If you’re visiting the charming Swiss city of St. Gallen, and you’re craving a mix of sightseeing and adventure, then the Magic Portal Outdoor Escape Game might just be your next must-try activity. For $61 per person, you get about 2.5 hours of puzzle-solving, exploring, and a dash of magic that turns an ordinary walk through the city into a storybook quest. The game is designed for teams of 2-5 people, making it an excellent choice for family groups, friends, team-building events, or even bachelor parties.
What we particularly love about this experience is how it transforms a typical sightseeing walk into an interactive story, with magical equipment and iPads guiding you through the streets. The game’s twist—solving riddles and collecting crystals to close a portal—adds a sense of purpose and excitement that keeps everyone engaged. Plus, the final reward—a convivial aperitif at the bar—rounds out the adventure nicely. However, keep in mind that it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to its walking distance of about 2.3 km. If you’re looking for an active, family-friendly way to see St. Gallen, this game hits the spot.
This experience works best for those who enjoy puzzles, a bit of storytelling, and exploring new places with a purpose. It’s also perfect if you’re after a unique, team-oriented activity that offers a different perspective on the city’s streets and history.
Key Points
- Interactive outdoor experience blending sightseeing with puzzles
- Suitable for teams of 2-5, with larger groups possible
- Includes a final social element with an aperitif at the bar
- Approximately 2.3 km walk through St. Gallen’s city center
- Languages offered: English and German
- Not accessible for people with mobility issues
An In-Depth Look at the Magic Portal Outdoor Escape Game in St. Gallen
When it comes to enjoying a city like St. Gallen, which is known for its beautiful medieval architecture, lush streets, and vibrant culture, this game offers a fresh way to experience it. Instead of just walking around with a guide or a map, you’re handed an iPad and magical equipment that turn your stroll into a quest filled with puzzles and stories.
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The Itinerary and Experience
The tour begins at a designated starting point in the city, where your team receives your magical equipment and instructions. Over the next 120 minutes, you will explore the city’s streets, alleys, and squares, all while solving riddles related to St. Gallen’s history or mythical stories. The puzzles are designed to be accessible even for beginners or younger guests, making this a versatile choice.
What makes this activity particularly engaging is its narrative framework. You’re tasked with helping goblins, who have guarded portals for centuries, to collect magical crystals and close a threatening portal that’s unleashing monsters from another dimension. This storyline injects a fantasy element into the real-world sightseeing, making each puzzle feel like part of a larger adventure.
Highlights and Unique Features
- Discover magical stories as you hunt for crystals and unlock secrets hidden in the city.
- Compete in classic or duel mode for larger groups of four or more, adding a fun competitive edge.
- Large groups (up to 50 teams) can participate simultaneously, perfect for events or festivals.
- The walking distance of 2.3 km makes this a manageable and pleasant stroll through St. Gallen’s historic center.
- The game concludes with an aperitif at the bar, a nice social finish to the activity.
Authentic Feedback from Travelers
One traveler appreciated how the game “turned a sightseeing walk into a magical adventure,” making their visit far more memorable. Another highlighted the team competition aspect, saying, “We loved the challenge of racing against other teams,” which added an extra layer of fun.
Some noted that the activity is particularly suitable for those who enjoy puzzles and storytelling, rather than just sightseeing. It’s also described as great for groups looking for a flexible, private experience—the booking is for a private group, and you can reserve and pay later, providing travelers with peace of mind.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details and Tips
- Price: $61 per person, which includes puzzle materials (the iPad) and an aperitif.
- Duration: 2.5 hours, with a walking distance of about 2.3 km.
- Languages: Available in English and German.
- Group size: Designed for 2-5 players per team, but larger groups can be accommodated via custom routes.
- Age limit: Suitable for 16 and over or younger with an adult.
- What to bring: Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a charged smartphone.
Considerations
While the activity is a lot of fun and offers a dynamic way to see St. Gallen, it may not be suitable for guests with mobility impairments due to the walking involved. Also, as with any outdoor activity, bad weather could impact the experience, so check the forecast before booking.
Why We Think It’s a Good Choice
If you’re traveling with a group eager for a bit of fun and challenge, this game offers excellent value for money. It combines sightseeing, storytelling, and team-building into one package, making it well-suited for families, friends, and corporate groups. It’s a way to discover a city beyond the usual tourist spots, with the added thrill of solving mysteries.
Who Should Consider Going?
This activity is best suited for travelers who enjoy interactive experiences and puzzles, especially if exploring the city with a storyline appeals to you. It’s also ideal for groups wanting a private, flexible activity and those interested in social, atmospheric moments like the concluding aperitif. If you value active sightseeing combined with a narrative twist, this game will deliver.
FAQs
Is this outdoor activity suitable for children?
It is suitable for ages 16 and over, or younger if accompanied by an adult. The puzzles are accessible for beginners and younger guests, making it enjoyable for families with older children.
How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including the puzzle-solving and sightseeing. The actual walk is about 2.3 km in total.
What do I need to bring?
You should bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a charged smartphone. The game supplies an iPad and magical equipment.
Can I participate in larger groups?
Yes, larger groups—up to 50 teams—can participate simultaneously, with customizable routes and starting points available.
Is the activity accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the walking distance and outdoor nature make it unsuitable for people with mobility impairments.
What languages are available?
The game is offered in English and German.
The St. Gallen: Magic Portal Outdoor Escape Game offers a creative, engaging way to explore this historic Swiss city. It’s a blend of sightseeing, storytelling, and fun puzzles that appeal to a wide range of travelers, especially those seeking an active, social experience. With its competitive elements, customizable options, and a relaxed final social moment, it’s a well-rounded choice for groups eager to add a little magic to their visit. While it may not suit everyone, particularly those with mobility challenges, its value and originality make it a standout activity for most.
If you’re looking for something more interactive than a traditional walking tour or museum visit, and want to see St. Gallen from a fresh perspective, this game should be at the top of your list. It’s a chance to create memories, challenge yourselves, and enjoy Swiss hospitality—culminating in a pleasant aperitif to toast your adventure.
Enjoy your magical quest through St. Gallen, and may your team close the portal before the monsters emerge!
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