Here is our list of the best corporate event ideas in San Diego.
Corporate event ideas in San Diego are ways to make your work gathering in the city successful and exceptionally fun. For example, you can visit Cinépolis Del Mar or Mariposa Ice Cream. The purpose of these ideas is to highlight the best ways teams in San Diego can have an amazing corporate event and leave a long-lasting impression on guests.
These ideas are ideal for team building days, company retreat locations, executive team building, or conference entertainment. These activities are similar to team building ideas in San Diego and San Diego company outings.
This list includes:
- corporate event ideas in San Diego for adults
- outdoor corporate events in San Diego, CA
- corporate party ideas in San Diego, California
- large group corporate event activities in San Diego
Let’s get started!
List of corporate event ideas in San Diego
San Diego is famous for having a warm climate, lively neighborhoods, and vibrant entertainment. From watching a show at Mic Drop Comedy to strapping on a jetpack with Jetboard Flights, here are the best ways you can bring your group together in the city.
1. Mix n’ Mingle (Best for Networking)
Mix n’ Mingle is a networking experience that creates meaningful conversations and enduring connections. This innovative approach to networking ensures teams remain engaged while having genuine conversations.
Mix n’ Mingle includes the following features:
- 90 minutes facilitated by an experienced professional
- conversation-starting icebreakers that foster connections
- collaborative challenges and group discussions
- shared interests, common goals, and diverse viewpoints
Further, we will meet you at your preferred venue with all the necessary supplies. With Mix n’ Mingle, you can improve relationships and foster enhanced collaboration.
Learn more about Mix n’ Mingle.
2. Field Day (Popular)
Field Day is a dynamic experience that brings colleagues together in an outdoor competition! Teams will practice their teamwork skills as they go head-to-head in games outside.
Here is what you can expect:
- 90 minutes guided by a world-class host
- high-energy outdoor games and competitions
- classic activities that remind players of their childhood
- photo ops to capture lasting memories
In addition, we will bring all the game equipment to the venue of your choosing. Each game fosters teamwork, effective communication, problem-solving, and strategic thinking. From timeless classics to innovative challenges, Field Day is an unforgettable adventure.
Learn more about Field Day.
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3. The Great Guac Off™️ (Highly Rated)
If you are searching to promote team creativity and collaboration, then consider The Great Guac Off! During this experience, participants will engage in a friendly guacamole-making competition.
The Great Guac Off features:
- 90 minutes with a world-class host
- engaging avocado mini-games, trivia, and interesting facts
- high-quality guacamole ingredients and chips for dipping
- an optional secret ingredient to add a fun twist
- a spirited guacamole mash-off and judging session
Best of all, we will bring all the ingredients to your chosen location. To boost your staff’s teamwork and communication skills, check out The Great Guac Off!
Learn more about The Great Guac Off.
4. San Diego Model Railroad Museum
The San Diego Model Railroad Museum, or SDMRM, is a great corporate event idea! This 27,000-square-foot space houses model trains, tracks, and trestles. The museum has several rotating and permanent exhibits, including Pacific Desert Lines and Freight and Flora: A Garden Railroad.
The Pacific Desert Lines display features a 1/160 scale model of a route that was planned but never built. In Freight and Flora, you will get to see tiny displays of houses from 1885, when the Transcontinental Railroad first arrived in San Diego. Every December, the SDMRM holds a fundraiser called Ales N’ Rails, featuring live music, food, raffles, and an ugly sweater contest. In addition, you can rent the museum for private functions.
Learn more about the San Diego Model Railroad Museum.
5. AleSmith Brewing Company
San Diego has a booming beer scene, and you can check it out at AleSmith Brewing Company. Available brews include pale ales, Mexican lagers, IPAs, and stouts. AleSmith also has seasonal limited releases and barrel-aged drinks. One of the best ways to enjoy these drinks is at the brewery’s tasting room. You can order small or full-sized pours of each beer.
Additionally, AleSmith has food trucks available, including Zoe’s Place and 360 Italian Cuisine. You can also check out events at this venue, from line dancing to trivia night. After grabbing your brews, you can go to the firm’s axe-throwing alleys. Baseball fans can also stop by the Tony Gwynn museum, which is inside the brewery. When looking for corporate party ideas in San Diego, California, AleSmith has plenty to keep your team entertained!
Learn more about AleSmith Brewing Company.
6. The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park
Opened in 2021, The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park is an amazing piece of architecture in the heart of downtown. This waterfront venue is a center for both culture and nature. The Rady Shell provides a unique concert experience, from small table settings to lawn seating with unobstructed views. Examples of performances include Sarah Mclachlan, the San Diego Symphony, and The Nightmare Before Christmas in concert. If you get hungry, then you can check out The Shell Provisions, the Rady’s food program. Local culinary powerhouses like Chef Richard Blais partner with the venue to offer amazing dishes. This venue is a great place for teams to unwind!
Learn more about The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park.
7. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a special place where nature is protected. This area is like a small island of wildness surrounded by the city. The reserve is home to a rare tree called Pinus torreyana, which is found only there and on an island near Santa Barbara. The park also has high cliffs, deep ravines, and a salt marsh with waterfowl. You can walk on trails through the pine trees, enjoy wildflowers in spring, and watch California quails in the fall and winter.
However, there are some rules to follow, like staying on the trails, not bringing pets, and not picking plants. There is also a cool event called Docent Led Hikes on weekends where knowledgeable guides show you around. The park is open during the day, but camping is not allowed. Remember to check out the flashing light system for parking updates if you plan to visit!
Learn more about Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.
8. Escapology San Diego
Escapology is one of the best escape room providers in California. At this venue, you will find different game themes to play. For instance:
- Antidote: While investigating a laboratory, your team got infected with a virus. You must find the cure as soon as possible.
- Mansion Murder: You have one hour to escape and gather evidence proving that you did not kill your grandfather.
- Budapest Express: A murder took place on the train you boarded. You must figure out the killer before the train stops.
You will watch an introductory video before the game starts. Your entire experience will last around 90 to 120 minutes. Also, the host can provide hints if you get stuck while playing. The escape experiences are available for a private or shared reservation. After your game, your group can gather for a picture or share a meal at the location.
Learn more about Escapology San Diego.
9. Brainy Actz Rage Room
Brainy Actz is home to many attractions, including a therapeutic rage room. During your experience, you will have up to ten glass items to smash. Your group members will wear protective gear and get acquainted with the activity’s rules at the start. Unlike many other Rage rooms, Brainy Actz allows you to bring your own breakable items without charging an additional fee. However, the staff will first examine the items.
The experience will be exclusive to each guest. However, you and your colleagues can watch each other smash the items from a viewing window. Also, the host will not rush you through the experience. You can even spend up to 20 minutes in the room as you take your time to destroy the items and relieve your stress.
Aside from a rage room, Brainy Actz has axe-throwing lanes, each designed for up to five players. You can explore other attractions like escape rooms, target shooting, bowling, archery, arrow tag, and Nerf wars.
Learn more about Brainy Actz Rage Room.
10. Mariposa Ice Cream
Mariposa Ice Cream is a locally operated store in San Diego, particularly in the Northern Height Neighborhood. The shop serves handmade ice creams with fresh milk, good quality ingredients, and less sugar. The shop also serves custom ice cream pies made to suit your taste. You will find a list of current and rotating flavors on the stores’ site.
If you plan to serve many guests during your event, then you can get the ice cream in a two-and-a-half-gallon tub with around 162 scoops on average. The menu also features beverages like ice cream sodas, shakes, frozen hot chocolate, malts, and non-dairy smoothies. In addition, the ice creams in this store are egg-free.
Learn more about Mariposa Ice Cream.
11. Painting & Vino
Painting & Vino is an art studio in San Diego. Your group can attend a private paint-and-sip party at the studio for a colorful and memorable corporate event. Your group will have the experience in any creative way you decide. For instance, you can paint your pet or company logo. You can also paint on different materials, from glass to wood pallet board. Professional artists will guide your group to have an amazing time painting while sipping wines.
Also, Painting & Vino offers different art experiences on a scheduled basis.
Learn more about Painting & Vino.
12. Mic Drop Comedy
The most fun corporate event ideas in San Diego for adults include visiting Mic Drop Comedy. You can locate this comedy club around Clairemont Mesa Boulevard. If you arrive at the venue before your show starts, then your team can stop by the patio area to have cocktails. The venue features different showrooms with distinct seating and occupancy capacity. The seating arrangement at the showroom is mostly on a first-come, first-served basis.
You can check the club’s website for a list of upcoming shows. In addition, you will find shows that feature celebrity talent marked as ‘special presentation.’ Mic Drop Comedy also offers a menu with gluten-free and vegan options. Unlike many venues, you do not have to purchase a minimum number of menu items per guest inside the showroom. The comedy club also welcomes groups interested in booking the facility for a private event.
Learn more about Mic Drop Comedy.
13. Addison
Addison is one of the fine dining areas in San Diego. The restaurant provides a nine-course tasting menu with the best seasonal food options. Furthermore, you can order from the extensive list of vintage and modern wines that pairs well with your food. The restaurant offers ‘Chef’s Table,’ a behind-the-scenes experience limited to around twelve guests. If any guest in your group has a food allergy or a specific dietary requirement, then you must notify the restaurant at least 48 hours before your event date.
Learn more about Addison.
14. San Diego Ice Arena
Skating at San Diego Ice Arena is one of the most fun large group corporate event activities in San Diego. The center offers public skating sessions daily. If you have ten or more skaters in your group, then you can get discounts for admission. Furthermore, the center offers figure skating lessons for parties looking to improve in the sport. Depending on the day and time you visit, the experience can run for 45 to 60 minutes. The admission fee will cover shoe rentals for the skaters.
Learn more about San Diego Ice Arena.
15. Jetboard Flights
Adventure seekers on your team will love this water-based jetpack experience! This unique device is strapped to your feet and shoots water out of the bottom, propelling the wearer into the air. Participants can sign up for between 15- and 60-minute flights. The Jetboard goes up to 30 feet in the air, and flyers can learn more advanced maneuvers on longer flights. Additionally, you can order a video of your flight to watch yourself in the air. This activity is perfect to cool off and get your blood pumping during a warm summer day.
Learn more about Jetboard Flights.
16. Cinépolis Del Mar
Cinépolis Del Mar is one of the best movie theaters in San Diego. The cinema has different auditoriums with different seating capacities. You can check the website for information on movie tickets and current promotions.
Also, you can use the theatre facility for your next corporate event in San Diego. However, you cannot bring outside food and beverages to the venue. The theater provides a menu with great meal options, locally made beers, and wines. In addition, the theater offers a party package for groups having at least 30 members. Your booking will cover a custom menu and cocktail reception.
Learn more about Cinépolis Del Mar.
17. Lockdown Escape Rooms
Lockdown Escape Rooms hosts fully immersive games in San Diego. The escape games will challenge your team to work together while solving puzzles and finding clues within one hour. The game provides designed rooms to have different difficulty levels. So you can pick a game theme based on your group’s escaping skill level. The rooms have unique and fascinating plots like:
- Voodoo: Your group accepts the mission to save the town of Gabrielville from a curse. You will investigate the voodoo queen’s shop and break the curse before getting caught.
- Medieval: This escape game will take you on an adventure to get water from the Fountain of Youth and return alive.
- Science: A rogue doctor intends to destroy certain evidence relating to an illegal substance production. Your group of journalists will enter the doctor’s lab, collect evidence, and escape before the physician returns.
You can have up to ten players in the escape room. The staff will provide hints if you get stuck during the gameplay.
Learn more about Lockdown Escape Rooms.
18. La Jolla
La Jolla is a lovely neighborhood in San Diego, also called the city’s jewel by the sea. The neighborhood is a seaside area beautifully surrounded by beaches and ocean bluffs. From kayaking and surfing to biking and taking a midday walk, the community provides opportunities for teams to enjoy outdoor corporate events in San Diego, CA. You can visit Scripps Park along the coastline and play golf at Torrey Pines Golf Course. In addition, La Jolla is home to several dining areas, from Drift Eat+Drink to The Marine Room. The area has an impressive landscape and a breathtaking ocean view.
Also, La Jolla has over 20 beaches, making the area a favorite place for many tourists and groups. In addition, you can take a tour of the La Jolla Cove to see the sea lions, gulls, and cormorants.
Learn more about La Jolla.
Conclusion
San Diego has a naturally mild climate and a nice atmosphere to enjoy outdoor corporate events. The city is also famous for having beautiful beaches. If you are a fan of boating, surfing, or kayaking, then you will have a blast exploring the 70 miles of shoreline. You can explore the city’s jewel, La Jolla. San Diego also has vibrant places you can use for indoor events, from dining areas with excellent services to dynamic amusement centers. With the city’s nice attractions, diverse food options, and endless sunshine, you will have a memorable corporate event and impress the attendees.
Next, check out these lists of conference food ideas and summer team building activities.
