When meeting your parents as an adult, it’s easy to end up at the same café table every time. A group outing can give your conversations a different direction. Haga in Gothenburg is an ideal starting point for a walk with breaks, and a self-guided mystery gives you something to think about together. Start by choosing a plan that suits everyone’s energy and interests, rather than trying to fit in as much as possible.
The mystery in this guide
In this guide
Ask about preferences before choosing a date
Don’t assume that all parents want the same thing. Ask whether they would prefer to explore a neighbourhood, talk over lunch, or have a clear task to solve. Also consider how much walking, reading, and standing everyone feels comfortable with. An activity becomes more inclusive when expectations are discussed from the outset.
Old neighbourhoods may have uneven surfaces. If someone uses mobility aids or requires special accommodations, check the visitor information and ask us about the game route before purchasing. Just because a neighbourhood is accessible does not mean that every part of a game is suitable for everyone.
Let Haga be the setting, not a schedule to work through
Choose a defined area and one or two landmarks. Haga Nygata can be a separate walk for those who want to look at the buildings and small shops. If you are also going to play The Mystery in Haga, follow the game’s own instructions and start at Haga Church.
A walk you add before or after the game is not a description of the mystery’s route. Do not let your own list of sights distract you in the middle of the tasks. For more about the area, see our guide to things to do in Haga.
Alternate between reading, searching, and reasoning
A mystery can bring out different strengths. One person may notice details, another may remember what was in the introduction, and someone else may ask the question that helps the group move forward. The person who organised the day should not automatically hold both the booklet and their phone at all times.
Read aloud and wait for everyone’s thoughts. This does not have to be a test of who solves a task the fastest. If someone needs to sit down, you can use the break to review what you know so far. The beginner’s guide to murder mysteries offers more suggestions on how to work together.
Plan the break with the same care as the activity
Decide whether you want to start with a meal or have a break afterwards. Check the opening times and menu of the venue you choose; refreshments and meals are not included with the booklet. A simple walk and a single group activity are also enough to make the visit enjoyable.
Order the booklet in advance and bring a charged phone with internet access. Allow enough time for the journey home so that no one has to spend the rest of the day checking the clock. If the outing is a gift, you can give the booklet with an invitation, allowing the recipients to help choose the date.
Sources and current visitor information
The mystery in this guide
Frequently asked questions
Is it suitable for a mystery when adult children and parents want to do something together?
It may be suitable if everyone enjoys reading, walking, and thinking together. Assess the group's energy levels, need for movement, and interest beforehand. Everyone needs to be able to participate in an outdoor activity.
Does someone in the family have to lead the game?
No. You play yourselves using the booklet and the Archive on your mobile phone. However, someone needs to arrange the order, meeting place, and the rest of the planning for the day.
Can we assume that the entire game route is accessible with assistive devices?
No. Contact Mysteriejakten before purchasing if you need to assess the game route itself and also check the area's current accessibility information.
How much time should we plan for when the parents are visiting?
Choose one main activity and a few optional stops. Leave room to sit down and talk, instead of trying to fit in a long list of sights.
Does one of us need to have a mobile phone during the outing?
Yes. The City Mystery uses the Archive on a charged mobile phone with internet access along with the physical booklet. Decide in advance who is responsible for the mobile phone and the materials.
How can we make sure both parents and adult children contribute?
Take turns reading, following the map, and looking for details. Read aloud and wait for each other's suggestions, so that the person who organized the day does not also take over the entire investigation.
