Scavenger Hunt in Chicago by Wacky Walks

Exploring Chicago in a New Way: Wacky Walks’ Scavenger Hunt Review

If you’re looking for an interactive way to get to know Chicago beyond its typical tourist routes, Wacky Walks’ scavenger hunt could be just the ticket. This experience promises to turn your city walk into an engaging game, blending sightseeing with a bit of playful challenge. While we haven’t personally tried it (yet), it’s an intriguing option for anyone wanting to explore at their own pace, especially if you enjoy a little competition or puzzle-solving along the way.

What we really like about this scavenger hunt is how accessible it is—costing just $10 per person—and that it’s designed to be flexible, letting you set your own start time. Plus, having a remote interactive guide adds a layer of support that makes the experience feel personal without the pressure of a large group. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that you’ll need your own smartphone, and there’s no included transportation, so planning your route is on you.

This experience works best for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and interactive fun. It’s ideal if you’re visiting Chicago and want a different way to see the city’s highlights without the rigidity of traditional tours. Also, if you’re traveling with a small group or a family, the private aspect ensures that it’s tailored just for you, making it more personalized.

Key Points

• Affordable and flexible: At just $10, this scavenger hunt offers a budget-friendly way to explore Chicago at your own pace.
• Private experience: Only your party participates, making it customizable and intimate.
• Interactive and fun: The app-based game includes challenges, riddles, and photo tasks to keep things lively.
• Supportive guide: A remote host is available to answer questions and provide hints during your game.
• Highlights visit: Key sites include the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Loop, and views of the Chicago River.
• Self-guided start: You can choose your start time within operating hours, giving you flexibility.

An In-Depth Look at the Wacky Walks Scavenger Hunt

Starting Point and Basic Setup

The adventure begins near the Chicago’s Heald Square Monument, with a beautiful view of the river. You’ll download the app in advance and then set out at a time that suits you, making it perfect for early risers or late afternoon explorers. The activity lasts around two hours, which is a reasonable span to enjoy without feeling rushed or exhausted.

The main idea? Using your phone, you’ll receive a list of city objects and challenges in the form of riddles. These clues lead you around downtown Chicago, encouraging you to look, find, and photograph various landmarks and quirky features. The inclusion of a remote host enhances the experience, offering hints, encouragement, and chat when needed.

What Makes It Stand Out

The real charm of this scavenger hunt lies in its customization and interactive design. Unlike a typical self-guided tour, the app adds a game element, turning sightseeing into a playful treasure hunt. You’ll be tasked with finding specific monuments, performing silly challenges, or even taking crazy photos—all designed to make the experience memorable and entertaining.

One of the reviews highlights, “We loved the way it combined sightseeing with a fun game,” which captures the core appeal. The challenge-based format encourages you to look beyond the obvious and notice small details that you might otherwise overlook. Plus, the fact that it’s private means you’re not competing against strangers—just your own friends or family.

Key Monuments and Highlights

• Vietnam Veterans Memorial: A significant site that is likely to evoke reflection and respect.
• The Loop: Chicago’s bustling downtown area, full of architectural marvels and local life.
• Chicago River: Offers scenic views and photo opportunities.
• Other city objects: The specific items and challenges are designed to help you uncover Chicago’s character and hidden corners.

How the Challenges Add to the Experience

The app not only guides your sightseeing but introduces fun tasks. You might be asked to perform a challenge or pose for a crazy photo, which adds a playful touch to your walk. This approach makes what could be a straightforward sightseeing trip into an interactive game, creating memories you’ll laugh about afterwards.

What Travelers Say

While there are no reviews yet, based on the description and structure, you can expect a casual, engaging experience. It’s well-suited for those who like exploring on their own but with a little extra guidance. It’s also a good option for travelers who want to keep costs low—just paying for the app and their phone data, with no extra transportation or entrance fees.

Logistics and Practical Details

The activity is scheduled during normal hours (9 am to 5 pm Tuesday through Sunday), giving you ample flexibility. Meeting at 36 W Wacker Dr, you start your game there and finish back at the same point, so no worries about complicated logistics. The two-hour duration is manageable, especially if you’re combining it with other activities or a meal afterward.

Remember, you’ll need your own smartphone—so bring a fully charged one. The tour doesn’t include transportation, so you might want to plan your route or use Chicago’s public transit to reach the start point comfortably.

Value for Money

Considering the low price point of $10, it’s a pretty good deal. You’re getting a customized, private experience with interactive elements, which normally might cost more with traditional tours. The support from a live guide, even remotely, adds a personal touch that enhances the overall experience.

Potential Downsides

One thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t a guided tour with a person leading the way. If you prefer hearing stories from a knowledgeable guide or want a structured, narrated experience, this may not be your best fit. Also, since transportation isn’t included, you’ll need to handle getting to and from the start point on your own, which could be a consideration if you’re not familiar with Chicago’s transit options.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This scavenger hunt is especially suitable for travelers who:

• Enjoy interactive, self-guided activities.
• Want a cost-effective way to explore Chicago’s highlights.
• Appreciate a personalized, private experience.
• Love challenges and puzzle-solving.
• Are comfortable using their smartphone for navigation and photo tasks.
• Are visiting during the designated hours and have flexible schedules.

It’s less suited for those seeking a structured, narrated tour, or travelers who might prefer guided transportation or skip the tech component altogether.

Final Thoughts

The Wacky Walks scavenger hunt offers a fresh, playful way to experience Chicago. It combines the fun of a treasure hunt with sightseeing, making it a versatile choice for friends, couples, or small families wanting to explore without the rigidity of traditional tours. The fact that it is private and at a budget-friendly price point means it’s accessible for most travelers.

While it’s not a substitute for in-depth guided tours of Chicago’s architecture or history, it’s a superb option if you want to mix some fun with your sightseeing, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a flexible schedule. Just be sure to have your phone charged and ready, and plan your route to make the most of those two hours.

Overall, if you’re up for a playful, customizable adventure that takes you through some of the city’s key sights and hidden corners, Wacky Walks’ scavenger hunt could be a highlight of your Chicago trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the activity involves challenges and photo tasks that could be fun for kids, depending on their age and interest in puzzles. It’s private, so you can tailor it to your family’s needs.

Do I need my own smartphone?
Yes, you’ll need your own smartphone to download the app and participate in the game. It’s not included.

How long does the scavenger hunt last?
The activity lasts approximately two hours, which is enough time to see several key sites and enjoy the challenges without feeling rushed.

Can I start at any time?
Yes, you can choose a start time that works best for you within the hours of 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Tuesday through Sunday.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to plan how to get to the starting point on your own, but the meeting point is near public transportation.

What’s the total cost?
It’s $10 per person, making it an affordable way to explore the city with a group or family.

Is this a guided tour with a person?
No, it’s a self-guided, app-based activity, but you’ll have a remote host available for support.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll visit highlights like the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Chicago River, and explore The Loop, among other city objects and landmarks.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, playful way to discover Chicago’s downtown area, this scavenger hunt could be just what you need. It’s not a deep historical dive, but it’s a fun, flexible, and budget-friendly option to add some adventure to your trip.