Mysteries on the Move: Scavenger Hunt in Savannah — A Practical Look at an Unconventional Tour
If you’re looking for a way to explore Savannah that combines sightseeing with a bit of playful mystery, Mysteries on the Move offers just that. This self-guided scavenger hunt, priced at $20 per person, promises an engaging two-hour adventure that has you uncover clues at some of Savannah’s most iconic locations, including Chippewa Square and Colonial Park Cemetery.
While it’s not necessarily a tour for those who prefer a traditional guide or a quick stroll, it’s an innovative way to see the city from a different angle — provided you’re ready for some walking and puzzle-solving.
What we particularly like about this experience is how it encourages you to search for clues at your own pace and makes history feel alive and interactive. Plus, the whole family or a group of friends can participate together, which adds a social element to your city exploration.
On the other hand, a potential consideration is that some reviewers found the walk longer and more involved than initially expected — so be prepared to dedicate some time and energy.
This experience is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy puzzles, history, and a little outdoor activity, especially those who don’t mind a few surprises along the way.
Key Points
- Interactive storytelling makes sightseeing more engaging and memorable.
- Historic sites like Colonial Park Cemetery and Chippewa Square serve as key clues for solving the mystery.
- Self-guided format allows you to explore at your own pace, ideal for flexible schedules.
- Cost-effective at $20, offering good value for a mix of history, fun, and exercise.
- Walking distance around 1.9 miles, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
- Group participation is straightforward — just one purchase covers everyone.
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Discovering Savannah in a Whole New Way
Imagine wandering through Savannah’s historic streets, not just sightseeing but actively solving a murder mystery rooted in the city’s past. That’s the core idea behind this self-guided scavenger hunt, which uses your smartphone to deliver clues, videos, and riddles at each stop. It’s a playful twist on the typical sightseeing experience, turning the city into a giant puzzle.
The story centers on Rex King, a silent movie director visiting Savannah in 1926, who’s been murdered. Your task is to unravel the case by visiting 10 historic sites, collecting passcodes, and reading markers that tell you more about Savannah’s past. The stops include the Savannah Theater, Colonial Park Cemetery, Chippewa Square, and Telfair Academy Arts and Science. Each of these spots offers some insight into the city’s history, but with a twist: they’re also clues in your whodunnit.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Savannah.
What to Expect on the Tour
The experience begins at an unspecified starting point in Savannah, with the activity designed to last about 2 hours and cover roughly 1.9 miles. You’ll use your smartphone to navigate from stop to stop, where you’ll find clues embedded in videos, signs, and passcodes. The process involves a mix of outdoor exploration and puzzle-solving, with each location offering a piece of the story.
The interactive element is what sets this activity apart. For each site, you’ll need to find a passcode by reading accessible (and free) historical markers. Once you have the passcode, you unlock the next set of clues or videos. The videos are a key part of the experience, offering snippets of silent movies that relate to the murder mystery and provide vital hints.
Some reviewers, however, mention the walk can be longer and more involved than expected. Kay_F noted that what was marketed as a 1.25-mile tour turned into a five-hour adventure, partly due to the nature of solving clues and exploring at a leisurely pace. It’s worth noting that this isn’t a quick walk but rather an immersive experience, so plan accordingly.
Exploring the Stops
Chippewa Square is perhaps Savannah’s most famed site, known from the Forrest Gump movie. Here, you can enjoy the iconic park while searching for clues related to the mystery. The Colonial Park Cemetery offers a glimpse into Savannah’s colonial past with its historic graves, which also serve as clue locations.
The Savannah Theater provides a cultural backdrop, where some clues might be hidden within the architecture or historical markers. Telfair Academy and the surrounding arts district add a visual and educational dimension to your journey.
The challenge lies in piecing together the clues from a variety of sources—signs, videos, and passcodes—creating an engaging puzzle that keeps your mind active while your feet move through Savannah’s streets.
Authenticity and Value
This tour is all about interactive discovery rather than passive sightseeing. You’re encouraged to read the markers, watch videos, and search for passcodes—an approach that suits those seeking a more active, engaging experience. The cost is quite reasonable, especially given that one purchase covers the whole group, making it accessible for families, friends, or solo adventurers.
However, some reviews highlight variability in the experience. Susan_B found it disappointing, claiming it felt more like reading signs than solving a true mystery. On the other hand, many, like James_M and Karen_W, appreciated the intertwining of history with fun puzzles, noting that watching videos was key to solving clues and enjoying the activity.
The group size limitation (maximum of 10 travelers) helps keep the experience intimate, but it also means you’ll likely be sharing the adventure with a small group, which can be either a plus or a minus depending on your preference.
Practical Considerations
Be prepared for walking and outdoor exploration. The route involves a leisurely pace but includes some distance, so comfortable shoes are essential. The activity is available daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, giving plenty of flexibility to fit into your Savannah itinerary.
Since it’s self-guided, you won’t have a tour guide, but the clues and videos are designed to be straightforward and accessible. Keep in mind that the activity is non-refundable, so if you find yourself frustrated, there’s little recourse. Also, service animals are permitted, and the activity is accessible near public transportation.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For travelers who love mystery stories, history, and outdoor walking, this scavenger hunt offers a fun, interactive way to experience Savannah beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s particularly good for families or small groups looking for a shared activity that combines entertainment and education.
On the downside, the length and pace can be more demanding than initially expected, especially if you’re not prepared for extra walking or if the clues are more challenging to access. The reliance on videos and passcodes makes it crucial to have a phone with good connectivity and battery life, and some reviews mention technical hiccups.
Overall, Mysteries on the Move is a creative, reasonably priced adventure that encourages exploration and storytelling. It’s best suited for curious, active travelers who enjoy puzzles and don’t mind a bit of a walk. If you’re looking for a unique way to learn about Savannah’s history while having fun, this could be just the ticket.
Mysteries on the Move: Scavenger Hunt in Savannah
FAQs
How long does the tour take?
Most people will spend about 2 hours on the activity, but some, like Kay_F, found it took much longer — up to five hours — depending on pace and puzzle difficulty.
How far will I walk?
The route covers approximately 1.9 miles, visiting 10 stops. Be prepared for some walking and wear comfortable shoes.
What sites are included in the scavenger hunt?
Major stops include Savannah Theater, Chippewa Square, Colonial Park Cemetery, and Telfair Academy Arts and Science, among others.
Do I need a smartphone to participate?
Yes, a smartphone is required to access clues, videos, and passcodes during the activity.
Is this activity suitable for families?
Yes, it’s family-friendly and can be enjoyed by groups of friends or individuals. Just note the walking involved.
What is the cost?
It costs $20 per person, and one purchase covers the entire group.
Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for all ages, provided they can handle some walking and reading clues. Service animals are allowed.
Can I do this tour in bad weather?
Yes, it’s designed to be outdoors and can be done in bad weather, though you might want to bring rain gear.
Is the experience refundable?
No, the booking is non-refundable and cannot be changed once confirmed.
To sum it up, for those who like a bit of mystery, enjoy history, and are ready for some outdoor activity, this scavenger hunt offers a playful way to experience Savannah. It’s a low-cost, flexible option that turns sightseeing into a story-driven adventure, perfect for curious explorers seeking something a little different.
