Solve the Case of Big Al: A Campus Scavenger Hunt at the University of Alabama
A 3-mile, app-driven scavenger hunt across a storied campus—solve riddles, find Big Al, and learn the University of Alabama’s history as you walk.
The first clue lands at the base of Denny Chimes: a brass-toned riddle that hums with campus lore. Leaves stir at your feet; magnolia and live oak shade a path where generations of students have marched between lectures, protests and homecoming parades. Your phone buzzes with the next prompt. You glance up and find yourself studying a familiar landmark—only now it's a puzzle piece. That small reframing is the point of the Adventurous Walking Tour of the University of Alabama: an app-driven scavenger hunt that turns a three-mile stroll through Tuscaloosa’s historic campus into a detective story.
Trail Wisdom
Charge your phone
This is an app-driven tour—start with a full battery and a backup power bank to avoid interruptions.
Comfortable footwear
Paved paths dominate, but expect some grass and steps; supportive walking shoes keep the pace comfortable.
Hydrate and shade up
Carry a refillable water bottle and sunscreen—Tuscaloosa sun can feel intense in summer and spring.
Check campus events
Avoid football game days if you prefer quieter routes—home-game traffic and closures can affect parking and access.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Woods Quad—a quieter, tree-lined green that feels more secluded than the main Quad
- •The President’s Mansion gardens—small, well-tended grounds that often escape casual visitors
Wildlife
Gray squirrel, Common songbirds (mockingbird, cardinal)
Conservation Note
Respect campus green spaces: stay on paths when requested, pack out trash, and follow posted rules to protect landscaped and historic areas.
The University of Alabama was founded in 1831; Denny Chimes, a campus bell tower, was dedicated in 1929 and remains an iconic meeting point.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild weather, Blooming magnolias, Campus life and ceremonies
Challenges: Pollen (allergies), Occasional rainy days
Spring offers comfortable temperatures and flowering trees that make the quads especially photogenic; expect pollen and intermittent showers.
summer
Best for: Long daylight, Student energy, Off-peak weekdays
Challenges: High heat and humidity, Limited shade in some areas
Summer is warm and lively but can be hot—start early and take regular water breaks to stay comfortable.
fall
Best for: Crisp walks, Football season atmosphere, Beautiful foliage
Challenges: Game-day crowding, Higher lodging prices during events
Fall combines ideal walking weather with the university’s busiest, most festive weekends; plan around home games if you want a quieter visit.
winter
Best for: Mild, uncrowded walks, Off-season rates, Clear light for photos
Challenges: Cool, wet days, Some landscaping is dormant
Winters are generally mild but can be damp; dress in layers and expect fewer student activities on campus.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Smartphone with the app installedEssential
The scavenger hunt runs through an app—needed for clues, maps and progression.
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Supportive shoes make paved paths and grassy quads enjoyable for the tour’s three miles.
Refillable water bottleEssential
Hydration is crucial in warm months; many fountains are available on campus for refills.
Light rain jacket or windbreaker
Spring showers are common—compact rain gear keeps you moving through brief downpours.
Common Questions
How long does the tour take?
Plan 60–120 minutes; average groups finish in about 90 minutes depending on pace and puzzle time.
Is the route accessible for strollers or wheelchairs?
Most of the route uses paved paths and is stroller-friendly, but there are some steps and uneven surfaces near older buildings—check specific accessibility info in the app before booking.
Do I need a local guide?
No—this is a self-guided, app-based experience that you can play solo or with a group at your own pace.
What is the cost to participate?
The tour is affordably priced around $5 per person; confirm current pricing at checkout via the referral link.
Is parking available on campus?
Yes—campus lots and metered spaces exist, but availability can be limited during events; consider ride-share options on game days.
Can children participate?
Absolutely—families are common; clues are family-friendly and the pace is flexible to accommodate younger participants.
What to Pack
Comfortable walking shoes, charged smartphone with app, refillable water bottle, sunscreen—these cover navigation, comfort, hydration and sun protection.
Did You Know
Denny Chimes was dedicated in 1929 and named for university president George H. Denny; it remains one of the campus’s most recognized landmarks.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Avoid home-game days for easier parking; 2) Start in the morning to miss midday heat in summer; 3) Bring a power bank for prolonged app use; 4) Check campus maps for temporary closures.
Local Flavor
After the hunt, head to Dreamland Bar-B-Que for classic Alabama ribs, stop by Black Warrior Brewing Company for local beer, or explore the Kentuck Art Center across the river for regional artwork—perfect ways to pair food, drink and culture with your campus walk.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Tuscaloosa Regional Airport (TCL) or Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International (BHM) ~45 minutes; trailhead/starting point: main quad near Denny Chimes; driving distance from downtown Tuscaloosa: under 10 minutes; cell service: generally reliable on campus; permits: none for the tour but check parking rules on event days.
Sustainability Note
This self-guided tour emphasizes low-impact visitation—stay on paths, dispose of trash properly, and avoid disturbing plantings and historical markers.