Exploring Davis in a New Way: The Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game

If you’re looking for a way to add a bit of adventure to your visit to Davis, California, the Davis Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game offers an engaging, flexible option. Designed for small groups of 2-6 people, it’s perfect if you want to explore the city’s vibrant streets and college atmosphere without the constraints of a traditional guided tour. We haven’t personally tried it, but based on the details and reviews available, it sounds like a charming way to discover Davis’s local spots and hidden corners at your own pace.
What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s completely self-guided—you follow clues on your smartphone, meaning no need to wait around for a guide or stick to a rigid schedule. Second, it’s affordable, with a ticket price of just $24.50 per person, and the flexibility to play any time between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Most travelers will appreciate how it combines light walking with interactive puzzle-solving, making it both fun and a chance to get some fresh air.
One potential consideration is that the activity might not hold the interest of all ages equally. As one reviewer pointed out, older teens (like 16 and 17-year-olds) may find it less engaging, whereas an 8-year-old might enjoy the game more. If you’re traveling with young kids or teenagers looking for an energetic, competitive outing, this might be hit or miss. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a casual, puzzle-solving experience and are comfortable walking around roughly three miles through Davis’s neighborhoods, campus, and downtown.
All in all, this tour is well-suited for travelers and newcomers wanting a fun, relaxing way to see Davis’s highlights. It’s also a good option if you’re traveling with a small group who enjoys a bit of friendly competition and discovery. Let’s take a closer look at what this tour involves and whether it might be the right fit for your Davis visit.
Key Points

- Self-guided and flexible—play at your convenience, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for most travelers.
- Approximately 3 miles of walking—comfortable shoes recommended.
- Ideal for small groups of 2 to 6 people looking for a low-key, interactive experience.
- Suitable for all ages, with some reviews noting more engagement from younger children.
- Engages you with Davis’s local charm, including the university campus and downtown cafes.
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A Closer Look at the Davis Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game

If you’re someone who enjoys exploring a city through a mix of sightseeing and problem-solving, this tour offers a pretty unique way to enjoy Davis. Instead of a traditional guide leading you around, you’re given clues and challenges on your smartphone, guiding you through the streets, campus, and neighborhoods.
The Itinerary and Experience
The tour begins at 115 F St, a central spot in Davis that puts you right in the heart of the action. From there, your group will follow clues to various points of interest—though the exact stops aren’t specified, we can imagine you’ll pass by local cafes, bookstores, and perhaps some university landmarks. The route is designed to be about 3 miles long, so you’ll be walking through Davis’s bike-friendly streets, soaking in the laid-back college town vibe without feeling rushed or confined.
One of the appealing aspects of this experience is the interactive challenge format. You’ll need to solve puzzles and complete challenges, earning points along the way. The competitive element—trying to get the highest score on the leaderboard—adds a fun twist, especially if you’re with friends or family. It’s a bit like an urban escape room, but outdoors and on your schedule.
The Value of the Price
At $24.50 per person, this tour is fairly budget-friendly for a two-and-a-half-hour activity. It’s worth noting that it’s a private experience, so you won’t be sharing the adventure with strangers, which can make it more personalized and relaxed. Given the cost, you’re paying for an interactive, self-paced activity rather than a guided tour, which can be a plus if you prefer independence.
What We Love
We appreciate the flexibility—you can start anytime during the opening hours and take as much or as little time as you want. No waiting around for a guide means you can customize your experience, possibly fitting it into a larger day of sightseeing or a leisurely afternoon. The focus on local sights and Davis’s youthful energy makes it a good fit for those new to the town or visitors wanting a different perspective.
The Drawbacks
However, not everyone may find the puzzles and challenges equally engaging. As Donna_T’s review suggests, older teens might not be as captivated**. The game seems to hold more interest for younger children and perhaps families, but it might not be the best choice for older kids or teens seeking more energetic activities. Also, since the tour involves walking about 3 miles, comfort is key—if you’re not prepared for some outdoor strolling, this might not be ideal.
Who Should Consider This?
This experience is especially suitable for small groups of friends, couples, families with young children, or solo travelers who enjoy puzzles, exploration, and a relaxed pace. If you’re in Davis for a day and want a memorable, interactive way to see the city without a tour guide directing your every step, this could be a fun choice.
The Realities of the Tour
While the instructions are described as clear, some reviewers note that the game might not always keep the interest of older kids. Still, if you’re looking for an inexpensive way to see Davis’s main spots, enjoy some light activity, and enjoy the city’s youthful vibe, this has plenty to offer.
The meeting point at F Street is central, making it easy to incorporate into your day. The self-guided nature means no worries about missing a guide or adhering to a tight schedule. Plus, since it operates seven days a week from morning to evening, you can plan around your other activities.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a casual, interactive, and independent way to explore Davis, this scavenger hunt tour fits the bill. It offers a great mix of sightseeing and puzzle-solving with the freedom to go at your own pace. At a reasonable price, it’s particularly appealing for families, small groups, or anyone who enjoys a little friendly competition.
That said, keep in mind its limitations—it might not be as engaging for older teens or those seeking a more physically energetic experience. Also, be prepared for some walking and outdoor conditions, so comfortable shoes are a must.
This activity is best suited for curious travelers who want to discover Davis’s charm without the formality of a guided tour, especially if you’re okay with some light puzzle-solving and a leisurely walk through one of California’s most inviting college towns.
Davis Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game
“The instructions for the hunt are clear. t didn't hold the interest of 16 and 17 year old boys. The 8 year old was more engaged. Having lived in D…”
FAQs about the Davis Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for all ages, and some reviews suggest that younger children, like an 8-year-old, find it more engaging than teenagers. Just keep in mind the walk of about 3 miles and the nature of the challenges.
Can I do this tour at any time?
Absolutely. You can play any time between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., making it flexible to fit your schedule.
How many people can participate?
The tour is designed for small groups of 2 to 6 people, which helps keep it intimate and manageable.
Is this a guided tour?
No, it’s a self-guided experience. You’ll follow clues on your smartphone, so there’s no in-person guide involved.
What is the cost?
It’s $24.50 per person, offering a budget-friendly way to explore Davis with interactive elements.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll walk about 3 miles. Dress for outdoor conditions, especially if it’s warm or sunny.
Is there a refund policy?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before your scheduled start time. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 115 F St in Davis and concludes back at the same location.
If you’re looking for a low-pressure, interactive way to see Davis, this scavenger hunt seems like a clever choice. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy puzzle-solving, local exploration, and having the flexibility to shape your own adventure. For anyone not expecting a high-energy or guide-led experience, it offers a relaxed, engaging option that reveals some of the city’s best bits, all on your own terms.
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