If you’re looking for a festive activity that combines a little bit of adventure with holiday cheer, the Holly Jolly Hunt in Tampa might catch your eye. This app-based scavenger hunt promises a playful way to celebrate the season, whether you’re with family, friends, or colleagues. Designed to be flexible—you can play anywhere you choose—it offers a modern twist on traditional holiday activities.
What makes it appealing? First, we love the fact that it’s interactive and customizable, letting you explore Tampa’s streets at your own pace. Second, the inclusion of fun holiday challenges and the competitive element of a leaderboard can bring out everyone’s playful side. However, it’s worth noting that some reviewers felt the activity could be more engaging with more surprises or traditional holiday sights.
This experience is well-suited for those looking for a lighthearted, flexible, and social way to enjoy Tampa during the holiday season. If you’re traveling with a group who enjoys a little outdoor activity combined with holiday fun, Holly Jolly Hunt might turn into your new favorite holiday tradition.
Key Points
- Flexible location: Play anywhere in Tampa that you choose.
- Affordable price: $20 per group, suitable for up to 10 participants.
- Engaging challenges: Includes photo tasks and holiday-themed challenges.
- Interactive and competitive: See your score on the leaderboard compared to other teams.
- Includes remote support: Access to a guide via chat adds a helpful touch.
- Limited traditional sights: Some travelers may find the hunt lacks variety or surprises.
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A Genuine Look at the Holly Jolly Hunt

When considering a holiday activity like the Holly Jolly Hunt, it’s helpful to understand what it offers beyond a simple walk around town. For $20, this activity provides a one-hour adventure that’s accessible for groups of up to 10 people. The main draw is the app-based platform, which guides you through a series of holiday-related items and challenges. It’s an activity that encourages exploration, laughter, and a bit of friendly competition, making it a good option for families, groups of friends, or even co-workers seeking a casual, team-building activity.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tampa.
The Itinerary and Experience
The Holly Jolly Hunt begins at Lykes Gaslight Square Park in downtown Tampa, a charming starting point that’s easy to find and near public transportation. From there, the app takes you through a series of holiday-themed tasks—these might include finding traditional decorations, quirky holiday items, or performing silly challenges. You’re prompted to take photos through the app to earn points, adding a visual and interactive element that keeps everyone engaged.
One reviewer noted, “There wasn’t much to find by Lystia Park downtown,” pointing to the fact that the hunt may lean heavily on the items you seek in your chosen location, which could be limited depending on where you play. The activity concludes back at the starting point, making it a neat, contained experience.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The price covers all scavenger hunt activities, including access to the app, the remote guide via chat, and all applicable taxes and fees. However, travelers should be aware that use of their own smartphones is necessary to participate, and private transportation is not included. If you’re planning to explore a distant part of Tampa, consider how you’ll get there.
The activity runs from late November through the end of December, aligning with the holiday season, and can be scheduled during weekday or weekend hours, typically between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. This flexibility makes it easy to fit into your holiday plans.
What Travelers Think: Honest Feedback
The single review available gives us a balanced perspective: “There wasn’t much to find… it was a lot to read during the hunt, but it was fun trying to find Christmas downtown!” This suggests that while the activity may not be overflowing with sights or surprises, it still offers a fun challenge, especially in a lively downtown setting.
The review highlights a potential drawback: if you’re expecting a treasure hunt with numerous hidden spots, you might find it underwhelming. However, if you enjoy walking through a city and completing quick challenges, it can be a delightful way to enjoy some Christmas cheer.
Who Will Enjoy This?
This activity is best suited for groups looking for a casual, low-pressure way to explore Tampa’s holiday atmosphere. It’s particularly appealing if you want something flexible that can be played in different parts of the city. Families with children, friends, or co-workers seeking a light-hearted activity will find it offers some fun, though perhaps not enough surprises to keep everyone captivated for a long time.
Practical Considerations
At just $20 per group, the activity offers pretty good value if you’re after a brief, entertaining experience. It’s not overly physically demanding, making it accessible for most ages. Remember, the duration is approximately one hour, so it’s a perfect fit for a quick outing or a break between other holiday plans.
If you’re considering booking, note that the activity is booked about 66 days in advance on average, so planning ahead ensures availability during busy holiday periods. Also, check that everyone in your group has a smartphone compatible with the app.
The Sum Up
The Holly Jolly Hunt provides a light, fun way to engage with Tampa’s holiday spirit. Its main strengths are the flexibility to choose your own location and the interactive, game-like format that encourages teamwork and laughter. It’s especially suitable for groups who enjoy a casual outdoor activity combined with holiday cheer, without the need for extensive planning or long commitments.
While it may not be the most elaborate or surprising holiday activity, it offers good value for a quick, festive outing. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want to enjoy Tampa’s winter vibe in a relaxed way, this scavenger hunt could be a memorable part of your holiday season.
For those who prefer more traditional or elaborate holiday experiences, or who seek more surprises along the way, this activity might feel a bit too minimal. However, if your goal is simple fun, some light exercise, and a chance to enjoy the city’s holiday ambiance, Holly Jolly Hunt might just fit the bill.
Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Tampa with Holly Jolly Hunt
FAQs

How long does the Holly Jolly Hunt last?
It’s approximately one hour, making it a quick but engaging activity that fits easily into holiday plans.
What is included in the price?
The fee covers all scavenger hunt activities, access to the app, all taxes, and remote guide support via chat. You need your own smartphone to participate.
Can I play anywhere in Tampa?
Yes, the activity is designed to be played anywhere of your choosing, starting from Lykes Gaslight Square Park and ending back there.
Is this activity suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, so it’s likely appropriate for families, although the level of challenge and reading involved may vary with age.
What should I bring?
Bring a smartphone with the app installed, and dress comfortably for walking around downtown Tampa.
Are there any restrictions or special considerations?
Service animals are allowed, and the activity is near public transportation, but private transportation isn’t included or provided.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing some flexibility for holiday scheduling.
This holiday scavenger hunt offers a low-pressure, festive activity perfect for groups wanting to explore Tampa’s downtown in a playful way. While not overly elaborate or elaborate, it delivers a fun, lighthearted experience that can boost holiday cheer and create lasting memories.




















