Scavenger hunts help people to get to know a city intimately, which may prove valuable when put in charge of hiding celebrity wax figures for the citywide celebrity-wax-figure hunt that takes place each Easter. Prepare for this venerable American tradition with this Groupon.
$20 for Race Entry for One to San Jose Challenge: The Ultimate Urban Scavenger Race (a $50 Value)
Held on Sunday, March 25, the one-day race sets teams scampering through the city as they solve clues, chart the best course, and discover new corners of their burb. Races begin and finish at Gordon Biersch, where participants raise glasses in celebration in the outdoor courtyard. The race starts at 2 p.m., but participants can show up from 12 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. to pick up prerace packets and change into a uniform that's half track-and-field athlete, half Columbo. Although this Groupon covers entry for one participant, customers can buy up to 10 Groupons as gifts for teammates.
Challenge Nation: The Ultimate Urban Scavenger Hunt
Taking place in 34 cities across the country, Challenge Nation leads adults on a fun and frantic urban odyssey that explores their city. Teams of two or more individuals plot a helter-skelter path in search of cash prizes and personal pride, solving strands of interconnected clues that would test the deductive powers of even the most seasoned children's-book detective. Winning teams receive a $300 cash prize, and each day's top five finishers win free entry to the National Championship race on December 8 in New Orleans, where they'll vie for a $5,000 prize.
Although being physically fit is a plus, quick wits and wise planning will ultimately determine the winners. Participation in the challenge gets contestants a clue packet, race-number bib, and T-shirt, and fees go toward the prize pool. After the race all participants are invited to partake in an after-party and awards ceremony, enjoying drink specials and music as additional prizes, such as best costume, are announced. The website offers a regular FAQ as well as a Groupon FAQ detailing the intricacies of the race, what to wear the day of, why it's not okay to bring a boa constrictor and more.