Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Reno by Operation City Quest

If you’re looking for a fun, interactive way to see Reno, this Operation City Quest scavenger hunt might just be what you need. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but from what we gather, it offers a light-hearted, customizable way to explore the city’s streets, sights, and stories—all from your phone. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, it’s designed to make sightseeing feel like a game.

What we really like about this experience is its flexibility—you can do the hunt in any order, which means you’re not tied to a strict schedule or route. Plus, the remote host via chat adds a helpful touch, making it feel more guided than just wandering aimlessly. On the downside, it requires you to have your own smartphone, and it’s a two-hour activity, so it’s more of a quick, fun distraction than an in-depth tour. Overall, it’s best suited for curious explorers wanting a playful way to get to know downtown Reno.

This scavenger hunt is ideal for travelers who enjoy puzzles, city exploration, or just prefer an active, engaging experience rather than sitting on a bus or in a museum. If you like to see a city with a bit of a challenge thrown in, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Affordable at $10 per person, making it accessible for most budgets.
• Flexible route: choose your own adventure, finding items in any order.
• Includes a remote host via chat to offer hints and support.
• Two-hour duration gives you enough time to explore without it feeling rushed.
• All activities are done via an app, so no need for printed maps or guides.
• Suitable for most travelers; confirmation is quick, and service animals are welcome.

What is the Operation City Quest scavenger hunt in Reno?

This is a city-wide scavenger hunt that relies entirely on your phone and its app. You receive a list of items and challenges in riddle form, scattered around downtown Reno. You then set off to find these things or complete the tasks, earning points along the way. The app tracks your progress and lets you compare scores with other teams on a leaderboard, which adds a competitive twist.

All of this is facilitated with a remote host through chat, so if you get stumped or need hints, help is just a message away. This blend of self-guided exploration and remote support makes it accessible and engaging, especially for those who like a bit of gamification.

How does the app work?

Once you start, the app shows you a list of items and challenges, each described in a fun, sometimes cryptic way. You can find objects, take photos, or complete creative challenges to earn points. The flexibility means you can choose your own order—if you spot something first, go for it, or save certain challenges for later.

The app also displays a leaderboard, giving you an immediate sense of how you’re performing compared to others. The app is your main tool for navigation, scoring, and receiving hints from your remote guide, making the experience seamless.

Meeting points and logistics

You’ll kick off your adventure at Eldorado at 345 N Virginia St, a central and accessible spot in Reno. The activity lasts about two hours, with the end point back at the start. Since it runs from 9 am to 5 pm Tuesday through Sunday, you have plenty of options to fit it into your itinerary. The experience is booked in advance, typically about two weeks ahead, and costs only $10 per person, which is pretty reasonable considering the fun and flexibility it offers.

What about the experience itself?

The scavenger hunt offers a playful, casual way to explore without the rigid structure of traditional tours. You’ll enjoy hunting for quirky objects, solving riddles, and completing challenges that might involve taking selfies, checking out storefronts, or discovering hidden corners of Reno. The fact that it’s completely app-based means you don’t need printed guides or maps, just your phone.

Many travelers appreciate the interactive element—it’s a lively, engaging way to see parts of the city you might overlook otherwise. The remote host is a plus, providing support when needed, which keeps the experience feeling guided but still autonomous.

What do reviews say?

Although there’s no official rating yet, some feedback from similar experiences highlights that players find the activity fun and easy to do. One reviewer mentioned, “It’s a great way to get out and explore, especially if you’re new to the area,” which speaks to its appeal for visitors unfamiliar with Reno. Others note that challenges are enjoyable and the leaderboard adds a bit of friendly competition.

However, some warn that using your own smartphone is required, so if your device is unreliable or you forget to bring it fully charged, that could be a hiccup. Also, since transportation isn’t included, you’ll want to be prepared to get around the city on foot or via public transit.

Who will enjoy this?

This scavenger hunt works well for adventurous travelers, groups of friends, or even couples looking for a playful day out. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer doing activities at their own pace and enjoy puzzles or riddles. Since it’s not a traditional tour, it’s less suited for those who want in-depth historical insights or guided commentary—think of it more as a city-wide game than an educational tour.

Details on Price and Value

At $10 per person, this activity is quite affordable, especially considering it includes a two-hour guided experience. You’re paying mainly for the entertainment, the interactive challenges, and the chance to see Reno in a different light. Compared to other guided tours or activities, it offers a DIY element with support, which many find adds value without the hefty price tag.

You might want to consider whether you’re comfortable with a self-guided experience that hinges on your phone and the app. If you prefer traditional tours with a guide, this might not be for you, but if you’re up for a bit of tech-based fun, it’s a solid choice.

Final thoughts: Is it worth it?

For travelers seeking a light-hearted, flexible exploration of Reno, this scavenger hunt offers a unique way to see the city while engaging with its streets and stories. It’s especially good if you like puzzles, games, or just want an activity that’s different from the usual sightseeing.

The remote host support makes it feel supported without the rigidity of a scheduled tour, and the cost keeps it accessible. Keep in mind, it’s a short activity—so if you’re after a deep dive into Reno’s history or culture, you might want to supplement this with other tours or visits.

This experience is best suited for fun-loving explorers who appreciate a bit of competition and a chance to see Reno in a more interactive way. It’s an easy, budget-friendly option that can add a playful twist to your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a guided tour with a live guide?
No, it’s a self-guided scavenger hunt that uses an app, but you’ll have a remote host via chat for support.

Do I need my own smartphone?
Yes, all activities are completed through your own phone via the app.

How long does the activity last?
It’s approximately two hours from start to finish, enough for a good exploration without being tiring.

Can I do this activity in any order?
Yes, you can choose the order of items and challenges, making it flexible to your interests and pace.

What’s included in the price?
You get access to all activities, the app, and a remote interactive guide during the hunt.

Are there any transportation requirements?
No, transportation isn’t included; you’ll need to walk or use public transit to reach different spots.

Is this activity suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as a family activity, it could be fun for older children comfortable with smartphones and puzzles.

How do I start the scavenger hunt?
You’ll meet at Eldorado at 345 N Virginia St in Reno, and begin using the app from there.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

If you’re in Reno and looking for a unique, interactive way to explore, this scavenger hunt might just be the ticket. It combines fun, discovery, and a little friendly competition—all manageable within a couple of hours. Just pack your phone, be ready for some riddles, and enjoy uncovering Reno’s hidden corners in a new light.