THE TOMPKINS
TREASURE HUNT

Only individuals can register - there's no team registration. You pay $100 and register under your own name. While you can work with anyone you want (friends, family, online communities), the prize legally goes to the registered individual who completes the hunt first. Any agreements to share the treasure are personal arrangements between you and your helpers. The History Center only recognizes the registered winner.

Absolutely! While only registered individuals can claim the prize, you're free to collaborate with anyone - friends, family, even strangers online. Many winners of similar hunts work in groups. Just remember: only the registered person can claim the prize. How you split winnings is your private arrangement.

You'll receive the first puzzle via email or in-person if you attend the launch at The History Center. Each puzzle, when solved, reveals a specific location in Tompkins County. Go to that location and look for our distinctive QR code. Scan the QR code with your smartphone - it will take you to a website where you must input your answer. Once you enter the correct answer, you'll receive the next puzzle. Continue this process through all puzzles. The final puzzle leads directly to the hidden treasure!

Puzzles are the challenges you solve throughout the hunt - riddles, codes, or historical mysteries that lead to locations. Clues are hints you can purchase if you get stuck on a puzzle. Think of it this way: puzzles are the main game, clues are the help system. Clues cost $20 each, with up to 3 available per puzzle, but only for the first half of puzzles.

Absolutely not! You will NEVER need to dig, move rocks/earth, vandalize property, or trespass. All puzzles are accessible legally and safely. Breaking any laws results in immediate disqualification.

You need: a smartphone with QR code reader (most phone cameras work), email access, reliable transportation to visit locations around Tompkins County, and basic internet access for research. Most QR code locations are accessible 24/7, though some may be at businesses with specific hours.

Yes! Clues (hints) are available for $20 each, with up to 3 clues per puzzle. However, clues are only available for the first half of puzzles. The final puzzles must be solved without purchased clues to ensure fair competition. All clue revenue supports The History Center.

Based on similar events, we estimate the winning individual will complete it in about 10 days. However, the hunt continues until someone finds the treasure - whether that's days, weeks, or months!