Here is our list of the best group activities in Washington DC.
Fun group activities in Washington DC are exciting exercises you and your colleagues can do in the city to make lasting memories. For example, you can visit the Spy Museum, dine at EatWell DC, or taste wine with Spirited Tours. The purpose of these activities is to give you fun ideas to have a memorable time with your group in the US capital.
These ideas are examples of group activities for adults and team building events. These activities are similar to company outings in DC and Washington DC team building events.
This list includes:
- small group activities in Washington DC
- large group activities in Washington DC
- group activities for adults in Washington DC
- fun things to do in Washington DC as a group
Here we go!
List of fun group activities in Washington DC
Group activities help you and your team have a fun-filled time and create memorable moments. Here are the best fun group activities for your group to enjoy in Washington DC.
1. The Art of Storytelling (Highly Rated)
You can enhance your team’s abilities and foster deeper connections with The Art of Storytelling workshop.
Here is what you can expect:
- 120-minute session with an expert storyteller host
- the five elements of a captivating story
- techniques and strategies to engage audiences
- practice time for participants to hone their new skills
- valuable facilitator feedback
Additionally, we will bring all the necessary materials to the venue of your choice. If you are looking for an experience that teaches your staff to share meaningful stories, then explore The Art of Storytelling.
Learn more about The Art of Storytelling.
2. Museum Hack Scavenger Hunt (Top Choice)
The small group activities in Washington DC include playing a scavenger hunt with Museum Hack Scavenger Hunts. The hosts will lead you and your colleagues through a fun adventure around the National Portrait Gallery. Your experience will last 90 minutes.
The experience includes:
- an engaging host to structure the experience
- fun and fascinating stories
- unexpected ways to engage in exhibits
- group challenges and photo prompts
- a race to beat other teams, with occasional friendly sabotage
Museum Hack creates an exceptional experience in the best museums in Washington DC. The event also includes team building activities, ice breakers, and stories of art and artists. If your group prefers a hunt revolving around your industry mission, then the facilitators can customize your experience.
Learn more about Museum Hack scavenger hunts.
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3. Superhero Academy (Popular)
If you are looking for an interactive group experience, then check out Superhero Academy! Our 90-minute event will challenge teams to work together and save the day.
Here is what you can expect:
- a world-class host to lead the experience
- an adventure that turns participants into superheroes
- challenging games and puzzles that put players to the test
- tasks that showcase teams’ skills and encourage teamwork
Participants get to collaborate and use their brain power to defeat villains. To put your teams to the test and help them bond, be sure to check out Superhero Academy!
Learn more about Superhero Academy.
4. President Lincoln’s Cottage
DC is home to many historical locations, and one of the most interesting is President Lincoln’s Cottage. This 250-acre site is where President Lincoln wrote the Emancipation Proclamation.
You can choose from several tour options, including:
- Signature Tour: A guided 60-minute tour of Lincoln’s seasonal home
- Lincoln’s Wild Home: A 1.5-mile self-guided landscape tour featuring nine stops across the grounds
- Rotating seasonal tours: Guided and self-guided options that feature information, speakers, and art
In addition to the tours, you can also enjoy regular events, such as writing workshops, scholarly sessions, and featured exhibitions.
Learn more about President Lincoln’s Cottage.
5. La Bella Pastarella
Making pasta with your team is a delicious way to bond! Classes are great for all skill levels and include a wine pairing. You can choose from a wide range of pasta dishes to create. Skilled instructors will share tips on making tasty pasta. The firm is flexible with the number of participants, menu, and wine. If you are looking to learn traditional Italian recipes in a relaxed setting, then be sure to check out this firm!
Learn more about La Bella Pastarella.
6. Spirited Tours
Spirited Tours offers fun winery tours and wine-tasting events that are great for team outings! Winery tours leave from DC and head to Virginia’s wine country.
Wine experts lead each tour, and the firm also provides transportation, water, and snacks. This visit features two wineries and includes a tasting at each. You can also order lunch, which includes a salad or sandwich and a cookie. For a more tailored experience, you can book a private event and head to wineries, breweries, or distilleries of your choice.
If you are more interested in a tasting, then Spirited Tours can bring the party to you! Tastings feature information from a wine expert, your choice of wines, and optional appetizers.
Learn more about Spirited Tours.
7. Planet Word
This interactive museum combines learning and language for a unique experience. You can enjoy the voice-activated galleries and exhibits on words. Exhibits span three floors and include amazing elements like a speaking willow tree. Adventurous teams will enjoy Lexicon Lane, which is a word-themed puzzle to solve together. Alongside the interesting information, you can also enjoy language-themed art pieces like a sculpture made from letters. Planet Word also hosts events, such as author talks and researcher speeches. Language-loving teams can also book this space to host private events.
Learn more about Planet Word.
8. National Mall and Memorial Parks
Open for visits on any weekday, The National Mall and Memorial Parks is an iconic location in Washington DC. Various monuments like the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality, and the Lincoln Memorial are within the destination.
You can also set up a picnic at the constitution garden while enjoying a scenic view of the National Mall. With over 1,000 acres of green space, the mall is an excellent destination for group activities for adults in Washington DC. For example, your group can swim, go boating, and play golf. You can also play tennis at the East Potomac Center or take a walk in the mall.
Learn more about National Mall and Memorial Parks.
9. National Geographic Museum
The National Geographic Museum offers dynamic exhibitions of famous artifacts and iconic photography works. If your group members are fond of history and stories, then exploring the National Geographic Museum is a great idea.
The museum opens daily, and you can also enjoy various cinematic exhibitions. The experience will be interactive, fascinating, and exciting for your group.
Learn more about National Geographic Museum.
10. Muzette
Muzette is a karaoke joint with private rooms in Washington DC. The venue has an extensive playlist with over 70,000 songs in different languages, including English, Korean, Chinese, Spanish, and Japanese.
Muzette features a dining area serving Korean dishes. Depending on the karaoke room you reserve, you can have up to 15 guests at the venue. Muzette opens daily and is a great location to have fun, relax, and enjoy a group meal.
Learn more about Muzette.
11. Kraken Axes and Rage
Kraken Axes and Rage is a place to let off steam and engage in adrenaline-pumping activities, particularly axe-throwing and breaking objects. The center has a rage room that offers a safe place to smash away your stress and frustration. You can listen to your desired music through the room’s audio system.
Also, your group can practice hitting the bullseye in the Axe throwing room. You will have a dedicated coach to guide you on your journey to become a true axe master. In addition, you can book a private arena or host an event at the venue.
Learn more on Kraken Axes and Rage.
12. Aura Spa
Aura Spa is a wellness center committed to helping guests reduce stress with therapeutic massages. The spa provides many treatments delivered with top-notch service. You can also enjoy massage therapy and body treatments.
Aura Spa stands out for the customizable service offered. You can have your experience designed to fit your specification while also receiving complimentary champagne. Furthermore, you can work out in the facility before or after your spa treatments.
Learn more on Aura Spa.
13. Paintball at NiteHawk Paintball and Airsoft
Nitehawk paintball is one of the best paintball facilities in Washington DC. Occupying about 30 acres of field with riverbeds, bunkers, dirt trenches, and a CQB building, NiteHawk paintball is among many players’ preferred destinations for large group activities in Washington DC.
When you arrive, you will get a complete kit and protective masks to wear over your face. You can also play NiteHawk’s airsoft or gelly ball games. You can reserve a private game to share the experience only with your group members.
Learn more about NiteHawk Paintball and Airsoft
14. EatWell DC
EatWell DC is a restaurant in Washington that offers excellent food and drink options. The organization is a locally owned business that also operates a farm in La Plata, Maryland, to bring organic produce to restaurants. You can dine at EatWell DC with your group and enjoy the meal options available.
EatWellDC also organizes private mixology and wine classes excellent for groups looking to have a good time and learn how to make cocktails. A senior bartender instructor will be available to guide you through the basics of cocktail making, infusions, food pairing, and techniques required for a perfect drink. The class requires a minimum of four guests.
Learn more about EatWell DC.
15. Spy Museum
Spy Museum is a spy-themed institution with an extensive collection of espionage artifacts.
At the Spy Museum, you get to test your spy skills at the museum as you go undercover during the espionage experience. You can test your skills through up to 17 physical and interactive activities spread throughout the museum’s exhibition.
Your team can participate in activities like cracking codes, crawling through an air duct, or spying on other “spies” while keeping your identities hidden. You will receive an undercover badge, cover name, and details to participate in the mission. The Spy Museum also features exhibitions like the Briefing Center, Stealing Secrets, Covert Actions, and Spying That Shaped History.
Learn more about Spy Museum.
16. Tall Ship Providence
Originally named Katy, Providence began its life as a merchant ship, privateer, and whaler. Then, she transitioned to the flagship of the Rhode Island Navy before becoming one of the first ships of the new Continental Navy. Providence had a decorated military career until 1779, when the British troops burned her down. In 1966, John Fitzhugh Millar sought to recreate some of the most iconic ships from the Revolution. By 1976, the new Providence was complete. Today, visitors can tour the ship and experience the lifestyle of 18th-century sailors. Guests are welcome to explore the entire vessel. If attendees are interested, then they can even go on a sailing trip on this classic ship. Be sure to stop by to learn about one of the US Navy’s first historical boats.
Learn more about Tall Ship Providence.
17. Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute is home to over 2,500 animals representing around 360 species. You can enjoy the scenic view of the area and learn about the different species of animals at the zoo. The zoo also hosts events like Bird in Flights, Brew at the Zoo, and Boo at the Zoo. You will get an up-close view of exotic birds, lions, tigers, and pandas at these events, often while enjoying refreshments.
Exploring the zoo is one of the fun things to do in Washington DC. You can enjoy the speedwell conservation carousel or the good of the hive mural. You can host an event at the zoo with different rental spaces like the Amazonia Science Gallery, Clint Fields Plaza, and the Elephant Community Center. You can also stop for grabs at Elevation Burger.
Learn more about Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.
18. Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream is a dessert shop located in different parts of Washington DC, particularly at Barrack’s Row and Jeni’s at The Yards Park. The shop is open every day of the week.
You can choose from an array of adventurous ice cream flavors, from Golden Nectar and Watermelon Taffy to Sunshine and Everything Bagel. The ice creams are also available in non-dairy and gluten-free options.
Learn more about Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream.
19. Ford Theatre
Ford Theatre is a theater, a historic destination, and a museum in Washington DC. At the site, you will learn about Lincoln’s assassination and the event’s lasting impact on America. The museum houses rare artifacts that recount Abraham Lincoln’s history. A museum visit takes about 30 minutes, and your team can have a great time learning about the life and times of Abraham Lincoln.
The Ford Theatre also features live performances to captivate and entertain guests, from Investigation: Detective McDevitt to The Trip to Bountiful and A Christmas Carol.
Learn more about Ford Theatre.
20. DC Improv
DC Improv is part of the best comedy venues in Washington DC. Watching a show at the improv club is one of the fun things to do in Washington DC as a group. You can laugh, eat, and relax with your group. The comedy shows can last up to two hours.
The comedy venue features a menu with gluten-free and vegan-friendly food options. You will find a list of upcoming shows on the club’s website. DC Improve features comedians and improv experts like Margaret Cho, Christina P, David Gborie, and Michael Colyar. You can also watch shows performed by some of the best stand-up comedians in Washington.
Learn more about DC Improv.
21. Five Iron Golf
Five Iron Golf is an indoor golf simulator facility that uses high tech to teach guests. The center provides a range where you can practice using golf simulators. You can also rent more than one stimulator if you have a large group.
Five Iron Golf offers event spaces for you to host your private events and entertain your guest. You will find a full-service bar and a kitchen with excellent food options. Also, you can take one of the golf lessons led by professionals.
Learn more about Five Iron Golf.
Conclusion
Washington DC is a great location to host your group activity. The city is rich in history, with many parks, restaurants, and museums to explore. While you enjoy the city’s entertainment with your group, you can also learn about America’s history and cultural facts at various iconic, like Ford Theatre, the National Mall and Memorial Parks, and the National Gallery of Art. With so many fun places to visit and entertainment to enjoy, your guests will have a long-lasting experience during your time in Washington DC.
Next, check out these lists of corporate events in DC and indoor team building ideas.
