Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Grand Rapids by Holly Jolly Hunt

Looking for a unique way to enjoy Grand Rapids during the holiday season? The Holly Jolly Hunt offers a cheerful, interactive scavenger hunt that brings friends and family together to celebrate all things festive. This experience, run via a smartphone app, is designed to spark laughter, encourage exploration, and turn your walk around the city into a playful holiday adventure.

What makes this activity stand out are two things we really appreciate: first, its accessibility—since it requires only a smartphone, it’s easy for most people to join in; second, its inclusive nature, making it suitable for all ages. Whether you’re with kids, grandparents, or a group of friends, everyone can participate and enjoy.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that this is a self-guided experience. While there’s a remote guide available via chat, it’s not a highly structured tour—so it’s perfect if you like a bit of independence and spontaneity. If you’re seeking a guided tour with a fixed route, this might not be your best fit.

But if your goal is to have fun, create holiday memories, and enjoy the city at your own pace, this scavenger hunt fits the bill.

This activity is especially suited for families, groups of friends, or anyone who loves a bit of holiday whimsy. It’s a perfect way to spend an hour getting into the season’s spirit, all while exploring the charming streets of downtown Grand Rapids.

This experience made our article of The 13 Best Tours & Things To Do In Grand Rapids.

Key Points

• Affordable and family-friendly at just $20 per group of up to 10 people.
• Flexible timing available from December 15-31, 2025, Tuesday through Sunday.
• Engaging holiday-themed tasks that evoke laughter and holiday cheer.
• Accessible with a smartphone, making it simple for most participants.
• Fun for all ages, as confirmed by visitors who found it a “nice activity for people of all ages.”
• Includes a remote guide via chat, adding support without a tour guide’s presence.

A Detailed Look at the Holly Jolly Hunt Experience

How the Scavenger Hunt Works

The Holly Jolly Hunt in Grand Rapids is a mobile app-based activity where your team seeks out various holiday items scattered around the city. It’s a point-based game—the more items you find, the higher your score, with the aim to reach 1st place on the leaderboard. The app guides you from one destination to the next, offering hints, prompts, and silly holiday tasks designed to generate laughter and good cheer.

The cost of $20 per group makes it an accessible outing, especially considering all activities, taxes, and fees are included. You can gather up to 10 people, making it ideal for small groups or families. The activity lasts about an hour, which is perfect for fitting into a busy holiday schedule or as a fun break during a day of sightseeing.

Starting Point and Route

Participants begin at Rosa Parks Circle, a central and iconic spot in downtown Grand Rapids. This location is convenient, with public transportation nearby, making it easy for locals and visitors alike to access. The activity concludes back at the same meeting point, offering convenience and ease of logistics.

Throughout the hunt, you’ll be asked to photograph items — perhaps a traditional holiday decoration or a non-traditional festive sight — and perform amusing tasks that might involve singing, acting silly, or taking creative photos. These tasks are designed not only to earn points but to foster laughs and shared memories.

What You’ll Find and Do

Expect to hunt for the usual holiday symbols, like ornaments, Santa hats, or Christmas trees, but also potentially explore some non-traditional items. The fun lies in the variety—some tasks may be simple, like taking a selfie with a holiday display, while others might be playful, such as performing a holiday dance in public. The interactive nature means everyone is engaged, with the app providing hints if needed via the remote chat feature.

Authenticity and Experience

Many who have tried the Holly Jolly Hunt find it a delightful way to see the city through a different lens. One reviewer called it a “fun activity for anyone,” emphasizing its broad appeal. The activity is designed to be lighthearted and inclusive, perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a festive activity that’s not overly structured or formal.

Value for Money

At $20 per group, this activity offers great value. For roughly an hour of entertainment, combined with the opportunity to explore downtown and enjoy holiday decorations, it’s a budget-friendly way to add some fun to your holiday schedule. Everything from the scavenger hunt activities to the app’s features and the chat support is included in the price, making it straightforward and transparent.

Accessibility and Practicalities

Since the hunt is played entirely via a smartphone app, you’ll need a compatible device and data connection. The experience is not included—you’ll need to use your own phone—so make sure your device is charged before you start. The activity allows service animals and is suitable for most travelers, with the main requirement being a smartphone and a willingness to participate.

The timing is flexible during the activity’s operational hours from 9 AM to 5 PM daily, Tuesday through Sunday, allowing you to choose a time that works best for your schedule during the holiday season. Since it’s private, only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

Why It’s Worth Considering

What truly makes the Holly Jolly Hunt worthwhile is the blend of outdoor exploration, interactive fun, and holiday spirit. It’s a chance to see parts of Grand Rapids you might not notice on a typical walk while engaging in a playful activity. The tasks and items to find are designed to be light and amusing, making it accessible for all ages.

Summary: Who Will Love This Experience?

The Holly Jolly Hunt is perfect if you’re looking for a lighthearted, inexpensive activity that fosters laughter and holiday cheer. It’s ideal for families wanting a fun outing, groups of friends seeking a playful challenge, or anyone looking to celebrate the season in an active, social way. While it’s not a guided tour with a set route, that flexibility is part of its charm—allowing you to customize your holiday adventure.

If you enjoy interactive experiences and want to create new traditions, this scavenger hunt offers a memorable way to explore Grand Rapids’ festive scenery. It’s also a great icebreaker or team-building activity during the busy holiday season.

FAQ About the Holly Jolly Hunt in Grand Rapids

How long does the activity last?
The scavenger hunt takes approximately 1 hour, making it suitable for a quick holiday activity or as part of a larger day of sightseeing.

What is included in the price?
The $20 fee covers all scavenger hunt activities, access to the app, all taxes and fees, and a remote guide via chat for support.

Is the activity suitable for children?
Yes, many reviewers describe it as a fun activity for all ages. The tasks are playful and designed to bring smiles to everyone involved.

What do I need to participate?
You’ll need a smartphone with internet access. The activity is played through the app, and you’ll be responsible for your device’s use during the hunt.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

What are the operating hours?
The activity runs from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday through Sunday, between December 15 and December 31, 2025.

Where does the activity start and end?
It begins at Rosa Parks Circle and finishes back there, allowing for easy return and further exploration.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the activity is designed for up to 10 participants per group, making it perfect for small groups or families.

Final Thoughts

The Holly Jolly Hunt in Grand Rapids offers a wonderful way to embrace the Christmas season with lighthearted fun and a bit of outdoor adventure. It’s a cost-effective, inclusive activity that requires little planning and guarantees plenty of smiles. Whether you’re new to the city or a long-time resident, it’s a charming way to see the holiday decorations and landmarks through a playful lens.

This experience is best suited for families, friends, or couples wanting a relaxed, joyful activity that builds holiday memories. If you enjoy interactive, self-guided adventures and want to experience Grand Rapids’ festive charm in a fun, engaging way, this scavenger hunt is well worth considering. Just remember to bring your smartphone, dress warmly, and get ready to hunt for holiday treasures around the city.

Happy hunting, and may your holiday season be filled with laughter and good cheer!