Discover Mechelen while escaping the zombies! Escape room offers an unusual way to see Belgium’s charming city through a playful, puzzle-driven adventure. For $23, you get roughly two hours of exploring Mechelen’s streets with a team of friends or family, guided by a mobile app that turns your walk into a game. The activity promises an adrenaline rush as you try to escape virtual zombies while uncovering hidden corners and secrets of the city.
What we love most about this experience is how it encourages you to really look at your surroundings—an engaging way to learn about Mechelen’s architecture and history, especially when guided by challenges that require attention to detail. The inclusion of online support and a photo summary at the end adds value, making it more than just a walk. Also, the flexible hours—running from midday to late evening—mean you can fit this into most days.
However, it’s worth noting that some guests found the puzzles and clues slightly confusing or mismatched with the locations, which can dampen the fun if you’re expecting a seamless experience. The activity works best for those who enjoy puzzle games and are comfortable with a bit of uncertainty. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a more interactive, memorable way to discover Mechelen beyond traditional sightseeing.
This tour is ideal for families, groups of friends, or adventurous solo travelers who enjoy games, riddles, and exploring at a relaxed pace. If you’re after a straightforward city walk or a highly polished escape room, this might not be your best choice. But if you like a blend of discovery and challenge, this could be a memorable addition to your trip.
Key Points
- Unique combination of sightseeing and puzzle-solving in Mechelen
- Affordable price with two hours of interactive fun
- Good for families and friends looking for an engaging, team activity
- Flexible hours allow for visits at your convenience
- Some puzzles may be confusing or mismatched with locations
- Includes online support and a photo summary for lasting memories
Exploring Mechelen with a Zombie Twist: The Details
When you choose the Discover Mechelen while escaping the zombies! activity, you’re signing up for an experience that blends city exploration with a game of wits. Guided by your smartphone, you’ll walk through the historic streets of Mechelen, a city known for its medieval architecture, vibrant town square, and stunning churches. The game turns this charming scene into a virtual battleground against zombies, with your mission to escape before the undead catch you.
This activity lasts approximately two hours, which is a perfect length to keep it lively without feeling rushed or overly drawn out. The price of $23 makes it an accessible option for most travelers seeking something out of the ordinary.
Planning more time in Mechelen? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary and Experience Breakdown
The game begins at the Melaan meeting point, conveniently located in the heart of Mechelen, close to public transportation options. From there, your smartphone becomes your guide, leading you through a series of puzzles and missions. These are designed to encourage you to observe your environment carefully, adding an element of mystery and discovery.
One of the more enjoyable aspects, as noted by a family reviewer, is how the game lets you see more of Mechelen’s beautiful sights that might be missed on a regular walk. During the search, you might find yourself admiring the intricate facades of buildings, discovering hidden alleyways, or even learning about local landmarks. It’s not just about escaping zombies; it’s about seeing the city through a new lens.
The Puzzle and Challenge Element
The puzzles are integrated into the city’s surroundings, prompting players to find clues in shops, statues, or architectural features. That said, some guests have mentioned that not all clues were perfectly aligned with their locations, making some puzzles feel disconnected or confusing. One reviewer commented, “the assignments were not clear,” which can be frustrating if you prefer seamless guidance. On the flipside, other players appreciated the hints as a useful tool to prevent getting stuck, emphasizing that the experience is flexible enough to accommodate different play styles.
The Support and Extras
An attractive feature is the 24/7 online support, which can be a lifesaver if you’re unsure about a puzzle. After completing the game, you’ll receive a photo summary of your adventure, providing a fun keepsake. The activity’s validity of up to three years means you can revisit or share the game with friends later on, making it a long-lasting memory.
Practical Considerations
Since the activity requires your own smartphone and sufficient battery life, travelers should plan accordingly. The meeting point is central, making it easy to join after arriving at Mechelen’s train station or other transportation hubs. The activity is private, ensuring your group’s experience remains intimate and personalized.
It’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included, so plan to eat before or after your game. Also, service animals are allowed, which is considerate for travelers with pets accompanying them.
Authentic Perspectives from Other Travelers
One reviewer found the walk “ok” but felt the puzzles lacked clarity and didn’t match their surroundings, which diminished their enjoyment. Contrastingly, another shared that they had a “very nice experience” with their grandson, discovering more of the city and gaining knowledge along the way. They even recommended the experience, highlighting its engaging nature and the opportunity to see Mechelen’s hidden gems.
A third traveler called it “voor herhaling vatbaar” (worthy of repeat), praising the leisurely walk and the helpful hints that kept them going when puzzles proved tricky. This suggests that, for some, the activity strikes a good balance between challenge and fun.
The Value and Who It’s Best For
At just $23, this game offers a cost-effective way to add adventure to your visit, especially if you’re interested in combining sightseeing with a fun, interactive challenge. The inclusion of online support and a photo summary boosts the perceived value, giving you tangible memories of your night battling zombies in Mechelen.
The experience works best for those who enjoy puzzle games, team activities, or immersive storytelling. It’s also suitable for families with children (like the reviewer with their grandson), or groups of friends who want to explore the city in a different way.
However, if puzzles aren’t your thing or you prefer a more straightforward sightseeing tour, this activity might not meet your expectations. Likewise, those who need a completely seamless experience may find the occasional puzzle mismatch disappointing.
Final Thoughts
Discover Mechelen while escaping the zombies! is a creative, playful approach to exploring a beautiful Belgian city. It combines interactive puzzles, scenic streets, and a bit of storytelling—making it a memorable outing for those who enjoy a challenge with their sightseeing. While it may not be perfect for everyone, especially if puzzles frustrate you, it offers enough charm and value to be worth considering.
If you’re traveling with family or friends and love a good game, this activity could be a highlight of your trip. It’s especially suitable if you want to see Mechelen differently—by solving riddles, hunting clues, and walking through historic streets—rather than just ticking off sights.
Ultimately, it’s a fun, budget-friendly way to add some excitement and a bit of mystery to your visit. Just remember to bring your phone fully charged, and perhaps a sense of humor for those puzzles that don’t quite fit!
FAQ
Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, it can be for children as young as 12, especially if they enjoy puzzles and outdoor adventures. Just consider their comfort with walking and reading clues.
What should I bring on the tour?
You’ll need your smartphone with a charged battery. No food or drinks are included, so plan to eat beforehand.
How long does the activity last?
It takes approximately two hours, making it manageable for most schedules.
What if I get stuck on a puzzle?
There’s online support available 24/7 to help you out if needed.
Can I do this activity anytime?
Yes, the activity runs daily from 12:00 PM to 11:30 PM, providing plenty of flexibility.
Is the activity private?
Yes, only your group participates, making for a personalized experience.
What does the game include?
The game includes a city tour guided by your smartphone, a photo summary at the end, and support if you need help.
How is the activity rated?
It has an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5 based on three reviews, with some guests praising the fun and scenic aspects, while others found puzzles less clear.