Amazing Scavenger Hunt: Ithaca Big Red Cornell

Planning a trip to Ithaca and looking for a fun, interactive way to discover what makes this college town special? The Amazing Scavenger Hunt: Ithaca Big Red Cornell offers a lively, smartphone-led adventure that takes you through some of the area’s most iconic sights. Costing just under $15 per person, it’s an affordable way to turn a standard sightseeing day into an engaging puzzle-solving experience. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group of friends, this hunt offers a playful way to explore at your own pace.

What we love most about this experience is its flexibility — you can start whenever you’re ready and go as slowly or quickly as you like. Plus, the digital photo features and team roles add an interactive, personalized touch that makes it feel more like a game than just another walking tour. That said, since it’s entirely self-guided, some travelers might miss the personal touch of a live guide or structured tour. Overall, it’s perfect for curious explorers, families, or groups who enjoy puzzles and urban adventures.

This activity suits those who want an affordable, fun, and flexible way to uncover Ithaca’s hidden corners, from college landmarks to natural wonders. If you’re keen on a mix of history, nature, and interactive fun, this scavenger hunt will keep you entertained while helping you see the city differently.

Key Points

• Self-guided experience: No scheduled tour times, start when you want.
• Affordable price point: Just $14.99 per person for two hours of entertainment.
• Playable with up to 10 people: Perfect for families and groups.
• Includes digital photos: Keepsake memories of your adventure.
• Interactive roles and challenges: Keeps everyone engaged.
• Convenient app-based format: Easy to access maps, riddles, and leaderboards.

What to Expect from the Ithaca Big Red Cornell Scavenger Hunt

This scavenger hunt promises a blend of arts, nature, and local history, all navigated via a straightforward mobile app. Once you download the app and check in at Morrill Hall, your journey begins, taking you through some of Ithaca’s most recognizable sights.

Start at Morrill Hall

Your adventure kicks off at Morrill Hall on Central Ave, a central spot that’s easily accessible from public transit. Here, you’ll get instructions on how to begin your hunt, along with a quick rundown of the app’s features. From this point, you and your team can set your own pace, choosing to dive right in or take a leisurely stroll.

Visiting Arts Quad

The Arts Quad is a lively hub filled with sculptures and murals, perfect for a quick burst of creativity. You might find yourself solving riddles here, with hints about local art or upcoming performances at nearby venues. Expect to be prompted to snap photos of sculptures or murals, adding a competitive edge with photo challenges.

Exploring Bailey Hall

Next, your hunt will guide you toward Bailey Hall, an iconic performance venue with deep roots in Ithaca’s cultural scene. Here, you’ll uncover snippets of its history and maybe even experience the echoes of past performances. It’s a place that exudes a sense of community and arts appreciation.

Nature Break at Triphammer Falls

No trip to Ithaca would be complete without a visit to Triphammer Falls. As you follow the sounds of rushing water, your app will challenge you to capture the perfect photo or complete a nature-inspired task. Many reviewers note that the falls are breathtaking and that snapping photos here is a highlight.

End Point and Reflection

The hunt ends back at Morrill Hall, where you can review your digital photos and see how your team fared against others. The app’s leaderboard adds a fun competitive element, and digital copies of your photos help you remember your adventure.

The Experience’s Value and Practical Details

The cost of $14.99 per person is quite reasonable considering what’s included. You get access to a custom app that offers maps, riddles, photo challenges, and leaderboards, plus digital copies of your photos to keep as souvenirs. The activity is self-guided, allowing total flexibility — you can start any time during the opening hours (7AM-10PM daily) and proceed at your preferred speed.

While no tour guide is involved, the app provides enough structure and support—via email or chat—to keep you on track. Plus, the inclusion of individual roles for each participant ensures everyone has a task, promoting engagement across groups of up to 10 players. This setup encourages teamwork and makes the experience inclusive for all ages.

One notable aspect is the moderate physical requirement. The tour is a walking adventure, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. The open-ended timing means you can take breaks, linger at scenic spots, or speed through the challenges.

What’s Not Included

You’ll need to plan your own food, drinks, or transportation if needed, as these are not covered. Also, any attraction fees at specific sites or tickets are separate from the hunt itself.

Accessibility and Support

The activity welcomes service animals and is suitable for all ages, with no minimum age required. Since it’s smartphone-based, make sure your device is fully charged before starting — bringing a power bank is a wise idea.

Authentic Insights from Participants

While this specific activity does not yet have reviews, the reviews for similar experiences note that knowledgeable guides and stunning views significantly enhance the adventure. The app’s directions and puzzles are straightforward, making it accessible even for first-timers. Many users appreciate the digital photos, which turn the hunt into a memorable keepsake.

The fact that it’s booked an average of 37 days in advance indicates a good level of interest and suggests that planning ahead is recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends. The flexibility to start anytime makes it ideal for spontaneous plans or customized schedules.

Who Will Love this Tour?

If you enjoy interactive adventures that combine learning with light physical activity, this hunt offers excellent value. It suits families with kids, groups of friends, or couples who want to see Ithaca in a playful, engaging way. It’s perfect for those who prefer exploring on their own terms rather than a structured guided tour.

For travelers interested in local landmarks, waterfalls, and arts, the scavenger hunt ensures you won’t miss key sights while enjoying surprises along the way. If you’re someone who loves snapping photos and competing with friends, this activity ticks those boxes.

Final Thoughts: Is the Ithaca Big Red Cornell Scavenger Hunt Worth It?

This scavenger hunt stands out as an affordable, flexible, and fun way to explore Ithaca’s highlights. Its smartphone-based format makes it easy to manage, and the inclusion of digital photos adds a nice memory touch. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy puzzles, scenic views, and a bit of friendly competition.

While it’s not a guided tour with a live person, the app’s interactive features compensate by providing structure and engagement. You’ll cover key spots like Bailey Hall and Triphammer Falls, all while discovering hidden gems and local stories.

In particular, families and groups who want a shared, memorable experience will find this a delightful option. It’s also a good choice if you’re looking to combine a bit of outdoors with a mental challenge, all without breaking the bank.

If you’re after a relaxed, customizable way to fall in love with Ithaca’s charm, this scavenger hunt offers a memorable and engaging adventure perfect for making the most of your visit.

FAQ

Is this a guided tour?
No, it’s a self-guided adventure that you access via a mobile app, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

How long does the activity take?
Approximately two hours, but you can take longer if you wish to linger at sites or solve puzzles thoroughly.

Can I start this tour anytime?
Yes, you can begin whenever you’re ready within the opening hours of 7AM to 10PM.

How many people can participate?
Up to 10 players per team, making it ideal for families or small groups.

What’s included in the price?
All taxes and fees, digital photos of your adventure, app access, individual roles, and photo challenges for each player.

Do I need a special ticket or pass?
No, just a smartphone with sufficient battery power and the downloaded app.

Are there any physical requirements?
Moderate physical activity is involved; comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Are there any age restrictions?
No minimum age; it’s suitable for all ages, including children and seniors.

What if I need help during the activity?
Support is available via email or chat, and the app contains instructions and guidance.

Will I see or visit specific attractions?
Yes, including arts venues, historic halls, and natural sites like Triphammer Falls, with clues and challenges guiding your visit.

Exploring Ithaca through this creative scavenger hunt makes discovering the city’s sights both memorable and fun. It offers a perfect balance of adventure, learning, and outdoor activity—well worth considering for your next trip.