18 Cleveland Team Building Activities to Connect Your Team in 2025

Cleveland combines industrial grit, lakeside charm, and a thriving arts scene to create a one-of-a-kind backdrop for team-building. From the bustling districts of Downtown and Ohio City to scenic spots along Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga River, the city gives teams countless ways to connect, recharge, and spark new ideas. Groups can dive into hands-on workshops, tackle friendly competitions, or explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods and cultural landmarks. With its mix of creativity, resilience, and local flavor, here are 18 team-building experiences that are as dynamic as they are memorable for 2025.

1. Make Believe Works

Creative Fun Helps Teams Bond Better

Make Believe Works presents something refreshingly innovative in the team-building arena. Rather than depending on superficial distractions or overly competitive activities that might limit engagement, Make Believe Works provides something in between—an experience that’s both motivating and highly connective. The imaginative, hands-on approach inspires participants to step beyond their usual roles and share themselves more openly and assuredly. A thoughtful combination of creativity, psychological safety, and play, the sessions leave teams energized in the moment and more aligned long after.

Companies like Google, Salesforce, and Pixar commend Make Believe Works for creating spaces where people can be authentic without fear, work together without pressure, and uncover meaningful insight in their colleagues. Whether your goal is to strengthen relationships, foster trust, or simply celebrate your team, Make Believe Works delivers.

“Play has a deep connection to executive function and benefits people of all ages. Make Believe Team is a strategy for learning. It unlocks truths, capabilities, and things that make you a better human.” - Chief Creative Officer, Children’s Museum of Manhattan

Glassblowing Workshop

At the Glass Bubble Project, teams step into the fascinating world of glassblowing, transforming molten glass into colorful, one-of-a-kind creations. Guided by expert artisans, participants learn techniques like shaping, blowing, and sculpting, working collaboratively to produce memorable pieces. The hands-on process encourages communication, problem-solving, and creativity, fostering an environment where colleagues can experiment and support one another. Along the way, teams share laughs, celebrate small victories, and gain tangible keepsakes of their experience. Ideal for groups looking to combine artistic expression with team bonding.

Comedy Tour & City Exploration

The Funny Bus Comedy City Tour turns Cleveland into a stage for laughter and camaraderie. Teams hop on a moving comedy show, guided by witty local comedians who blend city history, quirky anecdotes, and interactive humor. Along the route, participants enjoy iconic landmarks while engaging in group games, sing-alongs, and humorous challenges. BYOB adds a relaxed social vibe, encouraging conversation and shared enjoyment. Perfect for teams seeking a lighthearted outing that mixes sightseeing with laughter, this tour strengthens connections, sparks playful competition, and leaves colleagues energized.

Board Games & Café Space

Tabletop Board Game Café offers teams a lively space to unwind, strategize, and collaborate over hundreds of board games. From cooperative adventures to competitive strategy games, groups can choose experiences that challenge communication, critical thinking, and teamwork. The café menu keeps participants fueled with snacks and drinks while fostering conversation and friendly rivalry. Game facilitators can suggest challenges or structured tournaments to increase engagement and encourage collaboration. Whether aiming to sharpen problem-solving skills, spark creativity, or simply have fun, this setting gives teams a playful yet focused environment.

Music Museum & Interactive Exhibits

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame immerses teams in the electrifying world of music history. Colleagues explore interactive exhibits, iconic memorabilia, and multimedia installations that highlight the evolution of rock and its cultural impact. Guided programs and hands-on activities invite discussion, reflection, and shared appreciation. Groups can participate in music trivia, perform in recording simulations, or explore curated collections together, fostering creativity and dialogue. Ideal for teams looking to combine learning, entertainment, and social connection, the museum provides an inspiring backdrop where colleagues bond over shared musical interests.

Art & Messy Team Fun

At The Splatter Loft, teams dive into a vibrant, hands-on painting experience that blends creativity with laughter. Participants use unconventional tools, colors, and techniques to create bold, expressive canvases together. The messy, immersive process encourages risk-taking and collaboration, fostering camaraderie in a relaxed environment. Whether teams compete for the most dynamic piece or collaborate on a group mural, the studio sparks conversation, creativity, and mutual encouragement. With guided instruction and a playful atmosphere, groups leave with personalized art, stronger interpersonal connections, and stories to share long after the paint dries.

Improv Comedy & Performance Training

Imposters Theater turns team building into an interactive comedy experience. Groups participate in guided improv exercises that sharpen communication, quick thinking, and adaptability while creating hilarious scenes together. Facilitators guide participants through structured games that emphasize listening, collaboration, and creativity, building confidence in a playful, supportive environment. Perfect for fostering team cohesion, these sessions encourage colleagues to embrace spontaneity. Participants leave energized, laughing, and with memorable insights into teamwork, while enjoying the freedom to experiment in a performance-based setting.

Outdoor Walking Tour

Take A Hike lets teams explore Cleveland’s scenic trails, parks, and natural landscapes while taking in the city’s highlights. Guided hikes may wind through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, along the Lake Erie waterfront, or past the historic West Side Market, blending outdoor adventure with local sightseeing. Along the way, participants tackle varied terrain, pause at observation points, and engage in group exercises that encourage communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. This combination of wellness, exploration, and city discovery creates a memorable outing where colleagues connect, recharge, and enjoy shared adventure while experiencing Cleveland’s iconic nature and urban landmarks.

Shuffleboard Competition

Forest City Shuffleboard Arena blends classic shuffleboard gameplay with a vibrant social environment. Teams can participate in competitive leagues, friendly tournaments, or collaborative challenges, testing strategy, coordination, and communication skills. The bar and lounge areas offer a relaxed space to socialize between rounds, keeping energy high and conversation flowing. Ideal for corporate outings or casual team bonding, the venue combines friendly rivalry with lighthearted fun. Participants leave feeling engaged, connected, and with stories to laugh about long after the game ends.

Distillery Tour & Tasting Experience

Cleveland Whiskey offers teams a behind-the-scenes look at small-batch whiskey production, blending science, craft, and sensory experience. Participants explore the distillation process, learn about aging techniques, and taste various spirits under guided instruction. This immersive, hands-on experience encourages conversation, curiosity, and shared discovery while providing an enjoyable setting for social interaction. Teams can pair tastings with food, games, or storytelling sessions to enhance engagement. Whether colleagues are whiskey enthusiasts or novices, the experience sparks camaraderie and shared enjoyment.

Golf Competition

Five Iron Golf offers a high-tech golf experience that blends precision, strategy, and friendly competition. Teams can practice drives, approach shots, and putting on advanced simulators that replicate world-famous courses, complete with realistic ball physics and interactive game modes. Private bays allow groups to compete in point-based challenges, skill games, or casual rounds while enjoying food and beverage service in a social lounge environment. Whether perfecting swing mechanics or simply enjoying a shared activity, participants build teamwork, focus, and camaraderie. It’s a flexible, engaging way to combine skill development, laughter, and friendly rivalry in one dynamic space.

Immersive Holiday Experience

Step into the iconic House from A Christmas Story for a nostalgic, immersive team-building adventure. Teams explore the meticulously recreated interiors, re-enacting scenes and solving playful puzzles tied to the classic film. The interactive experience encourages collaboration, attention to detail, and shared storytelling, giving colleagues a chance to engage creatively. Participants can also take photos and explore themed rooms, sparking conversation and laughter along the way. Whether revisiting childhood memories or enjoying quirky challenges, groups leave with a sense of fun and camaraderie—a festive, interactive outing that brings a beloved story to life.

Batting Cages & Team Play

Swings ‘N Things offers teams a high-energy batting cage experience that combines skill development with friendly competition. Colleagues can test their swing speed, accuracy, and power using professional pitching machines set to a variety of speeds. The venue’s spacious cages allow for multiple participants to rotate turns efficiently, encouraging camaraderie, shared cheering, and playful rivalry. Between swings, groups can strategize and analyze technique, fostering teamwork and informal problem-solving. Ideal for corporate outings or casual team bonding, this experience gives participants the thrill of sport, laughter, and the satisfaction of hitting a perfect line drive.

Team Karaoke

Galaxy KTV offers teams private karaoke suites where participants can sing, collaborate, and engage in playful competition. Each room is equipped with advanced sound systems, mood lighting, and digital song libraries, creating an immersive performance environment. Teams can host themed singing challenges, collaborative duets, or solo performances, fostering communication, confidence, and shared laughter. Food and beverage options keep energy high, while the private setting ensures a comfortable, relaxed experience. Whether celebrating achievements or just enjoying an evening together, groups leave energized and amazed by each other’s singing talent.

Indoor Adventure

Adrenaline Monkey Fun provides an indoor adventure park designed to test agility, coordination, and collaboration. Teams navigate climbing walls, obstacle courses, zip lines, and rope challenges, each crafted to encourage trust, strategy, and problem-solving in a dynamic environment. Instructors provide guidance on technique, safety, and group pacing, allowing participants to push their limits while supporting one another. The variety of challenges ensures everyone finds a fun and engaging way to participate, making it ideal for team-building events. Colleagues leave with strengthened communication, confidence, and shared accomplishment.

Guided Cycling & Urban Exploration

Bike Cleveland Tours invites teams to explore the city on guided cycling adventures that blend fitness, sightseeing, and collaboration. Participants navigate curated routes, discovering landmarks, hidden gems, and local neighborhoods while building teamwork and pace strategy. Guides share historical insights and safety tips, ensuring a smooth, engaging experience for cyclists of all skill levels. Groups can stop along the way for photo opportunities or local treats, encouraging conversation and shared moments. Whether racing against time or simply enjoying the ride, teams leave energized, connected, and with a new appreciation for Cleveland’s streets and scenery.

Team Volunteering

Cleveland Metroparks offers group volunteer projects that combine environmental stewardship with meaningful team-building. Teams work together on habitat restoration, trail maintenance, and park improvement projects, fostering communication, problem-solving, and shared accomplishment. Volunteers gain hands-on experience in outdoor project management, learning techniques for sustainable practices and land preservation. The immersive nature of the work encourages collaboration in real-world scenarios, while also allowing participants to enjoy fresh air and physical activity.

Indoor Kart Racing

Boss Pro Karting offers teams a high-octane, indoor racing experience designed for adrenaline and friendly rivalry. Participants take to the track in high-performance electric go-karts, navigating tight corners, straights, and overtaking opportunities that test focus, strategy, and coordination. Timing systems and competitive leaderboards allow teams to track performance and compete in heats, while safety briefings ensure a secure, controlled environment. Between races, participants can socialize, strategize, and celebrate top laps. Boss Pro Karting combines speed, skill, and excitement with team bonding, leaving colleagues energized, competitive, and laughing long after the final lap.

Cleveland is a city of contrasts that makes team-building feel anything but ordinary. From the lively streets of Gordon Square and the funky vibes of Tremont to peaceful riverfront trails and the open expanse of Lake Erie, the city invites teams to step outside the usual routine.

Think about what will get your team most engaged, solving challenges side by side, building stronger connections, or just sharing a few laughs away from the office, and pick an activity that leaves everyone energized, inspired, and ready to carry that momentum back to work.