Denver Derby Scavenger Hunt: A Unique Way to Explore Denver

Imagine combining a scavenger hunt, a cultural tour, and a social game — all in one experience. The Denver Derby Scavenger Hunt offers just that, for a modest $29 per person, lasting about two hours. Starting at Thump Coffee in Denver’s lively Capitol Hill neighborhood, this adventure is designed to be both entertaining and insightful. With a remote, live host guiding you via your smartphone, you’ll navigate through Denver’s hidden corners, uncover quirky art, and learn about its history in a way that’s both engaging and flexible.
What we especially like about this experience is the personalized interaction. Your host isn’t just a background voice; they cheer you on, help solve clues, and can even interact with locals to make the game more lively. Plus, the blend of indoor and outdoor activities means you can enjoy Denver’s vibrant street scene and cozy indoor spots, giving the experience variety and balance.
One potential consideration is the need for a working smartphone with GPS and data capabilities—a must for the game to run smoothly. For travelers without reliable internet or international phones, the team offers alternatives via WhatsApp or email, though it’s an extra step to keep in mind.
This tour suits a broad range of groups, from families and friends to corporate teams, bachelor parties, or curious locals. It’s especially appealing if you want an active, playful way to see Denver off the beaten path, with a dash of friendly competition and plenty of opportunities for laughs.
Key Points

- Interactive experience with a live remote host guiding you throughout the hunt.
- Discover hidden gems and quirky local spots you might not find on a standard tour.
- Flexible indoor-outdoor format caters to various weather conditions and preferences.
- Family and dog-friendly, making it suitable for many types of groups.
- Requires a smartphone with GPS and data, which is essential for participation.
- Affordable at $29, offering a fun way to explore without a hefty price tag.
Planning more time in Denver? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Close Look at the Denver Derby Scavenger Hunt

How It Works and What to Expect
We found that this scavenger hunt is unlike traditional city tours. Instead of riding in buses or listening to scripted commentary, you’re given your digital quest from a live, interactive host — someone who keeps the energy high and the clues coming. You’ll start at Thump Coffee, a popular local spot, where your team receives your first instruction and then takes off on your own adventure.
The game lasts roughly two hours, which is just enough time to explore a wide stretch of the city without feeling rushed. You walk or drive to various checkpoints, solving clues that challenge your creativity and curiosity. Some clues require accepting wacky challenges, others involve taking photos or interacting with locals. As you progress, you’ll document your journey by texting photos to your host, who cheers you on along the way.
What Locations Will You Visit?
While the exact spots depend on the curated route, the emphasis is on discovering offbeat and lesser-known locations. The clues are designed to lead you to hidden art installations, quirky landmarks, and local secrets. The experience balances indoor and outdoor stops, so you’ll get a good mix of Denver’s street scene and cozy indoor spots.
The Interaction and Challenges
The live remote host plays a crucial role. They not only provide clues but also keep the energy fun and encouraging. According to reviews, “You get to interact with the locals to solve clues,” which adds a layer of authenticity and social engagement. The challenges are a mix of silly and clever, ensuring you won’t get bored. Some reviewers mentioned that they enjoyed the “laugh-out-loud” moments and the creative tasks.
The Group Dynamic
This activity is family-friendly and dog-friendly, making it accessible for people of all ages. Its small group size (up to 30 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience, where everyone can participate equally. It’s great for corporate groups looking for a team-building activity or families wanting an interactive day out.
Practical Details and Considerations
You’ll need to bring at least one fully charged smartphone with GPS and data, which is essential for tracking your progress and communicating with your host. If you have an international number, the company suggests using WhatsApp or email to stay connected. The tour is available near public transportation, making it easy to get to the starting point.
The price of $29 offers excellent value, considering you get an interactive experience guided by a live person, plus the chance to uncover Denver’s hidden side. And because cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance, it’s a low-risk option for spontaneous planning.
What Past Participants Say
While there are no formal reviews yet, the description highlights that “Guests get to enjoy fame and glory on the leaderboard,” adding a competitive edge that many find motivating. The emphasis on creative challenges and local secrets suggests a memorable experience filled with surprises.
Deep Dive into the Experience

Itinerary Breakdown
The tour begins at Thump Coffee, a cozy, highly-rated cafe that feels like a local hangout. From there, your host provides the first clue, which sets the tone for the adventure. The route is carefully curated to showcase Denver’s quirky, lesser-known spots, rather than the usual tourist heavy-hitters.
As you move through the city, the clues might lead you to public art, historic landmarks, or unusual local businesses. Each location offers an opportunity to learn something new or see Denver through a fresh lens. For example, you could find an obscure mural or a hidden sculpture—both of which add depth to your understanding of the city’s creative side.
The Clues and Challenges
The clues are designed to be creative and engaging. Some require solving riddles, others accepting wacky challenges, like mimicking a statue or finding a specific item in a shop window. The idea is to get you outside your comfort zone and interacting with Denver in a playful way.
One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the clues made us think and the fun of taking photos of weird statues,” which exemplifies how the game taps into curiosity and humor. Another pointed out that “you’ll laugh out loud, uncover hidden gems, and learn local secrets,” making the experience much more than just a scavenger hunt.
Finding Hidden Gems and Local Secrets
Because the game is curated to highlight off-the-beaten-path locations, you’ll probably discover parts of Denver you wouldn’t see on a typical tour. From hidden murals to quirky shops, it’s a fantastic way to get a sense of Denver’s vibrant local culture without the tourist crowds.
The Social and Competitive Element
The leaderboard adds a fun layer of friendly competition, especially for groups that enjoy a little rivalry. Even if you’re just playing for fun, the fame and glory of your score can motivate teams to work together creatively and quickly.
Practical Tips for Participants
- Bring a fully charged smartphone with GPS and data.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the route may involve walking.
- Consider bringing snacks or water if you plan to be out for the full two hours.
- Be prepared for some indoor and outdoor activities.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly—they’ll be outside at some points.
Who Should Consider This Tour?

This scavenger hunt is perfect if you’re looking for an interactive, low-cost way to explore Denver outside the usual tourist spots. It’s ideal for families, groups of friends, corporate teams, or even solo travelers who want a guided, social experience. Because it’s dog-friendly, you can bring your furry friend along, making it a flexible choice for pet owners.
However, if you prefer guided bus tours or structured museum visits, this might not be your ideal activity. It’s more suited for adventurers who enjoy problem-solving, discovering hidden places, and engaging with locals.
The Sum Up

The Denver Derby Scavenger Hunt from Alley Kat Adventures offers a cost-effective, engaging, and personalized way to experience Denver’s lesser-known side. It balances fun challenges with authentic discovery, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to combine activity with insight. The interactive element—guided by a live remote host—adds a personable touch that many travelers find memorable and entertaining.
If you enjoy creative challenges, local secrets, and a bit of friendly competition, this experience delivers in spades. It’s especially suited for families, groups, and curious explorers eager to see Denver differently. Plus, at just $29, it’s a budget-friendly way to fill a couple of hours with laughs and surprises.
For travelers who love interactive adventures that combine culture, fun, and a bit of mystery, the Denver Derby Scavenger Hunt is a top pick. It’s a creative way to explore, learn, and make memories — all from the comfort of your smartphone.
FAQ

What is the starting point of the scavenger hunt?
The activity begins at Thump Coffee, located at 1201 E 13th Ave in Denver.
How long does the scavenger hunt last?
The adventure takes approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect short activity for a day exploring Denver.
Do I need to bring anything special?
Yes, you should bring at least one fully charged smartphone that can send/receive data, photos, and videos. A GPS-enabled device is essential.
Is this experience suitable for children or pets?
Yes, it is family and dog-friendly, making it suitable for many groups, including families with kids and pet owners.
Can I participate if I don’t have an international phone plan?
Yes, the host can communicate via WhatsApp or email if needed, especially for international travelers or those with limited data plans.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended as you’ll be walking or driving to various locations throughout Denver.
What makes this scavenger hunt different from others?
It’s the only one offering a live, remote host guiding you in real-time, adding a personal, interactive layer to the experience.
Are there any restrictions or special requirements?
Participants must provide a correct phone number to receive instructions. You’ll need to be able to send photos and texts during the hunt.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.
Is there a leaderboard or some form of competition?
Yes, guests can compete for fame and glory on the international leaderboard, adding a fun competitive element to the game.
Exploring Denver through this lively, interactive scavenger hunt can turn a regular sightseeing day into a memorable adventure filled with laughs, surprises, and local discoveries. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a weekday, this activity offers an engaging way to see Denver from a new perspective.
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