of opportunity to bond with coworkers, build skills and make memories on a visit to Chi-Town.

If you’re planning an upcoming retreat to Chicago, keep reading for our selection of the best team building experiences the city has to offer!

Planning a team-building retreat in

Chicago

?

We'll help you combine accommodation, meeting spaces, restaurants, and team-building activities into one seamless itinerary.

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Learn the fundamentals of stand-up paddleboarding

Enjoy a relaxing paddle over the waters of Lake Michigan.
Learn essential paddling techniques from certified instructors.
The waters around Chicago provide the perfect conditions to learn SUPing.
Participants can store their valuables at the on-site storage.
Bask in beautiful surroundings with views of Chicago’s impressive skyline.
The staff are highly experienced and professional.

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Explore Chicago’s culinary scene on a food tour

Explore the city of Chicago from a unique perspective as you dive into the history and culture of it’s culinary scene on a group food tour.
An experienced guide will share information about the city’s food history, local hotspots and fun facts about Chicago’s best eats.
Typically this experience lasts about three hours so be sure to set aside about half a day and wear proper footwear as you’ll be walking quite a bit!
Chicago offers tons of options to accommodate different dietary restrictions like vegetarianism or gluten allergies, making this an accessible experience for almost every team member.
These tours offer a great, private experience for team’s and can be totally customized to meet the requirements of your budget and group size.

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Problem-solve your way through an escape room

Escape rooms offer an awesome way to build on teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills while bonding with co-workers as you work together to solve the puzzle and beat the clock.
Staff are available onsite to answer any questions and help you through the experience and will even walk you through the solution if you run out of time.
Some facilities in Chicago offer VR options adding a bonus element of immersion to your experience.
This is a flexible team building option for groups of all sizes as you can add additional rooms to your booking at most locations to accommodate larger numbers.
Generally, this is a fairly affordable team building experience and works well for teams on a wide range of budgets.

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Cruise through the city on a guided Segway tour

These Segway tours, designed for experienced and beginner riders, are the perfect way to see the city.
The maximum recommended weight limit as specified by the manufacturer, Segway, LLC, is 250 pounds.
Segways are comfortable, multi-terrain vehicles, perfect for exploring urban areas.
The tour facilitators walk you through a variety of route options to help you plan your event.
The tour guides take you to all the must-see sights of the city and share their wealth of information.
Tours usually last about 75 minutes.

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Discover Chicago’s skyline on a boat cruise

Chicago is known for its impressive architecture and what better way to experience the skyline than through a boat cruise along the city’s waterways.
Your tour guide will offer a ton of great information on the city’s history and culture while highlighting all of the best sites in Chicago.
The city offers a variety of different cruising options, providing a range of opportunities depending on your team’s needs and budget.
On most cruises you’ll even have the option to indulge in some drinks and light snacks while you tour.
Long sleeves and bug spray are a good idea for this activity during the summer months though as the bugs can be plentiful out on the water!

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Get creative with a crafting workshop

Spark creativity while making a unique keepsake to remember your retreat with a group crafting experience.
You’ll be able to select from a variety of popular craft kits and an instructor will take you through each step in creating your final piece while leaving plenty of flexibility for you to customize and make your project truly your own.
Some venues in Chicago even offer virtual experiences providing added flexibility depending on your location.
Often there is an option to bring your own drinks and snacks which is a big bonus, especially if your activity is running over a mealtime.
This is a relatively affordable team-building experience for those on a budget and you’ll be provided with all of the tools and materials needed to create your keepsake.

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Race to the finish at the go kart track

Race your way through fun-filled, friendly competition with a team building experience at the go kart track.
Time team members individually to see who can make it around the track the quickest or race in teams to see which departments grab the best times.
Beyond racing, some go karting locations provide additional team building activities such as pit crew challenges and other skill-testing games involving the karts.
Onsite staff will provide you with safety equipment like helmets but make sure to wear secure footwear and comfortable clothing for getting in and out of the karts.
Many facilities also provide additional opportunities for team time off the track such as snack bars, arcades and private meeting spaces where you can socialize between and after races.

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Play volleyball at North Avenue beach

North Avenue beach is an attractive, vibrant beach, popular with locals and tourists alike
The beach offers bike rentals, a multiuse path, swimming and an athletics facility.
Bump, set and spike your way to victory at one of the numerous beach volleyball courts.
All volleyball equipment is available for rent for those without their own.
Beaches are always kept clean and there is always entertainment to enjoy.

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Explore the Chicago river on a kayak tour

Choose from a variety of themed tours, customise your own or explore the river without a guide.
Maximum of 30 participants for guided tours and 60 for unguided.
Learn about the history of this iconic city as you follow your knowledgeable guide.
Sessions include single or double kayaks, life vests, paddles, guides, safety orientation, paddling lessons and sunscreen.
All kayaking equipment is clean and well maintained.

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Indulge in your sweet tooth with a baking class

From cookie decorating to learning how to make a french macaron, sweeten your next team building experience with a baking workshop.
A trained staff member will lead your activity offering tips, knowledge and hands-on techniques to make your very own sweet treats.
The facility will provide you with all of the tools and ingredients you need so all you need to do is show up hungry and ready to learn something new!
You’ll work together with team members as well as independently to bake your creations. Plus, you can hang out afterwards as you socialize and enjoy the final results.
This tends to be a pricier team building experience and typically has a maximum class size of 12-15 participants so may not be a great fit for larger groups.

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Reach the high notes at the karaoke bar

Let the good times roll at this state-of-the-art karaoke bar, just steps away from the Chinatown red line stop.
All private rooms are equipped with individual touchscreen panels for song selection, an LED lighting system that syncs with every song, wireless microphones and large screen TV.
This karaoke bar is the perfect place to let your hair down after working hard at the office.
Maximum of 25 people per group.
Choose from the 100,000-song catalogue, complete with Western and Eastern hits.
Order drinks and snacks directly to your karaoke room.

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Create your own masterpiece with a paint night

Paint nights offer a fun, accessible and creative way to bond with team members as you work on creating your very own work of art.
You’ll paint at your own pace while instructors showcase various painting techniques and suggestions to apply to your own masterpiece.
You’ll be provided with all the materials and tools you’ll need, including a variety of paints, aprons and canvases - plus, they’ll even take care of the clean-up.
These experiences typically also include a BYOB and food option so you can sip and snack throughout the activity.
This type of experience is generally budget-friendly, especially if you can find a discount through websites like Groupon.

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Embark on a social adventure with a cycle boat cruise

Explore the Chicago River with your colleagues on board a communal pedal-powered boat.
This social adventure is the perfect way to see the city while bonding with your colleagues.
Passengers are welcome to bring their own beverages on this 120-minute tour.
Riders sit on comfortable bike seats at a table as they cycle at their own pace and passengers can sit or stand while they enjoy the view, the cruise and the company.
Play your own music through the onboard sound system.
The captains help to create a fun and engaging atmosphere while steering the boat.

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Fill your appetite with a cooking class

If you’re looking for a fun and immersive alternative to a traditional team lunch or dinner, considering booking a group cooking class for your next retreat!
An onsite chef will take your group through every step of the cooking process to make a delicious, 5-star meal completely from scratch.
You and your team will be able to build on your cooking skills, try new ingredients and work collaboratively to prepare your dish.
Not only is this a great opportunity to work together as your prep and cook your meal but it also offers a wonderful social experience as you sit down together to enjoy the final result.
This can be a bit of a pricier team building experience but if your budget allows it’s a great way to create a more dynamic team dining experience.

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Assemble your squad for laser tag

Call in the squad, grab your gear and prepare for combat.
Go head to head with your opponents in a series of high-intensity game modes.
Hyper-realistic, mission-based gameplay for all participants.
1-hour laser tag session.
Equipment is up to date and well maintained.
The play areas provide plenty of cover and hiding spaces.

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Spread your wings at the indoor skydiving centre

Indoor skydiving brings out the best in people, unlike any activity.
Each flight within the wind tunnel lasts 60 seconds.
The entire indoor skydiving experience lasts approximately one and a half hours.
Learn the fundamentals of skydiving with tuition from highly-trained instructors.
The flight instructor is with you for the full duration of the flight.
The high-spec skydiving facility is clean and well maintained.

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Build real skills in a virtual space with a VR experience

Test your communication, collaboration and cooperation skills with a virtual reality experience in one of Chicago’s VR event spaces.
You and your team will be provided with everything you need for a great experience including multiple headsets and controllers and the option to add on more headsets as needed.
Most facilities offer a wide range of options to accommodate different sized teams from small groups of under fifteen to up to ninety participants.
Typically you’ll be provided with a set number of hours for your activity allowing you to play as many games and rounds as you’d like within your allotted slot.
Many VR spaces offer the option of catering and/or bar service so you can snack and socialize between games.
This team building experience runs on the higher end for pricing so may not be accessible to larger teams working within a tight budget.

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Test your aim with axe-throwing

Build a new skill while bonding with teammates through an axe-throwing experience during your next retreat.
An instructor will demonstrate everything you need to know to make this activity safe and beginner-friendly - just make sure to wear close-toed shoes!
Most facilities also offer a selection of drinks and snacks, or the option to bring your own, providing a great way for team members to keep occupied between turns.
Consider competing individually to see who has the best aim or break off into teams to work together to score the most points.
The price for this experience is typically budget-friendly and with the option to book multiple laneways it’s a great experience for team’s of all sizes.

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Push your limits at the climbing gym

The two-hour event package includes a dedicated climbing area, friendly instructors to guide your experience, and space to hang out, connect and celebrate after the climbing session.
Group sessions are available to groups of 10 to 20 people.
All climbing gear is provided.
Attempt a variety of disciplines including top rope, lead climbing and bouldering.
Climbing walls reach heights of up to 60 feet.
The facility is complete with a fitness mezzanine and a dedicated yoga studio.

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Loosen up at the yoga studio

Treat your team to a unique experience in this sun-filled yoga temple.
Choose from a variety of different classes from Kundalini to Tai-chi.
Learn new poses and refine your technique with guidance from experienced instructors.
Yoga mats are for sale at the yoga boutique.
Standard yoga sessions are approximately one hour.
The yoga teachers are fully certified and very patient.

Planning a team-building retreat in

Chicago

?

We'll help you combine accommodation, meeting spaces, restaurants, and team-building activities into one seamless itinerary.

Sample team-building retreat in

Chicago

Cruising between Chicago's iconic skyscrapers adds a memorable local highlight to this Chicago team-building retreat agenda, pairing productive workshops with time on the river before a farewell dinner in Fulton Market.

Day 1: Arrival & Chicago Welcome

Lakeside views, local flavors & team introductions

14:00–17:00Airport transfers & hotel check-in
17:30–18:30Welcome session, retreat goals & team introductions
19:00–22:00Group dinner featuring Chicago classics in the West Loop
22:00+Optional drinks at a rooftop overlooking the skyline

Day 2: Strategy & Chicago Team Building

Morning collaboration followed by an architectural adventure

07:30–08:30Breakfast
09:00–10:30Leadership presentations & strategic planning
10:30–11:00Coffee break
11:00–12:30Collaborative workshops & breakout discussions
12:30–14:00Lunch
14:30–18:00Private architecture boat cruise on the Chicago River with interactive team challenges
18:00–20:00Free time along the Riverwalk or Millennium Park
20:30–22:30Farewell dinner in Fulton Market

Day 3: Departure

Relaxed departure morning

07:30–09:00Breakfast
FlexibleAirport transfers & departures

Planning a team-building retreat in

Chicago

?

We'll help you combine accommodation, meeting spaces, restaurants, and team-building activities into one seamless itinerary.

FAQs about team-building in

Chicago

What are the best team building activities in Chicago for companies?

Chicago offers a wide range of corporate team building activities, including architecture boat tours, cooking competitions, escape rooms, improv workshops, scavenger hunts, sailing on Lake Michigan, brewery tours, food experiences, and interactive challenges throughout the city's iconic neighborhoods.

Why is Chicago a popular destination for corporate team building?

Chicago combines a major business hub, world-class dining, waterfront attractions, and excellent event infrastructure. Companies often choose Chicago because it offers big-city energy, diverse team activities, and easier logistics than many other large US destinations.

How easy is it to travel to Chicago for a company event?

Chicago is served by O'Hare International Airport (ORD), one of the busiest airports in the world, and Midway International Airport (MDW). Together, they provide direct flights to hundreds of destinations across North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America.

What is the best time of year for team building activities in Chicago?

Late spring through early autumn is typically the most popular period for team building events, with temperatures generally ranging between 60–85°F. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities along Lake Michigan, while winter works well for indoor experiences and holiday events.

What are the best outdoor team building activities in Chicago?

Popular outdoor experiences include architecture cruises, cycling along the Lakefront Trail, scavenger hunts in Millennium Park, sailing excursions, kayaking on the Chicago River, walking challenges, and team competitions along the waterfront.

Can teams organize boat and waterfront activities in Chicago?

Yes, Chicago's location on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River makes it ideal for water-based experiences. Companies can organize sailing regattas, architecture cruises, private yacht charters, kayaking sessions, and networking events on the water.

What food and drink team building activities are popular in Chicago?

Teams often enjoy deep-dish pizza workshops, food tours, brewery visits, cocktail-making classes, cooking competitions, wine tastings, and group dinners showcasing Chicago's renowned culinary scene.

What cultural team building activities can teams do in Chicago?

Popular options include improv workshops inspired by Chicago's comedy scene, museum experiences, architectural tours, public art challenges, jazz and blues experiences, and interactive city games exploring the city's history and neighborhoods.

Is Chicago suitable for large corporate groups?

Yes, Chicago regularly hosts major conventions, trade shows, and company events. The city offers extensive hotel capacity, conference facilities, transportation infrastructure, and activity providers capable of accommodating groups of virtually any size.

Why do companies choose Chicago for team building events?

Companies choose Chicago because it offers a strong combination of business infrastructure, accessibility, culture, dining, and waterfront experiences. In our experience hosting teams, Chicago works particularly well for companies looking for a vibrant urban destination that balances professional events with memorable group activities.