Team building events don’t always have to include the dreaded trust fall. Make the most out of a corporate retreat with these local activities that your team will actually enjoy.

Take a Hike

Connect with nature and each other out on the trails and get inspired by the stunning scenery of coastal dunes and shoreline. Don’t forget to offer options for different fitness ranges. Saugatuck Dunes State Park and the Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area feature trails that range from easy to moderate. 

Float your Boat

Get the team out on kayaks or try stand-up paddleboards for a new challenge. Rentals are available at Third Coast Paddling, In The Elements Rental and Big Lake Outfitters. Or get competitive with charter fishing, which can be arranged through Best Chance Charters, MIRYAHA Charters, and Inshore Fishing Charters. For something less physically taxing, charter a private cruise aboard the Flying Dutchman, a 25-passenger catamaran pontoon boat operated by the TFD Adventure Co.

Get Cooking

There’s nothing like a cooking class for a fun and delicious way to build camaraderie among team members. Arrange for a private cooking class with Chef Jim LaPerriere at Distinctive Dining. His teaching and demonstration kitchen, located just 5 minutes from downtown Saugatuck, features a Forno Bravo wood-fired pizza and bread oven, twenty feet of work islands, and a wood-burning rotisserie fireplace. Classes can be tailored to your specific interests. Or check out Lulu Cadieux which offers hands-on French cooking classes for up to 8 people. Soufflés, chicken cordon bleu, paella, and fish en papillote are just some of the dishes to choose from to create.

Search High and Low

Set up a Bike Scavenger Hunt and challenge teammates to find and take photos of items and landmarks in the area. Be sure to include the Root Beer Barrel, Chain Ferry, and Mt. Baldhead Radar Tower on your shot list. Bikes can be rented through Big Lake Outfitters, In The Elements Rental, or Blue Star Barns.