You found our list of the best team building activities in Portland, Oregon.
Team building activities in Portland are events that encourage communication and bonding among team members. Examples include the World Forestry Center tour, the Portland Spirit dinner cruise, and the Feed the Mass cooking experience. The purpose of these ideas is to help team members bond by spending time together and creating lasting memories.
These activities are similar to team offsite experiences, group outing activities, and indoor team building games.
This list includes:
- team building events in Portland
- corporate team building activities in Portland
- fun group activities in Portland
- Portland team building ideas
Here we go!
List of team building activities in Portland
Portland has many activities and experiences for groups of all sizes. From having a party at Emperor Georgiou’s Tea Room to taking a ride with Portland Rose Balloons, here are the best activities your team can try out in the city.
1. Portland Spirit Dinner Cruise
Portland Spirit hosts fun dinner cruises all year round. This private dining experience is one of the most fun team building events in Portland. The dinner typically runs for two hours. Also, you can have up to 450 guests onboard.
Your booking will include all the resources you need for a successful team building outing, including an event planner and state-of-the-art facilities. Portland Spirit takes pride in providing a fine dining experience for guests. The ride will take off from the downtown area, navigating along the Willamette River. There are also various forms of entertainment to keep your teammates hooked, from live music to stories about the city’s attraction sites.
Learn more about Portland Spirit.
2. Feed the Mass Cooking Experience
If your team wants to give back to the community, then you cannot go wrong with participating in the Feed the Mass cooking experience. Feed the Mass is a nonprofit organization in Portland committed to preparing hearty meals for individuals without homes. The organization hosts a fun cooking class where team members can collaborate and work together.
During the experience, a professional chef will teach your group various cooking techniques. You will also participate in preparing about 100 meals and distributing the food to homeless shelters. Feed the Mass can accommodate groups with up to 15 participants at once.
Learn more about Feed the Mass Cooking Experience.
3. The Maize at the Pumpkin Patch
The Maize at the Pumpkin Patch is a beautiful farm to visit. The farm spans eight acres and opens for public visits seasonally. There is a market on-site that your team can explore. The farm also offers plenty of food and a covered seating area to dine with your group.
You can try out the destination’s corn maze, famous among many visitors. Walking the maze with your friends is one of the most fun group activities in Portland. The maze is challenging, requiring your group to combine brainpower to locate the exit. Your team can spend up to an hour figuring out the paths. Plus, the farm offers fun trivia cards to help guide you through and heighten the fun. In addition, the corn maze is dog friendly, so furry friends can freely tag along. The farm also has a small barn housing several animals, including cows and peacocks.
Learn more about The Maize at the Pumpkin Patch.
4. Red Castle Games
Red Castle is a board game café where your group can dine and challenge themselves to a tournament. The venue has private rooms featuring high-tech facilities and an occupancy capacity of about 16 guests. The café also serves various dishes and beverages, from chicken tenders to beer.
Tons of games are available on-site, from role-playing to tabletop miniatures. Examples include Zombie Fluxx, Hero Quest, and Race for the Galaxy. In addition, Red Castle Games regularly hosts special events all year round. One of the most popular events is Dungeons and Dragons sessions. Red Castle requires participants to play in groups of five members each. During this activity, a dedicated dungeon master will lead your group while encouraging teamwork and collaboration.
Learn more about Red Castle Games.
5. Smash PDX Rage Room
If your teammates have been feeling stressed lately, then consider visiting the Smash PDX rage room. Your group will have an exhilarating time smashing different objects within 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your package. The venue will provide all items to break. You will also receive protective materials to ensure a safe experience.
Alternatively, Smash PDX can provide paints your group can splash on the wall to let out built-up frustration. In addition, you can order snacks and drinks during your stay. You will find a call button for placing orders on the back of the room’s door. A day in this rage room is among the best Portland team building ideas to boost your coworkers’ morale.
Learn more about Smash PDX Rage Room.
6. Sykart Indoor Racing
Located within driving distance of Portland, Sykart is a great place to experience a high-energy race with your team. The track is usually open to the public, accepting both walk-ins and online reservations. Plus, the go-kart experience is challenging enough for riders at all levels. You and your coworkers can drop in for a ten-minute competitive race. Notably, the races are usually not exclusive. Thus, if you have only a few teammates, then the center will pair your group with other teams.
Sykart can also help your company host a private racing experience tailored to your taste. For example, in the 30-Minute Team Relay experience, your guests will play in groups of up to five members. The group in first position wins. On the other hand, the Grand Prix lasts eight minutes, with the races scored based on the fastest lap. Your booking generally covers helmets for your group, although you can bring your own.
Learn more about Sykart Indoor Racing.
7. World Forestry Center
The World Forestry Center is a nonprofit and excellent spot for nature lovers. Exploring this destination is one of the most fun team building activities in Portland. Your group can take a self-guided tour to view the exhibits displayed on two floors. The collections feature information about wildlife and tree planting. You can also climb onto a Timberjack Harvester or operate a simulated version.
On the second floor, your group can take a virtual tour of forests in different countries, including South Africa and China. The museum usually offers free admission for group leaders to enhance your experience. You should plan to spend around one or two hours on-site. In addition, the destination is within proximity to the Hoyt Arboretum. Thus, your team can extend your visit to include a walk or picnic at this garden.
Learn more about the World Forestry Center.
8. Portland Rose Balloons
Portland Rose Balloons offers fun mid-air rides with scenic views of Willamette Valley and Oregon Countryside. This hot air balloon experience takes place in Aurora, with the launch site located 20 minutes south of Portland.
The flight usually starts shortly before sunset and runs for an average of 50 minutes. In addition to the scenic views, your group will also get to see how flying a hot air balloon works. Once the experience ends, you and your group members will share a glass of champagne at the launch site. The flight basket can accommodate up to 12 passengers. In addition, the ride is interactive, and the crew will gladly answer any questions your teammates have.
Learn more about Portland Rose Balloons.
9. PDX Photo Lounge
Taking group pictures at PDX Photo Lounge’s booths is one of the simple yet fun corporate team building activities in Portland. The service offers a package featuring a three-hour access to the facility and a selfie stick. PDX Photo Lounge has over 20 fun backdrops where you and your teammates can strike your best poses. The themes range from holidays to haunted mansions to beaches.
The best part is the photo lounge provides face painting services and custom printed backdrop for an added fee. In addition, the service offers several photo booth options to rent during your team events. The 360 Photo Booth is a good option designed to capture your group members from all angles.
Learn more about PDX Photo Lounge.
10. Rose City Book Pub
If your colleagues enjoy reading, then Rose City Book Pub is perfect for your next team building outing in Portland. The bar features a collection of books in different themes and genres. Your group can visit this location and retreat to a corner to read a book.
Rose City Book Pub does not require guests to pay any reservation fee. However, a minimum food and drink purchase applies to secure your stay for one hour. In addition, the pub has a patio area and bar space you can rent for a private book club with your team. Plus, Rose City Book Pub hosts a weekly trivia event open to teams having up to four members.
Learn more about Rose City Book Pub.
11. Blooming Moon Spa
A wellness retreat at Blooming Moon is one of the best team building events in Portland. The wellness center uses cruelty-free and vegan-friendly products for their services. The center offers different wellness services, from therapeutic massages to body scrubs.
You can book the spa’s retreat space for a private session. Your group will have access to a private deck featuring a bathtub and an outdoor seating area. This space is ideal for teams with up to six guests. In addition, you can bring your own refreshments to entertain guests. The retreat space has all the supplies for a comfy experience, from herbal teas to towels to fruit water. During your stay, you can enjoy various self-guided treatments, including facials and hot tub soaks.
Learn more about Blooming Moon Spa.
12. QuarterWorld Arcade
QuarterWorld Arcade is a great location for teams to unwind and play nostalgic games. You can play over 100 old-school games, including X-Men, Dr. Mario, Rick & Morty, and Crazy Taxi. Plus, you can add free play for your group to enjoy most of the available games.
The arcade room features two full-service bars offering different delicacies and alcoholic beverages to make your stay worthwhile. You can buy out the venue for a fully private experience. The lounge is also available for semi-private gatherings. In addition, the bar is open to renting out pinball machines and arcade games if you want to bring the experience directly to your office.
Learn more about QuarterWorld Arcade.
13. Midnight Pacific Studio Jewelry-Making Class
Midnight Pacific Studio leads unique jewelry-making classes for teams in Portland. The small classes can accommodate up to four participants for a session. Thus, you and your team members can closely interact with the instructor and have a better learning experience. The jewelry studio will supply each attendee with the needed tools.
Also, you do not need prior experience to participate in the class. There are different workshops to choose from based on your group’s interest. Examples include the Intro to Stone Setting, Handmade Chain, and Riveted Construction. The classes can run anywhere from three to eight hours. You can also book the workshop as a private or public experience.
Learn more about Midnight Pacific Studio Jewelry-Making Class.
14. Rachel Escoe Glass
Rachel Escoe is a local artist who organizes fun glassblowing classes for groups in Portland. The classes are practical and customizable to your group’s experience level. The host can accommodate up to 15 guests at once for a private workshop.
The event’s duration can be between three to four hours. Each guest will interact one-on-one with Rachael Escoe, who will also guide you in making your glass ornament. The host can also arrange a snack table where your team can sit around while taking turns to craft their work with the instructor. The finished glass pieces are usually ready for pickup after one week.
Learn more about Rachel Escoe Glass.
15. Portland Kayak Company Tour
If your coworkers love outdoor adventures, then consider booking a guided tour with Portland Kayak Company. This experience is excellent for both beginners and experts. The kayak ride will take your group through the Willamette River while getting views of the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge, Tilikum Crossing Bridge, and Ross Island.
In addition, the service offers public and private kayak classes lasting about three hours. Your instructor will tailor the session to your group’s experience level. The service also provides rentals for a self-guided experience.
Learn more about the Portland Kayak Company Tour.
16. Modern Domestic Sewing Class
Modern Domestic sewing classes are among the most fun group activities in Portland. The lessons are ideal for participants of all ages and skill levels. Also, you can pick from various packages, including the Learn to Sew basic class. This workshop focuses on introductory lessons, teaching participants how to operate a sewing machine. The Garment Lab class will teach you more about pattern instructions and alteration techniques.
The class usually lasts about three hours on average. You can also set up private group lessons with one of the shop’s sewers. Your booking covers access to the studio’s equipment and discounts on the supplies you purchase.
Learn more about Modern Domestic Sewing Class.
17. Oregon Music Academy
Oregon Music Academy offers classes led by professionals for groups in the Portland area. The experience is available for both young and adult students. You can learn to play various instruments, such as flute, ukulele, violin, and guitar. You can also take a group voice lesson to improve your singing skills. These voice classes come in different forms, including opera, country, and worship.
After scheduling a visit, the studio will determine your group members’ experience level. Next, you will have a teacher assigned to help you reach your music goals. The teachers on-site are friendly, patient, and committed to helping your group have a wonderful moment learning a valuable skill together.
Learn more about Oregon Music Academy.
18. Corbett Farm Horse Riding
Corbett Farm horse riding is a unique experience to share with your coworkers. This Corbett-based farm serves teams from Portland and nearby areas. The rides usually run for around 40 minutes. Before riding, you and your colleagues can meet and greet the friendly horses. The farm is also home to other animals like chickens, goats, turkeys, and peacocks.
The horse rides are relaxing, giving your team scenic views along the local trails. There is also an indoor arena where your group can ride, especially when it rains. In addition, Corbett Farm provides equine therapy services to help improve guests’ health and wellness.
Learn more about Corbett Farm Horse Riding.
19. Portland Wine Company Tasting Experience
Portland Wine Company has a vibrant atmosphere perfect for team building. Tasting the wines in the destination is one of the most fun corporate team building activities in Portland. The venue has a comfy tasting room and outdoor seating area where your team can toast and chat.
Plus, the service makes high-quality wines, ranging from pinot noir to sauvignon blanc. You can reserve a VIP tasting room for a private session with your team. Your reservation will cover a brief tour of the facility and a discussion about the wine production process.
Learn more about Portland Wine Company Tasting Experience.
Final Thoughts
Portland is a great city for groups to host unique team building experiences. The city has a combination of outstanding culinary culture, entertainment, and creativity to make your event stand out. Whether you are food enthusiasts or music lovers, Portland has different destinations offering must-see attractions. Your group can enjoy scenic city views by dining outdoors, kayaking, or riding horses along local trails. In addition, you can take classes to learn arts like glass blowing, painting, and jewelry making. These activities in Portland will provide your group with an immersive experience and help facilitate your team building goals.
Next, check out these fun workplace team building games. We also have a guide on how to build stronger teams.
