10 Unforgettable Team Building Activities for Remote Teams in 2026

As remote work continues to dominate the landscape in 2026, team cohesion becomes more crucial than ever. Did you know that 73% of remote teams report feeling disconnected from their coworkers? To combat this, engaging team-building activities can foster collaboration and strengthen relationships. Here are ten unforgettable activities designed specifically for remote teams, ensuring fun and connection, no matter where your team is located.

1. Virtual Escape Rooms

Time Needed: 60-90 minutes
Group Size: 5-10 participants
Cost: $25-40 per person
Energy Level: High
Best For: Problem-solving and collaboration

Escape rooms have transitioned beautifully into the virtual space, allowing teams to collaborate on puzzles and challenges. Companies like The Escape Game offer themed experiences that can accommodate remote teams, making it a thrilling way to promote teamwork.

2. Online Cooking Class

Time Needed: 2 hours
Group Size: 10-20 participants
Cost: $50-100 per person
Energy Level: Medium
Best For: Team bonding over shared meals

Cooking classes can be an excellent way to bond and learn something new. Services like Cozymeal provide virtual cooking classes led by professional chefs. Teams can cook the same meal together, sharing the experience and enjoying their culinary creations afterward.

3. Virtual Trivia Night

Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Group Size: 6-100 participants
Cost: $15-30 per person
Energy Level: Medium
Best For: Light-hearted competition

Hosting a trivia night online is a fun way to spark engagement. Platforms like Crowdpurr facilitate trivia games where teams can compete against each other in various categories. You can even customize trivia to include company history, making it personal and engaging.

4. Remote Scavenger Hunt

Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Group Size: 4-20 participants
Cost: $20-50 per person
Energy Level: High
Best For: Active engagement and creativity

A remote scavenger hunt brings the action into your team members' homes. Using platforms like GooseChase, teams can complete challenges and find items around their home while competing for points. It's a high-energy activity that encourages creativity and quick thinking.

5. Virtual Team Fitness Challenge

Time Needed: Ongoing (1 month)
Group Size: 5-50 participants
Cost: Free-$50 per person (depending on platform)
Energy Level: Varies
Best For: Health and wellness

Organizing a fitness challenge can enhance team spirit while promoting health. Use platforms like Strava or MyFitnessPal to track progress and encourage friendly competition. Teams can set collective goals, such as total miles run or minutes exercised.

6. Online Art Workshop

Time Needed: 1.5-2 hours
Group Size: 10-30 participants
Cost: $40-70 per person
Energy Level: Medium
Best For: Creativity and relaxation

Art workshops can serve as a therapeutic break from work. Companies like Paint Nite offer virtual painting classes where teams can create artwork together. This activity fosters creativity and allows team members to express themselves.

7. Virtual Wine or Beer Tasting

Time Needed: 1.5-2 hours
Group Size: 10-30 participants
Cost: $60-100 per person (includes tasting kit)
Energy Level: Low to Medium
Best For: Socializing and relaxation

A virtual wine or beer tasting can be a sophisticated way for remote teams to unwind together. Services like Winc or Craft Beer Club send tasting kits to participants, guided by an expert. It’s a delightful way to socialize and learn about different beverages.

8. Online Game Night

Time Needed: 2-3 hours
Group Size: 4-100 participants
Cost: Free-$20 per person (depending on games)
Energy Level: Medium to High
Best For: Fun and camaraderie

Using platforms like Jackbox Games or Tabletopia, teams can enjoy a variety of games together. This activity is perfect for fostering laughter and light-hearted competition, making it an ideal choice for casual team bonding.

9. Virtual Book Club

Time Needed: Ongoing (monthly)
Group Size: 5-20 participants
Cost: Free-$20 per person (for book purchases)
Energy Level: Low
Best For: Intellectual engagement and discussion

A virtual book club allows team members to connect over literature. Choose a book each month, schedule a video call to discuss it, and encourage team members to share their insights. This activity promotes deep conversations and builds stronger connections.

10. Online Puzzle Competition

Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Group Size: 4-20 participants
Cost: $10-30 per person
Energy Level: Medium
Best For: Teamwork and strategy

Host a virtual puzzle competition using platforms like JigsawPuzzles.com. Teams can race to complete puzzles in a set time, enhancing their collaboration and problem-solving skills. This activity can be both fun and intellectually stimulating.

Conclusion

In 2026, remote team building is essential for maintaining strong connections among team members. The activities listed above not only enhance collaboration but also create memorable experiences that strengthen relationships. Choose activities that fit your team's interests, and don't hesitate to mix and match for maximum engagement.

Action Items:

1. Assess your team's interests and select 2-3 activities to trial.
2. Schedule a meeting to plan logistics and set a date for your first activity.
3. Gather feedback after each activity to refine your approach for future events.