The Yale Art Attack
Scavenger Hunt

Investigate an art-filled murder mystery

…on this adventure through the Yale University Art Gallery, a museum that’s a large, surprising treasure chest. At the start of the game, you’ll learn that the Watson Adventures staffer who was supposed to run your team-building scavenger has been found dead! The police need your help in discovering whodunit. 

The victim also wrote the hunt you are about to go on, and there’s reason to believe that he hid a secret message in the questions and answers. Can your team follow the trail of clues throughout the museum, answer the tricky questions, and tease out the details of the victim’s secret life—and perhaps his last message?

No previous knowledge of art or the museum is required: you just need sharp eyes and comfy shoes.

You might search for answers to such questions as…

• In the Africa gallery, find a man who looks like he really annoyed a cranky carpenter. What do you see when you contemplate his navel? Answer: You see yourself or a mirror when you look at the belly of the nkondi, with nails and other sharp items stuck into all parts of his body.
• Find something that could illustrate the nursery line, “The dish ran away with the spoon.” What Liberian name might make you think you made this? Answer: A carved spoon with legs was possibly made by the Wépeople.
• Like Yankee Doodle, what ingredient did an artist use to help feathery trees stand tall? Answer: A work by Picabia includes macaroni as an ingredient.

This Yale murder mystery game is guaranteed to get your groups working together, having fun, and bonding.

A more relaxed version of this game that’s not a murder mystery is also available.

A Kids Edition for kids ages 7 and up challenges adults and kids to work together. It’s perfect for exposing young minds on a school field trip to the wide range of art. The emphasis is on fun, curiosity, and cooperation.

Contact us to learn more about our Yale University Art Gallery scavenger hunts—and find more fun in New Haven! Looking to explore campus with your group instead? Check out our Yale University scavenger hunt, the Bulldog Blitz!