Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Detroit by Holly Jolly Hunt

Exploring Detroit During the Holidays with Holly Jolly Hunt: A Fun, Festive Scavenger Adventure

If you’re looking to add a playful twist to your Detroit holiday visit, the Holly Jolly Hunt offers a lively, app-guided scavenger hunt that’s perfect for groups up to ten people. For just $20, this experience promises about an hour of holiday cheer, with the chance to find both traditional and quirky seasonal items around the city — all while competing for bragging rights on a live leaderboard. It’s an innovative way to explore Detroit’s streets, get some laughs, and create memorable moments with friends, family, or colleagues.

One aspect we particularly appreciate is the flexibility of the activity — it can be played anywhere in Detroit, making it perfect whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for holiday fun. Plus, the app’s interactive challenges and photo scoring system keep the energy high. However, keep in mind that you’ll need your own smartphone to participate, and transportation is on your own, so plan accordingly. This experience suits those who enjoy light-hearted competition, festive activities, and a little outdoor exploration.

Key Points

• Flexible Location: Play anywhere in Detroit, making it suitable for various neighborhoods or park areas.
• Affordable Fun: At $20 per group, it offers a cost-effective way to enjoy holiday magic with friends or family.
• Interactive & Engaging: Includes photo challenges and silly holiday tasks that boost laughter and camaraderie.
• Inclusive for All Ages: Designed to be fun for young and old, with simple instructions and manageable challenges.
• Real-Time Leaderboard: Adds a competitive edge with scores compared against other teams.
• Convenient and Safe: Contactless mobile ticket, with access to a remote guide via chat, ensures a smooth experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Holly Jolly Hunt Experience

How It Works and What to Expect

The Holly Jolly Hunt is a mobile app-based scavenger hunt that turns Detroit into a holiday playground. Once you purchase your group ticket for $20, you gain access to an interactive experience that lasts about an hour. The activity begins at the downtown meeting point — 199 W Jefferson Ave, a central location that’s accessible via public transit and close to many downtown attractions.

From there, the app guides your team as you venture through the city’s streets, parks, or neighborhoods of your choosing. The goal? Seek out a variety of holiday-related items, which range from traditional (like ornaments or Santa hats) to the less conventional (such as holiday-themed street art or unique seasonal props). As you find each item, you’ll use the app to snap photos, earning points for your team. The app’s scoring system adds a competitive element, encouraging friendly rivalry among teams.

The Challenges and Photo Scoring

One of the highlights is the fun, holiday-themed challenges that go beyond just finding objects. You might be asked to perform silly tasks like singing a carol loud enough for passersby or wearing a goofy holiday hat in a photo. These challenges are designed to spark laughter, foster team bonding, and make your holiday outing memorable.

From the reviews, we know participants particularly enjoyed the interaction with the environment—“We loved the way the app made us look at familiar places through a festive lens,” said one reviewer. The scoring leaderboard, which updates in real time, keeps everyone motivated to find more items and perform the challenges with enthusiasm.

Duration and Group Size

The activity lasts approximately 1 hour, making it an easy and manageable outing that fits into a busy holiday schedule. It’s designed for groups up to 10 people, which makes it perfect for family gatherings, friends’ outings, or small office parties. Smaller groups can enjoy a more intimate experience, while larger groups can split into teams for extra fun.

Accessibility and Convenience

Since it’s a mobile ticket activity, the entire experience is contactless and flexible. You’ll receive your instructions and connect with a remote guide via the app’s chat feature if needed. The activity takes place within the hours of 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM from late November through December 31, giving you plenty of time to plan your holiday adventure.

Not Included and Practical Considerations

While the activity provides the scavenger hunt and guidance, you’ll need to bring your own smartphone and arrange your transportation to the starting point, as this isn’t included. If you’re relying on public transit, it’s conveniently situated near transit stops, which is a plus. It’s important to note that service animals are allowed, and the activity is suitable for most travelers, making it inclusive for many.

What We Like and What to Keep in Mind

Based on reviews and the provided details, we can see why this holiday activity appeals. It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy Detroit’s festive ambiance, especially if you love a bit of friendly competition and want to combine sightseeing with fun challenges. The interactive nature and the chance to participate in humorous tasks mean everyone from kids to grandparents can enjoy it.

However, the activity’s success heavily depends on your group’s energy and willingness to walk around outdoors. If you’re expecting a guided tour with historical insights, this isn’t it. Instead, it’s more of a playful exploration, perfect for a light-hearted holiday outing. Also, because it’s a self-guided experience, you’ll want to ensure your group stays on track and has enough battery life on your phones.

The Authentic Touch from Participants

One reviewer shared, “We ended up laughing so much at the silly challenges; it really made our holiday season special,” emphasizing how the playful tasks add a personal, joyful touch. Another mentioned, “The app made us see the city in a new way — through holiday eyes,” highlighting how this activity transforms a typical walk into an adventure.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Charge your phone beforehand — you’ll be using the camera and app continuously.
• Dress warmly — Detroit winter can be chilly, especially if you’re outdoors for an hour.
• Plan your route — consider choosing neighborhoods or areas you’re already familiar with to maximize your time.
• Coordinate with your team — assign roles for photo-taking and challenge performances to keep things organized and fun.

Who Will Love This Activity?

This scavenger hunt is ideal for holiday groups who enjoy interactive, outdoor activities. Families with children will find the challenges amusing and engaging, while friends and coworker groups will appreciate the light-hearted competition. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate a more relaxed, flexible activity that doesn’t require a strict schedule or extensive walking.

If you’re seeking a unique, affordable way to explore Detroit’s holiday sights, this hunt is a fantastic choice. It offers a combination of sightseeing, laughs, and holiday spirit, all wrapped into a quick, fun experience.

The Sum Up

The Holly Jolly Hunt in Detroit offers a refreshing twist on holiday activities, blending exploration, competition, and humor. For just $20 a group, it delivers a memorable hour that captures the joy and whimsy of the season. The self-guided, app-based format makes it flexible and safe, especially suited for groups who enjoy outdoor pursuits and a bit of friendly rivalry.

While it’s not a traditional tour with historical insights, it’s a wonderful way to see the city from a new perspective and inject some holiday cheer into your day. It’s best for families, friends, or small work groups who love fun challenges and don’t mind a bit of outdoor walking.

This activity offers great value for the price, especially if you’re looking for a playful, social experience that creates lasting holiday memories. Just be sure to come prepared with your phone charged, dressed warmly, and ready for a cheerful adventure through Detroit’s festive streets.

FAQ

Is the Holly Jolly Hunt suitable for kids?
Yes, it’s designed to be fun for all ages, with silly challenges and photo tasks that kids will enjoy.

Do I need to bring my own transportation?
Yes, transportation is not included, so you’ll need your own method to get to and from the starting point.

Can I play this activity in any part of Detroit?
Absolutely — it’s flexible, and you can choose any location around the city for your hunt.

What if I don’t have a smartphone?
You’ll need your own smartphone to participate, as the entire experience runs through the app.

Is it possible to cancel and get a refund?
Yes, the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long does the activity last?
It’s approximately 1 hour, making it easy to fit into a busy holiday schedule.

Are there any restrictions on group size?
The activity allows groups up to 10 people, making it suitable for small gatherings.

Is there a guide available during the hunt?
Yes, you can access a remote guide via chat in the app if you need assistance.

The Holly Jolly Hunt in Detroit provides an engaging, family-friendly way to celebrate the season. It combines outdoor fun, light competition, and holiday cheer, making it a standout activity for those looking to add some laughter and adventure to their holiday plans.