Team building activities are a great way to get over a creative rut, work out relationship problems and celebrate your successes. The nation’s capital is full of cultural activities that will help your crew learn how to work together. These five creative team building ideas in Washington, D.C., will help bond your team — and help them get to know each other better.
Before scheduling your big day out, you’ll want to do a little planning. Or, hire someone to help with the itinerary (hint: we can help :). If you go it alone, here are a few tips to ensure your team building event goes without a hitch.
Ask Your Team for Feedback on Event Ideas
Don’t assume everyone will love outdoor activities and physical challenges. Some coworkers will be put off by some activities — or, they might feel intimidated by super physical challenges or highly analytical events. Ask your team to fill out a questionnaire or offer up their own ideas.
Consider the Weather
If you’re planning an outdoor event, try to be flexible. Don’t just assume the weather will be perfect. D.C. is known for super-hot, muggy summers. Rain is common in April and September. Plan a back-up day or a back-up event.
Respect Public Spaces
Don’t bogart public spaces; you’re not the only team who will be enjoying them! This means, respect rules of museums, clean up your trash in the park and allow others to pass by on the sidewalk. Don’t ask pedestrians to wait until your event is over to share the space.
#1: Museum Mania
Washington, D.C. is known for its many museums. The best part? Most museums in the city are completely free! Send your team on a scavenger hunt in the Smithsonian, or task them to find the creepiest paintings in the National Gallery. The possibilities are endless! The best part is that you never need to worry about inclement weather in a museum.
#2: Cultural City Tour
How often do you get to be a tourist in your own city? Do you know where to find the best barbacoa and pizza? When was the last time you explored Chinatown? Hiring a company to take you on a food tour of the city is one of the best ways to learn about its culture. The best part is that you’ll probably get your pick of restaurants and sidewalk space on weekdays.
#3: Social Responsibility
Want to make an impact on more than just your team? Social responsibility team building activities are a great way to help your team bond while doing good in your community. Build and donate bicycles for underprivileged children, compete in a scavenger hunt for charity, or donate your time at a local food bank!
#4: Spy Scavenger Hunt
Want to get your team out of their office chairs and into the streets of D.C.? A spy scavenger hunt is a great way to trick your crew into exploring the city — with high-octane challenges. You can create your own spy scavenger hunt that forces employees to solve challenges and pretend they’re spies. Or, head over to the Spy Museum in L’Enfant Plaza, where they have spy challenges set up for visiting groups.
#5: Reality Show Star
Ever wish you could play some of the games from your favorite reality shows? Bring the excitement to your office with Survivor Games Team Building Event or Amazing Race. It’s all the fun you’d expect to see on TV — without the worry of getting voted off.
