Turn the National Mall into a live puzzle: a 3–4 hour self-guided e-scavenger hunt that uses GPS waypoints and short assignments to reveal the history and stories of Washington, D.C.'s monuments and museums. Start at Smithsonian Metro and explore at your own pace.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the Smithsonian Metro station and the Mall opens before you — broad lawns, the obelisk of the Washington Monument pointing into a pale sky, and a phone buzzing with the first clue. This e-scavenger hunt turns Washington, D.C.’s familiar axis of monuments and museums into a live puzzle: GPS nudges you to waypoints, short tasks test observation, and bite-sized history appears where it happened.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires standing and walking several miles on flat, paved terrain.
Wildlife
History
The Mall’s monuments mark political and military memory; the Washington Monument was completed in 1884 and remains the tallest obelisk in the world, while the Lincoln Memorial frames civic ritual and protest.
Conservation
Stay on paved paths, pack out trash, and avoid touching memorial surfaces; these practices protect both memorial fabric and the Mall’s mature trees.
Reserve your spot on the e-Scavenger hunt Washington: Explore the city at your own pace today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early
Begin at dawn or early morning to avoid crowds and finish before museum peak hours; the app is quicker when GPS isn’t blocked by large groups.
Bring a charged phone and power bank
The game runs on your device and GPS; a portable charger keeps you playing for the full 3–4 hours.
Wear supportive shoes
Expect several miles of walking on paved surfaces—comfortable sneakers or light hiking shoes reduce fatigue.
Respect memorial etiquette
Some stops are solemn sites—stay quiet, follow signage, and don’t climb on memorials while taking photos.
Smartphone with GPS
Required to run the e-scavenger app and view clues at GPS waypoints.
Portable charger (power bank)
Keeps your device powered through a multi-hour self-guided tour.
Comfortable walking shoes
Paved paths mean long periods on your feet—supportive shoes prevent soreness.
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is critical, especially during hot summer afternoons on the Mall.
summer