Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124

Discover Madison’s holiday spirit with the Holly Jolly Hunt, a fun, interactive scavenger hunt that brings you and your group on a festive adventure through the city.
Exploring Madison with the Holly Jolly Hunt: A Seasonal Scavenger Adventure
Our review of the Holly Jolly Hunt in Madison introduces a lively, family-friendly way to celebrate the holiday season. While we haven’t played it ourselves, the concept is simple yet engaging: a mobile app-based scavenger hunt that takes you on a tailored holiday adventure right in Madison’s charming streets. It’s a clever idea that combines the thrill of a game with the joy of discovering your city in a new, festive light.
What we really like about this experience is its flexibility—you can choose your own route and play anywhere, whether it’s downtown, a neighborhood, or a park. Plus, the interactive challenges promise some good laughs and memorable moments, especially when combined with holiday spirit. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that a smartphone is a necessity for participation, and there’s no included transportation, so you’ll need to plan how to get around Madison.
This activity suits groups of friends, families, or coworkers looking for a cheerful, engaging way to celebrate the season. It’s especially appealing if you prefer a self-guided experience that allows for flexibility and personalized exploration. If you’re after a fun, cost-effective way to make your holiday memorable in Madison, the Holly Jolly Hunt might just be the perfect fit.

The Holly Jolly Hunt offers a fresh twist on traditional holiday outings. Instead of a crowded mall or a static event, it invites you to explore Madison at your own pace, turning your smartphone into a holiday adventure tool. For those familiar with the city, it’s a chance to see familiar sights from a new perspective. For newcomers, it’s an engaging introduction to Madison’s festive atmosphere.
Looking for more options in Madison? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
The activity begins at the Wisconsin State Capitol, an iconic Madison landmark. From here, your team will set out on your chosen route, guided by the app’s clues and challenges. The entire hunt is designed to last about an hour, making it a perfect activity for a short break or a light afternoon outing. The ending point is back at the starting location, so logistics are straightforward, especially if you’re nearby or plan to stay in that area.
Participants are tasked with finding a mix of traditional and not-so-traditional holiday items. Think classic ornaments or Christmas trees, but also fun surprises like holiday-themed street art or quirky decorations. The app prompts you to take photos to earn points, adding an element of creativity and playfulness. The inclusion of holiday challenges—such as performing a mini dance or singing a carol—brightens the activity and guarantees plenty of laughter.
One feature that adds a layer of excitement is the real-time leaderboard. Your team’s score can be compared with others, which encourages a friendly competitive spirit. Whether you’re in it to win or just for fun, seeing your progress in comparison to other teams from all over offers a motivating boost.
The experience is designed to be accessible — most travelers can participate, and service animals are welcome. While it’s a private tour, meaning only your group joins, the app’s chat feature ensures you can get remote guidance if you hit a tricky clue or need assistance.
At just $20 per group, this activity provides a lot of entertainment for a modest price. Since all fees and taxes are included, there are no hidden costs, and the simplicity of a mobile ticket makes booking and participating easy.
Travelers should remember that the activity does not include transportation—so if you plan to explore farther afield or park far from the starting point, you’ll need your own transportation. Also, the activity relies on your own smartphone, so ensure your device is charged and compatible.
The Holly Jolly Hunt is available from late November through December, aligning with the holiday season. Bookings are generally made about 28 days in advance, so plan early if you want to secure your preferred date. The flexible hours—Tuesday through Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm—allow you to schedule this activity around your other holiday plans.

We see the Holly Jolly Hunt as a lively and flexible way to add some holiday cheer to your Madison visit. It’s perfect for those who enjoy interactive, tech-enabled activities that don’t require a lot of time but offer plenty of fun. The activity’s affordable price point makes it accessible, and the self-guided nature allows you to tailor the experience to your group’s interests and pace.
The app-based format might not appeal if you’re looking for a guided tour or historical insights, but for lighthearted holiday fun, it hits the mark. Plus, the ability to play anywhere in Madison makes it ideal for both residents and visitors wanting a personalized holiday outing. Whether you’re with kids, friends, or colleagues, the Holly Jolly Hunt offers a cheerful, memorable way to experience Madison’s festive spirit.
In essence, the Holly Jolly Hunt combines technology, teamwork, and holiday cheer into a delightful package. Its affordability, flexibility, and interactive features make it an attractive option for a quick, fun holiday activity. You’ll love the way it encourages you to see Madison through a playful, festive lens—perfect for creating new memories in the holiday season.
This experience is best suited for those who want a casual, engaging activity that doesn’t require extensive planning. It’s especially good for groups that enjoy a bit of friendly competition and are comfortable using smartphones. If you’re seeking an authentic, lighthearted way to celebrate the season in Madison, the Holly Jolly Hunt could be just the ticket.

What is included in the price of $20 per group?
All the scavenger hunt activities, access to the app, and a remote guide via chat are included, along with all fees and taxes.
Do I need my own smartphone?
Yes, a smartphone is necessary to participate, and you’ll want to ensure it’s charged enough to last the duration of the hunt.
Can I play anywhere in Madison?
Yes, the hunt is designed to be played anywhere of your choosing within Madison, offering great flexibility.
What are the opening hours?
The activity is available from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday through Sunday, from late November through the end of December.
Is this activity suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s a private activity, so only your group will take part.
What if I need help during the hunt?
You can access a remote guide via the app’s chat feature for assistance with clues or challenges.
To sum it up, if you’re after a fun, budget-friendly way to experience Madison during the holidays that combines a bit of adventure with festive cheer, the Holly Jolly Hunt offers a memorable and engaging option. Whether you’re with family, friends, or coworkers, it’s a cheerful way to make your season special.