If you’re on the hunt for something different on your trip to Provo, Utah, The Rift offers a fresh take on entertainment. It’s not your typical sightseeing tour or museum visit. Instead, it’s a multi-sensory, augmented reality experience that combines technology, storytelling, and a dash of adventure—all within a maze-like setting. While it’s a relatively new kind of activity, it caught our eye because it promises engaging challenges and captivating visuals, making it a versatile option whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends.
What we really appreciate about The Rift is how accessible it is—costing just $14.95 per person and lasting about an hour. The use of mobile devices for the whole experience means you’re not bogged down by heavy gear or complicated instructions. Plus, the variety of themed adventures like “Wonder Wander,” “Dragon Capture,” and “Haunt Recall” means there’s likely something that suits your mood or interest. That said, it’s primarily designed for ages 13 and up, so it’s best suited for teens and adults rather than younger children.
One thing to keep in mind is that while the price is attractive, the experience’s success depends on your expectations for AR tech-based adventures—if you’re looking for a high-energy, physically demanding activity or a traditional tour, this might not hit the mark. Still, if you’re curious about how digital storytelling can turn a simple mall outing into something memorable, this is worth a try. It’s especially perfect if you enjoy puzzle-solving, technology, or just trying something new in a safe, group-friendly environment.
Overall, The Rift works best for tech-savvy travelers, puzzle lovers, or anyone wanting a change from the usual. It’s a fun, inexpensive way to spend an hour exploring something unconventional in Provo.
Key Points
- Affordable and short: About an hour for $14.95 per person, making it easy to fit into a busy day.
- Unique AR concept: Combines digital elements with physical maze-like environments, creating an engaging multi-sensory experience.
- Variety of themes: Options like “Wonder Wander,” “Dragon Capture,” and “Haunt Recall” cater to different tastes and interests.
- Group-focused: Designed for groups or couples, making it a social activity that encourages shared discovery.
- Age suitability: Best for ages 13+; supervision needed for younger participants.
- Convenient location: Located in Provo Towne Centre Mall, with easy access to public transport and a straightforward check-in process.
A Detailed Look at The Rift Experience
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What’s the Setting Like?
The experience takes place inside the Provo Towne Centre Mall, but don’t expect a shopping mall atmosphere. The activity reimagines this space into a maze-like environment filled with interactive elements. The design encourages exploration and curiosity, all enhanced by augmented reality using handheld devices. It’s a clever way to turn a mundane mall corridor into an adventure zone—think of it more as a digital playground than a physical one.
The Themed Adventures
You’re presented with four main experiences, each offering a different flavor of challenge:
Haunt Recall
This walk-through maze immerses you in spectral encounters and hidden treasures. As you navigate spectral hallways and interact with ghostly figures, the experience emphasizes exploration and puzzle-solving. A quote from a prior review describes it as “an immersive walk-through exhibit,” which captures its essence well. It’s suited for those who like a bit of spooky atmosphere and detective-style riddles.
Dragon Capture
This one feels more like a mission. Using advanced technology, you and your team try to capture dragons—think of it as a digital predator hunt. It’s structured as a challenge, so if you enjoy a bit of competition and goal-oriented tasks, this will appeal. It’s more dynamic and likely to keep you engaged through the challenge of capturing elusive creatures.
Extermination (EX)
For those who are into sci-fi scenarios, this aspect involves targeting spiders and intruders with sci-fi weapons. It sounds like a fun, slightly adrenaline-pumping activity—think laser tag but in AR form. It’s best suited for folks who enjoy interactive combat-style experiences.
Wonder Wander
This is more of a leisurely exploration. Combining physical movement through a creatively designed environment with augmented reality overlays, it’s perfect for those who love exploring new worlds at their own pace. A reviewer mentioned that it “combines the physical exploration of a creatively designed space with augmented reality,” which makes it a good choice for curious explorers and story lovers.
How the Experience Works
Guests log in with a valid email for check-in, and then you’re handed a device (likely a smartphone or tablet) that serves as your window into these virtual worlds. The experience is designed for groups—up to 26 travelers at a time—which keeps it manageable and social. The activities last about an hour, giving enough time to get fully immersed without feeling rushed.
Accessibility and Practicalities
Located conveniently within the mall, it’s easy to integrate into a day of shopping or sightseeing. Since it’s near public transportation, many travelers can reach it without hassle. The experience is designed for most travelers, but you’ll want to supervise children under 13, and props shouldn’t be handled to keep the environment safe and consistent.
What’s the Value?
At $14.95, this isn’t a costly outing. Given the uniqueness of the AR technology and the variety of themed adventures, it offers good value—especially if you’re curious about how digital storytelling and gaming intersect. The experience is interactive, engaging, and perfect for those who like puzzles or tech-driven activities.
What Do Past Participants Say?
While there are no official reviews yet, the description indicates a focus on shared discovery, puzzles, and storytelling, which should appeal to groups who enjoy interactive experiences. The fact that the experience is designed for ages 13 and up means teenagers and adults will find it appropriately challenging and fun.
Final Thoughts: Who Is It Best For?
If you’re someone who appreciates technology and storytelling, and you’re looking for a light, engaging activity that adds a twist to your usual sightseeing, The Rift hits the spot. It’s ideal for tech-savvy teens, curious couples, or groups of friends wanting a shared adventure in Provo. If you’re traveling solo, it can still be a fun way to meet others in a small group setting, though it’s not specifically designed as a social activity.
However, if you’re after a physically active, high-energy adventure, or you’re traveling with very young children, this might not be the best fit. It’s more about mental puzzles and digital interaction, so temper your expectations accordingly.
Ultimately, The Rift offers a cost-effective, innovative way to explore storytelling through augmented reality. It’s a different experience, one that will delight those curious about how technology can turn ordinary spaces into extraordinary adventures.
The Rift: Augmented Reality Adventure in Provo Utah
FAQs
Is the experience suitable for children under 13?
This activity is designed for ages 13 and up. Younger kids need supervision, and props should not be handled, to ensure safety and maintain the experience’s integrity.
How long does the tour last?
The adventure lasts approximately 1 hour, making it an easy addition to a day’s itinerary without a big time commitment.
What’s included in the price?
For $14.95 per person, you gain access to a themed augmented reality adventure, using mobile devices provided or brought by participants, within a group setting.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than that won’t be refunded.
Is this experience accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transport options, making it convenient for most travelers.
Is there a maximum group size?
The activity accommodates up to 26 travelers, which helps keep the group manageable and interactive.
What should I bring?
You should bring a mobile device with a valid email for check-in. Props are not to be handled, so no need for special gear.
Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted in this experience.
If you’re eager to experience something that blends storytelling, tech, and a bit of adventure, The Rift in Provo offers an engaging way to spend an hour. It’s not revolutionary, but it’s a clever, fun activity that breaks the mold of typical tourist options—worth considering if you’re curious about augmented reality or just want a different kind of challenge.