Adventure Ayana

Planning a Spooky Scavenger Hunt

Halloween is one of the best parts of fall. Since it’s just around the corner, that makes it a great time for planning a spooky scavenger hunt.

Whether you’re looking for the best fall family adventures or a great time with friends, here’s how you can plan your spooky scavenger hunt.

Halloween Theme and Locations

The first thing you need to do when planning a spooky scavenger hunt is decide on your theme. Is this going to be something generally spooky or is it going to be all about vampires, or maybe monsters, or perhaps zombies? (I know which one I’d choose.)

Once you’ve decided on the theme, you can choose the right ways to set the atmosphere. You want to either go to places that feel connected – like overlooking a graveyard for a zombie theme – or make places feel connected – like adding a coffin prop for a vampire theme.

Figure out what your locations will look like and where they will be, then focus on the story.

The Story

The next part of planning a spooky scavenger hunt is all about the story. At first blush it might seem like the best thing to do is have everyone dress up to match the theme, but there could be a much better way to go when you add a story.

For instance, maybe the guide plays an unwitting participant who is freaked out by the vampires or zombies. Perhaps the idea is to get to the end to unlock some way to stop whatever is after you.

Create a great story that makes the scavenger hunt exciting and extraordinary.

Costumes and Props

The next thing you need when planning a spooky scavenger hunt adventure is costumes and props. Figure out who will be playing what parts (the scared guide, the unwitting victims who possibly seem like just another participant until they are “eaten”, the monsters, etc). Then come up with the costumes they need and any props that will be required.

It’s a great idea to do a run through to make sure you have everything you need. You may realize you forgot fake blood, vampire teeth, or various other props.

Clues and Hidden Items

The last thing you need for planning a spooky scavenger hunt is clues and hidden items. The clues should match the story and the hidden items should as well, but they could vary depending on how you want it to go.

For instance, the hidden items could simply be clues people use to solve a puzzle or they could contain parts of a special amulet that deanimates all zombies. It could also simply be fun rewards. The choice is up to you and what the story dictates.