18 Creative and Energizing Santa Clara Team Building Activites in 2025

Santa Clara provides a dynamic and welcoming backdrop for team-building, where innovation meets community and convenience. Known for its proximity to leading tech hubs, the city also offers leafy neighborhoods, vibrant shopping and dining districts, and expansive parks. Whether your team wants to dive into interactive workshops, explore scenic trails, or share a meal at one of Santa Clara’s acclaimed restaurants, the city creates the perfect environment for connection and collaboration. From creative indoor activities to energizing outdoor adventures, here are 18 standout team-building experiences to try in 2025.

1. Make Believe Works

Creative Fun Helps Teams Bond Better

Make Believe Works delivers something refreshingly original to the team-building experience. Rather than relying on surface-level entertainment or overly competitive exercises that might limit engagement, Make Believe Works offers something in between—an experience that’s both energizing and profoundly connective. The imaginative, hands-on approach encourages people to move beyond their usual roles and reveal themselves more openly and confidently. A thoughtful blend of creativity, psychological safety, and play, the sessions leave teams revitalized in the moment and more cohesive long after.

Companies like Google, Salesforce, and Pixar applaud Make Believe Works for creating environments where people can be authentic without fear, collaborate without pressure, and uncover unexpected depth in their colleagues. Whether your goal is to strengthen relationships, cultivate trust, or simply honor your team, Make Believe Works delivers.

"Our team loved the Emblemottos activity! It was a creative and fun way to empathize with each other’s personal values. The expert facilitation gave everyone the chance to share their personal stories. At the end of the day, we came away feeling both energized, bonded, and inspired by each other." - Silvia V., Youtube

Airsoft Competition

For teams that love a little adrenaline, Airsoft Extreme delivers action-packed play in a safe, structured environment. Outfitted with gear and replica-style airsoft equipment, groups face off in strategy-based missions that require quick thinking and collaboration. Unlike laser tag, airsoft emphasizes tactical planning and coordination, pushing participants to anticipate moves and work as a true unit. Instructors are on-site to guide new players, making it accessible for all skill levels. Whether you’re running defensive drills or storming the field together, this activity creates shared excitement and lasting memories.

Cat Cafe

Few team outings are as comforting—and unique—as spending time with cats at Nabi Cat Café. This cozy space in Santa Clara combines the relaxation of a café with the joy of meeting adoptable cats. Teams can sip coffee or tea while socializing in a calming environment, with the playful presence of cats creating lighthearted conversation and plenty of photo-worthy moments. It’s perfect for groups looking to de-stress, recharge, and connect in a laid-back setting. Plus, visits support animal rescue efforts, adding a feel-good element to the experience. For a team event that’s equal parts bonding and wellness, Nabi offers a warm, welcoming change of pace.

4. Bowlmor

Group Bowling

Take classic bowling to the next level at Bowlmor Santa Clara. This modern venue blends the nostalgia of bowling with sleek design, lounge seating, and upscale food and drink options. Teams can book private lanes or larger event spaces, making it easy to accommodate groups of all sizes. With interactive scoring, themed décor, and plenty of room for mingling, it’s as much a social outing as it is a friendly competition. Beyond bowling, the venue often offers arcade games and other entertainment, keeping the energy high. Whether your group prefers to cheer from the sidelines or chase strikes, bowling makes team play both fun and stylish.

Driving Rage

Perfect for casual golfers and seasoned players alike, the driving range at Pruneridge Golf Club in Santa Clara is a relaxing yet skill-building outing for teams. Groups can practice swings side by side, trade tips, or even book a group lesson with on-site pros. The open-air setup encourages conversation between turns, creating a natural flow for connection and lighthearted competition. Balls are rented bucket-style, making it flexible for groups who want a short outing or a longer session. With an on-site café and lots of shade, the driving range lets colleagues unwind while engaging in a shared activity.

History Tour

Step back in time with a self-guided walking tour of the historic Santa Clara Mission, located on the university campus. This thoughtfully curated route highlights centuries-old architecture, artifacts, and landscaped grounds that tell the story of California’s mission era. For teams, it’s a chance to slow down, explore history together, and reflect in a quieter, more contemplative setting. The experience can be paired with group discussion or casual journaling to spark conversation about legacy, culture, and community. With no strict schedule and easy access for all mobility levels, the mission tour provides a meaningful, educational outing that balances team bonding with local heritage.

Explore Space

Launch your team into a universe of wonder at the De Anza Planetarium. This state-of-the-art facility features a massive domed theater that immerses visitors in dazzling visuals of galaxies, constellations, and cosmic phenomena. Teams can book private shows led by expert presenters, transforming the night sky into a shared journey of discovery and curiosity. Whether your colleagues are aspiring astronomers, starry-eyed dreamers, or just looking for something out of the ordinary, the planetarium combines education, awe, and playful inspiration. It’s a stellar way to spark imagination, encourage conversation, and create lasting memories—an experience that literally takes team-building to new heights.

Amusement Park

When it comes to energizing a team, few places match the thrill of California’s Great America. This amusement park in Santa Clara is packed with roller coasters, water rides, live entertainment, and plenty of spaces for groups to gather. Teams can split up to tackle favorite attractions, then reconnect for shared meals or shows, creating a dynamic mix of independence and camaraderie. The excitement of rides naturally builds trust and laughter—after all, nothing bonds people like screaming together on a coaster. With group packages and flexible event options, Great America makes it easy to plan a high-energy day where collaboration feels fun, natural, and unforgettable.

VR Experience

Step into new realities with a team visit to Hyperspace, a futuristic virtual reality arcade that blends immersive technology with playful challenges. Groups can choose from dozens of VR experiences—ranging from collaborative missions and escape-style puzzles to lighthearted games designed for pure fun. The setup encourages teams to communicate, strategize, and sometimes laugh at themselves as they navigate virtual worlds. With private event bookings available, you can turn the space into a dedicated team playground. It’s an ideal option for tech-forward companies or groups looking for something that feels fresh and innovative.

Guided Hikes and Workshops

For teams that want a change of scenery, Santa Clara County Parks offers a rotating calendar of guided hikes, outdoor workshops, and nature programs. These events range from wildlife walks and history tours to volunteer projects, making them easy to tailor to your group’s style. Each outing emphasizes collaboration—whether you’re identifying native plants together or helping restore a trail, the shared activity sparks natural conversation and connection. With so many event types across different parks, it’s a flexible and memorable way to balance bonding with the beauty of the outdoors.

Sports Game

Home to the San Francisco 49ers, Levi’s Stadium doubles as an unforgettable venue for team outings. Beyond game days, the stadium offers private tours that take groups through locker rooms, luxury suites, and even onto the field. The behind-the-scenes access sparks excitement while giving teams a new perspective on teamwork, preparation, and performance. Event spaces throughout the stadium can host everything from casual gatherings to large corporate celebrations, complete with catering and tech support. For sports fans, it’s a dream come true; for everyone else, it’s still a chance to experience one of the Bay Area’s most iconic venues.

Art Tour

For a creative spin on team building, the Triton Museum of Art in Santa Clara offers a refreshing mix of culture and conversation. The museum’s exhibitions highlight both contemporary and historical works, sparking dialogue and new ways of thinking. Private tours or workshops can be arranged, giving groups a chance to explore artistic expression while making connections that feel authentic. Whether your team is full of art enthusiasts or just looking for a thoughtful change of pace, Triton provides a setting where imagination and collaboration naturally thrive.

Sports Museum Tour

Step inside the legacy of the San Francisco 49ers at the Levi’s Stadium Museum, an immersive destination that blends sports history with interactive exhibits. Teams can explore championship memorabilia, learn about the franchise’s greatest players, and even test their skills in fun, hands-on stations. The museum makes it easy to draw parallels between teamwork on the field and collaboration in the workplace, giving your group both inspiration and entertainment. It’s an engaging outing that resonates with sports fans and non-fans alike, proving that the lessons of teamwork translate far beyond the gridiron.

Boat Tour

Take team bonding off dry land with an Alviso Boat Tour, run by Santa Clara County Parks. These guided excursions highlight the unique ecosystems of the South Bay, offering a chance to see wildlife, wetlands, and scenic waterways up close. The relaxed pace encourages conversation, while the natural setting provides a welcome break from screens and schedules. Teams can learn about local history, environmental restoration, and the role of wetlands in the region’s health. It’s a balance of education and leisure, making it an ideal activity for groups who want something both memorable and meaningful.

Ceramic Workshop

Bring your team’s creativity to the surface with a hands-on workshop at Clay Planet in Santa Clara. These guided sessions invite participants to shape, mold, and glaze their own ceramic pieces, whether it’s pottery, tiles, or quirky creations. The process encourages patience, problem-solving, and a playful willingness to get a little messy. Instructors lead groups step-by-step, ensuring everyone feels included regardless of skill level. At the end, your team has tangible keepsakes to remember the day.

Kombucha and Fermentation workshop

Shake up team building with a Kombucha and Fermentation workshop offered through Santa Clara Adult Education. In this interactive class, groups learn the art and science behind brewing kombucha while also exploring other fun fermentation techniques. It’s part culinary adventure, part science experiment—perfect for sparking curiosity and conversation. Teams work together through each step, from flavoring to bottling, creating a sense of shared accomplishment. It’s a lively activity that mixes education with hands-on fun, giving teams something unique to bond over (and taste test afterward!).

Volunteer in Local Parks

For a team activity that blends purpose with fresh air, consider volunteering in Santa Clara County Parks. From trail maintenance to habitat restoration, these programs invite groups to roll up their sleeves and give back to the community while enjoying time outdoors. Projects are designed to be accessible and collaborative, ensuring that everyone has a role to play. The hands-on work naturally strengthens teamwork and communication, while the results—cleaner spaces, thriving plants, and improved trails—provide immediate satisfaction. It’s a rewarding alternative to traditional team-building, combining impact, wellness, and camaraderie.

Team Yoga

Escape the meeting monotony with a revitalizing team session at Jiaren Yoga Studio. Here, your group can enjoy private or corporate yoga classes led by attentive instructors who emphasize alignment, breathwork, and emotional restoration. Adaptable for all levels, these sessions tune participants into posture precision, presence, and mindful collaboration. After class, invite your team to linger at the in-house Jiaren Café—serving matcha, local espresso, and herbal elixirs. Whether you’re stretching away stress or fostering collective calm, this blend of grounded movement resets both mind and team momentum.

Santa Clara blends tech innovation with rich cultural charm. Teams can dive into interactive workshops or unwind with strolls through its parks. There are plenty of ways to collaborate, recharge, and spark new ideas.

When planning your event, think about what energizes your group—tackling challenges together, building stronger connections, or simply enjoying time away from the office. With its mix of Silicon Valley energy and community spirit, Santa Clara provides an ideal setting for memorable, engaging team-building experiences.