The Best 15 Online Experiences for Remote Teams
Top Fun Virtual Experiences For Work Teams
Let’s face it—remote work is here to stay. While working from home offers flexibility and convenience, it also comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the biggest? Keeping your team engaged and connected when everyone’s spread across different locations. If you’re scratching your head wondering how to bring your remote team together, you’re not alone.
Enter online virtual experiences. These aren’t just your run-of-the-mill Zoom meetings; they’re interactive, immersive activities designed to foster teamwork, spark creativity, and boost morale. Whether you’re looking to break the ice, celebrate a milestone, or simply have some fun, there’s a virtual experience out there that’s just right for your team.
Why Virtual Experiences Matter
You might be wondering—why bother with virtual experiences in the first place? Isn’t it enough to just schedule regular check-ins and keep the work rolling? Well, not quite. Here’s why virtual experiences are a game-changer for remote teams:
Fostering Connection: When team members aren’t sharing the same physical space, it’s easy to feel isolated. Virtual experiences create opportunities for team bonding, making remote workers feel like they’re part of a community.
Boosting Morale: Let’s be real—remote work can sometimes feel monotonous. A fun, engaging virtual experience can break the routine and inject some much-needed energy into your team.
Enhancing Collaboration: Many virtual experiences are designed to promote teamwork and problem-solving, helping to strengthen collaboration skills that can translate to better work outcomes.
Building Trust: When team members engage in activities outside of work, they get to know each other on a more personal level. This builds trust and camaraderie, which are essential for a healthy work environment.
How to Choose the Right Virtual Experience
Before we jump into our list, let’s talk about how to choose the right virtual experience for your team. After all, what works for one group might not work for another. Here are a few things to consider:
Team Size: Some experiences are best suited for smaller groups, while others can accommodate larger teams. Make sure the experience you choose fits your team size.
Interests: Does your team enjoy creative activities, or are they more into puzzles and problem-solving? Tailor the experience to match your team’s interests.
Time Commitment: How much time can your team realistically dedicate to the experience? Some activities are quick and easy, while others might require a longer time investment.
Goals: What do you want to achieve with the experience? Are you looking to build communication skills, spark creativity, or simply have fun? Clarify your goals before making a decision.
Now that you’ve got a handle on what to look for, let’s dive into the best online virtual experiences for remote teams!
The Best Online Experiences for Remote Teams
1. Virtual Escape Rooms
If your team loves a good challenge, a virtual escape room might be just the ticket. These online experiences require participants to work together to solve puzzles and find clues, all within a set time limit. It’s a great way to encourage teamwork and problem-solving while having a blast.
Why It Works: Virtual escape rooms require collaboration and communication, making them ideal for strengthening team dynamics. Plus, the sense of accomplishment when you "escape" is incredibly satisfying.
Best For: Teams that enjoy puzzles, challenges, and working under pressure.
Where to Try It: Escape Room, The Escape Game, Enchambered.
2. Online Team-Building Games
There’s a wide variety of online games specifically designed for team building. From classic games like charades to more complex strategy games, these experiences are designed to be both fun and collaborative.
Why It Works: Team-building games are an effective way to strengthen relationships, improve communication, and encourage collaboration—all while having a great time.
Best For: Teams that enjoy gaming and are looking for a fun way to connect.
Where to Try It: Internet Game
3. Virtual Trivia Night
For a more laid-back experience, consider hosting a virtual trivia night. You can either use an online trivia platform or create your own questions tailored to your team’s interests. It’s a great way to unwind and have some friendly competition.
Why It Works: Trivia nights are easy to organize and can be customized to suit your team’s preferences. Plus, they’re a fun way to learn new things and engage in a bit of friendly rivalry.
Best For: Teams looking for a low-pressure, fun way to connect.
Where to Try It: Sporcle, Kahoot!, Quizbreaker.
4. Online Art Workshops
Unleash your team’s creative side with an online art workshop. Whether it’s painting, drawing, or crafting, these workshops offer a relaxing and enjoyable way to express creativity and bond with teammates.
Why It Works: Art workshops allow team members to tap into their creative potential, which can lead to fresh ideas and perspectives in the workplace.
Best For: Teams that appreciate creative expression and enjoy working with their hands.
Where to Try It: Domestika, CraftJam, The Art Studio NY.
5. Virtual Wine or Beer Tasting
Cheers to team bonding! A virtual wine or beer tasting is a sophisticated yet fun way to bring your team together. You can have the beverages delivered to each team member’s home and then enjoy the tasting together over a video call.
Why It Works: Tasting sessions are a great way to relax and unwind while learning something new. It’s also a fantastic opportunity for team members to share their preferences and discover new favorites.
Best For: Teams that enjoy socializing and are interested in learning about different wines or beers.
Where to Try It: The Tasting Class, In Good Taste, Virtual Wine Tasting Club.
6. Online Meditation and Mindfulness Sessions
In today’s fast-paced world, taking a moment to slow down and practice mindfulness can be incredibly beneficial. An online meditation session can help your team relax, de-stress, and improve their overall well-being.
Why It Works: Mindfulness practices promote mental clarity and reduce stress, which can lead to better focus and productivity at work.
Best For: Teams that value well-being and are looking for ways to manage stress and maintain balance.
Where to Try It: Headspace, Calm, Journey Meditation.
7. Virtual Murder Mystery
If your team loves a good whodunit, a virtual murder mystery is the perfect way to get everyone involved in a thrilling narrative. Participants are assigned characters and must work together to solve the mystery before the clock runs out.
Why It Works: Murder mysteries encourage teamwork, communication, and critical thinking. Plus, they’re a lot of fun and can be customized to fit your team’s preferences.
Best For: Teams that enjoy storytelling, problem-solving, and a bit of drama.
Where to Try It: Murder Mystery Co., Night of Mystery, My Mystery Party.
8. Online Cooking Classes
Who doesn’t love food? An online cooking class is a fantastic way to bring your team together over a shared love of cuisine. Whether you’re whipping up a classic dish or trying something new, cooking together (virtually) can be a lot of fun.
Why It Works: Cooking together allows team members to bond over a shared activity. Plus, you get to enjoy a delicious meal at the end—what’s not to love?
Best For: Teams that enjoy creative, hands-on activities and aren’t afraid to get a little messy.
Where to Try It: Cozymeal, The Chef & The Dish
9. Virtual Scavenger Hunt
A virtual scavenger hunt adds a playful twist to team-building. Participants are given a list of items to find (either in their homes or online), and the first one to complete the list wins. It’s a fun, fast-paced activity that encourages creativity and quick thinking.
Why It Works: Scavenger hunts are interactive and can be tailored to your team’s preferences. They’re also a great way to break up the workday with some lighthearted fun.
Best For: Teams that enjoy a bit of friendly competition and are quick on their feet.
Where to Try It: Scavify and GooseChase
10. Online Language Classes
Learning a new language together can be a unique and rewarding experience. Whether it’s brushing up on your high school Spanish or diving into something completely new, language classes offer a fun way to challenge your team and build new skills.
Why It Works: Language learning requires teamwork and patience, and it’s a great way to bond over shared challenges and achievements.
Best For: Teams that are curious, eager to learn, and open to new experiences.
Where to Try It: Rosetta Stone, Babbel, Duolingo.
11. Virtual Book Club
A virtual book club is a wonderful way to combine intellectual stimulation with team bonding. Choose a book that aligns with your team’s interests, set a reading schedule, and come together for thoughtful discussions.
Why It Works: Book clubs encourage critical thinking, communication, and empathy. They’re also a great way to explore new ideas and perspectives together.
Best For: Teams that enjoy reading and are looking for a low-key, intellectually engaging activity.
12. Online Music Jam Session
For the musically inclined, a virtual jam session can be a fantastic way to bond over a shared love of music. Whether you’re playing instruments, singing, or just enjoying the tunes, it’s a fun and creative way to connect with your team.
Why It Works: Music is a universal language that can bring people together. Jam sessions promote creativity, collaboration, and a sense of camaraderie.
Best For: Teams with a love for music and creative expression.
13. Virtual Travel Experience
Traveling might be off the table for now, but that doesn’t mean you can’t explore the world together—virtually, of course. Many online platforms offer virtual tours of famous landmarks, museums, and cities, allowing your team to experience new cultures and places together.
Why It Works: Virtual travel experiences broaden horizons and can spark inspiration. They’re also a great way to take a mental break from work and explore the world from the comfort of home.
Best For: Teams with a love for travel, culture, and exploration.
Where to Try It: Google Arts & Culture
14. Online Dance Class
Get your team moving with a virtual dance class! Whether it’s salsa, hip-hop, or ballroom, dancing is a fun way to break a sweat and have a great time together. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to relieve stress and boost energy.
Why It Works: Dance classes promote physical activity, coordination, and teamwork. They’re also a great way to let loose and have fun.
Best For: Teams that enjoy being active and aren’t afraid to try something new.
Where to Try It: Steezy Studio, 305 Fitness, Obé Fitness.
15. Virtual Volunteering Experience
Give back to the community together with a virtual volunteering experience. Whether it’s mentoring students, providing tech support to non-profits, or participating in a virtual charity run, volunteering is a meaningful way to bond as a team while making a positive impact.
Why It Works: Volunteering fosters a sense of purpose and shared values. It’s also a great way to build empathy and strengthen team connections.
Best For: Teams that value social responsibility and want to make a difference together.
Where to Try It: Catchafire, VolunteerMatch, United Nations Online Volunteering.
FAQs
1. How do I choose the right online virtual experience for my team? Consider your team’s size, interests, and goals. Choose an experience that aligns with these factors and offers an opportunity for everyone to participate and enjoy.
2. How long do these virtual experiences typically last? The duration varies depending on the activity. Some experiences, like trivia nights or cooking classes, might last an hour or two, while others, like virtual escape rooms or murder mysteries, could take longer.
3. Are these virtual experiences expensive? The cost of virtual experiences varies widely. Some are free or low-cost, like trivia nights or book clubs, while others, like cooking classes or wine tastings, might have a higher price tag. Consider your budget when selecting an experience.
4. Can these experiences be customized for my team? Yes, many virtual experiences can be customized to suit your team’s preferences. Whether it’s tailoring trivia questions, selecting a specific cuisine for a cooking class, or choosing a theme for a murder mystery, there are plenty of ways to make the experience uniquely yours.
5. Do we need special equipment for these virtual experiences? Most virtual experiences only require a computer with internet access. However, some activities, like cooking classes or wine tastings, might require additional supplies, which can often be delivered to participants’ homes.
Conclusion
In the world of remote work, keeping your team connected, engaged, and motivated is more important than ever. Online virtual experiences offer a fun, creative, and effective way to bring your team together, no matter where they are. Whether you’re solving puzzles in a virtual escape room, cooking up a storm in an online class, or simply enjoying a trivia night, these experiences can help strengthen your team’s bond and make remote work a little more enjoyable.
