Des Moines Dash Scavenger Hunt

Exploring Des Moines has never been more engaging than with the Des Moines Dash Scavenger Hunt. Priced at $29 per person, this 2-hour activity offers a playful way to uncover the city’s hidden spots, combining outdoor exploration with interactive challenges. The tour starts at Daisy Chain Coffee and uses smartphones to guide participants through a series of checkpoints, puzzles, and challenges, all while enjoying the city’s vibrant atmosphere. It’s designed to be family-friendly and dog-friendly, making it accessible for a wide range of participants.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is its gamified style, where groups collect points and compete to climb the leaderboard. Guided remotely by a live host, participants document their progress with photos and videos, making every step both fun and memorable. While the activity doesn’t feature riddles or puzzles—some may find that aspect less challenging—it still offers a lively, interactive way to explore Des Moines’ local secrets, ideal for travelers, locals, corporate groups, and special occasions.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $29 per person and lasts approximately 2 hours.
• Start Point: The adventure begins at Daisy Chain Coffee, located at 505 E Grand Ave #104.
• Format: A mobile, scavenger-hunt style activity guided remotely via smartphone.
• Indoor and outdoor exploration: Participants visit curated locations inside and outside the city.
• Activities include: Solving clues, completing challenges, taking photos, and engaging with locals.
• Group size: Limited to 30 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

The Unique Setup of the Des Moines Dash

This tour stands out because of its digital, gamified approach. Once you download the game through your smartphone, your remote guide provides the ground rules and digital quest. The interactive process involves walking or driving to various checkpoints, with local interaction and photo documentation playing a key role. The guided remote host follows your progress, cheering you on and offering assistance along the way.

The activity’s flexible design allows participants to explore indoor attractions as well as outdoor landmarks**. The focus is on curated locations, carefully chosen to showcase Des Moines’ character. This setup suits groups looking for an active, engaging, and flexible way to learn about the city’s secrets without being tied to a fixed itinerary.

Exploring Des Moines’ Indoor and Outdoor Highlights

The tour takes participants through a variety of locations that highlight Des Moines’ local flavor. Starting at a popular scenic spot, the journey moves across both indoor venues and outdoor spaces. The checkpoints are designed to be fun, with some challenges requiring players to talk to locals or accept wacky tasks.

While the specific locations aren’t listed, the activity’s curated stops aim to uncover hidden gems and local secrets. Participants can expect to cross off points on their digital map, gaining points for completing challenges. The mix of indoor and outdoor sites keeps the pace lively and varied, making it suitable rain or shine.

The Role of the Remote Guide and Digital Quest

Participants receive their digital quest from a live, remote guide who explains the ground rules and provides clues. This interactive element creates a sense of connection, despite the remote setup. The guide remains accessible via text messages, photo sharing, and video to support teams during the hunt.

The cheering and assistance from the remote guide add a personal touch, making the experience feel more engaging. Participants document their progress by texting photos and sharing videos, which helps to create a fun, collaborative environment. This setup is especially convenient for those who prefer an independent exploration with some guidance.

Family and Dog Friendly Features

This scavenger hunt is designed to be family-friendly and dog-friendly, allowing participants of all ages and those with pets to join in. The activity’s alternation between indoor and outdoor elements offers a balanced experience, providing opportunities for rest and play. The wacky challenges and photo documentation are accessible to children, making it ideal for family outings or group celebrations.

Since you can drive between checkpoints, it’s also suitable for those who prefer a less strenuous pace or have mobility considerations. The activity’s flexible nature ensures everyone can enjoy discovering Des Moines’ local scene at their own pace.

Practical Logistics: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour begins at Daisy Chain Coffee, located at 505 E Grand Ave in Des Moines. Participants should bring a fully charged smartphone with GPS, capable of sending photos, videos, and text messages. The service animals are allowed, and the activity is near public transportation, easing access for most visitors.

The group is capped at 30 travelers, maintaining a manageable and personalized experience. Booking in advance is recommended, with an average booking window of 14 days. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the activity, providing flexibility in case plans change.

The Experience from a Review Perspective

While the tour is generally well-received, some note that it lacks riddles or puzzles, focusing more on list-checking and location visits. The guidance by a knowledgeable remote host is praised, helping keep the activity lively and interactive. Reviewers appreciate the curated locations and local interaction, which add authenticity and fun.

This activity suits those looking for a casual, engaging exploration rather than a challenging puzzle hunt. Families or groups seeking a lighthearted city adventure will find this tour a worthwhile way to enjoy Des Moines.

The Value and Suitability of the Des Moines Dash

At $29 per person for a 2-hour activity, this scavenger hunt offers good value for a flexible and fun way to see Des Moines. The digital, self-guided format allows for a personalized pace, making it suitable for travelers, locals, and groups celebrating special occasions.

The activity’s main strength lies in its interactive, team-based approach and the opportunity to uncover local secrets with minimal planning. It’s a relaxing yet engaging way to explore new parts of the city, with the added benefit of remote guidance.

Final Thoughts on the Des Moines Dash Scavenger Hunt

The Des Moines Dash offers a unique, tech-savvy way to discover Des Moines’ lesser-known spots. The interactive remote guide makes the experience feel personal, and the indoor/outdoor format suits all weather conditions. Its affordable price and flexible timing make it accessible for a variety of groups.

While some might wish for more puzzle-like challenges, the focus on self-led exploration and local interaction still makes this activity enjoyable and memorable. It’s especially perfect for families, groups of friends, corporate teams, or anyone interested in a laid-back city adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this scavenger hunt suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed to be family-friendly and includes wacky challenges that children can participate in comfortably.

Can I bring my dog?
Absolutely, the tour is dog-friendly, allowing participants to bring their pets along.

What equipment do I need?
You must bring a fully charged smartphone capable of GPS, sending photos, videos, and messages.

Where does the tour start?
The activity begins at Daisy Chain Coffee, located at 505 E Grand Ave #104.

How long in advance should I book?
Booking is typically made about two weeks in advance, with an average of 14 days ahead.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour accommodates up to 30 travelers.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled start time.

Are there any challenges or riddles involved?
No, the activity mainly involves visiting locations and completing fun challenges, not solving riddles or puzzles.