Secret Societies of Manhattan: Magic Hunt Walking Tour & Escape Game
Secret Societies of Manhattan: Magic Hunt Walking Tour & Escape Game
Dive into the mysterious world of secret societies and urban legends with this immersive walking tour and escape game through downtown Manhattan.
As you explore iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and the NY Public Library, you’ll also uncover hidden stories, visit New York's oldest magic shop, and solve puzzles that reveal some of the city’s best-kept secrets.
In this adventure, you’ll take on the role of a young reporter on the trail of a magical society hidden in Midtown. Your investigation begins at Grand Central, where you meet a mysterious informant who hands you everything you need for this dangerous, yet thrilling mission.
Will you discover the truth about magic in the heart of New York City? Perfect for adventurers, puzzle enthusiasts, and anyone intrigued by the city’s hidden stories, this self-guided tour offers a mix of history, mystery, and exploration at your own pace.
per player · one-time · yours forever
An evening of adventure for less than two coffees
Each player races on their own phone.
Full refund until you start playing · 12 stops · 2 hrs · 5.6 km
Staying a few days in New York City? All 12 New York City quests for $39.99 — pays for itself by quest #4. See the City Pass →
Places you will visit
12
It will take you
91-121 mins
You will walk
7350 steps
Total distance
5.6 km
Highlights
Visit the oldest magic shop in New York City
Experience amazing Manhattan attractions such as the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, NY Public Library, and more
Learn some of the best-kept secrets and urban legends of NYC
Discover local favorite hidden gems between prime midtown landmarks
Bring your crew
Race to the finish.
Everyone plays on their own phone — race solo, as a couple, or with a crew of any size. First to solve every clue takes the crown.
Adventure
Your pace, no timer
Escape
Beat the clock
Plays offline at your own pace — live group races need a connection.
Final leaderboard
Landmarks & Hidden Gems Included
Grand Central Station
Rockefeller Center
The mission: Your story in New York City
You will play the role of a young reporter who has just moved to New York City in hopes to make their “big break.”
You’ve recently received a lead that suggests magic is here in Midtown, among some of the most popular Manhattan sights!
Your lead instructs you to meet him in Grand Central, where he’ll provide you with everything you need in order to discover a Secret Society of Magical Persons.
Yes, that sounds just like another rubbish lead (magic, pfft), except that this time your gut tells you to follow it anyway.
Be careful, magic was banished here in America over a century ago. This is a dangerous mission, but an even bigger story!
Good to know before you play
- Best during the day
- Kid friendly
- Best for couples
- Recommended activity for families
Tips & Recommendations
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You will be walking throughout the city, so comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying the experience.
Charge Your Phone
Make sure your smartphone is at least 60% charged. The quest runs through the Questo app, and you will be using it throughout.
Check the Weather
This is an outdoor activity. Bring an umbrella or sunscreen depending on the forecast.
Bring a Camera
You will discover photogenic locations and hidden gems perfect for capturing memories.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially during warmer months or longer quests.
Play with Friends
While you can play solo, quests are more fun with friends or family. One ticket works for a group.
Ratings and Reviews
66 ratings
Captain Tweet Marshy
Ashley Smart
Carlos Azcarate
Spencer Lanier
Nicholas Howard
Beat the best: Top New York City explorers
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Compare Questo vs. Guided Walking Tours
Flexibility
Regular Guided Tours
Fixed schedules & no pausing
Questo
Start, pause, and resume anytime
Privacy
Regular Guided Tours
Crowds of up to 30 strangers
Questo
Private experience for your group only
Pricing
Regular Guided Tours
$30-$40 per person
Questo
Affordable per-group pricing
Availability
Regular Guided Tours
Requires advance booking
Questo
Instant access 24/7/365
Experience
Regular Guided Tours
Passive listening to a guide
Questo
Active gamification; you solve the mystery
| Feature | Regular Guided Tours | Questo |
|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | Fixed schedules & no pausing | Start, pause, and resume anytime |
| Privacy | Crowds of up to 30 strangers | Private experience for your group only |
| Pricing | $30-$40 per person | Affordable per-group pricing |
| Availability | Requires advance booking | Instant access 24/7/365 |
| Experience | Passive listening to a guide | Active gamification; you solve the mystery |
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