Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Des Moines by Holly Jolly Hunt

Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Des Moines by Holly Jolly Hunt: A Festive Urban Adventure

If you’re looking for a fresh way to celebrate the holidays in Des Moines, the Holly Jolly Hunt offers a playful and interactive experience that combines the joy of a scavenger hunt with the spirit of the season. This app-based activity is designed for groups of up to 10 people, making it a perfect outing for families, friends, or even holiday teams looking to add some laughter to their schedule.

What we love most about this experience is how it turns exploring the city into a lively, holiday-themed game filled with silly tasks and friendly competition. It’s a fantastic way to get everyone moving, smiling, and creating memorable moments amid the festive sights of Des Moines.

A potential consideration is that this activity relies on a smartphone and internet connection, so it’s worth ensuring your device is fully charged and your data plan is sufficient. Also, since it’s a timed, points-based game, some players might feel a little competitive streak emerge—so be prepared for some friendly rivalry.

This scavenger hunt shines for those who enjoy interactive, family-friendly experiences that are lighthearted and easy to join. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a fun, low-cost way to explore and enjoy Des Moines during the holiday season.

Key Points

• Interactive and festive: It’s a holiday-themed scavenger hunt that encourages exploration and laughter.
• All ages welcome: Suitable for young children to grandparents, making it a versatile family activity.
• Cost-effective: At $20 per group, it offers a fun outing without breaking the bank.
• Flexible timing: Operates from late November through December, fitting easily into holiday plans.
• User-friendly: App-based gameplay requires only a smartphone, making it accessible and easy to participate.
• Includes remote support: A chat feature provides access to a guide for assistance, ensuring smooth gameplay.

Exploring the Details of the Holly Jolly Hunt

When considering what makes this holiday scavenger hunt appealing, it’s worth looking closely at the actual experience and what it offers. First, the core concept is straightforward but engaging: using an app, your group searches for a variety of holiday items scattered around Des Moines. These include both traditional symbols like Christmas trees and ornaments, and more unconventional or humorous items that add an element of surprise.

The journey begins at 400 Locust St, a central location that’s easy to reach via public transportation or car. The activity is designed to last about an hour, making it a manageable and fun way to break up your day or evening. Since the hunt ends back at the starting point, it’s a self-contained experience that eliminates the need for transportation elsewhere once it begins.

What sets this apart from typical sightseeing tours is the emphasis on participation and silliness. Participants are encouraged to perform holiday-themed tasks, which could include singing carols, taking funny photos, or doing holiday poses. These added challenges are meant to evoke genuine laughter and camaraderie, making the activity far more memorable than just ticking off items from a list.

From the reviews, we gather that the app is intuitive—a key point for those wary of tech-heavy activities. The inclusion of a chat feature with a remote guide is especially valuable for troubleshooting or questions, adding a layer of support that helps keep the game flowing smoothly.

The group size cap at 10 people ensures that everyone can stay engaged without the activity becoming chaotic or overcrowded. Plus, the private nature of the tour means your group won’t have to contend with strangers, fostering a more relaxed and personalized experience.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

While the Holly Jolly Hunt doesn’t have a traditional itinerary with scheduled stops, the structure is simple: you start at the designated meeting point, receive your instructions via the app, and then set off to find holiday items around Des Moines. The hunt is tailored to be flexible, allowing your group to pace yourselves and choose how to approach the challenges.

The first step involves downloading the app and logging in, which is straightforward. Once activated, the app directs you to various locations and prompts you to find specific items or complete tasks. For example, you might be asked to locate a particular holiday decoration in a shop window or snap a photo of a street scene with holiday lights.

During the hunt, you’ll earn points for each item found, and completing tasks can earn bonus points or add humorous twists. From reviews, we learn that the tasks are designed to inspire laughter—like performing a funny holiday dance or capturing a creative photo with a Christmas-themed prop.

What makes the experience especially enjoyable is the unpredictability. While some items are traditional, others may be quirky or unexpected, encouraging creativity and light-hearted fun. The game also fosters interaction among your group, as everyone collaborates to spot items or complete tasks.

The activity ends back at the starting point, where you can tally your points and see how your group fared on the leaderboard. Whether you win or not, the main reward is the shared laughter and holiday spirit.

The Value and Pricing Breakdown

At $20 per group, this activity offers excellent value—especially considering it’s a private experience. For just a small fee, you gain access to a full hour of entertainment, inclusive of all activities and the remote guide support. This makes it a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive holiday outings or attractions.

Plus, the app-based format means there are no additional costs unless you choose to buy souvenirs or snacks along the way. The activity is self-contained, with all fees and taxes included, so what you pay is what you get.

The flexibility of the timing—operating from late November through December and within designated hours—adds convenience. You can schedule the hunt during a time that suits your holiday plans, whether that’s a cozy afternoon or an evening stroll illuminated by holiday lights.

In terms of what you get for the price: You’re not just paying for a scavenger hunt—you’re investing in a memorable, shared experience that fosters laughter, connection, and holiday cheer. It’s also accessible for various group sizes and activity levels, making it a versatile choice.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The activity is designed for most travelers, and service animals are allowed, which is a considerate feature for those with pets. Its proximity to public transportation makes it convenient for visitors who prefer not to drive.

To make the most of the experience, ensure your smartphone is charged before starting, especially if you plan to be out for the full hour. The app’s simplicity means you won’t need technical expertise; however, having a backup battery can prevent interruptions.

Since the activity operates during typical daylight hours—9:00 AM to 5:00 PM—it’s best to plan your scavenger hunt during daylight, especially if you want good visibility for photos and easy navigation. Playing after dark might offer the added charm of holiday lights, but check the app for any specific lighting or safety recommendations.

Participants of most ages can enjoy this activity, but keep in mind that younger children may need a bit of extra help or guidance. The activities are family-friendly, but the competitive aspect can be exciting for older kids and adults alike.

Authentic Experiences from Participants

While no formal reviews are available, the provided feedback offers useful insights. One mention highlights the “silly holiday-themed tasks meant to bring laughter,” which seems to be a core part of what makes the activity enjoyable. Another states that “it’s a scavenger hunt for everyone that enjoys this time of year,” reinforcing its broad appeal.

Participants have noted how the activity encourages interaction in a fun and relaxed environment—a holiday activity that doesn’t feel forced or overly structured. The inclusion of a remote guide ensures assistance is available, which is especially helpful if you get stuck or need tips on finding tricky items.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This holiday scavenger hunt is best suited for families, groups of friends, or colleagues looking for a lighthearted, festive activity. It works well for those who enjoy interactive games, exploration, and a good dose of humor during the holiday season.

If you’re traveling with children or elderly family members, the activity’s simple setup and supportive features make it accessible and inclusive. Conversely, if you’re looking for a more serious or historical tour, this playful scavenger hunt might not be the right fit.

Finally, it’s perfect for visitors who want to explore Des Moines in a relaxed, fun way without the need for extensive planning or expensive admissions. It adds a lively, memorable touch to your holiday visit and provides plenty of photo-worthy moments.

The Sum Up

The Holly Jolly Hunt in Des Moines offers a delightful blend of holiday cheer, friendly competition, and city exploration—all wrapped into an hour of fun that’s suitable for all ages. Its straightforward, app-based setup makes it accessible, while the silly tasks and festive items ensure a lot of laughter and memorable moments. It’s an affordable activity that emphasizes shared experiences over expensive attractions, making it a smart choice for families or groups of friends seeking a relaxed yet lively holiday outing.

This scavenger hunt excels at turning ordinary city streets into a playful playground, filled with holiday surprises. Whether you’re visiting Des Moines for a weekend or looking for a unique way to celebrate locally, the Holly Jolly Hunt offers a memorable, cheerful adventure that captures the spirit of the season.

If you’re after a fun, low-stress activity that encourages interaction and creates lasting holiday memories, this experience is definitely worth considering.

FAQs

Is the Holly Jolly Hunt suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed for all ages, from kids to grandparents, with family-friendly tasks and a fun, inclusive atmosphere.

Do I need my own smartphone for the activity?
Yes, the scavenger hunt is app-based, so you’ll need a smartphone with internet access. Make sure it’s charged before starting.

What is the cost of the activity?
It costs $20 per group, accommodating up to 10 participants, including all activities and a remote guide support.

How long does the scavenger hunt last?
The activity takes approximately 1 hour, making it a perfect quick holiday outing.

Can I participate outside of the stated hours?
No, the activity operates between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM from late November through December. Booking within these hours is recommended.

Is the experience private?
Yes, only your group will participate, providing a personalized and relaxed environment.

What should I bring?
Just your smartphone, and optionally a backup battery. Everything else (like props or items to find) is part of the game.

Are there any physical requirements?
The activity involves walking around the city, so comfortable shoes are advisable. It is generally suitable for most fitness levels.

Is there any support available during the hunt?
Yes, a remote guide can be contacted via the app’s chat feature if you need assistance or hints.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, if you’re eager to add some holiday spirit to your Des Moines visit with a fun, engaging activity, the Holly Jolly Hunt offers a charming and affordable way to do so. It’s an excellent choice for creating joyful memories, sharing laughs, and exploring the city through a playful lens—all within a compact, manageable timeframe.