The #1 outdoor adventure app that transforms Balboa Park and Mission Bay into an interactive playground for kids and parents.
Looking for family activities in San Diego that don't involve expensive tickets or long lines? Quest-Hero uses your smartphone to create an instant, GPS-guided scavenger hunt. Whether you're planning a low-cost birthday party in Balboa Park or just want to get the kids active, our platform turns the city into an epic adventure.
No app required • No sign-up needed • Play instantly
Why Parents Love Quest-Hero in San Diego
San Diego is famous for its world-class zoo and beaches, but for locals and savvy visitors, the real magic happens when you explore the hidden corners of the city. However, planning a family outing can often feel like a chore—ticket costs add up, crowds at major theme parks can be overwhelming, and keeping kids engaged during a walking tour is a challenge.
Quest-Hero solves these problems by combining the excitement of a video game with the physical activity of a hike. Our platform offers a ready-to-play digital scavenger hunt that guides you through San Diego's most iconic locations, like Balboa Park and Old Town, using GPS technology. There are no tour guides to meet, no rigid schedules, and zero prep work required.
The Perfect Activity for Balboa Park
Balboa Park is the crown jewel of San Diego, but it's massive (1,200 acres!). Without a plan, families often wander aimlessly. With Quest-Hero, your walk becomes a mission. Your kids become the "heroes" of the story, solving riddles to unlock the next location, learning history facts about the Spanish Village Art Center, or finding hidden statues near the Botanical Building. It's the ultimate way to make a "boring walk" exciting for children.
Compare Your Options: Quest-Hero vs. The Rest
| Feature | Quest-Hero Scavenger Hunt | Theme Parks (Zoo/SeaWorld) | DIY Park Walk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Affordable (One low price per group) | Expensive ($60+ per person) | Free |
| Engagement | High (Gamified challenges) | High (Passive observation) | Low (Kids get bored) |
| Flexibility | Start/Pause anytime | Rigid hours & lines | Total flexibility |
| Prep Time | Zero (Instant access) | High (Booking & scheduling) | High (Planning route) |
| Crowds | Avoids crowds (Open spaces) | Very Crowded | Varies |
Great for San Diego Birthday Parties
Planning a kids' birthday party in San Diego? Skip the expensive trampoline parks. Quest-Hero is the secret weapon for a budget-friendly, high-energy outdoor party. Simply gather the kids at a safe meeting point (like the grassy areas near Mission Bay), start the hunt on a few phones, and watch them race to solve clues. It's active, safe, and incredibly memorable.
Explore Hidden Gems
Discover secret spots in Balboa Park and Old Town that even locals miss, guided by precise GPS triggers.
Instant, Zero-Prep Fun
No booking required. Just buy, download, and play immediately. Perfect for spontaneous weekend outings.
Budget-Friendly Adventure
A fraction of the cost of San Diego theme parks. Pay per quest, not per person, making it ideal for large families.
Team Mode for Parties
Split into teams and compete! The perfect low-cost solution for kids' birthday parties in local parks.
Discover more
"I was dreading spending $400 on a birthday party venue. We did a Quest-Hero hunt in Balboa Park instead, grabbed some pizza afterwards, and the kids said it was the best party ever. Highly recommend!"
- Sarah M., Mom from Clairemont
"We've lived in San Diego for years but rarely go to the tourist spots because of the crowds. This app made exploring Old Town fun again. My boys actually learned some history without realizing it!"
- David L., Local Teacher
"Perfect activity for when the cousins visited. It got everyone off their screens and running around Mission Bay. Super easy to set up."
- Jessica R., San Diego Resident
What is the best location for a scavenger hunt in San Diego?
Balboa Park is our most popular location due to its pedestrian-friendly paths, stunning architecture, and safe environment for kids. Mission Bay and Old Town are also fantastic options for combining history with outdoor fun.
Is this suitable for a 6-year-old's birthday party?
Absolutely! Quest-Hero is designed for kids aged 6-12. Younger children love following the map arrow and finding the "treasure" locations, while older kids enjoy solving the riddles. It's a great way to burn energy outdoors.
Do I need to book a specific time slot?
No. Unlike traditional escape rooms or guided tours, Quest-Hero is 100% self-guided. You can start the activity whenever you want—whether it's a sunny Tuesday morning or a Saturday afternoon.
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.