If you’re looking for something a little different during your trip to New Mexico, the Amazing Artesia Scavenger Hunt might just be worth checking out. Although we haven’t personally participated, the concept sounds like a clever way to see the town from a fresh perspective. It combines a self-guided adventure with the guidance of a live remote host, making it an engaging mix of exploration, problem-solving, and local discovery.
What really catches our eye about this experience is how it offers a creative and social challenge without requiring a large group or a strict schedule. Plus, at just over $20 per person, it seems like a budget-friendly way to turn a typical sightseeing day into something memorable. Still, it’s worth noting that this activity is designed to be flexible and casual—perfect if you’re into interactive outings or want to add some fun to your trip without a heavy commitment. If you enjoy quirky adventures, discovering hidden corners, and testing your wit, this might be a good fit.
One thing to keep in mind is that, since it’s a self-paced scavenger hunt with a remote guide, the experience relies on your participation and energy. If you’re traveling with kids or a group that thrives on guided tours with a lot of structure, this might feel a bit freeform. Overall, it’s best suited for adventurous travelers, small groups, or curious locals eager to uncover Artesia’s lesser-known spots in a playful way.
Key Points

- Flexible and Unique: Combines an outdoor scavenger hunt with a remote host, offering a personalized experience.
- Affordable: Priced at $21.60 per person, providing good value for a two-hour adventure.
- Family & Dog Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, including those with pets or children.
- Cultural and Hidden Gems: Focuses on discovering local art, history, and quirky spots off the usual tourist path.
- Interactive and Social: Includes photo challenges, live encouragement, and local interactions.
- Customizable and Fun: Great for birthdays, team-building, or just a spontaneous day out.
What to Expect from the Artesia Scavenger Hunt

This isn’t your typical walking tour. Instead, you’re getting a creative, interactive challenge that starts at a popular local spot—Starbucks on West Main St. From there, your remote, live host will send you your digital quest. Think of it like having a friendly, knowledgeable guide in your pocket, cheering you on and nudging you when needed.
As you explore, you’ll move between indoor and outdoor locations, each carefully selected to highlight Artesia’s hidden gems and local secrets. The route encourages walking or driving, depending on your preference, with plenty of opportunities for wacky challenges and photo opportunities. The clues are crafted to make you interpret art, history, and culture in creative ways, earning points along the way.
The experience is designed to keep everyone engaged—whether you’re a solo explorer, a family looking for a day of fun, or a small group of friends. And because it’s self-guided, you control the pace, stopping wherever you like—whether to snap a photo, chat with locals, or just soak in the scenery.
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The Highlights of the Adventure

One of the things we love about this type of activity is how it mixes fun with discovery. You might find yourself solving puzzles at a quirky mural or accepting a silly challenge in a local park. The clues are meant to be playful and encourage you to look at Artesia differently.
The inclusion of a live guide adds a personal touch. While you might not get the in-depth storytelling of a guided tour, you do get cheers, encouragement, and assistance via text, making sure you stay motivated. Plus, the chance to interact with locals can turn a simple scavenger hunt into an authentic cultural encounter.
According to reviews, participants appreciate the knowledgeable guides who keep the experience lively, and many enjoy the stunning views and quirky sights they might have missed otherwise. The game’s design—part detective hunt, part social experiment—makes it especially appealing to those who like a dash of creative challenge.
A Practical Look at the Itinerary

The adventure begins at the Starbucks on West Main Street, a convenient and recognizable starting point. From there, your host will provide your digital clues, which you’ll interpret while exploring Artesia’s local scene.
The route is curated with carefully selected locations that showcase the town’s artistic expressions, historical spots, and hidden treasures. You might find yourself at a lesser-known mural, a unique local shop, or a landmark with interesting significance. Each stop offers opportunities for photo challenges, which you’ll send back via text to your remote guide.
The challenges are designed to be wacky and fun, encouraging out-of-the-box thinking—whether it’s taking a selfie with a local or performing a silly task. As you solve clues and complete challenges, you accumulate points that are posted on an international leaderboard, giving you a sense of playful competition.
The activity wraps up back at the starting point, making it easy to plan your day around it. The 2-hour duration means it’s a quick, engaging outing—ideal if you’re short on time but still want to deepen your connection with the town.
What Travelers Say and What You Should Know
While there are no formal reviews available, the descriptions and features suggest that participants could expect a lighthearted, interactive experience. The activity is family and dog friendly, which makes it flexible for various groups. The fact that it is suitable for most travelers and involves minimal physical exertion means it can be tailored to different energy levels.
The cost—just over $20—feels reasonable given the personalized guidance and the curated experience. It’s not a guided bus tour or a museum visit, but rather a creative treasure hunt that encourages you to look at Artesia in a new way.
The free cancellation policy is a considerate touch, providing flexibility if your plans change last minute.
Who Should Consider This Experience?
If you enjoy interactive activities that involve a bit of exploration and puzzle-solving, this scavenger hunt is a solid choice. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers, small groups, or curious locals wanting to discover Artesia’s less obvious sights. It’s also suitable for casual days when you want to add a playful twist to your sightseeing.
Those traveling with pets or young kids will appreciate that it’s dog-friendly and family-friendly, making it a versatile option. If you’re into social media challenges or simply love uncovering secret spots that most visitors miss, this activity will keep you entertained.
However, if you prefer guided commentary or prefer your outings to be more structured, you might find this format a little too loose. It’s definitely more about personal exploration with some remote assistance rather than a traditional tour.
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Final Thoughts

The Amazing Artesia Scavenger Hunt offers an engaging, budget-friendly way to experience this charming New Mexico town. Its blend of artistic discovery, local secrets, and creative challenges makes it stand out from typical sightseeing options. The inclusion of a live remote host ensures you’re supported without feeling tied down to a rigid schedule.
For travelers who enjoy quirky, interactive outings, and want to combine sightseeing with a bit of friendly competition, this could be a highlight of your trip. Its self-guided nature allows flexibility, so you can tailor it to your pace. Plus, the family and dog-friendly design makes it accessible to a variety of groups.
Overall, if you’re looking for a fun, social, and memorable way to explore Artesia and uncover some of its lesser-known treasures, this scavenger hunt might be just the ticket. It’s a fresh take that turns a normal day of sightseeing into an active, playful adventure.
Amazing Artesia Scavenger Hunt
FAQ

Is the Amazing Artesia Scavenger Hunt suitable for families or kids?
Yes, it’s described as family-friendly, with challenges that can be enjoyed by all ages, and it’s also dog-friendly, making it flexible for different groups.
How long does the activity last?
The activity takes about 2 hours, which makes it perfect for a quick but engaging excursion.
Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Starbucks located at 1905 W Main St, Artesia, NM, and ends back at the same location.
Can I participate if I don’t have a car?
Yes, you can walk or drive to various checkpoints, depending on your preference.
How much does it cost?
The price is $21.60 per person, offering good value considering the personalized, interactive nature of the experience.
Are there any restrictions or special requirements?
Most travelers can participate; service animals are allowed, and it’s near public transportation.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.
Is the guide involved throughout the activity?
Yes, a remote, live host assists you with clues, challenges, and encouragement via text during the hunt.
Is this activity suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. It’s designed to be flexible, so solo travelers can enjoy the challenge and discovery just as much.
If this kind of playful, interactive exploration sounds like your style, the Amazing Artesia Scavenger Hunt could be a fun addition to your itinerary. Just remember it’s more about the experience and discovery than a formal tour, so go with an open mind and ready for some laughs.
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