Imagine exploring the charming streets of Ann Arbor, hunting for holiday-themed items, and sharing laughs with friends, family, or colleagues—all for just $20 a group. This is what you get with Holly Jolly Hunt, an app-based holiday scavenger hunt that turns your favorite city into a winter playground. Starting at 201 S Main St, this activity is designed to be flexible, letting you choose your route and timing within Ann Arbor’s festive season—available from late November to the end of December.
What we love about this experience is its casual, inclusive vibe—you don’t need special transportation or fancy equipment, just a smartphone and a sense of adventure. The hunt encourages creativity with fun challenges and photo opportunities, which are guaranteed to produce smiles and lasting memories. Plus, the leaderboard system pushes friendly competition, making it perfect for groups who enjoy a little bit of rivalry along with holiday cheer.
A potential consideration? Since it’s a remote, app-based activity, it relies on your device’s internet connection and your ability to navigate using your own transportation. If you prefer guided tours with a lot of structure, this might feel a bit loose. It’s best suited for those who enjoy exploring at their own pace and love the idea of customizing their holiday experience.
This experience is ideal for families, friends, or even co-workers looking for a light-hearted, interactive way to soak in the holiday spirit. If you’re seeking something different from a traditional sightseeing tour—something that combines exploration, laughter, and a touch of friendly competition—Holly Jolly Hunt could be just the ticket.
Key Points

- Flexible, self-guided activity in Ann Arbor with a focus on holiday items and challenges
- Cost-effective at $20 per group, suitable for up to 10 players
- Includes access to a remote guide via chat for support during the hunt
- Duration of approximately 1 hour, making it a quick yet memorable experience
- No included transportation, so you’ll need your own vehicle or walk between stops
- Perfect for families, friends, or co-workers wanting a fun seasonal activity
An Overview of What to Expect
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When you sign up for Holly Jolly Hunt, you’re in for a playful, holiday-themed adventure that you can tailor to your schedule. It’s a mobile app-based scavenger hunt—meaning you’ll download the app, form a team, and then start exploring. The activity is designed to be playable anywhere in Ann Arbor, giving you the flexibility to select your route and pace.
Starting at 201 S Main St, an easily accessible location in downtown Ann Arbor, the activity ends back at your start point, making it convenient for those who prefer a circular route. The activity is open from late November through December, aligning with the holiday season, and runs Tuesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM.
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Why We Think This Is a Great Holiday Activity
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First, it’s interactive and engaging. Instead of passively watching holiday displays or attending a crowded event, you’re actively hunting for items, taking photos, and completing challenges. These tasks bring out creativity—whether it’s finding a traditional ornament or snapping a goofy holiday selfie. We love that it encourages teamwork and creates a lively, festive atmosphere.
Second, the cost is quite reasonable. At only $20 per group, you get a fun hour of entertainment, digital support, and the chance to compete against other teams on the leaderboard. This makes it accessible for families, small groups, or even work teams looking for a quick, affordable holiday activity.
A Closer Look at the Itinerary
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The itinerary is straightforward but packed with opportunities for discovery. You might find yourself searching for classic holiday symbols, like wreaths and Santa hats, but also exploring less traditional items—perhaps quirky decorations or local landmarks dressed up for the season. The app prompts you with tasks such as taking photos from specific angles or performing holiday challenges that are designed to generate laughter.
Since the activity is self-guided, you control your pace. Some groups might spend more time at a particular stop if they find something interesting or want to get a great photo. The leaderboard adds a competitive element, encouraging you to be quick and creative to earn the highest score.
The Support and Convenience
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You’ll appreciate that access to a remote guide via chat is included. If you get lost or need a hint, help is just a message away. This ensures you won’t feel stranded if technology or directions become tricky, making it accessible even for first-time scavenger hunters.
However, keep in mind that the activity requires your own smartphone and your own transportation. It’s not a guided bus tour or walking tour with a physical guide, so you need to be comfortable navigating around the city on your own or with your group.
What the Reviews Say (Based on Available Feedback)
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Though there are no formal reviews yet, the enthusiasm conveyed in the description hints at a positive experience. The activity promises lasting holiday memories and laughter-filled moments, which many travelers value during the busy season. The fact that it’s private, only your group participates ensures a personalized experience that suits your pace and interests.
Who Will Love This?
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This scavenger hunt is perfect for small groups eager to combine exploration with fun. It’s well-suited for those looking for an activity that’s light, flexible, and interactive. If you enjoy photo challenges or friendly competition, you’ll find this a delightful way to see Ann Arbor’s seasonal sights in a new light. It’s especially practical because it requires minimal planning—just book, download the app, and go.
Analyzing the Value
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At $20 for approximately an hour, you’re getting a lively, engaging activity that offers more than just sightseeing—it’s about creating fun stories and holiday memories. The inclusion of a remote guide boosts confidence, and the flexibility means you can adapt the experience to your own schedule.
While not for those seeking a guided tour with historical commentary, it’s an excellent choice if you want something informal, inexpensive, and memorable. If you’re traveling with children, family, or a small team, the activity encourages participation from all ages, especially with its playful challenges.
The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?
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In essence, Holly Jolly Hunt offers a joyful, budget-friendly way to celebrate the season in Ann Arbor. It’s a good fit for families, groups of friends, or co-workers who want to enjoy a lively, interactive activity that doesn’t require a lot of commitment. If you love exploring cities on your own terms, prefer light-hearted fun over structured tours, and want to capture holiday memories with photos and challenges, this scavenger hunt delivers.
It’s particularly appealing during the holiday season, when the city’s decorations, festive spirit, and fun challenges come together for an experience that’s as memorable as it is affordable. Just remember: it’s self-guided, so be prepared to navigate and have your smartphone charged and ready!
FAQ
Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, since it involves fun challenges and photo-taking, children can enjoy it, especially with family. The activity is flexible enough for all ages.
How long does the scavenger hunt last?
It’s designed to take about 1 hour, making it a quick but enjoyable addition to your holiday plans.
Do I need transportation to participate?
You will need your own transportation—walking, biking, or driving—since the activity does not include transportation. You can choose your route.
Can I do this activity alone?
While it’s designed for groups up to 10, solo travelers can participate too, especially if they enjoy a bit of friendly competition with themselves or just want to explore.
What is included in the price?
Your fee covers all scavenger hunt activities, access to a remote guide via chat, all taxes and fees, and the use of the app. You will need your own smartphone.
Are there any restrictions or special considerations?
Service animals are allowed, and the activity is near public transportation. Most travelers can participate, but ensure your group is comfortable with using a smartphone and navigating independently.
What should I bring?
Just your smartphone charged, comfortable shoes, and a sense of holiday cheer. No additional equipment is necessary.
Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover Ann Arbor or a visitor wanting a playful holiday activity, Holly Jolly Hunt promises a lively, memorable adventure. It’s a lovely way to add some lighthearted fun to your holiday season, all while exploring and engaging with the city in a new way.
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