20 Best Corporate Event Ideas in San Jose, CA

By: | Updated: February 13, 2024

Here is our list of the top corporate event ideas in San Jose, California.

Corporate event ideas in San Jose are attractions, activities, and venues your team can explore during a work gathering within the city. For example, you can visit Touch Stone Climbing or break objects at Smash City Rage Room. The purpose of these ideas is to help organizers entertain and impress attendees when hosting a gathering in the city.

These ideas are suitable for company holiday parties, internship orientations, conference breakout sessions, and team building days. These activities are similar to team building events in San Jose and San Jose company outings.

This list includes:

  • corporate event ideas in San Jose for adults
  • outdoor corporate events in San Jose
  • corporate party ideas in San Jose
  • large group corporate event activities in San Jose

Let’s get started!

List of corporate event ideas in San Jose

The ideas you use for your corporate events will determine if you can achieve the gathering’s objective and engage attendees. Here are the best ways you can have an unforgettable corporate event in San Jose.

1. The Art of Storytelling (Top Choice)

You can immerse your team in the world of storytelling with The Art of Storytelling workshop. Using the power of narrative, participants can learn to connect authentically and effectively.

Here is what to expect:

  • a 120-minute session facilitated by expert storytellers
  • the five essential elements of an engaging story
  • language, emotion, and structure guidelines
  • time for teams to practice their newfound storytelling skills
  • invaluable feedback provided by the hosts

To help with party planning, we will provide all the necessary materials to your preferred venue. You can empower your team to connect and inspire through The Art of Storytelling.

Learn more about The Art of Storytelling.

2. Mix n’ Mingle (Team Favorite)

Networking is an important aspect of business, and Mix n’ Mingle introduces fresh and inventive ways to connect. Through authentic conversations, attendees can forge genuine relationships.

Mix n’ Mingle includes the following:

  • 90 minutes guided by an experienced facilitator
  • engaging icebreakers designed to ignite conversations and foster connections
  • group discussions and collaborative challenges
  • common goals, diverse viewpoints, and shared interests

Additionally, we will come to your venue of choice with all the necessary materials. If you are looking to strengthen relationships and collaboration, then add Mix n’ Mingle to your agenda!

Learn more about Mix n’ Mingle.

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3. The Great Guac Off™️ (Popular)

The Great Guac Off is a high-energy experience where participants compete to make the best guacamole! During this experience, participants boost collaboration and communication skills.

The Great Guac Off includes the following:

  • 90 minutes guided by an experienced facilitator
  • tasty guacamole ingredients and chips
  • an optional secret ingredient to change up the recipes
  • captivating mini-games, avocado facts, and trivia
  • a high-energy guacamole-making competition and judging session

We will come to your chosen venue with all the necessary ingredients to create this delicious dip. Additionally, you can tailor the trivia questions specifically for your company. So consider adding The Great Guac Off to your next team building event!

Learn more about The Great Guac Off.

4. Strike Brewing Co.

Strike Brewing Co. is one of the top corporate event ideas in San Jose for adults. This brewery makes a wide range of beers, from hazy IPAs and bourbon barrel-aged stouts to fruited sours and seasonal seltzers. Notably, the brewery’s Triple Play IPA and Big Wall Imperial Stout have earned several gold medals at beer competitions.

You can enjoy a fresh pour at the 10th Street Brewery and Taproom. Strike also hosts events and works with food trucks to create a fun environment. You can even book the taproom for private events! This venue is a great spot to unwind and connect with colleagues.

Learn more about Strike Brewing Co.

5. Guadalupe River Park & Gardens

The Guadalupe River Park & Gardens preserves nature and offers many activities for both locals and visitors. The Visitor Center offers classes, maps, and wildlife displays. You can explore 2.6 miles of trails, participate in festivals, play in the Rotary PlayGarden, or simply look for wildlife along the river.

The Heritage Rose Garden has 3,700 varieties of roses, and the space also has a historic orchard. The park is also home to the Rotary PlayGarden and the Guadalupe River Art Walk. You can volunteer with activities like adopting a rose or participating in the Urban Farm Project. The Guadalupe River Park & Gardens is a spot for community members to enjoy.

Learn more about the Guadalupe River Park & Gardens.

6. Ralph Gracie Jiu-Jitsu

Jiu-jitsu is a great way to get active with your team! At Ralph Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, teams can take classes to learn this martial art. Ralph Gracie offers instruction for adults at any level.

Here are some courses you can take:

  • Adult 1: A 45-minute course covering the basics of Brazilian jiu-jitsu designed for beginners
  • Adult 2: A 90-minute course for more experienced individuals that covers grips, ground, and foot techniques
  • Women’s Only: A 60-minute course for all experience levels aimed at women

The studio also offers cardio kickboxing to round out your workout. Visiting Ralph Gracie Jiu-Jitsu helps teams unwind and meet their fitness goals.

Learn more about Ralph Gracie Jiu-Jitsu.

7. CineLux Almaden Cafe & Lounge

CineLux is one of the best cinemas in San Jose for relaxing and catching up with trending movies. The venue is handicap accessible with reserved wheelchair spaces. You can rent the theater for a private movie night based on the venue’s availability. However, be aware that guests cannot bring outside food and beverages to the venue.

With the menu options and a comfy environment, your team will have a great viewing time at CineLux Almaden Cafe & Lounge.

Learn more about CineLux Almaden Cafe & Lounge.

8. Axeventures

Throwing axes at Axeventures is among the large group corporate event activities in San Jose. You can locate this axe-throwing facility in the heart of Silicon Valley. Axe-cellent coaches are available around the facility to guide you and your colleagues.

Your team can toss weapons in freestyle mode or in a competitive tournament. You and your team will have fun competing for the highest score and becoming the axe-throwing champion. The axe throwing center is conveniently situated outside downtown San Jose, and you can easily stop by a restaurant or brewery for a drink.

Learn more about Axeventures.

9. Bay Area Glass Institute

Bay Area Glass Institute is an art studio and non-profit organization that teaches glass-making classes to interested parties. The organization invites local and international artists to give free lectures. Your group size will determine the duration of the presentation, which roughly lasts 120 minutes for ten attendees. While you create your own artwork, you will also learn about traditional glass techniques. You can choose the preferred color to work with during the experience. The group event package pricing varies depending on the glasswork your team chooses to create. Then, a week after the class, you can check back at the studio to pick up your artwork. The venue can accommodate groups of up to 40 members.

In addition, your team can dine at the venue using the picnic tables in the courtyard. The institute can also help you prepare tables and chairs for your event.

Learn more about Bay Area Glass Institute.

10. Le Papillon

When looking for corporate party ideas in San Jose, check out Le Papillon! Le Papillon is a highly rated restaurant in California with a contemporary French menu. The dining area is within driving distance of downtown San Jose. The restaurant also serves over 500 wines, ranging from French reds to California whites and champagnes. Guests are to wear casual or semi-formal clothes. The restaurant can host private events with a special menu for the gathering. A private dining experience costs around $105 per guest.

Learn more about Le Papillon.

11. Touch Stone Climbing

Touch Stone Climbing is an indoor climbing facility located in downtown San Jose. The center provides an Adult Intro to Climbing Event package for groups of six or more beginners. Aside from a day pass, the package will give your group access to the climbing facility for 90 minutes.

In addition, various classes are available, including bouldering, lead climbing, and beginner lessons. If your team members are new to the sport, then you can take a class to learn the basic skills. Plus, you can practice your newly acquired skills right after the class.

Your day pass ticket will give you access to the gym facility within the center. Touch Stone Climbing also takes fitness classes focusing on yoga or core strengthening.

Learn more about Touch Stone Climbing.

12. All Natural Day Spa

All Natural Day Spa is a highly rated wellness center in San Jose, with certified therapists using natural and organic products to offer excellent service. Different packages with unique experiences are available for reservation, from Lavender Leisure to Joyful Jasmine. The spa can also customize your package to fit your preferences. You can make a group reservation for up to four members. Most of the spa experiences last 30 minutes, but you can increase the time for an extra fee.

At All Natural Day Spa, your team will experience relaxing massage therapy customized to your needs. The spa also provides hair and skin care services for an improved appearance.

Learn more about All Natural Day Spa.

13. Music Tunnel KTV Cafe

Music Tunnel KTV Cafe features over 15 karaoke rooms in San Jose. The rooms are private, with fun themes and designs. Your group will find a long list of milk and brewed tea on the menu, and you can also order hot meals during your party.

The karaoke rooms are available for rent at an hourly rate. Pricing will depend on how many guests you have. You can follow up with the site’s update for information on regular promotions.

Learn more about Music Tunnel KTV Cafe.

14. Santa Cruz Main Beach

Located within driving distance of the city, Santa Cruz Main Beach is one of the best locations for outdoor corporate events in San Jose. Spending a day on the sand is a fun way to gather your team, bond, and relax. You will find an array of fun activities to keep your guests hooked, whether you decide to take a roller coaster ride at the amusement park or play mini-golf. The beach also features a boardwalk, restaurant, volleyball courts, and an arcade.

Santa Cruz Main Beach is an excellent place for kayaking, swimming, and fishing. Your group can also take a walk through the beach street to explore the shops around the area.

Learn more about Santa Cruz Main Beach.

15. Cucina Bambini

Cucina Bambini is a culinary school in San Jose that provides cooking classes for groups of all ages and skill levels. The kitchen also offers adult cooking lessons on a scheduled basis. You can check Cucina Bambini’s official website to keep up with upcoming classes. On the other hand, you can have a dinner party in the kitchen, with the meals prepared by you and your colleagues.

Whether you have a two or three-hour event, you and your team members will have a fabulous time improving and showing off your culinary skills.

Learn more about Cucina Bambini.

16. Aloha Fun Center

Aloha provides a roller skating rink in Eastridge Center, San Jose. The admission pricing for skating starts at around $15. Aloha also hosts skate lessons, particularly for participants at the beginner and intermediary levels. You can stay updated with the event list on the center’s official site, from adult-only public sessions to skate lessons.

Furthermore, the venue is available for event rental, charged hourly. Also, the center offers attractions like a snack bar, an 18-hole miniature golf course, and arcade games.

Learn more about Aloha Fun Center.

17. Smash City Rage Room

Visiting Smach City Rage Room is one of the best corporate event ideas in San Jose. The rage room is a therapeutic location providing a safe environment for teams in the city to destroy objects and release stress or frustration. Your team will receive protective gear and breakable objects from the rage room center.

The rage room is wheelchair accessible. With comfortable clothing and a willingness to release aggression and frustration, your team will have a blast doing the stress-relieving activity.

Learn more about Smash City Rage Room.

18. Breakout Studios

Breakout Studios provides escape rooms where you and your team can test your problem-solving skills. The escape rooms have unique themes like:

  • Time Breaker Challenge: You find yourself in Colonel Blaylock’s secret training place. You and other escapers will strive to pass the tests through communication, collaboration, and teamwork.
  • The Father of Silicon Valley: Your mission is to travel to the past and retrieve an antidote to save the father of Silicon Valley.
  • The Hacker of Silicon Valley: You have only 60 minutes to travel to the future, locate a missing hacker, and send a life-changing work back to the right company.

The gameplay inside the Hollywood-style studio will last one hour. Also, the number of players allowed in each room varies. Although the games are pretty challenging, the difficulty level differs.

Learn more about Breakout Studios.

19. Black Mountain Bowman Archery Club

Black Mountain Bowman is a volunteer-operated organization that aims to promote archery. You can host a shooting event or your company offsite at the range since the archery club does not provide rental equipment. The range opens daily and is accessible to guests for free, yet accepts donations.

In addition, your team can volunteer to participate in the monthly Work Party, where you will help with tasks like updating signs, picking up trash, and collecting debris during the event.

Learn more about Black Mountain Bowman Archery Club.

20. Hellyer County Park Velodrome

Avid bikers will love spending time at the Hellyer County Park Velodrome! This circular track helps bikers train for and compete in races. When training, teams can choose from structured or unstructured sessions. Structured sessions feature lessons from experienced supervisors. Instructors gear lessons toward beginners, so teams of any fitness level can stop by! During unstructured sessions, category three riders can follow their own workouts.

Hellyer Velodrome also holds regular races. Racers must have at least three beginner sessions or the equivalent before signing up. Whether employees are experienced racers or just starting out, Hellyer County Park Velodrome is a great place to visit!

Learn more about Hellyer County Park Velodrome.

Conclusion

San Jose remains one of the best cities to host your corporate gathering in California. With over 250 days of sunshine and an agreeable climate, San Jose provides excellent weather for enjoying outdoor corporate events in the city’s space. The city’s ever-growing downtown district remains a must-go location for many visitors and locals. In downtown San Jose and close areas, you will find an array of attractions teams can explore during your event, from theaters to bustling bars and fine dining areas. Also, the city’s beautiful parks are worth visiting to spend the day while strengthening your bond with your colleagues.

For more group entertainment in CA, check out team building activities in Mountain View and team building activities in San Francisco.

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FAQ: Corporate event ideas in San Jose, California

Here are answers to questions about corporate event ideas in San Jose.

What are some ideas for corporate events in San Jose?

Some ideas for corporate events in San Jose include cooking at Cucina Bambini, having dinner at Le Papillon, rollerskating at Aloha, and exploring Breakout Studios escape rooms.

How do you entertain attendees at corporate events in San Jose?

The kind of entertainment you can use for attendees depends on your event type and budget. From campfire storytelling to dancing or performing magic tricks, you can entertain guests in many fun ways. The ever-popular icebreakers also work well as entertainment in most kinds of events. Furthermore, you can reserve a venue offering fun attractions to impress your guests. Whether you plan for expensive or zero-cost entertainment, the crucial aspect is for attendees to have fun.

Author avatar

Author:

People & Culture Director at teambuilding.com.
Grace is the Director of People & Culture at teambuilding.com. She studied Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell University, Information Science at East China Normal University and earned an MBA at Washington State University.

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