Solve A Mystery

Solve A Mystery runs self-guided outdoor mystery walks that combine an escape-room puzzle with a tour of the city. In Boston, the game is “Murder by Boston Common,” set in 1895: players act as rookie detectives after a dismembered body turns up in a pond in the Public Garden, then follow clues to identify the culprit. The case is based on a real one, and players find out what actually happened. It works for families, friends or colleagues.

Each mystery is sold per group of one to four people, and larger parties are encouraged to split into equal groups and race to see who solves the case first. No pre-booking is needed: after buying, players collect a mystery package at a pickup point and begin whenever they like. The route starts at the footbridge in the Public Garden and passes the Gentlemen’s Club, Louisburg Square, Boston Common and the State House before ending at Old City Hall.

What to Know

• The walk takes about two hours and covers roughly 2 kilometers, or one mile.
• The game is offered in English.
• The exact pickup location is sent by email after purchase.
• Packages must be collected within three months of purchase, then can be played any time.