This activity is no longer available in Provo. Escapes in Time is instead renting the puzzle boxes out for holiday events. You can read below about how we experienced them and see if they are a fit for your party or event.
There is a cool new activity at the Riverwoods in Provo. The Puzzle Box Hunt by Escapes in Time is like an escape room and scavenger hunt combined. You have to search to find the puzzle boxes, and then solve the puzzle like an escape room. We had a ton of fun solving the clues as a family.
How To Play
In order to participate in the puzzles, go to their website and pay for the game. Then, go to the Riverwoods and and search out the puzzle boxes. Use a purchased code to open the first box, and follow the game from there. You can purchase a game here.
How The Game Works
This is a unique experience because the puzzle boxes are hidden throughout the Riverwoods. One you get your first code, you’ll also receive instructions about where to look for the first box. They aren’t too hard to find, but you must respect the businesses and follow the rule not to run from box to box. Each box has doors on 3 sides, and your code will open one of them. Then follow the instructions on the phone to order, count, or otherwise “unlock” the puzzle that you see. When you do, you’ll enter the answer in your phone and receive the next instruction. There are a total of 6 or 7 puzzles, which can vary depending on your path through the boxes.
Of course, we won’t spoil any puzzles for you, but we felt like they were well thought through. We didn’t get frustrated, even though the puzzles did challenge us and take a little time. You could also get hints if you were struggling.
Our Tips
Because of the space in front of each box, it is best to do this with a small group or make sure that you take turns. We could only get about two people working on a puzzle at a time. So we think this is the perfect date night, or take a small family of 2-3. You can also split into two groups, purchase two games, and race against each other.
The puzzles are all kid-friendly, and our tweens had no trouble solving any of them, though small kids may struggle with this activity. They’d at least enjoy being along for the ride, and they’d like the big stuff like search for puzzle boxes.
Since you’ll be going in and outdoors to find puzzle boxes, make sure to dress accordingly. Also enjoy all of the amazing Riverwoods holiday lights. There are great photo spots, lights, and Santa every evening. Read more about the Shops at Riverwoods holidays here.
