Experience a different way to see New Orleans with the Scavenger Hunt by Operation City Quest. For just $10 per person, you get about two hours of exploring with a mobile app guiding your adventure. Starting at 410 Royal Street, this activity lets you wander through the historic French Quarter, hunt for interesting sights, complete challenges, and snap photos — all at your own pace. It’s a playful, interactive way to see some of the city’s most iconic spots without the typical tour rush.
What we really like about this experience is how flexible it is — you choose your route, set your pace, and have the chance to see the city through a different lens. Plus, the app’s ranking feature adds a competitive edge, encouraging you to do your best while discovering hidden corners. Another highlight is the remote guide support, which makes the experience feel personalized and engaging.
On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this activity doesn’t include private transportation, so you’ll want to be comfortable walking or using public transit around the city. It’s also a solo or small-group activity, which might not suit travelers looking for a large-group experience or a traditional guided tour. Overall, it’s best suited for curious, independent travelers who enjoy a bit of friendly competition and aren’t afraid to explore at their own speed.
This scavenger hunt appeals most to travelers who want an affordable, interactive way to get acquainted with New Orleans’ sights and vibe. It’s perfect for those who love photo opportunities, enjoy light challenges, and want a flexible, fun activity that’s different from standard tours.
Key Points
- Affordable Fun: At $10 per person, it offers great value for an engaging 2-hour adventure.
- Flexible Exploration: You control the pace and route, making it adaptable to any schedule or interest.
- Photo Opportunities: Plenty of chances to take memorable photos of iconic sights and hidden gems.
- Interactive and Competitive: The app’s ranking system adds a playful challenge to your sightseeing.
- Remote Support: Assistance from a remote guide ensures you’re never truly lost or stuck.
- No Private Transport Included: Expect to walk or use public transit, which suits most but might be tiring for some.
A Detailed Look at the New Orleans Scavenger Hunt Experience

For broader city exploration in New Orleans, we've covered these other tours
How It Works: Self-Guided, App-Based Adventure
When you book this tour, your adventure begins with a simple download of the app on your phone. The operation is straightforward, and the app acts as your personal guide, giving clues and challenges as you explore the city’s streets. Unlike a traditional guided tour, you’re in charge of when and where to go next, which provides a sense of freedom and discovery.
The remote guide support is a notable feature. If you find yourself puzzled or needing help, a chat function connects you with a guide who can offer hints or directions. This keeps the experience smooth and encourages a feeling of being personally looked after, even if it’s a virtual connection.
The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do
Your starting point is the historic 410 Royal Street, a central location in the French Quarter. From there, the app prompts you to find various items and perform challenges — these could include spotting specific landmarks, discovering quirky storefronts, or even performing fun tasks like taking a selfie with a street performer.
Since the hunt is self-directed, you can spend as much or as little time at each stop as you like. The clues are designed to lead you around key areas of interest, and the app’s ranking system fosters a friendly competition among participants, whether you’re with friends or exploring solo.
Some of the photo opportunities thrown in include iconic sights like Jackson Square, historic facades, and lively street scenes. The challenges might also include finding lesser-known details that give the city its charm and character.
The City’s Sights and Hidden Corners
One of the joys of a scavenger hunt is uncovering spots you might not have visited on a typical tour. You could find yourself snapping photos of unique architectural details, discovering small courtyards, or even stumbling upon local artisans’ stalls. The flexibility allows you to linger in places that catch your interest or move quickly past those that don’t.
What the Reviews Say
Though there are no published reviews yet, the description hints at a satisfying experience for those who enjoy interactive, game-like activities. The fact that the activity is booked an average of 47 days in advance suggests it’s popular among travelers planning ahead, possibly to fit into a busy itinerary.
- Louisiana: Adults-Only Small-Group Ghost & Vampire Tour
- Alligator Swamp Tour by Gray Line New Orleans
- French Quarter Ghosts & Voodoo Mysteries of NOLA Revealed
- French Quarter Tour with Local Guide and Creole Stories
- From New Orleans: Destrehan Plantation Haunted Night Tour
- Culinary Crossroads A Triple Cuisine Food Tour
The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not
For just $10, you get two hours of guided, app-based exploration, including support from a remote host. There’s no private transportation included, so comfortable walking shoes and readiness to navigate the city on foot will serve you well. The activity is designed to be inclusive, with service animals allowed, and is suitable for most travelers who can walk comfortably.
The confirmation process is quick, and the experience is available during regular hours from Tuesday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., giving you flexibility in planning your day.
The Experience’s Value
Compared to traditional guided tours, this scavenger hunt offers great value — a low cost combined with an active, engaging experience. It’s ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing from a bus or a guide, but still crave some structure and guidance.
Who Will Love It?
This activity is perfect for independent explorers, small groups, or families with older children ready for a bit of adventure. It works well for those who appreciate a lighthearted challenge and enjoy photo-taking. If you’re traveling on a budget or simply want to try something different from the usual guided walks, this scavenger hunt could be just the ticket.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This scavenger hunt by Operation City Quest is a playful, budget-friendly way to discover New Orleans. It emphasizes flexibility, fun, and discovery, making it suitable for travelers who prefer to set their own pace and enjoy light competition. The inclusion of remote support means you’re never truly alone, and the chance to uncover hidden sights adds a layer of authenticity that many standard tours lack.
While it doesn’t include private transportation, that shouldn’t be an issue for most visitors prepared to walk or use public transit. With just a $10 entry fee, you’re getting two hours of interactive sightseeing that can be tailored to your interests.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable, engaging way to explore New Orleans’ vibrant streets — and don’t mind walking — this activity offers genuine value. It’s especially suited for curious, independent travelers who love photo opportunities and light challenges, or for families seeking a fun, interactive outing.
FAQ

Is this a guided tour with a live guide?
No, it’s a self-guided scavenger hunt accessed through an app, with optional support from a remote guide via chat.
How long does the activity last?
The activity lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at 410 Royal Street in the French Quarter, a central and easily accessible location.
Is transportation included?
No, private transportation is not included. Expect to walk or use public transit around the city.
Can I participate if I have a service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed.
What are the opening hours?
The activity is available Tuesday through Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Is this activity suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s a fun activity for families with children who enjoy light challenges and photo opportunities.
Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
To sum it up, this scavenger hunt offers an affordable, flexible, and engaging way to experience New Orleans beyond typical sightseeing. It’s ideal for independent travelers and groups who value discovery, photos, and a little friendly competition. Just pack your walking shoes, download the app, and be ready for a memorable, interactive adventure through one of America’s most vibrant cities.
More City Tours in New Orleans
- City Tour of New Orleans by Minibus
- New Orleans City Tour and Steamboat Natchez Harbor Jazz Cruise
- Private Transfer from New Orleans Port to New Orleans city
- Oak Alley Plantation and 3-Hour New Orleans City/Cemetery Tour
- New Orleans Small-Group City Tour by Van
- Sip History in the Crescent City Cocktail Making Class
More Tour Reviews in New Orleans
More New Orleans experiences we've covered
- Tastes of the Bend in New Orleans, Big Easy
- 2 Hour Guided Historical Walking Tour in Treme
- Full Day Plantation -N- Swamp Tour in New Orleans
- Destrehan Plantation Tour
- French Quarter Highlights Self-Guided Walking Tour of New Orleans
- City Tour of New Orleans by Minibus
- Audio Guided Historical Ghost Bus Tour of New Orleans
- Vegan French Quarter Food Tour NOLA cuisine
- Oak Alley Plantation Tour with Transportation from New Orleans
- New Orleans City Tour and Steamboat Natchez Harbor Jazz Cruise
- Private Cultural Tour: The Krewe of Red Beans
- Private New Orleans Airboat Adventure
