Scottsdale Puzzling Adventure

If you’re looking for a way to see Scottsdale that’s a little different from the usual tour bus or walking guide, the Scottsdale Puzzling Adventure might just be worth a try. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from what we gather, it’s an engaging, low-key activity that turns exploring into a game. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy a bit of friendly competition, love discovering local art and shops, or just want to add a little fun to your walk through Old Town Scottsdale.

What really catches the eye about this experience are two things: first, the fact that it’s completely mobile-guided — your smartphone becomes your personal tour guide, which is both practical and modern. And second, the price point is quite accessible, at just under $35 for a whole team of up to 12 people. That makes it a flexible, budget-friendly outing perfect for friends, family, or small groups.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that this activity is self-guided after the start, so you’ll want to be comfortable navigating with your phone and solving clues independently. It’s not a structured tour with a guide leading the way, so it’s more about your teamwork and problem-solving skills. This means it’s best suited for people who enjoy a bit of adventure or puzzle-solving rather than a passive sightseeing experience.

The Scottsdale Puzzling Adventure looks like a solid choice for those wanting to explore at their own pace, learn a bit about the area, and enjoy some light-hearted fun. If you’re traveling with friends or family and want a memorable way to walk around, it’s probably a good fit.

Key Points

• Unique Format: Combines a scavenger hunt with walking around Old Town Scottsdale.
• Affordable Price: At $34.95 per group, it offers great value for a team of up to 12.
• Flexible Duration: Can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on how long you want to spend solving clues.
• Mobile Convenience: Your smartphone acts as your guide, making it easy to follow the itinerary.
• Educational and Fun: You get to survey art, shops, and local sights while completing challenges.
• Good for Small Groups: Perfect if you’re traveling with friends, family, or a small party.

A Closer Look at the Experience

How it Works

The Scottsdale Puzzling Adventure is designed as a private, team-based activity. Once you book, you’ll receive a mobile ticket that includes registration instructions. The tour starts at a designated meeting point: 7106 E Stetson Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85251. From there, your smartphone will serve as your guide, leading you through a series of clues, puzzles, and challenges that highlight the city’s sights and culture.

What sets this apart from a typical self-guided walking tour is the emphasis on interactive problem-solving. Instead of just passively strolling around, you’ll be actively engaged, searching for clues at various spots, solving riddles, or completing challenges. The route is designed around Old Town Scottsdale, a vibrant area known for its art, eclectic shops, and stunning views of the McDowell Mountains.

Itinerary Breakdown

The core of this adventure is a single stop — the Old Town Scottsdale area. Here, you’ll survey a mix of art, shops, and local sights, all against the backdrop of beautiful mountains. While the itinerary doesn’t specify multiple stops, the clues and challenges are likely spread across several points in this area, so you’ll get a taste of different aspects of the neighborhood.

The tour concludes back at the starting point, so it’s easy to plan other activities afterward. Since the duration is around 2 hours, it’s perfect for a mid-morning or early afternoon outing, especially if you want to explore further or relax afterward.

What You’ll Love

Based on a review, a participant called it an “awesome scavenger hunt” — highlighting how it’s a great way to walk around Old Town Scottsdale with plenty to see and learn. They appreciated that it felt less like a typical tour and more like a fun, interactive experience that allowed them to see hidden gems and discover new shops they might not have noticed otherwise.

Practicalities and Considerations

The activity is tailored for those with moderate physical fitness, so expect a fair amount of walking. Comfortably navigating the area and solving clues while on your feet is part of the fun. You’ll need US cellular data, so be sure your phone plan supports that to avoid any hiccups.

Pricing-wise, it’s quite reasonable considering the level of engagement and the fact that you’re booking a private experience for your group. This makes it an appealing option for small groups seeking a memorable, cost-effective activity.

Why This Tour Might Be a Good Fit

This scavenger adventure is ideal if you:
– Want to see Scottsdale from a different perspective while staying active.
– Love interactive experiences rather than passive sightseeing.
– Are traveling with friends, family, or a small group and want a shared activity.
– Enjoy learning about local art and shops in a fun way.
– Are comfortable using your phone as a guide and solving puzzles.
– Would prefer a self-paced activity that fits into your schedule.
– Are on a budget but still want a quality experience.

However, if you’re looking for a guided tour with a professional guide or expect a more relaxed, less puzzle-oriented experience, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

The Scottsdale Puzzling Adventure offers a blend of exploration, challenge, and fun in Old Town Scottsdale. It’s a smart pick for those who prefer interactive, self-led experiences that get you walking while also engaging your brain. The affordability combined with a flexible timing makes it accessible for many travelers, especially groups of friends or families looking for a shared activity.

The experience might not be for everyone — especially if you’re seeking a guided commentary or a less physically active outing — but for those who enjoy solving clues and discovering new corners of a city, it’s likely to stand out as a memorable part of your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is not specifically marketed as family-friendly, children who enjoy puzzles and walking will likely have fun. Just keep in mind that it involves a fair amount of walking and solving clues.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers one scavenger hunt tour for a team of up to 12 people. It’s a private activity, so your group will be the only participants.

Do I need to bring anything?
You’ll need your smartphone with data service to follow the guide and receive clues. Food, drinks, or additional equipment are not included.

How long does the tour take?
The activity generally lasts around 2 hours, but you can take up to 3 hours if you want to pause and explore more.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 7106 E Stetson Dr, Scottsdale and ends back at the same point, making it easy to plan other activities afterward.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this a guided tour?
No, it’s a self-guided, mobile-assisted experience. You’ll follow clues and challenges on your own or with your team.

What if I don’t have a cellular data plan?
You’ll need US cellular data to access the guide and clues, so check your plan before booking.

If you’re after a fun, inexpensive way to explore Scottsdale’s vibrant Old Town with a bit of brainwork involved, this adventure could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a light-hearted, interactive way to see some sights, learn a little, and enjoy some quality time with your group.