Self Guided Scavenger Hunt: Saint Paul’s Soaring Sights!

If you’re looking for a way to explore Saint Paul that’s both interactive and flexible, a self-guided scavenger hunt could be just what you need. This particular experience promises to take you through some of the city’s most notable spots, from the State Capitol to Rice Park and along the mighty Mississippi. While I haven’t done it myself, I’ve gathered enough info to give you a clear picture of what’s involved—and whether it’s worth your time.

What immediately catches your eye about this tour are two features: it’s entirely mobile, meaning your phone is your guide, and it’s designed to be interactive, with photo challenges and clues that keep you engaged. The second is the affordable price point, just around $12, making it a budget-friendly way to see the city. The one thing to consider is that it’s self-paced, so there’s no guided commentary—if you prefer a tour with a guide or group leader, this might feel a bit too independent.

This scavenger hunt seems suited for those who enjoy a bit of adventure on their own terms, whether you’re visiting solo, with a partner, or a small group of friends. It’s especially good for travelers who love combining sightseeing with a little playful competition, and who don’t mind using their phones as their primary navigational tool.

Key Points

• Self-guided and flexible: You can start at any time and go at your own pace, making it ideal for busy itineraries.
• Interactive fun: Photo challenges and clues keep the experience lively and engaging.
• Affordable price: At just over $12, it offers a budget-friendly way to explore.
• Includes notable sights: Such as the State Capitol, Rice Park, and the Mississippi River.
• Support available: Digital support is offered via the app, phone, or chat.
• Moderate physical activity: Expect some walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.

What You Can Expect from the Saint Paul Scavenger Hunt

Imagine wandering through the streets of Saint Paul with just your phone, piecing together clues that lead you from one landmark to the next. This experience offers a casual, fun way to see the city’s highlights while adding a bit of a challenge to your walk. Starting at the historic Rev Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, you’ll make your way through the city’s neighborhoods, parks, and public art displays, ending right back where you started.

The Itinerary and Highlights

Starting Point: You’ll begin at 75 Rev Dr Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard, a location easily accessible by public transport and near some of the city’s key attractions.

The Route: The hunt takes you through areas like Rice Park, a charming public space surrounded by historic buildings and often bustling with locals and visitors alike. You’ll also visit the State Capitol, an impressive symbol of Minnesota’s government, and along the way, you’ll get to see the Mississippi River, a defining feature of Saint Paul’s landscape.

What’s Included: The experience comes with a digital app that provides maps, riddles, photo challenges, and leaderboards to add a competitive edge. Each participant gets their own role—whether that’s the “Braniac,” the “Photographer,” or the “Mapper”—which helps diversify the way you interact with the environment. Plus, you get digital copies of your photos, so you can remember the journey.

The Challenges and Viewing Opportunities

One of the best aspects of this activity is the way it combines sightseeing with interactivity. As you solve clues, you’ll naturally spend time exploring different city corners and taking in the architecture, parks, and public art. Several reviews note that it’s a great way to see areas they’d never visited before, turning a simple walk into an adventure.

Photo challenges are a fun addition, and some players appreciate the variety of roles assigned, which keeps it fresh. For example, capturing the scenery as a Photographer or mapping your route as a Mapper adds a layer of engagement that pure sightseeing often lacks.

The Experience for Different Types of Travelers

Whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple, or a small group, you’ll find this scavenger hunt adaptable. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a bit of friendly competition or who want to maximize their sightseeing with a fun activity. It’s not a guided tour—so if you prefer a narrative or storytelling from a guide, this may not be the best fit.

How Does It Compare Value-wise?

At its price point of just over $12 per person, this experience offers a lot of bang for your buck. You’re getting access to an app with maps and challenges, plus digital photos, support, and the chance to explore at your own pace. Compared to guided tours that can be significantly pricier, this is an economical way to add some fun to your day.

However, keep in mind that there are no attraction fees included, and transportation costs aren’t covered, so plan accordingly. Also, since it’s self-guided, you’re responsible for your own navigation and timing.

The Real Traveler Experience

A review shares, “We enjoyed our Lets Roam challenge in St Paul. There were a couple of clues that brought us to the wrong place, and we weren’t able to answer the questions in time. But it was a great walk and we saw areas of St Paul that we’d never visited before.” This honest feedback highlights that while there’s some chance of misdirection or confusion, the overall experience is positive and offers a fresh way to see the city.

The Practicalities and Tips

Timing: You can start this adventure at any time between 7AM and 10PM, making it flexible around your schedule.

Duration: It takes roughly two hours, which means it’s perfect for fitting into a morning or afternoon.

Physical Effort: Expect some walking, so wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.

Support: Assistance is available via phone, email, or chat if you get stuck or need help.

Device readiness: Make sure your smartphone is fully charged, and consider bringing a portable charger if you plan to do the full route without interruptions.

The Downsides

While many aspects are positive, a few downsides are worth noting. Several reviewers mentioned that some clues can lead you slightly astray, which could be frustrating if you’re on a tight schedule or expecting perfect accuracy. Also, since it’s self-guided, there’s no commentary or storytelling from a live guide—so if you prefer hearing about the city from someone knowledgeable, this might feel a bit detached.

On top of that, no entry fees or transportation costs are included, so additional expenses might come into play depending on your plans. Lastly, weather can impact your experience—so check forecasts and dress accordingly.

Who Would Love This?

This scavenger hunt is an excellent choice for travelers who enjoy independent exploration, fun challenges, and seeing a city from a fresh perspective. It’s great for those who like a mix of walking, puzzle-solving, and photography, and it works well for small groups or solo adventurers.

If you’re visiting Saint Paul and want a budget-friendly activity that combines sightseeing with some friendly competition, this could be a perfect fit. It’s especially handy if you prefer to set your own pace and avoid guided tours, yet still want a structured way to discover the city’s highlights.

The Sum Up

This self-guided scavenger hunt offers a flexible, affordable way to see Saint Paul through a playful lens. Its combination of notable sites, interactive challenges, and digital support makes it appealing for anyone who enjoys exploring on their own terms. While it might not provide the storytelling of a guided tour, the opportunity to discover the city’s sights with friends or family in a fun, engaging way makes it worthwhile.

If you’re into walking, puzzles, and a little friendly competition, this experience promises a memorable, personalized adventure. Just remember to charge your phone, pick a good day, and enjoy uncovering some of Saint Paul’s best-loved spots.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since there’s no minimum age mentioned and the activities involve walking and puzzle-solving, it can generally be enjoyed by older children and teenagers. Just keep in mind that younger kids might find some clues tricky or less engaging.

Can I start the scavenger hunt at any time?
Yes, you can embark on your adventure at any time between 7AM and 10PM, giving you the flexibility to plan around your schedule.

What do I need to bring?
A fully charged smartphone is essential, along with a power bank if you want to extend your playtime without worrying about battery life. Dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes.

How long does the activity take?
It’s designed to last about two hours, but since it’s self-paced, you can take longer or shorter depending on your interest and walking speed.

Are transportation costs included?
No, transportation isn’t covered, so plan for your own travel to and from the starting point.

Is there support if I get stuck?
Yes, support is available via phone, email, or chat if you need help during the activity.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Since the tour is outdoors, check the forecast before heading out and dress accordingly. Rain or extreme weather could impact your experience.

Can I do this solo or is it better with a group?
It works well both ways—solo players can enjoy the challenge, and groups can compete or collaborate to solve clues together.

This scavenger hunt is a neat, budget-friendly way to see Saint Paul on your own terms. It’s bound to add a bit of fun and discovery to your trip—just come prepared, and you’re set for a memorable day.