If you’re looking for something different from your typical sightseeing, The Rift in Provo offers a tech-savvy twist that turns an ordinary mall visit into an interactive adventure. This augmented reality (AR) experience combines digital storytelling, puzzles, and immersive environments, delivering a fun challenge for teens, couples, and groups alike.
What makes this experience stand out? Firstly, the multi-sensory environment promises a journey that’s visually captivating and engaging. Secondly, the themed adventures like “Wonder Wander” and “Dragon Capture” keep things fresh and exciting. Lastly, the affordable price point of just $14.95 per person makes it accessible without sacrificing quality.
A potential drawback? The duration is short, roughly an hour, which might leave some craving more. Also, as it’s designed for ages 13+, younger children will need supervision, and props are off-limits to keep the experience smooth.
This tour is perfect for tech enthusiasts, adventure seekers, or anyone looking to add a playful, interactive element to their visit to Provo. It’s especially suited for groups or couples wanting a combined challenge and entertainment in a safe, controlled environment.
Good To Know
- Unique blend of art, tech, and storytelling creates an immersive maze-like environment.
- Multiple themed experiences cater to different interests, from fantasy to sci-fi.
- Affordable price point offers good value for a one-hour adventure.
- Suitable for ages 13+, with supervision for younger participants.
- Mobile ticket system makes check-in quick and simple.
- The experience is located conveniently in the Provo Towne Centre Mall, near public transit.
What to Expect at The Rift
The Rift offers four distinct adventures, each with its own flavor and focus. This variety allows visitors to choose an experience that matches their mood or interest, whether that’s hunting dragons, exploring haunted hallways, or battling sci-fi intruders.
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Themed Adventures and Their Unique Appeal
Haunt Recall (HR): This walk-through maze plunges you into a spooky, spectral environment. Visitors navigate narrow hallways, interact with ghostly figures, and hunt for hidden treasures. According to reviews, “it’s like walking through a haunted house with a digital twist,” which appeals to those who love a spooky challenge mixed with tech. The spectral figures are interactive, and hidden secrets keep you on your toes.
Dragon Capture: If you’re into adrenaline and fantasy, this challenge is designed as a mission-based game where you partner up to capture dragons using advanced technology. It’s especially engaging for fans of action and fantasy, with reviews noting the challenge feels like stepping into a video game. The immersive nature is heightened by the use of handheld devices, making you feel like a digital hero.
Extermination (EX): Sci-fi fans will enjoy this one. You and your companion are armed with pretend sci-fi weapons to target digital spiders and intruders. It’s a fun, action-packed experience, giving a little bit of a “laser tag” vibe, but with AR elements. Reviewers mention that “the weapons felt surprisingly real,” adding to the thrill.
Wonder Wander (WW): As the most physically exploratory of the lot, this experience combines a walk-through exhibit with augmented reality overlays. Think of it like exploring a fantastical world with a digital layer on top. Reviewers describe it as “a fairy tale brought to life,” perfect for those who love discovery and exploration.
How the Experience Is Delivered
The adventure starts at 1200 Towne Centre Blvd suite 1158, where guests check-in using a mobile ticket system—easy and straightforward, especially for those familiar with digital check-ins. The entire activity lasts about an hour, which can be considered a quick, yet satisfying dose of adventure.
Participants log in with a valid email, personalize their adventure, and are given a handheld device to interact with the AR environment. The design caters well to groups of up to 26 travelers, ensuring everyone gets their turn to participate without feeling crowded.
Group Dynamics and Family-Friendly Aspects
While the experience is aimed at ages 13 and up, children under that age must be supervised, and props are not to be handled to avoid disrupting the flow. This makes it a good option for teenagers and adults, but families with younger kids might want to consider other options unless they’re comfortable with supervision and the digital focus.
Accessibility and Location
Located near public transportation, the site is easy to reach from various parts of Provo. The mall setting means parking is likely accessible, and the casual environment makes it an easy add-on to a day of shopping or sightseeing.
Detailed Breakdown of the Experience
Arrival and Check-in
The process is quick, thanks to the mobile ticket system. Guests arrive at the Provo Towne Centre Mall and check in using their email. This digital check-in streamlines the start, avoiding long lines or complicated paperwork, which is especially valuable during busy weekends or holiday seasons.
Starting Your Adventure
Once checked in, you’re introduced to the device and the specific adventure you’ve chosen. The staff, such as Karl, who manages the experience, is reportedly friendly and helpful, guiding newcomers through the process. The environment is safe, with clear rules like no handling props and supervision for younger guests.
The Themed Missions
Haunt Recall involves walking through a maze with spectral figures and hidden objects. You might find yourself solving riddles or discovering ghostly secrets, making it feel like a haunted escape room combined with AR.
Dragon Capture challenges you to complete a quest, tracking down virtual dragons. Reviews mention that the technology used feels advanced, and the game mechanics are intuitive enough for first-timers.
Extermination feels more like a sci-fi shootout. Guests find the props to be surprisingly realistic, which adds to the immersion. The challenge is suitable for those who enjoy light combat or strategic thinking.
Wonder Wander is less about missions and more about exploring a fantastical environment. The physical walk-through combined with AR overlays offers a layered experience that sparks imagination and curiosity.
The Experience Itself
Each adventure makes use of handheld devices that overlay digital images onto the physical environment. Reviewers say that the visuals are captivating, with clear instructions and engaging puzzles. Some noted that the AR elements are well-designed, blending seamlessly with the physical space, although the quality depends on your device’s capabilities.
End of the Tour
The activity concludes back at the starting point, where you can debrief or discuss your favorite parts. The entire process is designed to be smooth, with minimal waiting, thanks to the manageable group size and efficient check-in.
Value for Money and Final Thoughts
At $14.95 per person, The Rift offers an accessible way to experience cutting-edge AR in a fun, controlled setting. When you consider the uniqueness of the themed adventures and the interactive nature, it strikes a good balance between cost and entertainment value. It’s a brief experience but packed with engaging visuals and challenges that make it a worthwhile addition to a day in Provo.
The experience is especially appealing for teenagers and tech-curious travelers who want an active, immersive outing. It’s great for groups of friends, couples looking for a playful date idea, or families with older children.
Given its short duration, it’s best seen as part of a broader itinerary—perhaps after shopping at the mall or as a standalone activity to break up a day. The free cancellation policy also adds peace of mind, allowing you to plan with confidence.
FAQ
Is there a specific dress code or clothing requirement?
No, casual attire suitable for walking is recommended. Since it’s in a mall environment, you can dress comfortably.
How long does the experience last?
Approximately 1 hour, making it a quick but fun adventure.
Can I participate if I have limited mobility?
While the experience involves walking through maze-like environments, it is generally accessible. However, specific mobility accommodations aren’t detailed, so it’s best to contact the provider if needed.
Are props handled during the experience?
No, props should not be handled to maintain safety and flow.
Is this experience suitable for children under 13?
Participants must be 13 or older. Younger children need supervision, and the experience is designed with older kids and adults in mind.
What is the booking process like?
Guests log in with a valid email, receive a mobile ticket, and check in easily upon arrival.
Is there parking available nearby?
Since it’s located in Provo Towne Centre Mall, parking options are likely convenient, though specific details aren’t provided.
Are there group discounts?
No specific mention of discounts, but the group size is capped at 26, which is suitable for small to medium groups.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t refundable.
Overall, The Rift offers a creative, reasonably priced experience that blends technology with storytelling, perfect for a short, memorable outing in Provo. Whether you’re into fantasy, sci-fi, or just love trying new things, this AR adventure provides a fun way to challenge yourself and enjoy some digital-age entertainment.