Race through downtown Des Moines with a smartphone in hand and a holiday checklist full of quirky tasks. This one-hour Holly Jolly Hunt turns civic landmarks and seasonal displays into a playful, family-friendly competition.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The city lights of downtown Des Moines flicker like a challenge as teams fan out with phones in hand, scanning storefronts, public art and holiday displays for points. Streetlamps hum, the Capitol dome watches over the river, and laughter bounces off brick facades as families and friends perform cheeky seasonal tasks on sidewalks and plazas.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly standing and walking over paved city streets.
Wildlife
History
Downtown Des Moines grew around the Des Moines River and the Iowa State Capitol; many holiday displays and civic events reflect the city’s long tradition of community-centered celebrations.
Conservation
Respect public and private property by avoiding damage to displays and disposing of trash properly; avoid disturbing planted beds and seasonal installations.
Reserve your spot on the Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Des Moines by Holly Jolly Hunt today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Charge your phone
Bring a fully charged phone and a small power bank—this app-driven hunt relies on camera and GPS which drain batteries fast in cold weather.
Choose your start time
Begin at dusk for the best light displays or mid-afternoon to avoid crowds and icy sidewalks.
Dress for pavement
Comfortable walking shoes and a weatherproof outer layer keep the focus on the game rather than sore feet or wind.
Use public transit or park centrally
Pick a single central start to minimize backtracking—many downtown lots and bus stops are within easy distance of the route.
Smartphone with camera
Required to run the app, take photos for clue verification, and track the leaderboard.
Portable battery pack
Cold drains batteries quickly—carry a charger to avoid interruptions mid-game.
winter
Comfortable walking shoes
City terrain is paved but can include long blocks and standing while solving clues.
Weather-appropriate jacket
Windproof, insulated layers keep teams focused and mobile during cold-weather hunts.
winter