How the Quests Work | A New Way to Explore Melbourne
Going on a Quest is simple and fun! Just follow these simple steps: (click for more info)
3. Enjoy your Quest experience
4. Share your experience with others!
Browse the Quests here:
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Why is City Quest cheaper than other walking tours in Melbourne?
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Why should I do a self-guided walking tour instead of a guided one?
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Do the Quests expire?
- Can I do City Quest as a race with my friends?
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What if a clue has been removed, is under construction or is otherwise unavailable?
1. Prepare to Quest
When you purchase your Quest online, a link to download your Quest booklet in PDF format will immediately be emailed to you. You can download it as many times as you need to.
We encourage you to print out your booklet so that it will be easier to write down clues and solve the puzzles. It also creates an opportunity to unplug and enjoy the moment.
Please consider the planet by printing on both sides of the paper, using recycled paper if possible, and recycling the booklet properly when you are finished.
For an extra charge, we will post you a full colour copy of the Quest booklet printed on recycled paper. Shipping is free within Australia.
Of course, you can go on a Quest with a digital copy only.
Browse Quests Here:
2. Embark on your Quest.
Take note of the starting point of your Quest, and meet your party there when you are ready to embark.
From there, the booklet directions and map will lead you along a route carefully designed to highlight the best parts of Melbourne.
You may want to bring a water bottle and sun protection if the weather is warm. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring your printed booklet and a pen or pencil. You may also want a smartphone to look up general knowledge clues or take photographs.
Continue on the Quest at your own pace. You can stop to shop, take photos, pursue detours, or grab a coffee whenever you like.
Along the way, you'll be asked to find clues and record them in your booklet. The clues will help you solve puzzles, and the solutions will reveal the surprise ending you chose.
During your Quest, always use designated crosswalks and obey street signs. Agree on a meeting place in case you get separated. The Quests do not require you to enter any private dwelling or property.
3. Enjoy your surprise ending!
When you have finished the Quest route and found the puzzle solution, you can relax and enjoy a meal with your mates (there is always a cafe within walking distance!), or continue your wanderings. Some endings include a surprise message, riddles or trivia. Enjoy the fun of revealing the ending!
4. Share your experience
Share photos and stories from your Quest experience with friends and family. Tag us @cityquestaustralia to be featured on our Instagram feed.
Browse Quests Here:
>Frequently Asked Questions
>Why is City Quest cheaper than other walking tours in Melbourne?
Our flat per-group rate makes City Quest a great option for backpackers and budget-conscious tourists. In fact our price is much lower than the fee you would pay on a guided tour, which typically ranges from $50 - $100 per person. We are able to do this because the Quests are self-guided, meaning that we don't have the cost associated with paying tour guides. Low costs for us means a low price for you!
Why should I do a self-guided walking tour instead of a guided one?
We're glad you asked! While guided tours are certainly fun and informative, a self-guided walking tour has several benefits.
First, it costs less (see question above).
Second, it provides flexibility. You can start the Quest on any day and at any time that is convenient for you. If your plans change or the weather turns, you can reschedule without hassle. You don't have to book a tour at a specific time, just go when you want!
Thirdly, you can go at your own pace. On a self-guided tour, you're not locked into the route, and you don't have to keep up with the group. You can race through the Quest, or go at a leisurely pace. You can stop for a detour, to get a coffee or go shopping. We love the flexibility of a self-guided tour and think you will too!
Do the Quests expire?
No, they don't! There is no 'use-by' date on the Quests. Buy them now and you can use them whenever is convenient for you! A word of caution however - the city does change over time, and we try to update the Quest booklets accordingly. If you wait a very long time, the clues in the booklet may not match 100% what you find in the city.
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What should I bring on my Quest?
You don't need much to Quest. Just bring your Quest booklet, either in digital format or printed out. If you have a paper copy, you might want to bring a pen or pencil as well to work out the clues.
We also recommend:
- Weather appropriate gear. Melbourne sun can be fierce, so bring water, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen for hot weather. Melbourne weather can also change faster than you can say 'four seasons in one day' so a jacket might be a good idea too. Just check the forecast.
- A smartphone. You might want to take photos, share your experience, or look up answers to clues online along the way.
- Comfortable walking shoes. You're on a walking tour after all, and you don't want your poor feet to be worn out halfway through.
Can children go on the Quest?
Absolutely! City Quest prides itself on creating a family-friendly experience that is both enjoyable and educational. Children will learn essential skills like navigation, following directions and problem solving. They will be exposed to history, culture, art, architecture and food in a fun and interesting way. Keep in mind that the Quests involve between 2-4 kilometers of walking and that small children may need help. Of course children should always be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Can I Quest with a pram or wheelchair?
Most of our Quests are designed to be accessible for prams and wheelchairs. In some cases, there might be an alternative accessibility route. In that case there will be a note in the booklet. If you still have trouble, please let us know so we can update the route.
Do I need to print out the Quest booklet?
No you don't! You can bring the Quest booklet in digital format and just scroll through it as you walk along. However, some of the puzzles (like Sudoku and Crosswords) are easier to solve if you can write down your clues. A blank piece of paper and a pencil can come in handy for that.
If you do print your Quest booklet, we encourage you to print on both sides of the paper, use recycled paper and dispose of the booklet responsibly when you are finished.
Where do I start my Quest?
Each Quest starts in a central location which is easy to reach by public transport or car. Just check the front of your Quest booklet for the start point before you embark and plan to meet your friends or family there.
How difficult are the puzzles to solve?
The puzzle difficulty varies depending on the Quest you complete, so check the product page for details. Our founder Jamie is a teacher, and she designed the puzzles to be only mildly challenging for the average adult. If you are interested in a very challenging Quest, or an easy one for small children, please express your interest by emailing us at cityquestaustralia@gmail.com
How long will the Quest take?
This really depends on how fast you want to go. The front of your Quest booklet will have an estimated time, based on an average pace. But you can race through the Quest if you like, or spend all day on it, stopping along the way as you like.
Can I choose my own ending?
Yes you can! If you would like us to design a Quest for you with a custom destination, we would be happy to do so. Each Quest can be customised with your own surprise venue or message. Just leave a note at checkout to let us know what to design for you, and we will do the rest!
Can I do City Quest as a race with my friends?
Of course! If you would like to set up a friendly competition, all you have to do is print out multiple copies of your Quest booklet, arrange teams and a start time, and go! The first group to solve the puzzle and reach the final destination wins! Drinks are on the last to arrive of course. ;)
What if I can’t find the answer to a clue?
If you are having trouble finding or solving a clue, we encourage you to keep trying! Use all your resources – search the Internet or ask passers-by for help. If you are truly stuck, don’t panic! All the answers are at the back of your Quest booklet. It’s not cheating if you tried your hardest.
What if a clue has been removed, is under construction or is otherwise unavailable?
Since Melbourne is an ever-changing landscape, this does happen sometimes. You can get answers to the unavailable clue below and move along to the next clue. Please let us know so we can update the Quest if necessary
What if I get lost?
If you are lost and are unsure of your route, check the booklet map against nearby street signs. Use your smart phone or ask a local to point you in the right direction. If you been separated from your friends or family, go directly to the meeting spot you agreed on and wait for them. You can ask an information booth or local business for directions if necessary.
What if I have an accident on the Quest?
If you have an accident or other emergency, please call 000 or contact the local authorities, then inform us of the incident once you are safe.
Does City Quest do corporate team building events?
Yes we do! Learn more about this option here, or get in contact with us to discuss your requirements.
Does City Quest do experiences for school groups?
Lots of schools do a Year 9 City Experience or similar program, and City Quest would be a fantastic option, since they are challenging, educational and family friendly. If you are interested in a bulk purchase or a custom Quest for your school program, please get in contact with us to discuss your needs.
More questions? Please email us at cityquestaustralia@gmail.com and we will get back to you ASAP.