Solve puzzles as you walk 3 miles across Stanford’s iconic campus in a self-guided app-based scavenger hunt. Start at Cantor Arts Museum and move through Memorial Church, Hoover Tower views, a cactus garden and the Rodin sculpture lawn—perfect for solo players or teams up to eight.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You begin outside the Cantor Arts Museum, the campus air carrying the low hum of bikes and distant toll of Hoover Tower. The app pings; a riddle points you toward Memorial Church. You move across Palm Drive, past palms that lean into the breeze like curious guides, and into a courtyard of sculptures and cactus beds where each stop asks you to look closer — at a plaque, a carving, a line of brick that hints at the next puzzle.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for casual walkers and families; basic stamina for 3 miles of mostly flat walking
Wildlife
History
Stanford University was founded in 1891 by Leland and Jane Stanford; campus architecture reflects turn-of-the-century design alongside modern additions, with several outdoor artworks gifted over generations.
Conservation
Stick to paved paths and designated lawns, respect museum rules and carry out trash; the campus manages landscaped gardens and collections that benefit from low-impact visitor behavior.
Reserve your spot on the Stanford University Campus Adventure today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Save battery and bring a charger
This game relies on your phone for maps and puzzles—carry a small power bank if you expect to use photos or navigation heavily.
Start mid-morning
Begin after campus wake-up to avoid the busiest class-change windows and enjoy clearer shots at outdoor sculptures.
Comfortable shoes matter
Paved paths and a few stair sections make supportive walking shoes a better choice than sandals.
Respect museum hours
The Cantor Arts Museum may have different hours than outdoor campus areas—plan your download and first checkpoint around museum access.
Smartphone with The Great Game app
Required to play the self-guided puzzle adventure and register your team.
Portable phone charger
Keeps your device powered through puzzles, photos and navigation.
Comfortable walking shoes
Paved campus paths and stairs are easiest in supportive footwear.
Reusable water bottle
Stanford can be sunny and warm—stay hydrated between puzzle stops.
summer