Office Outings: Inspiring Ideas and Best Practices for Unforgettable Team Experiences

6 August 2025

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Office outings have evolved far beyond the classic company picnic. In 2024, with hybrid work the new normal and employee engagement a top priority, organizations are reimagining how they bring teams together outside the office. At UP Events, we specialize in creating memorable, high-impact office outings that foster connection, boost morale, and align with your company’s unique goals — right here in Amsterdam and Weesp.

Why Office Outings Matter More Than Ever

With over half of the Dutch workforce working remotely at least part-time, in-person office outings have become essential for building relationships and reinforcing company culture. Recent data shows that 25% of Gen Z and 34% of millennials in the Netherlands prioritize work/life balance when choosing employers. Flexible, engaging outings are now a key differentiator for attracting and retaining talent.

Office outings are more than just a break from routine — they’re a strategic investment in your team’s well-being and your organization’s success. According to industry experts, “The most successful office outings are those that blend purposeful activities with opportunities for authentic connection, especially in a hybrid work era.”

Trending Office Outing Ideas for 2024

Looking for office outing ideas near me or the best places for office outing in Amsterdam? Here are some of the most popular and innovative options:

1. Urban Adventures

Explore Amsterdam with a city-wide scavenger hunt, an Outdoor City Game, or a canal cruise. These activities encourage teamwork and let your team discover the city in a fresh, exciting way. Our Expedition Robinson team challenge is a perennial favorite for groups seeking adventure and friendly competition.

2. Creative Workshops

Unleash creativity with art workshops, cocktail-making sessions, or culinary classes. Our cocktail workshops & drinks are perfect for teams looking to mix fun with skill-building.

3. Wellness Retreats

Prioritize well-being with yoga sessions, mindfulness workshops, or nature hikes. These experiences help reduce stress and promote a healthy work/life balance.

4. Tech-Driven Team Building

Embrace innovation with a VR Team Challenge, blending virtual reality with real-world collaboration. It’s a unique way to engage tech-savvy teams.

5. Classic Socials with a Twist

Host a BBQ party with live entertainment or a themed office holiday outing. Our BBQ parties combine delicious food, great music, and a relaxed atmosphere for maximum enjoyment.

How to Plan a Successful Office Outing

Set Clear Objectives

Define the purpose of your outing: Is it to celebrate a milestone, strengthen team bonds, or develop new skills? Setting clear goals helps you choose the right activities and measure success.

Involve Your Team

Get input from employees to ensure the outing reflects their interests and needs. This not only boosts buy-in but also ensures inclusivity and accessibility for everyone.

Choose the Right Venue

Venue availability is at a premium in the Netherlands, with office space vacancy rates at a 25-year low. Our two main venues — Amsterdam West (45,000 m² private event location) and Weesp — offer flexible indoor and outdoor spaces for groups from 15 to 5,000 participants. Explore our venues and outings in Weesp.

Mix Structured and Informal Activities

Balance team-building exercises with time for informal networking. This combination encourages authentic connections and lasting memories.

Prioritize Sustainability

There’s growing pressure to choose eco-friendly venues and activities. We’re committed to sustainable practices, helping you align your event with broader corporate responsibility goals.

Best Practices for Large-Scale Office Outings

  • Plan Early: High demand and limited prime locations mean early booking is essential.
  • Manage Logistics: Provide clear schedules, transportation options, and contingency plans.
  • Ensure Diversity and Inclusion: Choose activities that are accessible and enjoyable for all team members.

Maximizing Engagement and ROI

  • Personalize Experiences: Tailor activities to your team’s interests and company culture.
  • Measure Outcomes: Use surveys and feedback tools to assess the impact on morale and team cohesion.
  • Follow Up: Reinforce connections with post-event communications or follow-up activities.

Popular Office Outing Places and Activities in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is packed with unique venues and experiences for your next office day out. Some of the best places for office outing include:

  • Co-working hubs for collaborative work and play
  • Museums like the Rijksmuseum or NEMO Science Museum
  • Outdoor parks such as Vondelpark or Amsterdamse Bos
  • Event boats and canal cruises for a classic Amsterdam experience

For more inspiration, check out our full range of activities.

Success Stories: Impactful Office Outings

Dutch companies report higher engagement and satisfaction from outings that blend in-person and virtual elements, accommodating hybrid teams. Organizations choosing sustainable venues and activities have also seen positive feedback and enhanced employer branding.

Government Guidelines and Regulations

As of 2024, there are no new pandemic-related restrictions on corporate gatherings in the Netherlands, but standard health and safety regulations apply. Always check local municipality rules for group sizes and permits. For more on regulations, visit the Dutch government’s official site.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the best office outing ideas for hybrid teams? Hybrid teams benefit from flexible activities that accommodate both in-person and remote participants. Consider a mix of virtual and physical challenges, such as our VR Team Challenge or city-wide scavenger hunts.

How do I choose the best office outing places in Amsterdam? Look for venues that offer flexibility, accessibility, and a variety of activities. Our Amsterdam West and Weesp locations are designed to cater to diverse group sizes and preferences.

Are there sustainable options for office outings? Absolutely! We prioritize eco-friendly practices and can help you select sustainable activities and catering options.

How far in advance should I book an office outing? For large groups or popular dates, we recommend booking at least three to six months in advance to secure your preferred venue and activities.

Can you help with company holiday outing ideas? Yes! From festive parties to unique winter workshops, we offer a range of company holiday outing ideas tailored to your needs.

Do you organize outings for schools or private groups? We do! Explore our school activities and private event options.

Ready to Plan Your Next Office Outing?

Whether you’re searching for fun activities for coworkers outside of work, creative work party event ideas, or the best places for office outing in Amsterdam, UP Events is your trusted partner. With over 15 years of experience, a 4.8 Google review score, and a passion for creating connections, we deliver seamless, unforgettable experiences every time.

Discover more and book your next event:

For more insights on workplace trends and event planning, visit HR Trend Institute, DutchNews.nl, Iamsterdam, and Coworker.

Let’s make your next office outing the highlight of the year!