Let’s be real: corporate team-building activities can sometimes feel like being stuck in a never-ending loop of bad icebreakers and forced enthusiasm. Remember that one time when your boss thought playing two truths and a lie over soggy pizza was a great way to “bring the team together”? Yeah, we’ve all been there. But here’s the good news: Team building doesn’t have to be a drag. In fact, it can be a blast (we promise). The key is finding off-site activities that actually get people excited, spark creativity, and build genuine connections. So, if you’re ready to swap the stale for the spectacular, keep reading for five team-building activities that don’t suck, especially in Brooklyn, NYC.
To start, why is team building important?
Getting your colleagues working together outside of their traditional job duties is a great way to boost camaraderie on your team. But you won’t get very far if you go the same old route of a pizza party in the same conference room where you hold big meetings! Taking your team building off-site and outside of the office can:
-Boost Creativity
-Shift the Routine
-Strengthen Collaboration
-Relieve Stress
-Boost Morale
-Give you Major Boss Brownie Points
If you’re ready to swap the stale for the spectacular and finally put on a team building experience your colleagues will always remember, keep reading for five team-building activities in Brooklyn, New York that don’t suck.
Once you and/or your employers see the value in team building activities and corporate events, another uphill battle begins: How can you design a team building experience that is actually memorable and worthwhile? How can you get your team out of the office and into a space large enough to accommodate everyone? And, most importantly: what in the world are you going to do?!
Look no further: Here are five corporate event ideas that your team will actually want to do:
1. Ignite Team Bonding and Creativity in a Craftsman Ave Class
Nothing says team bonding like gathering around a workbench, armed with tools and creativity, ready to craft something unique. At Craftsman Ave, your team can ditch the clichéd trust falls and dive into a DIY team workshop class. Whether it’s woodworking, metalworking, or leather crafting, your employees will create something they can actually use (and brag about).
And for those with a competitive edge, how about a make-your-own pinewood derby car? The best part about this class is you get to race your colleagues at the end! Not only will your team collaborate and learn new skills, but they’ll also have a tangible memento to take home, unlike that stress ball with the company logo that’s buried in their desk drawer.
Why It Doesn’t Suck: This isn’t your average “team-building swag” that collects dust. Your team will leave with something they’re proud of—a sleek leather bag, a custom copper lamp, or even a derby car that might just win first place. Plus, the shared experience of creating something from scratch is a bonding experience like no other.
2. A Scavenger Hunt: Explore Brooklyn Like Never Before
Remember how fun scavenger hunts were as a kid? Well, they’re even better as an adult, especially when you throw in the vibrant streets of Brooklyn. Companies like Watson Adventures or Stray Boots offer organized hunts that blend iconic landmarks with hidden gems. Or, if you’re feeling particularly ambitious, you can create your own custom hunt.
Why It Doesn’t Suck: It’s competitive, adventurous, and way more engaging than staring at a PowerPoint in a conference room. Your team will work together to solve clues, navigate the city, and maybe even discover a few new favorite spots. And who knows, you might uncover some hidden teamwork skills that never came out in those Monday morning meetings.
3. Getting Outdoors Together: Because Vitamin D is Good for Morale
Let’s face it: nothing drains the spirit like the four beige walls of an office. So, why not take the team outdoors for some fresh air and fun? From picnics in Prospect Park to a day of sailing on the Hudson, there are endless ways to get outside and bond as a team.
Why It Doesn’t Suck: It’s versatile and refreshing. Whether your team prefers a leisurely lake day or a high-energy river float, there’s an outdoor activity for everyone. Plus, getting out of the office and into nature is a great way to reset and recharge—and maybe even get a little sunburnt together (because nothing says team bonding like a shared need for aloe vera).
4. Improv Comedy Workshops: Where Laughter Strengthens Team Bonds
Forget awkward small talk and forced “fun” activities. Improv comedy workshops are where the magic happens. And there’s no better place for this type of activity than the Big Apple! Partner with organizations like Upright Citizens Brigade or The PIT (People’s Improv Theater) to put your team in the spotlight—literally.
Why It Doesn’t Suck: Improv is hilarious, spontaneous, and a little bit scary—in the best way possible. It forces people out of their comfort zones, encourages quick thinking, and brings down barriers faster than you can say “yes, and…”. Plus, you’ll get to see your coworkers’ hidden comedic talents (or lack thereof), which is always good for a laugh.
5. Volunteer Together: Because Doing Good Feels Good
If you want to build a stronger team while making a difference, volunteering is the way to go. Partner with local charities and spend a day giving back to the community. Whether it’s serving at a food pantry, assembling care packages, or participating in a community clean-up, there’s no shortage of ways to contribute.
Need a few ideas for community organizations in NYC? Here are a few we love:
Food Bank for New York City
There are lots of opportunities to help those dealing with food instability through the Food Bank of New York City. Take your team to pack goods at the warehouse or give out meals to those who need them, and leave with a sense of gratitude and community.
Apex for Youth
Apex for Youth works with underserved Asian and immigrant youth from low-income families in NYC and Brooklyn with programming on health, well-being, education, and community engagement. Your team can volunteer in a variety of capacities from creating wellness kits to providing education.
New Yorkers for Parks
Keep NYC’s green spaces lush and beautiful by organizing your team to volunteer with New Yorkers for Parks! With corporate group volunteer opportunities across the boroughs, there’s something for everyone who loves the outdoors and wants to maintain our green spaces for generations to come.
Ronald McDonald House
Ronald McDonald House has a New York Group Volunteer Program, where corporations or companies can come together to volunteer with meal service, wall decorating, care package assembly, and more. Help kids in need and give your team a sense of purpose with this special organization.
Why It Doesn’t Suck: It’s impactful and meaningful. Volunteering together fosters a sense of purpose and unity that can’t be achieved through standard team-building exercises. Plus, you get to do some real good in the world—and that’s a win-win.
Ready to Ditch the Dull Team Building Routine?
There you have it—five team-building activities that are anything but boring. Whether you’re crafting, exploring, laughing, or giving back, these experiences are sure to strengthen your team and create lasting memories. So, next time you’re tasked with planning a corporate event, remember: it doesn’t have to suck.
And if the idea of hammering out a masterpiece in a Brooklyn makers class sounds like the perfect fit for your team, why not sign up for a group class at Craftsman Ave? It’s time to trade the tired for the inspired—your team will thank you.
Other Articles You May Enjoy: