Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt in Marist College

If you’re looking for a way to see New York that’s more interactive than just wandering aimlessly or following a large tour group, a self-guided scavenger hunt might be just what you need. The Lets Roam experience at Marist College offers a unique blend of exploration, trivia, and photo challenges—all accessible on your schedule and without the need for a guide. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends celebrating something special, this activity promises a memorable adventure through the city’s lesser-known corners and notable landmarks.

What we love about this scavenger hunt is its flexibility—you can start whenever you want and take as much or as little time as you need within the 90-minute window. Plus, the interactive role each participant plays makes it a lively experience, encouraging teamwork and creativity. The second highlight is the engagement factor; with questions hidden on plaques, statues, or art, you get a genuine connection to local sights that static sightseeing might miss.

One potential drawback is that the activity relies on your smartphone and app, which means you’ll want to ensure your device is charged and your internet connection is reliable. Also, as it’s self-guided, you won’t get the commentary of a live guide, so some travelers might miss the storytelling aspect of traditional tours. That said, this setup is perfect for those who enjoy exploring at their own pace and prefer a bit of playful competition.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy interactive activities, want a budget-friendly way to explore, or are looking for something different from conventional sightseeing. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate discovering hidden corners through puzzles and photo challenges or simply want to add a bit of fun to their day in New York.

Key Points

• Flexible Start Times: You can begin your scavenger hunt whenever it suits you.
• Interactive Experience: Each participant has a role, making it engaging and fun.
• Self-Guided: No need for a guide or reservation—just your phone and curiosity.
• Cost-Effective: At $14.99 per person, it offers a budget-friendly way to explore.
• Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours, making it easy to fit into a packed day.
• Perfect for Various Occasions: Great for family outings, birthdays, or team-building.

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at 75 N Water St, Poughkeepsie, NY, a spot accessible via public transportation and central enough to serve as a convenient meeting point. The activity runs daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, giving you plenty of flexibility to choose your start time. Since it’s entirely app-led, there’s no need to pre-book a specific time—simply purchase your ticket online, download the Lets Roam app, and register to get started.

The tour ends back at the starting point, making it easy to plan your day without worrying about complicated transportation arrangements. The activity is suitable for travelers with a moderate physical fitness level, as it involves walking around the area and solving puzzles on the go.

How It Works — A Step-by-Step

Once you’ve set up the app and logged in, you’ll get clues and challenges sent directly to your phone. The app acts as your personal guide, leading you from landmark to landmark, asking questions that can only be answered in person. Many of these questions are located on plaques, statues, or art, encouraging you to pay attention to your surroundings rather than relying solely on maps.

Each participant will receive texted photo challenges and fun activities. For example, you might be asked to take a creative photo with a statue or find a specific detail on a building. You’ll earn points for each challenge completed, making it a playful competition among friends or family.

Exploring the Landmarks and Hidden Gems

While the specifics of each stop aren’t detailed, the activity’s design ensures you’ll discover both iconic sights and lesser-known spots. Expect to answer trivia questions based on plaques and statues, which helps deepen your understanding of the local area. The fun photo tasks are likely to encourage playful, memorable moments—think of goofy poses with sculptures or capturing the perfect light on a building.

The app guides you seamlessly through the route, keeping the experience smooth and engaging. As you move from challenge to challenge, the sense of discovery builds, making each moment feel like uncovering a hidden treasure.

The Experience — From the Traveler’s Perspective

Those who’ve tried similar scavenger hunts often appreciate the balance between independence and guided fun. One reviewer mentioned, “This was a great way to explore without the pressure of a tour guide, and I loved the mix of questions and photo challenges.” The ability to start at your own pace means you can linger longer at favorite spots or skip challenges if you’re short on time.

Another common theme is the cost-to-value ratio. At just under $15 per person, the activity offers a lively, interactive experience that makes you feel like you’re uncovering stories and sights you might otherwise overlook. While it’s not a full-day tour, the 90-minute duration hits a sweet spot—short enough to keep things energetic but long enough to foster a real sense of exploration.

The app’s reliance on mobile technology means you might find some challenges more fun if your device is fully charged. Luckily, customer service is available should any issues arise, ensuring your experience remains smooth.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

This scavenger hunt is designed to highlight local landmarks and art, encouraging you to look closely at your surroundings. The questions and photo challenges are crafted to make you notice details that you might miss during a typical walk-by. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who enjoy interactive learning and want to add a playful element to their visit.

While reviews are limited, the general feedback points towards an activity that’s engaging and well-suited for curious explorers. The fact that it’s a private activity ensures your group won’t be mixed with strangers, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Price and Value — Is It Worth It?

At $14.99 per person, this scavenger hunt offers a lot of fun for a modest price. You’re paying primarily for the app-guided experience and the opportunity to explore at your own pace, making it a cost-effective alternative to traditional guided tours or admission tickets to larger attractions. It’s especially appealing if you’re in the mood for active sightseeing rather than passive museum visits.

Who Will Love This

This activity is perfect for adventurous families, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who enjoy puzzles, trivia, and discovering local stories firsthand. It’s a great way to break up a day of sightseeing, especially if you prefer doing things on your own schedule. It may also appeal to budget-conscious travelers who want a fun, interactive experience without high costs.

The self-guided scavenger hunt at Marist College, offered by Lets Roam, provides a relaxed yet lively way to explore New York’s surroundings. The flexibility of starting whenever you like, combined with engaging photo challenges and trivia, makes it ideal for those seeking a more personalized experience. The activity’s focus on local landmarks and hidden details transforms a simple walk into an adventure full of discovery.

While it’s not a guided tour with storytelling, it compensates with interactivity and autonomy, appealing to those who enjoy taking their time and making their own discoveries. The price point is very reasonable considering the level of engagement and the fun factor.

If you’re in New York and looking for an activity that combines sightseeing with a bit of playful competition and discovery, this scavenger hunt is worth considering. It’s especially suited for travelers who favor independent exploration and want to blend learning with entertainment.

How do I start the scavenger hunt?
You purchase tickets on the website, download the Lets Roam app, and register. You can then start whenever you’re ready, as the activity is self-guided.

Is there a specific time I need to begin?
No, you can start at any time between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, every day of the week.

How long does the activity last?
The approximate duration is 1.5 hours, but you can take more or less time depending on your pace.

What should I bring?
A charged smartphone is essential. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended since you’ll be exploring on foot.

Can I do this activity alone?
Yes, it works well for solo travelers, and each participant gets an interactive role, making it engaging for individuals.

Are there any physical requirements?
The activity is suitable for those with a moderate physical fitness level, as it involves walking around the area.

What if I encounter technical issues?
Customer service is available to assist with any problems you experience during the hunt.

Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or just looking for a different way to enjoy a day in New York, this scavenger hunt offers a charming combination of fun, discovery, and independence.