Turn Minneapolis into a giant game board. The perfect mix of outdoor fun and digital magic for your next family outing or birthday party.
Looking for something unique to do with kids aged 7-12 in Minneapolis? Forget the usual trampoline parks and bowling alleys. Quest-Hero transforms the Twin Cities' most iconic parks and landmarks into an interactive adventure zone where your kids become the heroes of the story.
No app required • No sign-up needed • Play instantly
Why Minneapolis is the Perfect Playground for Ages 7-12
Minneapolis offers an incredible backdrop for adventure, from the roaring Minnehaha Falls to the artistic wonders of the Sculpture Garden. However, getting kids in the "tween" stage (ages 7-12) to engage with history or nature can sometimes be a challenge. They want excitement, autonomy, and—let's be honest—technology.
Quest-Hero bridges the gap. We combine the active fun of an outdoor treasure hunt with the engaging gameplay of a mobile app. It’s not just a walk in the park; it’s a mission. Whether you are planning a low-stress birthday party, a field trip, or just a Saturday family outing, our GPS-guided hunts get kids moving, thinking, and collaborating.
Top Adventure Zones in Minneapolis
Our hunts cover the best kid-friendly spots in the city:
- Minnehaha Falls: Explore the hidden trails and history behind the falls while solving riddles about the Longfellow House.
- Chain of Lakes: Turn a walk around Bde Maka Ska or Lake Harriet into a high-energy quest.
- Minneapolis Sculpture Garden: The Spoonbridge and Cherry isn't just a statue; it's a clue waiting to be solved.
Quest-Hero vs. The "Old Way"
Parents love us because we remove the stress of planning. Here is how we stack up against a DIY scavenger hunt:
| Feature | DIY Scavenger Hunt | Quest-Hero Adventure |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation Time | Hours of printing & hiding clues | Zero – Instant start |
| Cost | Varies (supplies, props) | One low price per group |
| Engagement | Kids often lose interest quickly | High – GPS & interactive roles keep focus |
| Flexibility | Rigid schedule | Play anytime, pause whenever |
| Weather Plan | Ruined by rain | Pause & Resume when sun returns |
Perfect for Birthday Parties
Planning a birthday for a 10-year-old? Quest-Hero offers the perfect solution. You don't need to book an expensive venue 3 months in advance. Gather the group at a park, start the app, and let them run off their energy while solving puzzles together. It is safe, self-guided, and incredibly memorable.
Instant Play, No Prep
Forget cutting out paper clues. Just download the app, head to the starting point in Minneapolis, and play immediately.
Active Outdoor Fun
Combines the engagement of a video game with the health benefits of a 1.5-mile walk around beautiful locations like Minnehaha Park.
Teamwork Focused
Kids are assigned roles (Navigator, Detective, Scribe), ensuring everyone from the shy 7-year-old to the bold 12-year-old is involved.
Discover more
"We did the Minnehaha Falls hunt for my son's 10th birthday. It was brilliant! The boys ran around solving clues instead of sitting on their phones. Best $20 I've spent on a party."
- Sarah J., Minneapolis Mom
"Finally, an activity that my 7-year-old and 12-year-old enjoyed equally. We explored the Stone Arch Bridge area and learned so much cool history without the kids realizing they were learning."
- Mark T., Edina, MN
Is this difficult for a 7-year-old?
Not at all! Our quests for the 7-12 age range are designed with visual clues and multiple-choice riddles. While older kids (10-12) can lead the navigation, younger ones are great at spotting the physical clues in the park.
What if it rains while we are at the Sculpture Garden?
Minneapolis weather can be unpredictable. That's why Quest-Hero has a 'Pause' feature. If a storm rolls in, hit pause, grab some hot cocoa, and resume the game exactly where you left off when the sun comes out.
Do I need to pay for each child?
No! Unlike museums or amusement parks, Quest-Hero charges per group/device. One purchase covers your whole family or party team (up to 5-6 kids recommended per device).
How does the outdoor treasure hunt work?
The treasure hunt runs right in your mobile browser (Safari or Chrome). GPS guides you to each station where exciting riddles await.
What do I need to play?
You only need a smartphone or tablet with GPS - Android or Apple, either works perfectly. For treasure hunt games you should also hide a small treasure at the final stop.
What can I use as a treasure?
Anything fun works: small toys, candy, chocolate, or another surprise. It doesn’t have to be expensive. A themed container such as a small treasure chest adds to the excitement.
What ages can take part?
Our quests are suitable for children ages 4 and up and adapt to the selected age range. Younger kids who can’t read yet may need a little help.
How long does a game last?
Playtime depends on your route and the number of quizzes. Plan for roughly 30–90 minutes for a typical adventure. The setup shows you the expected walking distance.
Where can we play the treasure hunt?
The quests automatically adjust to your chosen location. Play in a park, downtown, your neighborhood, or even the backyard.
Do I need to prepare anything?
Preparation is quick and easy. Pick the stations on a map to create your personalized route and you’re ready to go in minutes.
What happens if the weather turns bad?
A little rain is fine, but please postpone the game if thunderstorms or high winds are forecast to keep everyone safe.
Can we pause the game?
Yes. You can pause at any time and continue later. Your progress is saved automatically.
What if we can’t solve a quiz?
You receive up to three hints. If you’re still stuck, you can skip the quiz and keep the adventure moving.
How many times can we play a purchased game?
Each quest can be completed twice.
How long is a game valid?
Your game license is valid for one year from the purchase date.
What if I placed a station at the wrong spot?
No worries - even if it ended up in a pond or on private property. You can adjust every station at any time, including while you play. Just reopen the setup and move the marker.
How do I get help?
Email us at [email protected] and we'll assist you as quickly as possible.