Play detective in downtown Chicago with a self-guided 1920s murder mystery scavenger hunt. Pick up an envelope, follow clues through the Loop’s architecture, and solve the case at your own pace.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out onto a Loop sidewalk and the city leans in — streetcars hum like old timers and bronze façades throw hard afternoon shadows across the pavement. The envelope in your hand promises a 1923 murder, a victim, and a trail through downtown Chicago’s stone and steel. This is a self-guided whodunit: you collect a packet at the designated pickup, open it when you choose, and follow clues that point to façades, plaques and intersections that still carry the city’s past.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Light urban walking; suitable for most fitness levels who can stand and walk for short stretches
Wildlife
History
The story is set during Chicago’s roaring postwar growth; many Loop buildings date to the 1910s–1930s when banking, theater and transit shaped downtown life.
Conservation
This self-guided, low-impact activity relies on existing public spaces — follow Leave No Trace in public areas, respect private property and avoid disturbing historic features.
Reserve your spot on the Chicago Mystery Scavenger Hunt: Solve the Loop’s 1920s Whodunit today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Collect during opening hours
Pickup is limited to set hours — collect your mystery envelope before you plan to start to avoid missing the window.
Wear comfortable shoes
Expect 1–2 hours of slow-to-brisk walking on city sidewalks and crosswalks; supportive shoes make the experience easier.
Use public transit or pay attention to traffic
The Loop is busy; public transit gets you close and street crossings can be wide — plan your route and watch for cars and streetcars.
Bring a charged phone and pen
The packet is physical but you’ll need your phone for directions and a pen or notebook to record clues and theories.
Comfortable walking shoes
City sidewalks and stairs require supportive footwear for 1–2 hours of walking.
Charged smartphone
Used for navigation, timing, and optional online lookups while solving clues.
Weather layer (light jacket or umbrella)
Chicago weather changes quickly; bring a rain shell or light jacket in spring.
spring
Small notebook and pen
Useful for jotting observations, timelines and suspect names as you progress.