Explore Des Moines with a Unique Scavenger Hunt by Operation City Quest

Exploring Des Moines has never been more interactive and affordable than with the Operation City Quest scavenger hunt. Priced at only $10.00 per person and lasting around 2 hours, this activity offers a fresh way to see the city using your smartphone. The tour starts at 221 Walnut St, and participants enjoy the convenience of a mobile ticket, making it easy to begin whenever it suits within the hours of 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday through Sunday.

While this experience is designed to be fun and flexible, it does come with some limitations. For example, it does not include private transportation or the use of your own smartphone—meaning you’ll need a compatible device to participate. The activity is best suited for those who enjoy self-guided adventures with a social twist, and it offers the benefit of a remote host available via chat for assistance.

Key Points

• Affordable and flexible: Only $10 for roughly 2 hours of city exploration
• Use your smartphone: The scavenger hunt is run through an app, with a remote host available
• Explore Des Moines at your own pace: Choose the order of stops and complete challenges as you wish
• Includes all activities and GST: No hidden costs within the price
• Limited physical requirements: Most travelers can participate, but you need your own device and transportation
• Unique rankings feature: See how your score compares to other teams across the country

How Operation City Quest Works in Des Moines

The Operation City Quest scavenger hunt in Des Moines is a self-directed activity that combines technology and local exploration. Using the app, participants receive clues and challenges that lead them to various city landmarks and interesting spots. The remote guide provides assistance via chat, creating a supportive experience without the need for a physical guide.

Once the activity begins at 221 Walnut St, you’re free to navigate Des Moines in any order. The app prompts you to find items, photograph specific objects or scenes, and complete fun challenges. You earn points for each task, and the ranking feature lets you see how your score stacks up against others nationwide.

This format makes it ideal for independent groups, families, or small parties who enjoy a personalized, game-like exploration of the city. Since the tour does not include transportation, participants should plan to walk or use their own means to move between locations.

Starting Point and Meeting Details in Downtown Des Moines

The journey begins at the designated meeting point: 221 Walnut St. This central location is near public transportation, making it easy to access from different parts of the city. The activity ends at the same spot where it begins, which simplifies logistics for participants.

The hours of operation are flexible within the window of 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday through Sunday, giving plenty of room for scheduling. Since the activity does not require a guide on-site and is private for your group, it’s perfect for those wanting a tailored experience with friends, family, or small teams.

What Makes This Scavenger Hunt Unique in Des Moines

Unlike traditional city tours, this activity emphasizes independent exploration paired with interactive challenges. The app-based format means you can choose your own path, making each experience different. The remote host is available throughout to answer questions or offer hints, ensuring you stay engaged and on track.

Des Moines landmarks and points of interest are woven into the challenges, providing a lighthearted yet engaging way to learn about the city. The ranking system adds a competitive element, motivating participants to improve their scores and see how they compare to other players across the country.

This type of activity suits those who prefer flexible timing and self-paced exploration over guided tours, especially if they enjoy gamification and tech-driven adventures.

Practicalities and What’s Not Included

Participation requires your own smartphone, as this is a device-based activity. The tour does not include private transportation, so participants should plan to walk or use other means to move around Des Moines. The price covers all activities and taxes, with no additional charges.

The tour is accessible to most travelers and service animals are allowed, making it inclusive for many. The activity is suitable for most ages, but physical ability and access to a device are important considerations.

Since the experience is private, only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized and relaxed pace. The activity’s flexibility makes it possible to customize your route within the available timeframe.

Experience Provider and Booking Details

This scavenger hunt is offered by Operation City Quest Scavenger Hunts, a provider specializing in interactive city exploration activities. Confirmation is provided immediately upon booking, and the full refund policy allows cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

The activity’s long availability window—from May 15, 2020, to July 29, 2026—means it’s a reliable choice for planning visits or local outings in Des Moines.

Limitations and Honest Considerations

While engaging and budget-friendly, the activity receives only a 1-star rating based on one review, indicating potential issues or dissatisfaction. The main concerns revolve around the experience, which may include limitations in guide interaction or app functionality.

Participants should also be aware that no physical guide on the ground accompanies the tour, so self-motivation and familiarity with using apps are important. Since the review is limited, prospective users might want to weigh this against other experiences.

Who Will Enjoy This Des Moines Scavenger Hunt?

This activity is best suited for tech-savvy travelers, families, or groups looking for an affordable and flexible way to explore Des Moines. It fits those who enjoy self-guided adventures and are comfortable with using a smartphone for navigation and challenges.

Since most of the experience hinges on the app and remote support, it’s ideal for independent explorers rather than those seeking a guided, in-depth tour with historical narration.

Final Thoughts on Operation City Quest in Des Moines

The $10 price point offers a cost-effective way to see Des Moines in a fun, interactive manner. The 2-hour duration makes it a quick activity that can fit into a day’s itinerary. Its self-paced format and remote guide support make it adaptable but require a bit of independence.

While the limited review score raises some questions, the core concept remains appealing for adventure-minded visitors willing to navigate the city with a smartphone. It’s a good choice for families, small groups, or solo explorers who enjoy gamified sightseeing.

For those who prioritize flexibility, affordability, and a tech-forward approach to city exploration, this scavenger hunt offers a memorable and engaging experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a private guide included in the activity?
No, the activity is self-guided with a remote host available via chat. There is no on-site guide present.

What’s the cost of participation?
The price is $10.00 per person, covering all activities and taxes.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately 2 hours, but you can complete it at your own pace within the operating hours.

Do I need my own smartphone?
Yes, participants need to use their own smartphone to access the app and complete challenges.

Can I start the activity at any time?
Yes, it is available Tuesday through Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with confirmation provided at booking.

Are there any physical or accessibility requirements?
Most travelers can participate, but some mobility or device access is necessary. Service animals are permitted.

What makes this scavenger hunt different?
The app-based challenges, remote guide support, and ranking system set it apart from traditional walking tours by offering flexibility and gamification.

Is transportation included?
No, participants must arrange their own transportation since it does not include private transit.

What should I consider before booking?
Check your device compatibility and ensure readiness to navigate Des Moines independently. Remember, the review score is low, so consider additional reviews or alternative activities if needed.

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