Harvard University Scavenger Hunt and Escape Game

Cambridge , United States

Harvard University Scavenger Hunt and Escape Game

Active

(2 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

There's nothing quite like The Great Game. It's like a scavenger hunt mixed with an escape room. Built around the coolest places in the world (like Harvard University), it is a completely unique way to explore an incredible area.

Over 200,000 players have played around the world and across all platforms we have a 9.2/10 player satisfaction score.

It is completely self guided, so you can go at your own pace. There are built in hints, so you will never get stuck in the adventure. As you walk from location to location, the app will teach you more about various parts of the Harvard University and why they are so special.

In the Harvard Heist, the Harvard Art Museums have been robbed and it is up to your team of detectives to recover the stolen painting.

Available options

Harvard University Scavenger Hunt and Escape Game

What's included

Historical Facts and stories about Harvard

Self-Guided - so freedom to go at your own pace

Insanely Fun Puzzles

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 3.5

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Start near outside of the Richard A. and Susan F. Smith Campus Center. The exact location doesn't have to be precise. This is a SELF GUIDED tour - so you will start at the famous hotel and there you will download our PokemonGo style app and use it to explore Harvard University!

Important notes

Here are the simple instructions on how to play The Great Game! It should take about 2 minutes to download the app, create a team and start to play.
Start Location: Smith Campus Center
Address: 1350 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138

1. Gather your team of anywhere between 1-8 players. If you have more than 8 players, you can form two teams and play simultaneously.
2. Have at least 1 player on your team download The Great Game App ( https://qr1.be/317M ). Not every player needs to download the app, but if you can, we encourage you to. You can click on the link above to download the app, or you can search "TheGreatGame" in the Apple app store/ Google Play Store.
3. When you download the app, each player should sign up with an email address. Note, you can use a made up email address if you wish and you will still be able to log in just fine. Have one team member click on the giant "+" button in order to register for a game, and then click on "The Harvard Heist"
4. Choose a team name and password. Your teammates will do the same, but instead click "Join Team" and put in the same team name and password.
5. Once everyone has joined your team, and is near the Smith Campus Center ( 1350 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138), click "begin game" and start your epic adventure!

About Cambridge

Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a vibrant city steeped in history and intellectual prowess, home to prestigious institutions like Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). With its charming neighborhoods, rich cultural scene, and diverse dining options, Cambridge offers a unique blend of academic excellence and urban charm.

Top Attractions

Harvard University

One of the most prestigious universities in the world, Harvard University offers beautiful campuses, historic buildings, and a rich academic atmosphere.

Historical/Educational Half day to full day Free to explore the campus, museum admission varies

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

A leading institution in technology and innovation, MIT's campus features modern architecture, scenic views, and interactive exhibits.

Historical/Educational Half day Free to explore the campus, museum admission varies

Harvard Square

A bustling hub of activity, Harvard Square is known for its vibrant atmosphere, historic buildings, and diverse dining and shopping options.

Cultural/Shopping A few hours Free to explore, shopping and dining costs vary

Charles River Esplanade

A scenic park along the Charles River, offering beautiful views, walking paths, and recreational activities.

Nature/Outdoor A few hours Free

MIT Museum

The MIT Museum showcases the history and innovations of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, featuring exhibits on robotics, holography, and more.

Museum 1-2 hours $10-$15

Must-Try Local Dishes

Lobster Roll

A classic New England dish featuring lobster meat served in a buttered, toasted roll.

Lunch Contains seafood, gluten

Clam Chowder

A creamy, hearty soup made with clams, potatoes, and onions.

Soup Contains dairy, gluten (if served with oyster crackers)

Boston Cream Pie

A layered dessert featuring sponge cake, custard, and chocolate glaze.

Dessert Contains dairy, gluten, eggs

Popular Activities

Hiking Biking Kayaking on the Charles River Picnicking in the Charles River Esplanade Visiting spas and wellness centers Reading in Harvard Yard Visiting museums Attending theater performances

Best Time to Visit

September to November, April to June

These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Fall foliage in September and October is particularly beautiful.

10-25°C 50-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese, Portuguese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Standard Time (EST) (GMT-5) or Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4) during daylight saving time

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cambridge is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, as with any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use reputable taxi services or rideshare apps.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Logan International Airport • 8 km (5 miles)

By train

Cambridge Station

By bus

South Station, Logan Airport

Getting around

Public transport

The Red Line is the main subway route in Cambridge, connecting to Harvard Square and other key areas. It is efficient and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Harvard Square Central Square Kendall Square Inman Square

Day trips

Boston

5 km (3 miles) • Half day to full day

Boston offers a wealth of historic sites, cultural attractions, and vibrant neighborhoods.

Salem

30 km (19 miles) • Full day

Salem is famous for its witch trials and offers a mix of historic sites and maritime attractions.

Concord

25 km (16 miles) • Half day to full day

Concord is known for its historic sites related to the American Revolution and its beautiful natural surroundings.

Festivals

Cambridge River Festival • June Cambridge Arts River Festival • July Cambridge Winter Festival • December

Pro tips

Take advantage of the city's extensive public transportation system to get around easily and affordably.
Visit the Harvard Art Museums and the MIT Museum for a unique cultural experience.
Explore the diverse neighborhoods of Cambridge, each offering its own unique character and attractions.
Try the local seafood, particularly lobster and clam dishes, for an authentic New England dining experience.
Attend a lecture or event at Harvard or MIT for a taste of the city's intellectual atmosphere.