Manhattan’s vibrant Seaport district has become the backdrop for an exciting new digital initiative. The Howard Hughes Corp and MoonPay have partnered up to offer visitors a unique scavenger hunt experience that seamlessly combines physical exploration with digital rewards. This collaboration aims to bring a gamified Web3 experience to the historic waterfront neighborhood, creating an immersive adventure for locals and tourists alike.
Starting from August 21st until October 31st, participants can engage in the Seaport Scavenger Hunt, an interactive game that challenges them to find ten purple “pearls” scattered throughout the Seaport district. These pearls contain QR codes that, when scanned using a mobile device, grant users free digital tokens. Crafted by the talented 3D artist and NFT creator Johana Kroft, these tokens depict playful representations of iconic New York City artifacts.
The digital tokens not only add an element of fun to the scavenger hunt but also qualify participants for a chance to win exciting prizes in a weekly drawing. Those who successfully collect all ten tokens stand a chance to win VIP tickets to the Summer Concert Series at The Rooftop at Pier 17 or curated culinary gift boxes worth up to $350 from the Tin Building, among other rewards. Participants are free to partake in the event multiple times a week, increasing their chances of winning.
Beyond being an enjoyable activity, the scavenger hunt also serves as a valuable data collection mechanism. The event captures information such as the participants’ origin and movement patterns within the Seaport area, providing valuable insights for marketing strategies and fostering deeper engagement with local businesses. This data-driven approach ensures that the event is not just a one-time experience but contributes to the long-term growth and development of the Seaport district.
Collaborative Effort
The success of the Seaport Scavenger Hunt relies on the collaboration of several key players. MoonPay, a well-known name in the Web3 infrastructure industry, takes charge of securely storing the NFTs through their powered wallets. Additionally, the hunt incorporates QR technology facilitated by Flowcode, a brand specializing in direct-to-consumer connections. Mason Rothschild’s Web3 marketing agency, Gasoline, and Howard Hughes’ in-house creative studio contribute their expertise, adding a creative touch to the project. Notably, the entire experience operates on the Polygon network, showcasing the integration of blockchain technology.
Despite its technological foundations, the scavenger hunt is designed to be broadly accessible to the public. Promotional materials at the entrance of the Seaport district intentionally omit any mention of crypto, NFTs, or Polygon. This approach positions the event as a digitally augmented scavenger hunt, appealing to a wider audience who may be less familiar with these concepts. By removing barriers and keeping the focus on traditional fun, MoonPay and The Howard Hughes Corp aim to introduce Web3 and NFT concepts to a broader demographic.
The Seaport Scavenger Hunt exemplifies how traditional outdoor activities can be enhanced with modern technology. By seamlessly blending physical exploration with digital rewards, MoonPay and The Howard Hughes Corp have created an engaging and educational experience for participants. This collaborative effort demonstrates the potential of Web3 and NFTs to transform everyday activities and introduce a new level of interaction. As visitors embark on the scavenger hunt and discover the hidden pearls, they are not only having fun but also gaining valuable insights into the world of blockchain technology.