The Cardinal Disappearance: Shadows of Downtown Ottawa
Ottawa hides more than monuments and politics—something darker lingers in its shadows. James Cardinal, heir to a powerful local family, has vanished without a trace. As a seasoned private investigator, you've been called in to uncover the truth before whispers turn into headlines. His last signal came from downtown, but the trail has gone cold.
Will you crack the case before it disappears for good?
Step into the streets, follow cryptic clues, solve real-world puzzles, and piece together the mystery one step at a time. Bring a friend or your most trusted partner—this isn’t a game you’ll want to play alone. It's a thrilling walk through secrets, lies, and hidden corners of the capital. The city is waiting. Are you ready to follow the trail?
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 · 10 stops · 1–2 hrs · 6.2 km
Staying a few days in Ottawa? All 6 Ottawa quests for CA$54.99 — pays for itself by quest #4. See the City Pass →
Places you will visit
10
It will take you
87-117 mins
You will walk
8140 steps
Total distance
6.2 km
Highlights
Navigate downtown with ease!
Find some of Ottawa’s most Instagramable sights!
Learn about the early days of Ottawa
Enjoy scenic pathways through the heart of the city
Explore Ottawa’s past and present
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
Yousuf Karsh Sculpture
Marion Dewar Plaza
The mission: Your story in Ottawa
James Cardinal’s last known location was pinged by his phone in Ottawa, and nothing has been heard from him since. Travel through the city and uncover the clues to track down James before it’s too late!
Good to know before you play
- Best during the day
- Best for couples
- Recommended activity for families
- Some checkpoints may contain temporary construction work
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
142 ratings
B&E
LeLievre Family
Matteo
Mai
Matthew Huebner
Beat the best: Top Ottawa explorers
Upcoming Events in Ottawa
Limited-time adventures, book before they're gone
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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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