Race for the Tortoise: Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia
Step into the halls of one of America’s oldest natural history museums, where ancient bones, glittering gems, and mysterious specimens hide more than just knowledge—they hide secrets.
Your challenge? Find them all before your friends do! Follow curious clues, solve clever puzzles, and race through exhibits in a fast-paced, real-world adventure. But there’s a twist: the game ends at the hidden bronze tortoise… and no one knows where it is. This quest is perfect for curious minds and competitive spirits—whether you're a family, a group of friends, or a solo explorer on a mission.
Discover Philadelphia’s wildest secrets—one clue at a time!
Admission: Adults 13-64: $27 ($25 online)
Children 2-12: $23 ($21 online)
Children under 2, members, Drexel DragonCard Holders: free
Seniors 65+: $24 ($22 online)
Military, students with ID: $24 ($22 online)
Places you will visit
15
It will take you
27-57 mins
Made by Ned Wilson
Ned Wilson created this quest · the route, the puzzles and the story are theirs.
What you'll actually do
Download the Questo app and unlock the quest. Walk to The Academy of Natural Sciences whenever you like · no guide, no group, no time slot.
Solve 15 puzzles hidden in the streets around you. Each one you crack unlocks the next location.
Finish at Third Floor Dioramas and see where you land on the Philadelphia leaderboard.
Highlights
View plants & animals from the ancient past to the recent past to the present, and that's just the stuff on display!
This museum holds the first dinosaur that was ever on display in the US!
This museum is primarily geared towards older kids, so parents with children under the age of five, the Academy probably won't be for you.
The mission: Your story in Philadelphia
Your quest? To find as many secrets as you can before your friends! The first person to find all of the secrets by the time they reach the bronze tortoise wins! Thing is, you don't know where that tortoise could be hiding...
ABOUT THIS EXPERIENCE
What to expect from Race for the Tortoise: Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia
Step into the halls of one of America’s oldest natural history museums, where ancient bones, glittering gems, and mysterious specimens hide more than just knowledge—they hide secrets. Your challenge? Find them all before your friends do! Follow curious clues, solve clever puzzles, and race through exhibits in a fast-paced, real-world adventure. But there’s a twist: the game ends at the hidden bronze tortoise… and no one knows where it is. This quest is perfect for curious minds and competitive spirits—whether you're a family, a group of friends, or a solo explorer on a mission. Discover Philadelphia’s wildest secrets—one clue at a time! Admission: Adults 13-64: $27 ($25 online) Children 2-12: $23 ($21 online) Children under 2, members, Drexel DragonCard Holders: free Seniors 65+: $24 ($22 online) Military, students with ID: $24 ($22 online)
View plants & animals from the ancient past to the recent past to the present, and that's just the stuff on display! This museum holds the first dinosaur that was ever on display in the US! This museum is primarily geared towards older kids, so parents with children under the age of five, the Academy probably won't be for you.
Start: The Academy of Natural Sciences. Finish: Third Floor Dioramas. 15 challenges included.
Good to know before you play
- We recommend not playing at night
- Kids under 12 should be guided by their parents
- You need to buy the entrance ticket separately
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
Quests are more fun with friends or family. Each player who wants to play on their own phone needs their own access.
Beat the best: Top Philadelphia explorers
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