Experiences
The San Mateo Treasure Hunt is a team-based scavenger hunt experience designed to build collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills in a fun, interactive environment. This event is well suited for corporate teams, community organizations, social groups, and private parties seeking an engaging outdoor activity in downtown San Mateo.
The experience is powered by an augmented reality mobile app that delivers location-based clues, interactive puzzles, and creative photo and video challenges. The app enhances the adventure with a modern, game-like experience while keeping the focus on teamwork, strategy, and group engagement. Each team uses their own smartphone to access the app, which provides real-time scoring and leaderboard updates.
The scavenger hunt leads participants through a walkable portion of downtown San Mateo. The route covers approximately 1.5 miles and takes about 2 hours to complete, making it easy for teams to explore local landmarks while staying active and connected. The course is designed to be accessible for all fitness levels and includes stops at notable sites such as the San Mateo County History Museum, Central Park, and local public art installations.
The event is run on a self-facilitated basis, offering maximum flexibility and ease of execution. Organizers receive a detailed event guide with clear instructions, team check-in procedures, and in-app scoring. No professional facilitator is required on-site, which reduces costs and scheduling complexity. Groups of 10 or more participants are encouraged, as the format supports multiple teams competing simultaneously, maximizing interaction and friendly competition.
What is included:
Access to the augmented reality mobile app for all participants
Customized scavenger hunt route through downtown San Mateo
Location-based clues, puzzles, and photo/video challenges
Real-time scoring and leaderboard via the app
Detailed event guide with setup and facilitation instructions
Support for up to 10 teams per event (each team can have 4-8 members)
Weather-proof digital format (runs rain or shine)
Event types served: Corporate team building, company offsites, department retreats, community organization events, school groups, birthday parties, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and social club outings.
Unique features: The augmented reality app uses GPS geofencing to trigger clues only when teams are physically at the correct location, ensuring authentic exploration. The puzzles are designed to require group discussion and creative thinking, not just speed. Photo and video challenges encourage teams to document their experience and share memories. The self-facilitated format means organizers can run the event at their convenience without coordinating with external staff.
Service area: This scavenger hunt is specifically designed for downtown San Mateo, California. The route stays within safe, pedestrian-friendly areas with easy access to public parking and transit. Nearby landmarks include the San Mateo Caltrain station, Central Park, and the downtown shopping district.
Duration and capacity: The event typically lasts 2 hours, including check-in, the hunt itself, and optional post-event debrief. Groups of 10 to 50 participants are ideal, though events can accommodate up to 100 participants with multiple start times. The scavenger hunt is available year-round, with recommended times between 9 AM and 5 PM for optimal daylight and foot traffic.
Technology requirements: Participants need a smartphone with internet access and the ability to download the free app. The app is compatible with both iOS and Android devices. No additional equipment is required. The digital format eliminates the need for printed materials, making it an eco-friendly option.
Customization options: The scavenger hunt can be tailored to include company branding, specific team-building goals, or themed challenges (e.g., holiday-themed, problem-solving focus, or creative communication). Customization requests should be made at least two weeks before the event date to allow for route and content adjustments.
Fun, flexible, and easy to organize, the San Mateo Treasure Hunt delivers a memorable team-building experience that blends technology, exploration, and collaboration in the heart of downtown San Mateo.
