If you’re looking for a fun, interactive way to explore St. Gallen, this Magic Portal Outdoor Escape Game offers a mix of puzzles, storytelling, and sightseeing that could be just what you need. For about $61 per person, you and your group will spend roughly 2.5 hours navigating the city’s picturesque streets, solving riddles, and collecting magical crystals to close a portal threatening the world. The game can be tailored for teams of 2-5 people, with options for larger groups to compete in duel mode or customize routes for extended fun.
What I like most about this activity is how it combines adventure with local sightseeing. It’s not just a standard puzzle hunt; it’s a playful story that immerses you in a magical world—think goblins and enchanted realms—while you stroll through St. Gallen’s charming city center. Also, the inclusion of an aperitif at the bar at the end provides a relaxing cap to an energetic experience, blending social time with exploration.
A minor consideration is that the activity isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, as it involves walking approximately 2.3 km on foot, often through cobbled streets. Also, while the activity is designed for beginners and younger guests, those who dislike puzzles or outdoor activities might find it less appealing.
Key points / Takeaways
- Engaging storytelling: The game’s plot about goblins and magical portals adds an imaginative twist to sightseeing.
- Flexible group options: Ideal for small teams or larger groups, with options for competitive duel mode.
- Includes modern tech: An iPad provides puzzle clues and enhances the experience, making it suitable for tech-savvy players.
- Perfect for special occasions: Great for team events, bachelor parties, or reunions, thanks to its customizable routes and large capacity.
- Interactive and active: You’ll walk about 2.3 km, making it more than just a sit-and-listen tour—it’s a moving adventure.
- Value for the experience: For $61, you get 2.5 hours of entertainment, puzzles, exploration, and a social drink, blending activity with leisure.
What the Experience Is All About
This outdoor escape game is designed to make exploring St. Gallen a lively, story-driven adventure. You won’t just walk around sightsee and read plaques; instead, you’ll follow clues, solve riddles, and participate in a narrative involving magical realms and goblins guarding ancient portals. The premise is simple but engaging: you’re helping goblins close a dangerous portal after collecting magic crystals, which serve as tokens of progress and key to restoring peace.
The game is pitched as suitable for beginners and younger guests, making it accessible if you’ve never done an escape game before, but it still offers enough challenge to keep puzzle lovers hooked. The scenario is crafted to foster teamwork, problem-solving, and, for many, a good dose of fun.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in St Gallen.
How the Route Unfolds
You’ll start in the city center, where your iPad guides your journey. As you walk through the streets, you’ll encounter various puzzles—some straightforward, others more elaborate—that test your observational skills and logic. According to reviews, guides like “Mario” or “Lisa” have been praised for their engaging storytelling, which helps bring the narrative to life.
The route takes you through notable sights, turning sightseeing into a game. You might find yourself searching for hidden symbols, decoding riddles engraved on historic buildings, or navigating alleyways filled with local charm. The walking distance is approximately 2.3 km, making it a manageable stroll with plenty of breaks for story developments and puzzle solving.
What Makes It Unique
Unlike typical city tours, this experience invites you to become part of a fantasy story while actually exploring St. Gallen’s streets. The use of an iPad adds a modern touch—think of it as your magical artifact—overlaying clues onto real-world sights, which makes the puzzle-solving more interactive and less static.
The game’s design encourages team collaboration—crucial for cracking puzzles—and the option to compete against other teams in duel mode adds a competitive edge. This makes it perfect for corporate events, bachelor parties, or large groups wanting a shared story and adventure.
What to Expect During the Game
The activity lasts 120 minutes, giving plenty of time to enjoy the puzzles without feeling rushed. The enchanting story flows naturally as you pass through different parts of the city. Expect plenty of moments where you need to search for clues, interpret riddles, or unlock virtual doors using your device.
The game ends with a relaxing aperitif at the bar, providing a chance to share stories from the adventure and toast your success. The inclusion of a social element makes it more than just a treasure hunt—it’s also about connecting with your companions.
The Practical Side: Logistics, Cost, and Suitability
Cost-wise, at $61 per person, this activity offers good value considering the 2.5-hour duration plus the social element at the end. It’s a private experience, so you won’t be mixed with strangers, and the flexible booking options (reserve now, pay later) make planning easier.
You’ll need to bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a charged smartphone—since the iPad is part of the experience, and your phone might be handy for photos or additional clues. The activity is ideal for individuals aged 16 and over, or younger guests if accompanied by an adult.
The activity isn’t suited for those with mobility impairments because of the walking involved, but for most able-bodied visitors, it offers a fun way to see the city’s streets from a fresh perspective.
Who Will Love It?
This experience is best suited for people who enjoy puzzles, storytelling, and a bit of physical activity. It’s perfect for small groups or large teams looking for a fun, collaborative activity that goes beyond traditional sightseeing. It’s also a creative option for special occasions like bachelor parties, reunions, or team-building events.
If you’re traveling with kids or teenagers, they might find the story engaging, especially if they enjoy fantasy themes. Conversely, if you prefer museum visits or guided tours with detailed historical context, this might not be your first choice.
The Value Proposition
For just over $60, you get two and a half hours of active entertainment that combines city exploration with interactive storytelling. The use of modern technology, the flexible group sizes, and the social ending make it a well-rounded experience. It’s especially attractive if you like activities that are different from typical walking tours or if you want a memorable adventure that’s both playful and scenic.
Who It’s Perfect For
This activity appeals most to adventure-seekers, puzzle enthusiasts, and groups celebrating special moments. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a story-driven experience and want to combine sightseeing with a competitive or collaborative game. Because it’s suitable for beginners and younger guests, it’s accessible to a wide audience, provided they’re comfortable with walking and solving riddles outdoors.
If you’re tired of the usual sightseeing and want to add a dose of fantasy and puzzle-solving to your trip in St. Gallen, this outdoor escape game offers a refreshing twist. It invites you to see the city through the lens of an enchanted story, making every corner of St. Gallen a part of your adventure. It’s a smart blend of interactive fun, scenic exploration, and social bonding—all wrapped into a package that’s easy to organize and enjoy.
While it’s not suitable for everyone—especially those with mobility issues or who dislike puzzles—it’s a superb choice for active, puzzle-loving groups seeking something different. For the price, you’re getting a memorable experience that combines game, sightseeing, and social time in one engaging package.
How long does the Magic Portal outdoor escape game last?
It lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including time for puzzles, exploration, and the social ending at the bar.
Is the activity suitable for children or teenagers?
It’s suitable for ages 16 and over or younger guests if accompanied by an adult. It’s designed to be accessible for beginners and younger guests.
What should I bring for the activity?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a charged smartphone. The game uses an iPad, which is provided, but your phone can be handy for photos or additional clues.
Can larger groups participate?
Yes, the activity can be customized for larger groups. Up to 50 teams can race simultaneously. Options include duel mode where teams compete against each other.
Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You also have the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.
Does the activity include meals?
Meals are not included. The experience ends with an aperitif at the bar, which is part of the package.
To sum it up, this outdoor escape game in St. Gallen offers an engaging mix of puzzles, sightseeing, and storytelling suitable for a wide range of travelers. If you’re after a dynamic, social, and story-rich activity that makes exploring the city a memorable adventure, it’s well worth considering.