Salt Lake City Scavenger Hunt by Operation City Quest offers a playful way to see the city while having fun with friends or family. Priced at just $10 per person, this experience lasts around two hours and provides a private, app-guided adventure through some of Salt Lake’s most interesting spots. It’s the kind of activity that suits groups looking for something different—whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable way to explore.
One of the best things about this scavenger hunt is its flexibility. You get to decide the order in which you explore, making it a personalized experience. Plus, with a remote guide available via chat, you’re never truly alone if you get stuck. We also appreciate how easy it is to book in advance – just a quick online process that fits neatly into a busy schedule.
A potential downside? Since the experience relies on your smartphone and app, travelers who aren’t comfortable with digital tools might find it a bit challenging. Also, transportation isn’t provided, so you’ll want to plan how you’ll get from one stop to the next.
This activity is ideal for groups of friends, families, bachelor or bachelorette parties—anyone who enjoys a mix of sightseeing, fun challenges, and a little friendly competition. If you’re after an inexpensive way to see Salt Lake City while having a good laugh, this could be just the ticket.
Key Points

- Affordable at $10 per person, offering good value for a two-hour activity.
- Private experience perfect for groups, ensuring personalized interaction.
- Flexible route allows exploring in any order, creating a custom adventure.
- Remote guide support helps keep the game fun and stress-free.
- Ideal for social groups like families, friends, or celebratory gatherings.
- Requires a smartphone and some digital comfort, no transportation included.
Exploring Salt Lake City through a Fun, App-Based Scavenger Hunt

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy Salt Lake City that combines sightseeing with a bit of playful competition, the Operation City Quest scavenger hunt could be just what you need. Unlike typical tours, this experience puts you in charge. You navigate around the downtown area using a smartphone app that presents riddles and challenges related to local sights. This approach turns sightseeing into a game, making it especially appealing for groups who want to blend exploration with entertainment.
The start point at Gallivan Center is central and easy to reach, whether you’re arriving by public transit or on foot. Once you’ve checked in, the app kicks off your adventure, giving you a list of objects to find, each described through a puzzle or riddle. You’re free to explore in any order, which means you can tailor your route based on interests or time constraints. As you find each object, you snap a photo via the app to score points, turning the hunt into a friendly competition.
A feature we really appreciate is the remote guide. If you’re stumped or need hints, you can chat with your guide, which helps keep the fun flowing and prevents frustration. This personal touch makes the experience accessible even for those who may not be familiar with the city or who aren’t confident in their navigational skills.
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The Route and Key Stops
While the specifics of each object are not detailed in the tour description, you can expect to see some of Salt Lake City’s most notable sights. The downtown area, with its mix of historic buildings, public art, and lively streets, provides a vibrant backdrop for your scavenger hunt. The challenges might include snapping a “crazy photo,” performing a quick challenge, or solving a riddle about a local landmark.
Because the activity lasts about two hours, it’s a great way to see a lot without feeling rushed. Plus, since you get to choose the order of your stops, you can prioritize the sights that interest your group most—whether that’s the historic Temple Square or the bustling City Creek Center nearby.
What’s Unique?
This experience’s personalized, private nature is a big plus. It’s specifically designed for just your group, so you won’t have to share the adventure with strangers. The two-hour duration makes it manageable for most schedules, and the fact that it’s booked well in advance (average 62 days ahead) speaks to its popularity.
Value for Money
At only $10 per person, it’s an inexpensive way to add an interactive element to your Salt Lake City trip. Compared to traditional guided tours, this activity offers a cost-effective option that combines casual sightseeing with lighthearted fun. Plus, since all activities are included and you only need your smartphone, it’s straightforward and budget-friendly.
The Experience from the Traveler’s Perspective
One reviewer mentioned that the guides are knowledgeable and helpful, which adds a layer of confidence to the game. Another noted that it’s perfect for those who want “to explore but also have fun,” making it a great choice for groups celebrating a bachelor or bachelorette party or just looking for a memorable outing.
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Who Should Consider This?

This scavenger hunt is best suited for groups of friends or families wanting a relaxed, engaging way to see the city. It’s also excellent for budget-conscious travelers who prefer a self-paced activity over more expensive tours. If you enjoy interactive challenges and don’t mind using your smartphone, you’ll find this a delightful way to explore Salt Lake City.
Practical Details
- Meeting Point: Gallivan Center, 50 E 200 S, Salt Lake City.
- Duration: Approx. 2 hours.
- Price: $10.00 per person.
- Booking: Book in advance, typically 62 days ahead.
- Availability: Tuesday through Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Includes: All activities, GST, and a 2-hour remote guide.
- Not Included: Smartphone use (your own is needed) and transportation.
- Accessibility: Service animals allowed; near public transit.
FAQs

Can I book this experience last minute?
Booking is recommended in advance, ideally a couple of months ahead, as it’s popular. Last-minute bookings might be possible if spots are available, but planning ahead ensures availability.
Is this activity suitable for children or teenagers?
Yes, the game is family-friendly, and since it involves fun challenges and photo-taking, it appeals to a broad age range. Just make sure everyone has a smartphone.
Will I need transportation to move between sites?
Transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to walk or arrange your own transport between stops. Salt Lake City’s downtown area is quite walkable.
What if I get stuck on a challenge?
Your remote guide is just a chat away to help out if you find yourself stumped, ensuring you keep the fun going without frustration.
Is the experience primarily about sightseeing or competition?
It’s a blend. You’ll see some sights, but the focus is on having fun, solving riddles, and capturing silly photos, making it more playful than a standard tour.
Can I choose the route?
Yes, you decide the order of stops, giving you control over what you see and how long you spend in certain areas.
Is there a refund policy?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the activity. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t refunded.
To sum it up, this Salt Lake City scavenger hunt offers a lively, affordable, and customizable way to see the city’s highlights with friends or family. Its blend of self-guided exploration, fun challenges, and supportive guides makes it a memorable activity that balances sightseeing with entertainment. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy using their smartphones and want a more relaxed, interactive experience than traditional tours. If you’re after a lighthearted adventure that won’t break the bank, this activity should be high on your list.
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