Turn downtown Des Moines into a one-hour tactical playground with a Zombie Scavengers app-led hunt. Use strategy, local landmarks, and quick thinking to find survival items and complete themed challenges while a remote host tracks your progress.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step into downtown Des Moines with your phone humming and a checklist of improbable survival items — a scavenger hunt that turns the city into a tactical playground. The app nudges you toward a mural, the riverfront, or a café where a challenge waits; a remote host watches the scoreboard, ready to nudge your team back from a bad decision.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels — mainly urban walking and short bursts of movement
Wildlife
History
Des Moines grew as a riverfront hub with rail and streetcar lines in the late 19th century; many downtown buildings date from that era and serve as searchable landmarks.
Conservation
Stick to sidewalks and marked parks; Des Moines encourages Leave No Trace in green spaces and supports riverbank restoration projects to protect urban habitat.
Reserve your spot on the Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Des Moines by Zombie Scavengers today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring a fully charged phone and backup battery
The game runs through an app and uses chat to communicate with the remote host — a dead phone ends your run early.
Plan your start near transit or parking
Choose a convenient launch point to avoid wasting game time on transit or finding a spot to leave your car.
Watch for busy sidewalks and traffic
Des Moines downtown has moderate pedestrian and vehicle traffic; keep teams compact and be aware when crossing streets for checkpoints.
Check weather and dress in layers
One hour can feel very different in summer heat versus a cool spring evening — pack sun protection or a light rain layer.
Smartphone with app installed
Required to play; the app delivers clues, records points, and connects you to the remote host.
Portable battery pack
Ensures your phone stays powered through the hour-long game and any post-game score checks.
Comfortable walking shoes
City streets and park paths are the terrain — supportive footwear keeps your team moving quickly.
Weather layer (light jacket or rain shell)
Protects against spring showers or cool evening breezes; useful in fall as well.
spring