If you’ve ever had to organize a group activity, then you know just how tricky it can be. Your best friend feels like going out, but your boyfriend wants to stay in…and all you want is for everyone to just agree already. While group activities are notoriously hard to plan, don’t let them scare you away – we’re here to help!
We’ve rounded up 35 of our favorite activities that will please everyone in your group (yes, even that one friend who's never on the same page.) From mind-boggling escape rooms to outdoor adventures, axe throwing to scavenger hunts, your next exciting group activity starts here!
OUTDOOR GROUP ACTIVITIES
Hang out AND soak up some Vitamin D! These outdoor activities are perfect for the groups who love to get outside and stay active.
1. GO ON A GROUP HIKE
Dust off your backpack, break in those new boots, and bring along your favorite backcountry snacks – it’s hiking time! Whether you’re a bunch of trailhead regulars or nature newbies, hiking is a fabulous way to spend time with each other and stay active. Not sure which trail to pick? Personally, we can’t say no to a gorgeous waterfall hike!
Pro tip: Pack a portable hammock! These lightweight gems are easy to set up and are the perfect place to lie back and relax after a long hike.
2. ZIP THROUGH THE TREES
Ah, ziplining: it’s fun, it’s thrilling, it’s an unforgettable group adventure! Feel adrenaline coursing through your veins as you step up to a raised platform. Don’t look down as you wave goodbye to your friends and take a leap of faith. You won’t believe your eyes as you soar amongst the treetops, taking in awesome views on your way back down to Earth!
3. SET SAIL
From sunset sails to private charters, dining cruises to wine tastings, these scenic sailing experiences are calling your name. You and your group will hop aboard a luxurious watercraft before floating across some of America’s most spectacular waterways. Sign us up!
4. TRY A PEDAL PUB CRAWL
In case you have no clue what we’re talking about, pedal pub crawls are a unique way to visit local bars. However, instead of walking in between stops, you pedal! During these one-of-a-kind tours, you and your brigade will hop aboard a party bike and cruise through the city. Now that’s a group activity we can raise a glass to!
5. …OR JUST A PLAIN OL’ BIKE TOUR
Pedal pub crawls aren’t for everyone, we get it. If you’re not feeling the vibe, how about a regular bike tour instead? Feel the wind in your hair as you pedal alongside an expert guide. For an extra-zippy adventure, don’t miss these e-bike experiences. Who needs to break a sweat when your bike has pedal assist?!
6. LOOK TOTALLY COOL ON A SEGWAY
For a different kind of two-wheeled adventure, consider treating your group to an exhilarating Segway tour! Everyone will have a blast rolling, zipping, and cruising through the city. Plus, Segways are easy to ride and just imagine how cool you’ll look! Did someone say obligatory selfie?
7. CONQUER WHITEWATER RAPIDS
Make a splash and cool off with a thrilling whitewater rafting trip! Whether you’re looking to conquer Class IV rapids or enjoy a relaxing float down the river, these rafting trips are perfect for all skill levels.
8. FLOAT ON A RIVER TUBE
Tubing is like whitewater rafting, but much much less intimidating. In fact, instead of adrenaline pulsing through your veins, you’ll feel utterly relaxed as you float down the river in a comfy inflatable tube. Plus, you can bring brewskis along! Don’t worry, the cooler gets its own tube.
Pro tip: Use water-resistant rope to tie everyone's tubes together. This way you won’t get separated or lose sight of that precious cooler tube!
Email Sign Up
Receive $10 off your first experience at Virgin Experience Gifts.
9. PADDLE A TANDEM KAYAK
Keep calm and paddle on! For us, there’s something just so relaxing about kayaking across a calm lake. If you’re new to the sport, consider starting out in a tandem kayak. Tandems are wider and more stable than single kayaks, making them perfect for beginners. Not to mention you’ll also get to paddle with one of your besties!
10. VISIT A VINEYARD
Reds, and whites, and rosés – oh my! If your group loves wine, then visiting a winery or vineyard should be at the tipsy-top of your to-do list. Just imagine it: you and your group sipping on delectable wines while exploring row after row of lush grape vines. Sign us up!
11. TAKE THE GANG FISHING
From giant catfish to rainbow trout, perch to largemouth bass, America’s lakes and streams are teeming with incredible fish! You just never know what might bite at the end of your line! See if you have what it takes to catch the big one on a guided fishing charter.
12. WHACK GOLF BALLS AT DRIVE SHACK
While teeechnically an outdoor activity, Drive Shack is a great place to visit year round. That’s because you’ll be golfing from a comfortable, all-weather hitting bay! Plus, you can choose from a variety of fun games that were designed for players of all skill levels. Destroy monsters, save dragons, or aim your ball at a virtual dart board.
Pro tip: At Drive Shack, you can play AND enjoy tasty treats. If you’ve got a bit of a sweet tooth, we HIGHLY recommend the chocolate chip cookie skillet. You can thank us later.
INDOOR GROUP ACTIVITIES
Axe throwing, virtual reality, escape rooms…you name it, we’ve got it! Explore tons of fun indoor activities – perfect for you and your group.
13. PLAY AT IMMERSIVE GAMEBOX
Immersive Gamebox is home to the world’s smartest gaming room! Advanced motion tracking, high-tech touch screens, projection mapping – you name it, you’ll experience it at Immersive Gamebox. You and your group will also have access to tons of fun games, from Angry Birds to alien aptitude tests, Squid Game, and more.
14. …OR A VIRTUAL REALITY ARCADE
Don’t just play the game, BE the game at a virtual reality arcade! As soon as you slip on your VR headset, you’ll be transported to a whole new world. Battle hordes of zombies, play an exciting round of laser tag, or conquer a virtual escape room.
15. TAKE ON AN ESCAPE ROOM
Do you have what it takes to conquer a mind-bending escape room? Well, gather your cleverest friends and find out! As soon as you step inside, you’ll be immersed in a captivating storyline. Whether you choose a spooky or thrilling theme, you'll have a blast decoding clues, unlocking secrets, and racing against the clock.
Pro tip: Keep an eye on that clock! It’s super easy to lose track of time while searching for clues. Remember to share clues and observations with your team – just because you noticed something doesn’t mean everyone else did!
16. WREAK HAVOC IN A RAGE ROOM
Does your group need to blow off some steam? Allow us to introduce you to a little thing called rage rooms. Using a variety of tools, you’ll smash, wreck, and obliterate breakable items. Sounds kind of weird, doesn’t it? While this might not be your first pick, trust us, rage rooms are super fun and incredibly cathartic, too!
17. EAT DINNER (AND SOLVE A MURDER MYSTERY)
Murder, espionage, entertainment, and delicious food. Experience all of this (and so much more) at a Murder Mystery Dinner Show! While enjoying an elegant 4-course meal, your group will work together to solve a grisly crime. But who can you really trust? Remember, everyone is a suspect…even you!
18. THROW A BULLSEYE
Ready…set…throw! Get ready to unleash your inner lumberjack or lumberjill and challenge your friends to a thrilling round of axe throwing. Feel the adrenaline surge as you hurl axes at targets, competing for bragging rights and epic bullseyes. Whoever wins, takes home the title of axe champ!
19. SKYDIVE IN A WIND TUNNEL
No plane, no parachute, no problem! With these indoor skydiving packages, you can experience the thrill of skydiving without actually having to jump out of a plane. With the help of an instructor, you’ll learn how to float, glide, and soar in a high-powered wind tunnel.
20. VISIT A CRAFT BREWERY
Hops + malt + yeast = YUM!! It’s no secret that America is home to some of the world’s best craft breweries. From fruity sours to dark stouts, there’s so many unique flavors to try. But where to start? Lucky for you, you can treat your taste buds to delicious brews on these one–of-a-kind beer tours and tastings!
21. BECOME LEGENDARY BAKERS
Ever seen the Great British Baking Show? Then you’ll fall head over heels for this virtual masterclass. Learn how to bake the perfect eclair, cream puff, or decadent Swiss roll. Don't worry, even if you’ve never watched the show, you’ll still enjoy learning how to bake alongside its former contestants!
22. GRAB A PAINTBRUSH (AND A GLASS OF BUBBLY)
You don’t have to be a talented artist to enjoy a good ol’ paint and sip! In fact, all you need is a fun and positive attitude (and maybe a beverage…or two.) A professional instructor will lead your group through each stroke, providing pointers along the way. At the end of your session, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind masterpiece to take home.
Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to do your own thing! Don’t like the colors your instructor’s using? Choose your own. Want to add a few birds in the sky? You do you, boo!
RELAXING GROUP ACTIVITIES
Breathe in…and breathe out. These rejuvenating group activities are all about chilling out.
23. DID SOMEONE SAY SPA DAY?
Does your group work hard? Do they deserve a break? You bet they do! Lucky for you, we have just what they need to relax: luxurious spa experiences! From deep tissue massages to foot soaks, facials to float therapy, there’s no better way to treat yourselves.
24. DO YOGA TOGETHER
Whether you're a regular yogi or a tree pose newbie, these guided yoga classes are a great way to unplug as a group. Simply unroll your mat and follow your expert instructor through a series of meditative stretches. For a truly one-of-a-kind yoga experience, don’t miss out on these whimsical goat yoga sessions!
25. POUR YOUR OWN CANDLES
Candle pouring is a fun, relaxing craft that’s also perfect for those of us with no artistic skill (don’t worry, you’re not alone!) In fact, with these at-home kits, you’ll follow easy to understand, step-by-step instructions. Discover how to pour, dye, and scent your very own candles. Once cooled, you’ll have a decorative candle to enjoy!
26. MAKE THE PERFECT BATH BOMBS
Who doesn’t love a good bath bomb? They’re fizzy, fun, and a totally fab way to transform your bath into a luxurious spa. Plus, with this complete kit, they’re also incredibly easy to make. Simply choose your colors, your fragrance, and wallah – you’re ready for bath time!
Pro tip: Your kit also includes your choice of embeds! Select from a variety of fresh botanicals or fun mini toys.
27. DIY MANI/PEDI STATION
It’s time to pamper yourselves! Break out the nail polish, foot spas, and cucumber slices for a relaxing night in. If you’re feeling adventurous, try out some funky designs or nail trends. No matter what, you’ll end the night with soft skin and gorgeous polished nails!
28. IT’S MOVIE MARATHON TIME!
Hanging out as a group doesn’t mean you have to go out and do something – it’s totally ok to stay in, pop some popcorn, and settle in for a movie marathon. If you can’t agree on what to watch, have everyone write their top choice on a piece of paper. Then, drop each paper into a hat (or bowl) and pick one out. Alternatively, you can watch 1 episode from everyone’s favorite TV show!
29. TRY A VIRTUAL TAROT CARD READING
Tap into your spiritual side with this Virtual Tarot Card Reading! Gather around and meet your professional card reader via Zoom. After a guided meditation, everyone will select their cards. Your reader will help interpret the symbolism of the cards and any possible messages that they represent. This mystical experience is one of the most unique group activities around!
CHEAP GROUP ACTIVITIES
Having fun as a group doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Get out, have fun, and save some pretty pennies with these budget-friendly activities!
30. COMPETITIVE SCAVENGER HUNT
Everyone loves a good scavenger hunt! Check out these unique, app-led hunts or create your own. All you have to do is come up with some creative clues, set up obstacles, and watch your group race around trying to find hidden treasures. May the best scavenger win!
31. HOST A BACKYARD BONFIRE
There’s something so magical about gathering around a fire and watching the flames flicker against the starry night sky. What are you waiting for? Roast marshmallows, share stories, and enjoy a memorable night together. For an extra cozy evening, consider bringing warm blankets and a thermos of hot cocoa to share.
32. PLAY YOUR FAVE BOARD GAME
There’s nothing wrong with a good, old fashioned game night. Break out everyone’s fave games and crack open a few brewskies. If you have a really large group, think about splitting everyone into teams (that way no one is left out of the fun!)
33. BOOK A SPOOKY GHOST TOUR
Starting at just $20, ghost tours are a fun (and affordable) way to enjoy a spooky night out with your group! You’ll explore some of America’s most haunted places and listen to terrifying tales from beyond the grave. Look out! There could be a ghost floating right beside you!
34. SING AT A KARAOKE BAR
Channel your inner pop star and get ready to belt out your favorite tunes! While karaoke may be intimidating, it’s also a great way to create fun memories with your group. Need some liquid courage before taking center stage? Don’t worry, we won’t judge.
Pro tip: If you still feel a little shy, try taking center stage with a buddy. We find that singing with a friend is MUCH easier than singing solo!
35. GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
Giving back to the community is one of the best activities you can do as a group. Choose a cause that’s near and dear to your hearts, or keep it simple by picking up litter. No matter how you spend the day, your group will feel good after volunteering for a local cause.
In a nutshell, planning the perfect group activity is easier than you think! From action-packed hikes to relaxing spa days, we hope these 35 ideas inspire you and your group to get out (or stay in) and enjoy some quality time together.
Looking for even more fun group activities? Discover tons of one-of-a-kind adventures with Virgin Experience Gifts!
