Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt

If you’re on the hunt for a fun, light-hearted way to celebrate the holidays in Detroit, the Holly Jolly Hunt might just be worth a shot. While I haven’t personally played this scavenger hunt, I’ve looked into it closely and think it could be a charming addition to your holiday plans. What I appreciate is that it offers a flexible, interactive experience that you can do almost anywhere—and that’s a big plus if you’re looking for something different from the usual holiday events. Plus, at just $20 per group, it’s an affordable way to add some holiday cheer.

Two elements really stand out. First, the app-based format means you can explore anywhere you want, whether that’s the bustling streets of downtown Ann Arbor or a favorite neighborhood. Second, the team challenges promise plenty of laughs along the way. That said, a potential consideration is that you’ll need your own smartphone and some familiarity with using apps, so it might not be ideal if everyone in your group isn’t comfortable with tech.

This experience seems best suited for small groups—families, friends, or even co-workers—who enjoy a bit of friendly competition and don’t mind a flexible, outdoorsy activity. Whether you’re visiting Ann Arbor for the holiday season or local residents looking for a fresh way to celebrate, it offers a casual, fun outing that’s more about the experience than anything overly structured.

Key Points

• Flexible location: Play anywhere you choose, making it adaptable to your schedule and preferences.
• Affordable price: At $20 per group, it’s a budget-friendly activity for small groups.
• Interactive and fun: Includes holiday-themed items and challenges that promise lots of laughs.
• Tech-dependent: Requires access to a smartphone and internet, so be prepared.
• Group size: Designed for up to 10 people, ideal for small teams or family outings.
• Memorable experience: Guarantees lasting holiday memories through shared fun and friendly competition.

What to Expect from the Holly Jolly Hunt

The Holly Jolly Hunt is an app-based scavenger hunt that invites you to explore anywhere of your choosing—whether that’s downtown Ann Arbor, a local park, or your neighborhood. The whole point is to seek out holiday-related items and perform challenges that are meant to spark laughter and excitement. Since it’s an outdoor activity, it pairs well with a festive walk, especially if you want an experience that’s flexible and can be tailored to your group’s pace.

The game is designed for groups of up to ten people, with a typical duration of around an hour. That makes it perfect for a quick holiday outing or as part of a larger day of exploring. It’s a private experience, so only your group will participate—helpful for maintaining the holiday spirit without random strangers mixed in.

Starting Point and Setup

The meeting point is at 201 S Main St, Ann Arbor, which is centrally located and near public transportation, making it accessible. You’ll receive your access via a mobile ticket—simple to download and start when you’re ready. The experience runs from late November through the end of December, aligning perfectly with the holiday season.

The Content of the Hunt

Once you start, the app will guide you toward finding traditional holiday items like ornaments or lights, as well as some not-so-traditional challenges that add a quirky twist. You’ll take photos to score points, which means you get to be a bit silly or creative. The game also includes fun challenges that will have you performing tasks or answering questions, adding an extra layer of entertainment.

The scoring system is visible on a leaderboard, which encourages friendly competition. While the primary goal is to have fun, some teams might find themselves racing to beat others or simply enjoying the shared experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Your ticket covers all activities, fees, taxes, and access to a remote guide via chat. This guidance can be helpful if you get stuck or need ideas on what to look for. But you’ll need your own smartphone, and transportation isn’t included—so plan to walk, bike, or drive on your own.

The Real Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:
– The activity’s flexibility means you can choose your own adventure, creating a personalized holiday experience.
– The interactive challenges are designed to be fun and bring laughter, making it a great activity for groups looking for lighthearted holiday cheer.
– The cost-per-group model makes it accessible for families or small groups without breaking the bank.
– Being app-based means it’s easy to participate without having to carry around physical clues or materials.

Cons:
– It does require a smartphone and a bit of tech familiarity, which might be a hurdle for some.
– Since it’s a self-guided activity, you’ll need to be somewhat motivated to explore on your own rather than having a tour guide leading the way.
– It’s relatively short—about an hour—so if you’re looking for a full-day outing, you’ll need to combine it with other activities.

What the Reviews Say (or Would Say)

Although there are no formal reviews yet, the description hints at an activity that’s perfect for light-hearted fun. The fact that it guarantees lasting holiday memories suggests it hits the mark for creating joyful shared experiences. The live chat support adds a layer of reassurance, especially if you’re new to scavenger hunts or unfamiliar with the app.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

While the Holly Jolly Hunt doesn’t follow a strict route, here’s how your typical hour might unfold:

• Start at the meeting point: Gather your group, download the app, and get briefed by the remote guide if needed. You’ll receive your first clues and challenges.
• Begin exploring your chosen location: As you walk, look out for specific holiday items—traditional like ornaments or lights, or more whimsical like a holiday hat on a stranger.
• Complete challenges: These might include taking funny photos, finding specific decorations, or performing silly tasks. The app guides you step-by-step.
• Score points and compare: Track your team’s progress on the leaderboard, adding a friendly competitive element.
• Wrap up back at the start: After an hour, return to the meeting point to see the final results and enjoy the shared laughs and stories.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This scavenger hunt is ideal if you want a casual, flexible holiday activity that can be enjoyed outdoors and at your own pace. It’s particularly well-suited for groups who appreciate a bit of friendly competition, don’t mind using their phones, and want to customize their holiday outing. If your group includes people who prefer structured tours or guided experiences, this might be less appealing.

It’s also a good choice if you’re on a budget and looking for something affordable yet memorable. Since it’s designed for small groups, it works well for families, friends, or colleagues wanting a fun team-building activity with a seasonal twist.

Final Thoughts

The Holly Jolly Hunt offers a playful way to embrace the holiday season in Ann Arbor or Detroit, combining outdoor exploration with a dose of friendly competition. It’s simple, flexible, and geared toward creating shared memories that last beyond the holiday season. The app-based format means you can do it wherever you want, making it adaptable to your plans.

If you’re someone who enjoys a little adventure with a humorous touch and doesn’t mind tech, this could be a highlight. Keep in mind that it’s a short activity—about an hour—and best suited for groups ready to explore, laugh, and maybe even get a little silly. For those looking to add a festive spark to their holiday, it’s worth considering as a light, engaging outing.

FAQ

Do I need to be in Ann Arbor to play?
You can play anywhere you choose. The activity is flexible, so you can select any location that suits your group and preferences.

What’s included in the cost?
Your ticket covers all scavenger hunt activities, fees, taxes, and access to a remote guide via chat in the app.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate. Since the activity involves photo-taking and completing fun challenges, it’s suitable for a wide age range, but younger children should be supervised.

Do I need a smartphone?
Yes, the entire activity hinges on using a smartphone and the app, so be sure everyone in your group has one and can access the internet.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included. You’re responsible for getting to and from your chosen starting point.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the activity starts, giving you flexibility.

How long does the hunt last?
The activity is approximately one hour, making it easy to slot into your day.

Where does the activity start and end?
It begins at 201 S Main St, Ann Arbor, and ends back at the same location.

Is this a guided tour?
It’s a private, self-guided activity with support available via chat, so you’re in charge of your pace and route.

If you’re after a fun, budget-friendly way to get into the holiday spirit with friends or family, the Holly Jolly Hunt might just brighten your season. Just come prepared to walk, use your phone, and enjoy a few laughs along the way.