10 Underappreciated Team Building Activities for Remote Teams

Did you know that 70% of remote teams struggle with engagement due to a lack of in-person interaction? This statistic highlights a pressing issue for leaders aiming to foster a cohesive team culture in a virtual environment. While popular activities like virtual happy hours and trivia games have their place, there are numerous underrated options that can enhance collaboration and connection among remote teams. This guide presents ten underappreciated team building activities that can elevate your remote team's engagement in 2026.

1. Virtual Escape Rooms

Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Group Size: 4-8 participants
Cost: $20-30 per person
Energy Level: High
Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor

Virtual escape rooms challenge teams to solve puzzles together, promoting critical thinking and teamwork. Platforms like The Escape Game offer a variety of themes and difficulty levels.

Logistical Notes: Ensure everyone has a stable internet connection and the necessary software installed.
Skip if: Your team prefers low-energy activities.

2. Online Cooking Classes

Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Group Size: Up to 20 participants
Cost: $40-60 per person
Energy Level: Moderate
Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor

Cooking classes led by professional chefs can be a fun way to bond over food. Companies like Cozymeal and Sur La Table offer virtual classes where teams can cook the same dish together.

Logistical Notes: Send ingredient lists in advance and consider dietary restrictions.
Skip if: Your team members are not comfortable in the kitchen.

3. Virtual Book Club

Time Needed: 1 hour per session (monthly)
Group Size: 6-12 participants
Cost: Free to $20 per book
Energy Level: Low
Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor

A virtual book club encourages discussion and sharing of ideas. Choose a book relevant to your industry or a popular fiction title to spark conversation.

Logistical Notes: Use a platform like Zoom or Google Meet to facilitate discussions.
Skip if: Your team has varied reading preferences.

4. Online Art Classes

Time Needed: 1-1.5 hours
Group Size: Up to 15 participants
Cost: $30-50 per person
Energy Level: Moderate
Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor

Art classes can stimulate creativity and relieve stress. Services like Paint Nite offer guided painting sessions that can be enjoyed from home.

Logistical Notes: Send a list of materials needed ahead of time.
Skip if: Your team is not interested in artistic activities.

5. Virtual Fitness Challenges

Time Needed: Ongoing (1 month)
Group Size: Unlimited
Cost: $10-20 per participant for apps
Energy Level: High
Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor/Outdoor

Engage your team with a month-long fitness challenge using platforms like Strava or MyFitnessPal. Teams can compete in categories like steps taken or workouts completed.

Logistical Notes: Set clear rules and provide weekly updates.
Skip if: Your team prefers less physically demanding activities.

6. Online Team Trivia

Time Needed: 1 hour
Group Size: 10-20 participants
Cost: Free to $15 per person (if using a host)
Energy Level: Moderate
Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor

Host a trivia night with categories related to your team’s interests or industry. Platforms like Kahoot! or Quizizz make it easy to set up and engage everyone.

Logistical Notes: Prepare questions in advance and ensure everyone can access the platform.
Skip if: Your team is not competitive.

7. Virtual Gardening Workshops

Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Group Size: Up to 20 participants
Cost: $25-40 per person
Energy Level: Low
Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor/Outdoor

Gardening workshops can be a relaxing way to bond. Companies like Urban Garden offer virtual sessions on topics like herb gardening or succulent care.

Logistical Notes: Send a list of materials; consider sending kits to participants.
Skip if: Your team lacks interest in gardening.

8. Online Game Nights

Time Needed: 2-3 hours
Group Size: 4-10 participants per game
Cost: Free to $20 per person (for premium games)
Energy Level: High
Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor

Hosting a game night with games like Jackbox or Among Us can foster camaraderie. These games are designed for group interaction and fun.

Logistical Notes: Ensure all participants have access to the game and a stable internet connection.
Skip if: Your team prefers structured activities.

9. Virtual Team Show and Tell

Time Needed: 1 hour
Group Size: 10-20 participants
Cost: Free
Energy Level: Low
Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor

Each team member shares something meaningful from their home, whether it's a pet, a hobby, or a piece of art. This builds personal connections and understanding among team members.

Logistical Notes: Set a theme for each session to keep it engaging.
Skip if: Your team is uncomfortable sharing personal items.

10. Online Charity Drives

Time Needed: Ongoing
Group Size: Unlimited
Cost: Free to participate
Energy Level: Moderate
Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor

Organizing a charity drive allows your team to collaborate for a good cause. Choose a charity relevant to your team’s values, and encourage participation through donations or volunteer hours.

Logistical Notes: Create a shared platform for tracking contributions and updates.
Skip if: Your team prefers activities solely focused on fun.

Conclusion

In 2026, as remote work continues to evolve, it’s vital to explore innovative team-building activities that engage your team and foster connections. Consider incorporating a mix of the above activities to keep your team motivated and connected.

Action Items:

1. Choose 2-3 activities that resonate with your team.
2. Set up a schedule for the next quarter.
3. Gather feedback after each activity to refine your approach.