Boston Record Breakers Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt — Historic Walking Game in Back Bay & Beacon Hill
A self-paced city game that stitches Boston’s architectural firsts, civic milestones, and hidden plaques into a 80-minute walk through Back Bay, Beacon Hill, and the Public Garden. Download the Questo app, set out from the Public Library, and solve clues that unlock the city’s lesser-known stories.
The Experience
Before You Go
Download and unlock the Questo app before you arrive
Use the unlock link and download the game while you still have Wi‑Fi; once unlocked you can play offline, which saves mobile data and speeds up clue loads.
Bring a fully charged phone or power bank
The experience runs through your device—maps, clues, and photo prompts will drain battery fast, especially if you take pictures.
Expect cobblestones and narrow sidewalks in Beacon Hill
Comfortable, grippy shoes make moving between clues easier and safer—watch for uneven pavement and occasional street traffic.
Start early or late for better light and smaller crowds
Golden hour and weekday mornings offer cleaner photos and easier access to plaques and quieter streets.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Acorn Street in Beacon Hill — one of Boston’s most photographed cobblestone lanes
- •Gibson House Museum — a preserved Back Bay rowhouse open for short tours
Wildlife
- •Rock pigeons
- •Eastern gray squirrels
Conservation Note
This is an urban experience—respect resident neighborhoods, use public trash and recycling bins, and support local small businesses to keep tourism sustainable.
Boston’s streets are lined with civic firsts: the Boston Public Library opened in 1848 as the nation’s first large free municipal library, and Massachusetts’ 1780 constitution is the oldest functioning written constitution.
Photographer's Notes
- • Front steps and arcade of the Boston Public Library (Copley Square)
- • Acorn Street and nearby Beacon Hill lanes
- • Public Garden near the Ether Monument or Swan Boat landing
What to Bring
Smartphone with Questo appEssential
Required to receive clues and unlock the game; the app stores progress and can be used offline once unlocked.
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Provides grip on cobbles and comfort for up to two miles of urban walking.
Portable charger (power bank)Essential
Keeps your phone alive during photo stops and prolonged clue solving.
Light rain jacket or umbrella
Spring showers are common; a small waterproof layer keeps you moving without pausing the game.
Common Questions
How long does the scavenger hunt take?
The route is designed for about 80 minutes of play, but there is no time limit—most groups spend 1–2 hours depending on stops and photo breaks.
Where does the game start and end?
Begin at the Boston Public Library (Copley Square area) and follow the app’s directions; the final clue leads you to a central restaurant area where you can stop for a meal.
Do I need an internet connection?
You need internet to unlock the game in the Questo app, but once unlocked the game works offline so you can play without mobile data.
Is this activity family-friendly?
Yes—suitable for older children and families; stroller access is available on most sidewalks, though Beacon Hill cobbles can be bumpy.
Can I play at any time of day?
Yes—the game is available 24/7, but monument access and nearby businesses follow their own hours, so plan accordingly.
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund cancel at least 24 hours before your planned start time; bookings canceled within 24 hours are non-refundable.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1–2 hours
Location
Boston, Massachusetts
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be comfortable walking 1.5–2 miles on paved and occasional cobbled surfaces.
Ready to Explore Boston?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now