If you’re planning corporate team-building activities, Chicago is a great place to be since the city is packed with venues for events that everyone will enjoy. In this article, we’ll cover some of our favorite spots for corporate team-building activities in Chicago, looking at a range of options for every interest and team size. 

The Benefits of Team Building 

As remote work becomes more and more popular, it’s still important to get your team together in real life. You can use team-building experiences to build trust, boost creativity, and strengthen the relationships between your staff. According to a study by Gallup, highly engaged teams show 21 percent greater profitability compared to less engaged teams. Additionally, a survey by Salesforce found that 86 percent of employees cite a lack of collaboration for workplace failures. Team-building activities can help improve both engagement and collaboration among team members, which directly impacts performance. These statistics underscore the importance of planning team-building experiences for your group. 

Wintrust Sports Complex for Corporate Team Building Activities 

Wintrust Sports Complex is a great spot for team-building activities in Chicago. We’re located just minutes from downtown Chicago in Bedford Park, and we’re not your average gymnasium. Our facility features state-of-the-art sports courts, esports lounges, meeting spaces, catering options, and a fun, welcoming space that makes people want to participate.

Hardwood Courts and Turf Fields

We offer classic court games like basketball or volleyball, as well as spaces for dodgeball, pickleball, indoor soccer, and more. 

Event Space

If you’re planning a full-day retreat or a few hours of friendly competition, our spaces are flexible and can scale to your needs.

Arcade

Our massive 4,000-square-foot arcade is packed with both the latest video games and some timeless classics. We offer a range of games for all skill levels, so everyone’s welcome. Because our arcade is not physically demanding, it’s also a great option for those who aren’t interested in running around a court.

Laser Tag

Our state-of-the-art, 2,000-square-foot laser tag arena is the perfect place for your next team-building event. We can fit groups of up to 20 people, and each game lasts 10 minutes, so you can customize the experience to your group’s needs. 

Onsite Catering and Lounge Areas

Don’t worry about dragging your team to multiple places for meetings and meals. At Wintrust Sports Complex, we make it easy to keep everything in one location. 

Event Planning Support

Need help getting started? Our team can help you plan and execute your team-building experience so that you can focus on being there with your staff and having a good time. 

More Team Building Activities in Chicago

If you’re looking to mix it up, here are a few more ideas for fun group activities in Chicago.

Escape Rooms

Escape Artistry in Wicker Park or The Escape Game on Michigan Avenue are a few favorites. These are also great rainy-day options.

Cooking Classes

The Chopping Block or Cook Au Vin offer private group classes where your team can bond over things like pasta-making and knife skills. 

Architectural Boat Tour

The Chicago River architectural tour is a city favorite. It’s relaxing, scenic, and educational, and also a great option for groups that are less active. 

Comedy Improv Workshop

Places like Second City and The Revival offer corporate improv sessions designed to boost creativity. 

Kayak the Chicago River

Nothing beats the views when you’re paddling through downtown on the Chicago River. Several companies offer guided kayak tours with group rentals, and it’s a unique way to see the city. 

Outdoor Escape Games

Companies like Urban Adventure Quest and Let’s Roam offer outdoor scavenger hunts and team missions across Chicago neighborhoods.

Tips for Planning Your Team-Building Experience 

Wherever you choose to go, we suggest keeping these tips in mind when planning your team-building experience.

Know Your Team

Every team has a mix of people with different personalities and preferences. Try to offer activities that give everyone a chance to enjoy themselves.

Make It Optional 

Don’t make attendance mandatory. Instead, plan something great so that people want to show up. Promote the outing with some hype, like teasers or small incentives, and let people know what to expect.

Keep It Inclusive

Not everyone wants to play volleyball or drink beer. Offer non-alcoholic options, accessible spaces, and activities for every comfort level. 

Use It as a Work Culture Boost

Let your team-building event reflect your company’s personality, and don’t be afraid to have fun with it. You might even consider bringing custom T-shirts or offering prizes depending on the activity. 

Plan Based on the Season 

Chicago’s weather is known to change throughout the year. In the warmer months, which usually last from late spring through early fall, outdoor events like architecture boat tours, rooftop happy hours, Cubs or White Sox games, and picnics in Millennium Park are popular. However, during the colder months, especially late fall and winter, indoor venues are a better bet. By keeping the season in mind, you can make sure your team has a great time regardless of the weather.

Learn More About Corporate Team-Building Activities at Wintrust Sports Complex 

People love the chance to get out of the office and connect with their coworkers, but they want to do it in a way that doesn’t feel forced. That’s what makes Wintrust Sports Complex such a great spot for group activities. We’re proud to offer enough structure to keep things productive and enough flexibility to let your team have a good time, along with catering and planning services to make the most of your day. 

To learn more about our event spaces or to inquire about hosting your next business outing, contact us today.