Downtown Spokane Scavenger Hunt and Escape Game

Our review of the Downtown Spokane Scavenger Hunt and Escape Game offers a detailed look at what this activity promises and what it truly delivers. Designed for families, solo explorers, or groups of colleagues, this self-guided experience invites participants to solve riddles, learn about local landmarks, and explore Spokane’s historic downtown—all while walking a manageable 1.9 miles.

Two features stand out immediately: the interactive, PokemonGo-style app that guides you from site to site and the opportunity to learn interesting tidbits about Spokane’s history. On the flip side, potential participants should be aware that technical issues can mar the experience. From what we gather, this tour seems best suited for those who enjoy puzzles and self-paced exploration, but it might not do well with tech hiccups or if reliable app functionality is a priority.

If you’re looking for an inexpensive, flexible way to see Spokane with some added brain-teasing fun, this could be a good fit. But be prepared to troubleshoot if the app doesn’t cooperate—more on that later.

Key Points

• Interactive Digital Format: Turn Spokane’s landmarks into a game with puzzles and clues.
• Self-Guided Flexibility: Create your own pace, making it ideal for families or groups with different speeds.
• Historical Insights: Learn fun facts about sites like Spokane Falls, the Looff Carrousel, and the Lincoln statue.
• Moderate Walking: Expect about 1.9 miles of walking, perfect for a leisurely outdoor activity.
• Cost-Effective: At $10 per person, it offers good value—assuming the app works smoothly.
• Potential Technical Glitches: Some users report issues with app accessibility, which could affect your experience.

Analyzing the Experience

What the Tour Promises

This activity transforms downtown Spokane into an outdoor digital adventure. Using a mobile app, similar to Pokémon Go but with puzzles, you visit nine historic and cultural landmarks. The main idea is to find clues, solve puzzles, and uncover stories behind Spokane’s most iconic spots—all at your own pace.

The tour’s start point is A Place of Truths Plaza at 901 W Spokane Falls Blvd, with the route winding through charming streets and notable sites like the Old City Hall, the Lincoln Memorial, Spokane Falls Viewpoint, and the Looff Carrousel. It ends back at the starting point, making for an easy loop.

What Makes It Noteworthy

One of the biggest draws is the opportunity to combine walking with learning, making it suitable for families wanting an educational outing or visitors interested in a different way of sightseeing. The puzzles add a layer of engagement that can transform a typical walk into a game. Also, the flexibility to go at your own pace and the affordability make it appealing for budget-conscious travelers.

Few other guided or self-guided tours in Spokane provide such a blend of fun and education at this price point. Plus, if the app functions smoothly, it can be a good value for the money.

What Could Be a Drawback

The main concern, as highlighted by the sole review, is technical difficulty. Cynthia_P’s experience was marred because she couldn’t get the app to work, leading to disappointment. This issue underscores a key risk—if the app is unreliable, your entire experience might be compromised.

On top of that, since the tour relies heavily on a digital platform, it requires a good smartphone connection and some patience with technology. Travelers who prefer more traditional guided tours or detailed narrative guides might find this format less satisfying.

Suitability and Audience

This tour is best suited for tech-savvy visitors comfortable troubleshooting minor app issues, as well as those who enjoy solving puzzles and exploring at their own pace. Families with children, casual walkers, or groups of friends looking for light-hearted fun can find it enjoyable. However, if you are easily frustrated by technology or expecting a fully guided experience, you might want to consider other options.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting at A Place of Truths Plaza

This vibrant starting point sets the tone. It’s a central hub in downtown Spokane, and from here, the app guides you to the first location. Expect to find yourself immersed in the city’s urban atmosphere, with landmarks like the Old City Hall, a historic building with distinctive architecture.

Old City Hall and The Review Building

The historic Old City Hall offers a glimpse into Spokane’s early civic life, while the nearby Review Building tells tales of local journalism. The puzzles at these sites might involve identifying architectural features or learning about notable figures.

Lincoln Memorial and Our Lady of Lourdes Cathedral

The Lincoln Memorial is a striking statue commemorating Abraham Lincoln, offering a moment of reflection amidst the urban landscape. The nearby Cathedral adds a religious and architectural layer to your walk, with puzzles possibly involving dates or historical facts associated with these landmarks.

Spokane Falls Viewpoint & The Great Northern Clocktower

The viewpoint provides a stunning backdrop of Spokane Falls—a highlight for any visitor. The Clocktower, remnants of Spokane’s old railroad depot, is a favorite for history buffs. Solving clues here might involve understanding Spokane’s transportation history or the significance of the clocktower.

Looff Carrousel and Bing Crosby Theater

The 1909 Looff Carrousel is a charming nod to Spokane’s early 20th-century amusement rides, with brass rings and vintage charm. The Bing Crosby Theater introduces a cultural note, remembering Spokane’s contributions to entertainment. Puzzles here could relate to the carousel’s history or Bing Crosby’s legacy.

Spokane Falls Viewpoint Revisited and End Point

The tour wraps at the viewpoint, giving you a final chance to enjoy Spokane Falls. Concluding back at the start makes for a relaxed finish, but it’s worth noting that the app’s stability will influence whether you enjoy this seamless loop.

Practical Considerations

Duration and Pace

Designed to last about 60 minutes, the tour allows flexible pacing. You can take longer if you want to linger at particular sites or speed through if you prefer a brisk walk.

Walking Distance and Terrain

The 1.9-mile route is manageable for most people, with mostly urban terrain. Expect some sidewalks and gentle inclines, but no significant hills or strenuous sections.

Cost and Value

At $10 per person, this activity is a low-cost way to explore downtown Spokane with added entertainment. In terms of value, it’s fair if the app functions properly. You get to learn, walk, and puzzle without paying for a guided tour or admission fees.

Technical Reliability

A warning from the only review available: if the app doesn’t work, the experience can feel like a waste of money and time. Before booking, consider whether you’re comfortable troubleshooting or waiting for app support.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This self-guided digital scavenger hunt has potential for fun, family-friendly exploration and casual sightseeing. It’s best for those who enjoy puzzles, history, and walking around a city at their own pace. If you’re someone who values seamless technology and reliable app performance, you might want to look for alternatives.

For budget travelers, the price is right, especially if you’re willing to endure some tech hiccups. It’s ideal if you want a flexible, interactive way to learn about Spokane’s landmarks, especially if you prefer to skip traditional guided tours.

In short, it’s an interesting concept that can deliver a memorable outing, but be prepared for possible technical frustrations. The key is to enjoy the journey, learn some local stories, and have fun solving puzzles along downtown Spokane’s streets.

FAQ

Is this tour guided by a real person? No, it’s a self-guided experience using a mobile app. You explore independently at your own pace.

Where do I start the tour? The tour begins at A Place of Truths Plaza, located at 901 W Spokane Falls Blvd.

How long does the tour take? It’s designed for about 60 minutes, but you can take more or less time depending on your pace.

What landmarks will I visit? Expect to see Old City Hall, Lincoln Memorial, Spokane Falls Viewpoint, Looff Carrousel, Bing Crosby Theater, and others.

Is it suitable for kids? Yes, the puzzles and landmarks make it family-friendly, though younger children may need help with the app.

How much does it cost? The price is $10.00 per person, making it a budget-friendly option.

Are there any age restrictions? Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed.

What if the app doesn’t work? That’s a risk, as some reviewers have experienced technical difficulties that can spoil the experience.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the activity.

Is this a private experience? Yes, only your group will participate, providing a private, personalized adventure.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for an inexpensive, flexible way to explore Spokane’s downtown landmarks while solving puzzles and learning local stories, this activity offers a lot of potential. Just keep in mind the importance of app reliability, and consider your comfort with technology. With a bit of patience, it can be a fun and engaging addition to your Spokane itinerary.