Detroit in late October offers a variety of fall-themed and indoor activities perfect for company outings, ranging from festive and spooky to engaging and team-building.
Here are some ideas:
I. Festive Fall & Halloween Activities:
* Cider Mills and Orchards: Visiting a local cider mill or orchard is a classic Michigan fall experience. Many offer fresh apple cider, donuts, apple picking, and other activities. Yates Cider Mill in Rochester and Blake's Orchard & Cider Mill in Armada are popular choices, with Blake's also offering haunted attractions and group packages.
* Haunted Attractions: For a thrilling experience, consider a haunted attraction. Erebus Haunted Attraction in Pontiac is a well-known, four-story haunted warehouse. Blake's Farms also has haunted attractions. Another option is a haunted tour of the historic Fort Wayne, which is rumored to be haunted.
* Hallowe'en in Greenfield Village: This annual event at Greenfield Village in Dearborn takes place almost every weekend in October. Guests can dress in costumes and explore spooky vintage scenarios with costumed actors. They also offer a haunted train ride.
* Detroit Zoo Boo: The Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak hosts "Zoo Boo," a family-friendly Halloween event with trick-or-treating, live entertainment, and educational experiences.
* Harvest Fest & Food Truck Rally: The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy often hosts a Harvest Fest & Food Truck Rally, featuring numerous food trucks, music stages, and fall activities.
* Fall Beer Festival: If your company enjoys craft beverages, the Detroit Fall Beer Festival, put on by the Michigan Brewers Guild, is an annual event in October featuring craft brewers from around the state.
II. Team Building & Indoor Activities:
* Escape Rooms: Challenge your team's problem-solving skills and collaboration at an escape room. Many in Detroit have themes, some even related to the city's automotive history.
* Axe Throwing: For a unique and competitive experience, try axe throwing at locations like Detroit Axe in Ferndale or Corktown.
* Fowling: Combine football and bowling at Fowling Warehouse for a fun and engaging group activity.
* Cooking Classes: Engage in a culinary team-building experience with cooking classes.
* Go-Kart Racing: Enjoy some friendly competition with go-kart racing.
* Riverboat Tour: Take a relaxing and bonding riverboat tour on the Detroit Princess Riverboat, which often includes music and food.
* Brewery Tours or Wine Tasting: Explore Detroit's craft brewing scene with a brewery tour, or enjoy wine tasting at local wineries.
* Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA): Explore the DIA's collections. In October, they often host a special exhibit dedicated to Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), featuring vibrant art and altars. The DIA also offers team gallery tours.
* Movie Night: Rent out a movie theater for a private screening with your team, and consider adding icebreakers or team-building activities.
* Kayaking: If the weather permits and your team is adventurous, consider a kayak tour around Belle Isle and the Detroit Canals to see wildlife and city views.
* Scavenger Hunts: Organize a scavenger hunt to explore Detroit's landmarks, museums, and architecture, incorporating challenges aligned with your team's objectives.
III. Enjoying the Fall Scenery:
* Fall Color Tours: Late October is often peak time for fall colors in Metro Detroit. You can drive along scenic roads, visit Belle Isle State Park, or explore one of the many Huron-Clinton Metroparks like Kensington Metropark or Stony Creek Metropark.
* Detroit Riverfront: Take a scenic drive or walk along the Detroit Riverfront to enjoy the autumn foliage and views.