Gang Up — Best Iowa Team Building Tasks

Sometimes, typical team building tasks can feel like lame summer camp activities for 12-year-olds. If you’re looking for something really engaging that will bring your team together, improve communication, foster problem-solving skills, and build trust, try something different--and dare we say it? – fun!

A Rising Tide Lifts All Boats

From scavenger hunts to boating tours to amusement parks, sailing away on a private cruise or spending the day thrill seeking can do wonders for building comradery and boosting morale amongst your team.

Deemed the “Flagship of the Iowa Navy,” The Queen II is as famous as Arnold’s Park, from which it cruises on West Lake Okoboji. After a relaxing excursion across the lake on the steam wheeler, guests thrill to the park’s 20 rides, including the Legend Roller Coaster, the 7th oldest coaster in the US and 13th oldest in the world. Games of chance, water war, and food and beverages make a day spent here a one-of-a-kind experience.  

Jon Anderson White Riverboat embarks from the docks of Rathbun Lake Marina. The classic riverboat is beautifully designed in the style of the Golden Era of river travel, and features modern amenities as well. Elegant dining cruises, spacious decks, and live entertainment make for smooth sailing every time.

Happy Hunting

Private hunting and clay shooting foster exciting competition between co-workers. Combined with great food, comfortable lodging, and a rustic atmosphere, your team will long remember this type of outing.

Known for the best pheasant hunting in Iowa, Hole N’ The Wall Lodge invites your group to enjoy a classic-looking hunting lodge ambiance in a state-of-the-art, high-tech facility. With overnight lodging for up to 16, private bath accommodations, conversation pit area, fully-equipped commercial kitchen, dining room, and game room, you’ll have all you need for the perfect team get-away.

Featuring nine modern cabins, Pine Ridge Retreat + Lodging is a peaceful haven and escape back to nature. Nearby hunting, canoe, kayak and bike rentals, historic villages, and more offer a variety of activities for everyone on your team. An 18-hole golf course and tennis courts are available at a discounted rate for guests at the nearby River View Country Club, while anglers will enjoy hooking bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish in the 579-acre Lake Sugema.

Mix Business with Pleasure

Team building can be about healthy competition, working together to achieve a goal, or just sharing a fun experience as a group.

Adventureland lives up to its name with thrill rides, family rides, kiddie rides, and Adventure Bay where your team will discover Iowa’s largest wave pool and longest lazy river, along with pool, slides, sun and fun. Specially designed picnic facilities are available free of charge for groups of 75 or more who arrange catering through the venue. A wide range of food options are ready to enjoy throughout the park, from chicken to ice cream, burgers to bacon.

Getting out of the office can be thrilling for many, especially when you take your team to Bridges Bay Resort. The indoor waterpark offers year-round fun, while the new zipline takes your bunch on a breathtaking ride backwards to over 100 feet. Of course, what comes up must come down, as will your team at over 40 mph over the resort pond. Lodging accommodations on East Okoboji Lake promise stunning views, while the on-site restaurant and swim up bar allow for some serious relaxation.

A Hat Trick Hit Every Time

Nothing says, “we appreciate you” like a day spent at the rink. After all, you are in hockey land.

It’s a whole new match with the Dubuque Fighting Saints. Party suites are available and include admission for ten, VIP parking, game programs, suite attendant, flat screen TV, appetizers, beer, soda, water, and post-game beverage tickets. Regular admission group tickets are also available at a discount for groups of ten or more.

Build morale, interdependence, and a true team spirit when you go beyond hot-dog eating contests or office trivia and try any (or all) of these team building ideas.