The new Event Centre at Rinx
Get a grip on team bonding with high-spirited fun and games at turnkey venues that make planning one-stop shopping easy.
Whether you’re in the market for an out-of-office stress buster, a staff appreciation treat or kid-friendly event with adult sophistication, consider one of the following activity-centric spots:
Game On
Rinx grows its interactive funhouse with the recent addition of a 15,000-sq.-ft. Event Centre housing six 10-pin bowling lanes and two new team games, Balladium, a black light ball blasting challenge, and Time Freak, a beat-the-clock button pushing race. The centre, with private entrance, is also home to the new Event Hall and Fireside Lounge, a hospitality zone for up to 350 with catering, dj booth and dance floor. Rinx’s entire complex accommodates up to 2,000 people throughout with event rooms and other activities including mini-golf, lazer tag, billiards, in-line and ice skating.
Of Paddles And Balls
Get your ping pong on at SPIN Toronto
Spin Toronto, a 12,000-sq.-ft. ping pong club in the King-Spadina ‘hood lets groups fraternize over drinks and friendly matches in a mod rec-room style setting. The club, with buy-out capacity for 500 guests, boasts two bars, 12 ping-pong tables and on-site kitchen specializing in retro classic comfort food. A lounge and private party room holds 100. Order up lessons or a table tennis duel with pro players behind the paddles.
On Pins And Lanes
VIP area at Lucky Strike Lanes & Lounge
Bowling and cocktails is the name of the game at Lucky Strike Lanes & Lounge in the Vaughan Mills Mall. Party primed, mood-grooving cosmic lighting and top 40 tunes stoke the action on 22 bowling lanes. The upscale alley has ample socializing elbow room for up to 425 people. Invite your VIPs behind the red curtain, a mezzanine lounge for 30 to 60 guests with six private lanes, billiards table, bar and buffet. On-site event coordination can hook your event up with live djs and other entertainment options.
A Winning Bet
Woodbine Entertainment racing action
While horse racing is more spectator sport than hands-on activity, there’s a lot to be said for the rush of choosing and cheering on winners. Among its equine-themed properties, Woodbine Entertainment blasts group events out of the starting gate with live action racing at Woodbine Racetrack and Mohawk Racetrack. Both sites have numerous hosting rooms overlooking the track, from intimate to super-sized elegant. Woodbine’s seasonal Trackside Tent for 400 is an odds-on favourite. Up the event ante with a pre-race betting tutorial, betting vouchers, a trip to the paddock and a chance to step into the winner’s presentation circle.
Group Play
Scale a wall at Polson Pier
Let the games begin at Polson Pier, the 23-acre lakeside playground where office warriors unleash their competitive spirit in jousting battles, obstacle course races, rock climbing and beach volleyball matches. Stage unique Survivor or Amazing Race challenges around the grounds and game sites with focused teambuilding skill exercises. Driving range, go-karting track, mini putt and indoor soccer pitches offer additional playtime. Refuel with a poolside bbq, or celebrate with an awards banquet in the Solarium.
Need For Speed
Get the adrenaline racing at NASCAR Speedpark
Flagged races, hair-pin turns and pit stop tire-changing challenges are all part of the fun on wheels at NASCAR Speedpark. Located at the Vaughan Mills Mall, two indoor tracks and three outdoor courses let groups rev their engines year-round. Along with go-karting, the centre offers other entertaining diversions including indoor rock climbing, lazer tag, speedway simulators and games arcade. Group packages are available for gatherings of up to 500 guests.
Tee Time
It’s always golfing weather at Lakeshore Links
Bonding over a game of golf is always in season at Lakeshore Links, an 8,000-sq.-ft. indoor facility on Lakeshore Avenue East. Players tee off in front of simulators (there are nine) loaded with high-definition visuals and challenge holes of 21 world famous courses, nine driving ranges and putting greens. Go the full 18, or play a mini tournament with longest drive and closest to the pin contests. Private buy-out ensures “19th hole” hospitality for up to 150 guests in the lounge and reception area.