Exploring Lincoln with the 3Quest Challenge: A Honest Look

If you’re considering trying out a scavenger hunt adventure in Lincoln, Nebraska, this 3Quest Challenge might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally done this tour, I’ve looked into what it offers and heard from past participants. It’s marketed as a fun and interactive way to explore the city, especially if you’re into puzzles, trivia, and a bit of friendly competition.
What’s great about this experience? First, it’s affordable at just $10 per person, making it accessible for most. Second, it’s flexible—you can set your own pace and choose to challenge yourself within a two-hour window. But, as with anything that’s primarily app-based, there are some limitations, like the potential for generic clues that don’t always highlight what’s unique about Lincoln. Still, if you’re looking for an activity that can involve friends, family, or colleagues, this could be a good pick.
One thing to keep in mind is the reviews’ mixed tone—some found it fun and engaging, while others felt it was somewhat underwhelming, especially for those hoping for a deep dive into Lincoln-specific sights. It’s best suited for people who don’t mind a more casual, game-like experience rather than a detailed city tour. If you’re in for a lighthearted challenge with a tech twist, this might be worth a try.
Key Points

- Affordable price point for a team-based activity in Lincoln.
- Self-paced experience allows flexibility to suit your schedule.
- Includes remote guidance from a host, adding an interactive element.
- Divided into three quests to explore different parts of the city.
- Great for groups such as friends, parties, or team-building events.
- Not specifically tailored to Lincoln’s unique features, with some reviews noting generic clues.
Planning more time in Nebraska? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What Is the 3Quest Challenge in Lincoln?

This activity transforms the typical sightseeing walk into a mobile app-based scavenger hunt. You and your team will follow clues, answer trivia questions, and complete challenges scattered across Lincoln, all guided remotely by an interactive host. The game can be played at your own pace, but if you’re aiming to finish within two hours, you’ll want to stay on your toes.
The clues come in riddles, prompting you to search out specific items or locations around the city. The division into three quests means you’ll cover different parts of Lincoln, each with its own set of challenges. The app also features a leaderboard, so you can see how your team stacks up against others across the country. It’s a fun way to add a competitive edge, even if just for bragging rights.
The Start and End Points

Your adventure kicks off at Lincoln Tower Square on P Street, a central spot easy to find and accessible via public transportation. When you finish, you’ll return to this same area, making logistics straightforward.
The activity runs Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, giving plenty of flexibility to fit into your plans. The meeting point is convenient for most downtown visitors, and the whole experience lasts approximately two hours, though you can extend your play if you want.
Inside the Experience: What You Can Expect

From the moment you start, the game takes over your phone with an app loaded with riddles and challenges. The remote host is available for support, chatting with you throughout—adding a layer of interaction that’s more personal than just following a map.
Participants are tasked with locating items or landmarks described in the clues—some are straightforward, while others require a bit of creative thinking. Examples include finding a newspaper stand or a corner mailbox, though some reviews note these clues can feel a bit dated or generic. The game’s structure encourages teamwork, quick thinking, and navigation skills.
The cost of $10 per person covers all activities and the remote guide, making it an inexpensive way to engage with the city in a novel format. However, note that you’ll need your own smartphone to participate, so ensure your device is charged and ready.
The Pros of the 3Quest Challenge
We loved the interactive element of having a remote host, which helps keep the experience lively and dynamic. The app’s self-paced nature is also a plus—you decide how quickly to move through each challenge, making it suitable for casual explorers or those who want a more competitive push.
Another highlight is the cost—at just $10, it’s a budget-friendly way to add some adventure to your day. Plus, the team aspect makes it a perfect activity for friends, parties, or even small groups of colleagues seeking team-building fun.
The fact that it can be played alone or in teams means it’s versatile. If you’re traveling with kids or friends, it can be tailored to fit your preferred pace and interest level.
The Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

While the concept is fun, some reviews point out that the clues can feel “general enough for any city,” and include references to outdated or hard-to-find items, such as newspaper stands or corner mailboxes, which aren’t necessarily unique to Lincoln. This might make the experience less locally immersive for those hoping to learn about Lincoln’s specific sights and stories.
Another consideration is the lack of guided insight into Lincoln’s hidden gems. If you’re looking for a deep-dive into local history or culture, this scavenger hunt may not satisfy that curiosity. Instead, it’s more of a lighthearted, game-based exploration.
Some travelers also mention that the clues were “impossible to find,” which could lead to frustration if your team isn’t prepared for the challenge or if the clues are somewhat outdated.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This activity is best suited for casual explorers who want a fun, low-pressure way to see parts of Lincoln. It’s ideal for groups of friends, small parties, or even coworkers looking for a different kind of team-building activity. If you’re traveling with family or kids, it could be a good way to keep everyone engaged, though you might want to double-check that the clues and challenges are appropriate for all ages.
It’s less ideal for those expecting a serious historical tour or a deeply local experience. For visitors wanting to learn about Lincoln’s unique features, other tours or guides might be more fulfilling.
Final Thoughts

The 3Quest Challenge in Lincoln offers a playful, interactive way to explore the city without the usual guided tour format. At a modest price, it provides a flexible, tech-savvy experience that can be enjoyed at your own pace with friends or family. The remote guide adds a helpful touch, making the game feel more engaging and less isolated.
However, the clues’ general nature and references to outdated items might detract for those expecting a more tailored or locally rich experience. If you’re after a quick, entertaining activity that gets you moving and thinking, it’s a good bet. If your goal is a deep dive into Lincoln’s history or culture, you might want to look elsewhere.
In all, it’s a straightforward, budget-friendly option that can be a highlight for the right group—especially those who enjoy a little friendly competition and don’t mind a few puzzles that aren’t necessarily Lincoln-specific.
Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Lincoln by 3Quest Challenge
“I thought this would be an introduction to the city and include finding things specific to Lincoln. It was general enough for any city and include…”
FAQ
Is this activity suitable for kids?
While most travelers can participate, the activity is designed as a team challenge and may include some clues that are more suitable for older participants. It’s best for families with older children or teenagers.
How long does the scavenger hunt last?
The activity is designed to take about two hours, but you can keep playing if you don’t finish within that time. There’s no timeout if you go over.
Do I need my own smartphone?
Yes, you’ll need your own device to access the app and complete the challenges. Be sure your phone is charged.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
Is it easy to find the meeting point?
The start point is at Lincoln Tower Square on P Street, which is a central and well-known location, accessible via public transit.
Will I get help during the game?
Yes, a remote host will chat with your team throughout, providing guidance and support as needed.
Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but there are no specific age restrictions mentioned. The clues and challenges are generally suitable for most ages.
What if I don’t finish in time?
No worries — the game doesn’t end if you pass the two-hour mark. You can continue playing and exploring at your own pace.
If you’re after a relaxed, cost-effective way to explore Lincoln, this scavenger hunt might be worth a try. Just keep expectations realistic regarding how Lincoln-specific the clues are, and remember it’s more of a playful challenge than an in-depth city tour.
