Looking to explore Phoenix in a way that’s both fun and flexible? This self-guided scavenger hunt promises an interactive way to see some of the city’s most notable landmarks while uncovering hidden gems. It’s a perfect choice if you enjoy a bit of adventure mixed with sightseeing, and you prefer setting your own pace without a traditional tour guide.
What we really like about this experience is its affordable price point—just over $13 per person—and the fact that it’s entirely self-guided, giving you the freedom to start whenever it suits you and skip around the route as you please. Plus, it’s designed to be a walk, so you’ll get some good steps in and see the city in a relaxed, unhurried way.
One thing to keep in mind is that this is a mobile app-based activity, meaning your phone needs to be charged and ready for navigation and photo challenges. If you’re not comfortable with using your device for directions or don’t have a power bank, it could be a minor hiccup. Also, since the activity is self-paced, the experience might be less structured than a guided tour, which could be a plus or a minus depending on your travel style.
All in all, this scavenger hunt is probably best suited for curious travelers who enjoy exploring on their own, love solving riddles, and want to add a touch of local flavor to their time in Phoenix. It’s a flexible, budget-friendly way to make your visit memorable, especially if you’re traveling with a sense of adventure.
Key Points

- Affordable Price: At just over $13 per person, it’s a budget-friendly option.
- Self-Guided and Flexible: You can start anytime and go at your own pace.
- Includes Iconic Landmarks: Visits to Monroe School, Old City Hall, and Space Park.
- Photo Challenges: Fun opportunities for everyone to get creative.
- Insightful Stops: Meet some interesting figures tied to Phoenix’s history.
- Requires Phone Battery: Make sure your device is fully charged!
What to Expect from the Phoenix Scavenger Hunt

This tour is a straightforward yet engaging way to see Phoenix from a different perspective. Instead of a typical walking tour led by a guide, you’re given a series of clues and challenges via an app that guides you through the city’s streets. The route is carefully planned, so you’ll visit a mix of the city’s key landmarks and some lesser-known spots.
The entire experience lasts about two hours, which makes it perfect for a relaxed afternoon or a lively morning activity. The route covers a walk from the starting point at 367 N 9th St and ends back there, so it’s a loop. Since it’s self-paced, you can linger longer at certain spots or speed through if you’re short on time.
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Landmark Highlights
Monroe School is the first notable stop. This historic building is connected to Phoenix’s educational past, and it’s one of the places the clues will lead you to. Keep an eye out for interesting details, and don’t forget to snap some photos for the challenges.
Next up is Old City Hall, a building with its own story in Phoenix’s civic history. The app will likely give you some context, but the real fun is in hunting down the exact spot and capturing it on your device.
Finally, you’ll visit Space Park, a modern green space that adds a fresh twist to the itinerary. It’s a lively spot to relax and reflect on what you’ve seen so far.
The Experience in Detail

The beauty of a self-guided hunt like this is the independence it offers. You’ll download the Let’s Roam app—a reliable platform for maps, riddles, and photo tasks. The app assigns everyone a role—Braniac, Photographer, or Mapper—which adds a fun layer of interactivity. For example, if you’re the Photographer, you’ll be tasked with capturing specific shots, making it especially appealing for those who love snapping pics.
Included in your ticket are digital copies of your photos, which you can keep as memories or share with friends later. The app also features leaderboards, so you might find yourself racing against your travel companions to complete challenges first—small fun motivators that keep things lively.
The cost is quite reasonable for such an activity, considering it includes all taxes and fees, app access, and support. You won’t need to worry about purchasing tickets or paying extra for entry to landmarks—unless you want to explore those sites further on your own.
The Pros and Cons
One of the reviews mentions a small hiccup: being led to the back of a building rather than the front at a stop, which can happen with self-guided routes. The response from support indicates they are working on adding more content, which is promising.
On the bright side, many find the route cleverly planned, offering a unique glimpse into Phoenix’s cityscape and history, with some stops offering a chance to meet interesting figures from the city’s past. It’s also a chance to explore at your own pace, which is great if you aren’t a fan of rigid schedules or large groups.
However, since it’s entirely app-based, you’ll want to make sure your phone is fully charged. Bringing a portable charger isn’t a bad idea if you plan to be out for longer or use your device extensively.
Is This Tour Worth It?
In terms of value, at just over $13, you’re getting a personalized adventure that combines self-guided exploration, photo challenges, and a dash of local history. It’s a hands-on way to discover some of Phoenix’s core spots without the crowds or fixed itinerary of traditional tours.
If you’re a traveler who appreciates a bit of puzzle-solving, enjoys discovering local stories, and prefers controlling your schedule, this scavenger hunt could be a hit. Those traveling with friends or family who enjoy lighthearted challenges will find this especially fun.
Just keep in mind it’s not for someone looking for a guided commentary or a structured tour—this is about exploring at your own pace with the help of clues and an app.
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Who Will Love This?

This self-guided adventure is best suited for curious, independent travelers who want to add some interactive fun to their sightseeing. It’s ideal for those comfortable using their smartphone for navigation and photo challenges. If you’re traveling solo or with friends and looking for a relaxed, affordable way to see the city, this hunt could be a perfect fit.
It’s also a flexible option for families with older children who enjoy puzzles and exploring. Since there’s no minimum age specified, younger adventurers who can handle walking and smartphone use should be fine.
The Sum Up

The Self-Guided Phoenix Scavenger Hunt: Phoenix The Suns Core offers a budget-friendly, flexible, and engaging way to explore the city. It’s especially good for travelers who enjoy solving clues, taking photos, and discovering local landmarks on their own terms. The route covers significant spots like Monroe School, Old City Hall, and Space Park, giving you a taste of Phoenix’s history and modern life with a bit of hidden treasure-hunting fun.
While it might have minor issues—like occasional navigation quirks—the overall experience provides a personalized way to see the city without the pressure of a guided tour. The cost is reasonable, and the app’s interactive features add a layer of entertainment that makes walking around Phoenix more lively.
If you love a bit of adventure, are comfortable with your phone, and want to explore Phoenix’s core in a relaxed way, this hunt is worth considering. Just remember to fully charge your device and enjoy the process of uncovering some of Phoenix’s secrets at your own pace.
Self-Guided Phoenix Scavenger Hunt: Phoenix The Suns Core
“2 problems. First stop, we were taken to the BACK of the building. Church, no door on the north side. Stain glass window is on the SOUTH side.”
FAQ

Is this activity suitable for children?
There’s no minimum age requirement, so older children and teens who enjoy puzzles and walking should have a good time. Keep in mind they’ll need to use a smartphone and be comfortable with app-based navigation.
How long does the scavenger hunt last?
It’s designed to take about two hours, but since it’s self-guided, you can take more or less time depending on your pace.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, travelers book on average 23 days ahead. You can start the activity at any time during opening hours, Monday to Sunday from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes the scavenger hunt, access to the app with maps and challenges, digital copies of your photos, and customer support. No additional attraction fees or food are included.
What should I bring?
A fully charged smartphone is essential. A power bank is a good idea if you plan to extend your walk or use your device extensively. Wear comfortable shoes and check the weather forecast to dress accordingly.
Are there any hidden costs?
All taxes, fees, and handling charges are included in the price. Additional costs might only come from optional site visits or food during your outing.
If you’re after a low-cost, flexible way to discover downtown Phoenix and its stories, this scavenger hunt could be just the ticket. It’s not a guided tour with commentary, but it might just be the most playful way to learn and see the city on your own terms.
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