You found our list of the best fun group activities in NYC, NY.
Fun group activities in NYC are events and activities that allow your team to get better acquainted with one another. For example, you can tour Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, view modern art at MOMA, or attend a performance at Lincoln Center. The purpose of these activities is to foster connections and build a sense of community among employees in The Big Apple.
These experiences are examples of group activities for adults and team bonding ideas. The activities are similar to NYC company outings and NYC team building events.
This list includes:
- small group activities in NYC, NY
- large group activities in NYC
- group activities for adults in NYC
- fun things to do in NYC as a group
- group activities in New York City
Here we go!
List of fun group activities in NYC
From visiting Central Park to tasting some of the best cheesecake in the world, here is a list of company outing ideas in NYC.
1. Central Park Scavenger Hunt (Staff Favorite)
With the Central Park Scavenger Hunt, you can discover the allure of one of New York City’s top attractions and capture unforgettable moments!
Here is what to expect during this 90-minute experience:
- an exceptional host who shares unexpected stories and lesser-known facts
- a picturesque journey from Strawberry Fields to Columbus Circle
- an engaging photo scavenger hunt complete with captivating challenges and trivia
- a victorious team and a memorable group photo
Most importantly, this team building adventure will put your knowledge, creativity, and collaboration skills to the test. By joining this remarkable event, you can unveil the hidden gems of Central Park!
Learn more about the Central Park Scavenger Hunt.
2. Museum Hack Scavenger Hunt (Highly Rated)
As your team embarks on the Museum Hack Scavenger Hunt at The Met, you can unleash captivating tales of art and culture!
This 90-minute experience offers the following:
- an expert host to provide instructions and share intriguing stories
- narratives that transport you to realms of art and culture
- trivia and photo challenges that inspire teams to interact with the artwork
- activities that offer fresh perspectives on the art and artifacts
Additionally, entry to the museum is included in the cost of the experience. By embarking on this extraordinary scavenger hunt at The Met, you can immerse your team in a unique cultural world!
Learn more about the Museum Hack Scavenger Hunt.
3. Field Day (Popular)
Through Field Day’s outdoor games and competitions, you can uplift spirits, strengthen relationships, and cultivate essential workplace skills.
Here is what to expect during Field Day:
- 90 minutes with a high-energy host
- a mix of exciting new competitions and classic outdoor games
- childhood favorite activities that spark players’ memories
- photo ops to capture fun team memories
In addition, we will meet you at your venue of choice with all the needed supplies. If you are looking to promote teamwork and camaraderie, then check out Field Day!
Learn more about Field Day.
4. Times Square
Times Square is one of the most iconic locations in Manhattan and is among the most fun team outing ideas in NYC. Teams can enjoy a trip to this electrified district, which is almost as bright at night as it is during the day! A public arts program brings lively exhibitions that maximize the energy of the square. In addition, events like A Taste of Times Square and an all-day yoga festival each summer solstice provide opportunities for entertaining group activities in New York City throughout the year.
Learn more about Times Square.
5. Chocolate Noise
If you have never heard of a chocolate sommelier, then a team outing at Chocolate Noise is a must. This bean-to-bar artisan chocolate shop offers in-person tastings to expand the palates of chocolate lovers. Hour-long sessions can accommodate teams of any size, with onsite spaces available for groups of up to 12 tasters. Participants learn to discern tasting notes in three different chocolate bars. Courses that cover chocolate and wine pairings add an extra element of luxury to the experience.
Learn more about Chocolate Noise.
6. Radio City Music Hall
This world-famous performance center is ideal for an array of team outings. A 75-minute tour gives teams a behind-the-curtain view of the theater where the Rockettes perform. For a full Radio City experience, teams can get into the holiday spirit with the Christmas Spectacular. Tickets are available from mid-November through the end of December.
While the team is onsite, you can extend your outing with a visit to the top of Rockefeller Center. The breathtaking 360-degree view of NYC at the Top of the Rock observation deck is a must-see, even for native New Yorkers.
Learn more about Radio City Music Hall.
7. Junior’s Cheesecake
Cheesecake at Junior’s holds a special place on the list of fun things to do in NYC as a group. This beloved NYC diner offers several locations around the city for eager diners to taste the goodness. With 11 luscious cheesecake flavors sharing the menu, including a sugar-free version for diners with restricted diets, there is a treat to please every palate. For teams interested in getting a cheesecake to go, the bakery menu includes ten extra flavors in tempting combinations like Devil’s Food and Brownie Explosion.
Learn more about Junior’s Cheesecake.
8. Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty
Teams can get close-up views of American history with a tour of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Excursions include admission to museums at each location, with audio tours and round-trip ferry service provided at no extra charge. As part of the Crown Reserve package, teams can also ascend to the top of Liberty’s crown. This added feature reveals the fascinating inner structure of the statue and provides unforgettable views of the skyline.
Learn more about Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
9. Off-Broadway Shows
Some of the best theater in NYC happens in the smaller theaters off-Broadway. These spaces are fun team outings for groups with an affection for smaller productions and experimental entertainment. With schedules listed months in advance, employees can choose a convenient matinee or an evening show for a night on the town. There are plenty of great restaurants and bars nearby to stop for dinner or drinks afterward.
Learn more about the Off-Broadway schedule.
10. Color Factory
Unique celebrations of color are the order of the day at Color Factory. This interactive art space combines clever installations and immersive rooms, all brightly hued for optimal happiness. The facility partners with local organizations to maintain a strong connection to the surrounding community. Every presentation invites viewers to play and experience emotion in the purest form possible. The visual splendor provides plenty of photo ops for sharing on social media.
Learn more about Color Factory.
11. The Rink at Rockefeller Center
Fun team outing ideas in NYC aren’t complete without this quintessential landmark. During warm weather months, Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace provides teams with a 1970s roller rink experience. When winter arrives, ice skating under the colossal Rockefeller Center Christmas tree makes a special outing that turns the entire crew into kids for an afternoon. Admission to the rink and skate rentals are separate charges.
Learn more about The Rink at Rockefeller Center.
12. Empire State Building
If your team is not bothered by heights, then a tour of the Empire State Building will give them a King Kong’s-eye-view of NYC. A 90-minute guided tour explains the history and renovations of the building, which is one of the most famous skyscrapers in the world. Sky-high observatories on the 86th and 102nd floors offer views that extend 80 miles on clear days. Teams can also explore exhibits that detail various aspects of the building, including one that puts visitors in the clutches of the great gorilla for an unforgettable Kong-sized experience!
Learn more about Empire State Building.
13. Lombardi’s
Lunch at Lombardi’s lets teams enjoy classic pizza in America’s first pizzeria. Gennaro Lombardi opened this historic diner in 1905, and his version of Naples pizza became the true New York style. Curious crews can soak up the history in the original location in Little Italy. The décor may have changed through the years, but the coal oven-baked pizza still adheres to the original Lombardi recipe.
Learn more about Lombardi’s.
14. The High Line
The High Line takes the concept of a city park to new heights. Built on an elevated freight line, this whimsical public space offers over a mile of walkways and gardens to explore 30 feet above street level. Overlooks provide one-of-a-kind perspectives of the city, as well as seating areas and contemporary artworks scattered around the grounds. Groups can wander on their own or enjoy guided tours on designated days all year round.
Learn more about The High Line.
15. Spin
Whether your team calls it table tennis or ping pong, players with a competitive edge will enjoy their time at Spin. The ultra-hip décor dazzles, but the real winners are the ping-pong tables stationed around the space. Employees can pair off and compete for the championship title in a true party atmosphere. Simple table reservations will cover between two and ten players, while private events can accommodate larger teams.
Bonus: The copper bathtub filled with ping pong balls is a viral photo favorite. Team members can climb in one at a time and snap a few shots to share online.
Learn more about Spin.
16. The Strand Bookstore
With an entire floor dedicated to rare titles, the Strand is a book lover’s dream come true. Bestsellers and classics crowd the shelves in three-and-a-half stories of wall-to-wall literature. Visitors can lose themselves searching for their favorite contemporary works or get lost in historic volumes while exploring the first editions in the Rare Book Room.
If large group activities in NYC are a requirement, then the Strand rents out the Rare Book Room for parties and special events.
Learn more about The Strand.
17. The Ride
The Ride is a tour of the city like no other in NYC. Teams travel in a customized bus that turns the streets of the Big Apple into a stage where anything can happen. A pair of hosts provide hilarious commentary during a 75-minute exploration of the city. You can book for teams of ten or more riders at a group rate.
For groups needing a more exclusive experience, corporate and private packages allow for a customized ride featuring a customized script and personalized touches throughout your event.
Learn more about The Ride.
18. The Doughnut Project
The Doughnut Projects takes inspiration for their fabulous flavors from gourmet foods and cocktails. These artisan pastries include sweet and savory combinations such as the Everything Doughnut, with all the toppings of an Everything bagel, and a bacon maple bar topped with a strip of real bacon! Of course, traditionalists in the group will also find Old Fashioneds and maple crullers on the menu.
Learn more about The Doughnut Project.
19. The Museum of Broadway
Broadway is a world-renowned theater, and The Museum of Broadway memorializes this space. Visitors get to see a timeline of Broadway’s entire history. Then, guests can get a peek behind the curtains and see the making of a show. The museum also offers special exhibits, such as The American Theatre As Seen By Hirschfeld. Of course, guests can see iconic artifacts from classic shows. In addition, the space has a rehearsal studio that can be used for educational classes, panel discussions, and event rentals. Broadway lovers should definitely stop by the gift shop before leaving.
Learn more about The Museum of Broadway.
20. MOMA
Fans of modern art can count on an eye-opening outing at MOMA. This museum in Midtown Manhattan contains a compelling collection of contemporary works. Pieces include traditional artworks, films, performance pieces, and archives from the 1800s. Teams can follow the evolution of modern art and get a glimpse of what lies on the horizon.
Learn more about MOMA.
21. Lincoln Center
Lincoln Center is a renowned theater that presents a thrilling selection of music, film, theater, and dance performances. Teams that enjoy cultural events can choose a ballet or an opera for a formal outing or a stand-up comedy show for lighter fare. The calendar also includes events in the center’s cinema and outdoor performances on the plaza. Some of these events include free admission, a bonus for teams on a budget.
Learn more about Lincoln Center.
22. The Dead Rabbit
If your search for group activities for adults in NYC includes beverages, try The Dead Rabbit, one of the city’s premier cocktail bars. The atmosphere is warm like an Irish pub, with craft cocktails, beer, and wine, and a full menu of elegant bar bites served throughout the day.
Teams interested in a private event can reserve one of three private spaces. These rooms can accommodate between 20 and 80 guests, though there is also plenty of room at the bar to provide enjoyable small group activities in NYC, NY.
Learn more about The Dead Rabbit.
23. One World Observatory
From glass-bottomed floors to a high-speed elevator that ascends 102 floors in 47 seconds, One World Observatory is a thrill ride among the fun team outing ideas in NYC. Located at the top of Freedom Tower, this sky-high deck is an interactive experience. Team members can add their faces to the multi-media displays and enjoy video exhibits that expose new aspects of the city. Then, when hunger hits, dinner or drinks at the bar and restaurant on the 101st floor will satisfy the team’s hunger for incredible views of the city.
A package deal provides visits to the Statue of Liberty, 9/11 Memorial, and One World Observatory for three memorable group activities in New York City in a single outing.
Learn more about One World Observatory.
24. Central Park
There are 843 acres of parkland to explore in Central Park, with unique free options. Teams on a limited budget can make the most of the green spaces with picnics and strolls on seemingly endless trails. For a small fee, discovery walks will lead visitors through the hidden wonders in every corner of the park. You can also find guided tours that explain the history of the land before it became the lush preserve it is now.
Learn more about Central Park.
Conclusion
NYC is a cultural destination of the world, filled with exciting activities that provide memorable moments for team members to share. The metropolis offers world-class entertainment venues, famous food on almost every corner, and locales that capture the city’s vibrant energy. With so much available throughout the city, teams will have no trouble finding fun activities to keep them engaged.
Next, check out team retreat ideas in NYC and corporate events in NYC.
Grace He