Scottsdale: Hijacked By Science Puzzle Ride Adventure

Planning something a little different in Scottsdale? If you enjoy puzzles, interactive activities, and a good dose of science, then Hijacked by Science could be just the ticket. Though I haven’t tried it myself, I’ve gathered plenty of insights to help you decide if this 75-minute adventure fits your travel style.

What I love about this experience is how it mixes hands-on science experiments with city exploration, creating a fun, engaging, and educational outing. Plus, the private golf cart makes it feel personalized and easy to navigate through Old Town’s streets. One potential consideration? With a difficulty level of 4/5, it’s not a walk in the park — you’ll want to be ready for some decent brain teasers.

This adventure suits anyone who enjoys puzzles, thinks science is fun, or is looking for a unique activity that breaks away from the usual sightseeing. It’s also a good pick for groups of friends, couples, or even teams looking to do something different. Families with kids over 8 might enjoy it, but it’s not suitable for very young children or those with impaired mobility.

Key Points

• Interactive & Engaging: You solve puzzles and conduct experiments, making it hands-on rather than just watching.
• City Exploration: It’s not just about the puzzles; you get to explore Old Town’s streets and hidden spots.
• Private & Convenient: The experience includes a private golf cart and a dedicated guide, making it personal and smooth.
• Challenging but Fun: With a difficulty rating of 4/5, it’s best for those who enjoy a good mental challenge.
• Family & Group Friendly: Suitable for groups, especially those wanting a team-building activity, but not for kids under 8.
• Weather-Reliant: It takes place rain or shine, so be prepared for whatever the weather throws at you.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What To Expect During the Hijacked by Science Puzzle Ride

This experience is designed as a story-driven adventure. You’re racing against time to stop a mad scientist from unleashing a dangerous mind-control gas. The narrative adds excitement, making each puzzle feel like a piece of a bigger story. You’re not just solving riddles—you’re actively trying to save the day.

The activity starts at a meeting point in the parking lot off Bennie Gonzales, where you’ll meet your Puzzle Master and hop into your private golf cart. From there, the journey through Old Town begins, with clues and challenges awaiting at each stop. You’ll use scientific tools and conduct experiments as part of the puzzles—think of it as a fun, real-life science lab on wheels.

Each puzzle is crafted to be challenging, often requiring creative thinking and teamwork. Along the way, you’ll uncover hidden gems in Old Town, making the experience a little sightseeing and a little detective work all in one. The inclusion of a real science experiment as a clue adds an authentic touch, giving a bit of tangible science to the adventure.

The Itinerary and Puzzles: A Closer Look

While the tour doesn’t follow a typical fixed route like classic city tours, the main goal is to keep your mind engaged and your curiosity piqued. You’ll visit multiple locations in Old Town Scottsdale, each with its own set of clues and puzzles. The puzzles are designed to test your problem-solving skills and apply scientific principles—so a little background knowledge or quick thinking helps.

The puzzles are described as intricate, and some reviews mention that they can be quite demanding, with a rating of 4/5 for difficulty. This is not a casual activity — it’s meant for those who enjoy a mental workout. The inclusion of real experiments, possibly involving scientific tools, adds depth and authenticity to the experience. It’s not just about riddles—there’s an educational component that makes it memorable.

A common theme among reviews is how clever the storyline is. The mad scientist plot keeps everyone engaged, and the sense of urgency helps fuel team cooperation. The puzzles are well-designed to keep everyone involved, whether you’re a science buff or just someone who loves solving mysteries.

Value for Money and Duration

At $64 per person, the price is quite reasonable given the personalized nature of the activity. It includes a Puzzle Master, the private golf cart, and interactive clues, which all contribute to a well-rounded experience.

Since it lasts about 75 minutes, it’s a perfect activity for an afternoon or early evening — long enough to get immersed without feeling dragged out. The private group aspect means you won’t be in a large crowd, making it more intimate and enjoyable.

If you’re a traveler looking for something different from typical tours or a group wanting a team-building challenge, this price point can deliver good value. It’s especially attractive if you love puzzles, science, or exploring cities in a more active way.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

A few practical notes: Participants need to be able to transfer onto and off the golf cart and should be comfortable walking and climbing. The activity is rain or shine, so come prepared for the weather — bring water and wear weather-appropriate clothing.

Children under 8 aren’t allowed, likely because of the complexity and safety considerations with the puzzles and experiments. People with impaired mobility should carefully consider whether they can safely participate, given the walking and transfer requirements.

Because the tour is in English, bilingual groups might want to check if language support is available or consider this if English isn’t your first language. Service animals are permitted, but they need a quick safety review beforehand.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This isn’t your typical sightseeing tour. It’s clearly geared toward groups that enjoy a challenge, have a curiosity for science, or want to do something memorable in Old Town Scottsdale. It’s perfect for adventure-seekers, puzzle enthusiasts, or teams looking for a fun activity that encourages collaboration.

If you’re traveling with kids over 8 who love puzzles and science, they’ll likely have a great time. But if you’re after something more relaxed or with very young children, you might want to look elsewhere.

Final Thoughts

Hijacked by Science offers a unique way to experience Scottsdale’s historic streets while putting your problem-solving skills to the test. It’s a playful, interactive activity with a good dose of education, wrapped in an engaging storyline. The private golf cart makes it feel exclusive, and the puzzles are challenging enough to keep you thinking throughout.

If you’re a group that enjoys teamwork, science, or just a different kind of city outing, this could be a fantastic pick. Just be ready for some brain teasers, and don’t expect a laid-back stroll—this is a lively, mind-bending adventure that’s both fun and a little tricky.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 8 are not allowed. Participants should be comfortable with walking, climbing, and transferring onto the golf cart.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts about 75 minutes, making it a perfect addition to an afternoon in Scottsdale.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers a Puzzle Master, private golf cart, and all interactive puzzles and clues.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the activity accessible for people with mobility impairments?
Participants with impaired mobility must be able to safely transfer onto the golf cart; otherwise, it might not be suitable.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring water and dress according to the weather. Avoid backpacks, bags, and selfie sticks during the activity.

Is there a specific meeting point?
Yes, in the parking lot off Bennie Gonzales, accessible via 1st Ave.

What is the difficulty level?
It’s rated 4/5, so expect some challenging puzzles that require critical thinking and teamwork.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, they are permitted, but require a brief safety review and approval by the guide.

If you’re after a fun, brain-teasing adventure that combines city sightseeing with scientific puzzles, Hijacked by Science might just be the quirky, engaging experience you’re looking for in Scottsdale.

You can check availability for your dates here: