Turn the National Mall into a hands-on playground: this app-led scavenger hunt guides teams past monuments and museums with photo challenges and location-specific puzzles. Self-guided and accessible, it’s a social way to explore Washington, D.C., in 1.5–2 hours.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The Washington Monument rises like an impatient marker as your team gathers, phones in hand and curiosity dialed up. Pavement hums beneath your sneakers and the Mall stretches east and west—open, flat, and full of questions that only in-person eyes can answer. The app nudges you toward a plaque; a statue seems to wink; the Potomac’s distant current reminds you the city grew where river and land meet.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to walk 1.5–3 miles on flat, paved paths and stand for short periods.
Wildlife
History
The Mall follows the federal plan laid out by Pierre L’Enfant and later Civic planners; monuments here chronicle U.S. political and military history across the 19th and 20th centuries.
Conservation
High foot traffic stresses lawns and memorial sites—stay on paved paths, dispose of trash, and avoid handling artifacts or leaning on memorial inscriptions.
Reserve your spot on the Scavenger Hunt at Washington DC today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Charge your phone and bring a backup
The hunt runs through an app—expect photo uploads and GPS; a portable battery often makes the difference between finishing and quitting early.
Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes
The route is mostly paved but covers a few miles with standing and bending for plaques; supportive footwear keeps you going.
Start early or late to avoid peak crowds
Begin at dawn or late afternoon to beat tour groups and summer heat—visibility and photos improve with fewer people in frame.
Observe memorial etiquette
Stay on paths, don’t climb on monuments, and be mindful at reflective or solemn sites—respect keeps the experience open to everyone.
Smartphone with app installed
Required to access the scavenger hunt, clues, and photo challenges.
Portable battery pack
Keeps your phone usable for navigation, photos, and messaging throughout the hunt.
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive shoes help on paved paths and during repeated stops for clues and photos.
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is important—water fountains exist but carrying your own saves time.
summer