10 Team Building Activities Under $100 That Spark Creativity

Did you know that teams that engage in creative activities together can boost their productivity by up to 20%? Yet, many organizations hesitate to invest in team building, often fearing the costs. In 2026, you can foster creativity and collaboration without breaking the bank. Here’s a curated list of ten team building activities that cost under $100 per person, guaranteed to spark innovation and strengthen team bonds.

1. Art in the Park

• Time Needed: 2-3 hours
• Group Size: 10-30
• Cost: $40/person
• Energy Level: Moderate
• Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor

Gather your team in a local park and provide canvases, paints, and brushes. Hire a local artist for guidance. This hands-on activity encourages creative expression and collaboration.

Logistical Notes: Check local park regulations about gatherings and art supplies. Bring tables and chairs if needed.

Skip if... your team is not comfortable with art or prefers more structured activities.

2. Escape Room Challenge

• Time Needed: 1.5 hours
• Group Size: 6-12
• Cost: $35-50/person
• Energy Level: High
• Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor

Escape rooms are perfect for fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills. Choose a theme that resonates with your team's interests for maximum engagement.

Logistical Notes: Book in advance, as popular escape rooms can fill up quickly.

Skip if... your team has claustrophobia or prefers outdoor activities.

3. Cooking Class Competition

• Time Needed: 2-4 hours
• Group Size: 10-20
• Cost: $75/person
• Energy Level: Moderate to High
• Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor

Divide your team into smaller groups and challenge them to create a dish using provided ingredients. End with a taste test and voting for the best dish.

Logistical Notes: Look for local cooking schools or chefs who can host the event.

Skip if... dietary restrictions are too diverse to accommodate.

4. Outdoor Scavenger Hunt

• Time Needed: 2-3 hours
• Group Size: 10-30
• Cost: $20-30/person
• Energy Level: Moderate
• Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor

Create a list of items or challenges for teams to find or complete in a designated area. This fosters teamwork and creativity while exploring your local area.

Logistical Notes: Use a free app to manage the scavenger hunt digitally.

Skip if... weather conditions are unfavorable.

5. Improv Workshop

• Time Needed: 2 hours
• Group Size: 10-20
• Cost: $50-100/person
• Energy Level: High
• Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor

Hiring an improv instructor can help your team build confidence and creativity through fun exercises. This activity is great for breaking down barriers and enhancing communication skills.

Logistical Notes: Look for local improv theaters or instructors who offer corporate workshops.

Skip if... your team is introverted and uncomfortable with public performance.

6. DIY Crafting Session

• Time Needed: 2 hours
• Group Size: 10-20
• Cost: $30-50/person
• Energy Level: Low to Moderate
• Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor

Host a crafting session where teams can create personalized items (like mugs or t-shirts). This promotes creativity and allows team members to express themselves.

Logistical Notes: Source materials from local craft stores or online retailers.

Skip if... your team prefers physical activities over crafting.

7. Team Sports Day

• Time Needed: 3-4 hours
• Group Size: 10-30
• Cost: $20-40/person
• Energy Level: High
• Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor

Organize a day of friendly competition in sports like soccer, volleyball, or even relay races. This encourages teamwork and physical activity.

Logistical Notes: Reserve a field or sports facility in advance.

Skip if... your team includes members who are not physically active.

8. Photography Challenge

• Time Needed: 2 hours
• Group Size: 5-15
• Cost: $10-30/person
• Energy Level: Low to Moderate
• Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor

Give teams a theme, such as "team spirit" or "nature," and challenge them to capture the best photos. Review and vote on the best shots afterward.

Logistical Notes: Participants can use their phones or bring cameras.

Skip if... your team lacks interest in photography.

9. Storytelling Workshop

• Time Needed: 2 hours
• Group Size: 10-20
• Cost: $50-75/person
• Energy Level: Moderate
• Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor

Hire a storytelling coach to help your team craft and share their stories. This enhances communication skills and encourages vulnerability.

Logistical Notes: Look for local coaches or workshops that specialize in storytelling.

Skip if... your team is not comfortable sharing personal stories.

10. Volunteer Together

• Time Needed: 3-4 hours
• Group Size: 10-30
• Cost: Free (or minimal donation)
• Energy Level: Moderate
• Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor/Outdoor

Choose a local charity and spend time volunteering as a team. This not only builds team spirit but also gives back to the community.

Logistical Notes: Contact local nonprofits to arrange a group volunteer event.

Skip if... your team prefers structured activities over unstructured volunteer work.

Conclusion

Team building doesn’t have to be expensive to be effective. With these ten creative activities, you can foster collaboration, enhance creativity, and strengthen bonds among your team—all for under $100 per person.

Action Items:

1. Choose your preferred activities based on your team's interests.
2. Book venues or instructors 4-6 weeks in advance to ensure availability.
3. Create a timeline for the chosen activity, including preparation and follow-up.