Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Show – St. Louis, MO

Looking for an evening that combines good food, entertainment, and a little bit of suspense? The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show in St. Louis offers just that — a unique twist on your typical dinner theater. Held at the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac, this experience costs around $88.44 per person and lasts approximately three hours. It’s a lively, interactive event where you’re not just an observer but part of the unfolding story of a crime that might involve someone sitting right next to you.

What we particularly love about this experience is the blend of humor and mystery. The actors double as diners, which adds a playful, authentic layer to the evening. Plus, the four-course plated dinner is well-reviewed, making it a stand-out value in terms of entertainment and dining. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the experience is a small-group affair—with a maximum of just six travelers—so it’s more intimate than large-scale theater.

This show is perfect for those who enjoy interactive puzzles, comedy, and a good meal. If you’re traveling with friends or family who love a bit of theatrical sleuthing, or if you simply want to try something different on your night out, this murder mystery is a fun choice. Just keep in mind that it’s a non-refundable ticket, so it’s best to book in advance.

Key Points

• Interactive Experience: You’ll participate in solving a hilarious crime, not just watch it unfold.
• Quality Dining: Enjoy a four-course plated dinner with options for chicken or vegetarian.
• Authentic Setting: Located inside the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac with complimentary parking.
• Engaging Cast: Actors perform as diners, staying incognito and raising the level of intrigue.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join in.
• Great Value: Combining food, entertainment, and an engaging mystery, it offers a unique night out in St. Louis.

A Closer Look at the Murder Mystery Dinner Experience

When we think about dinner shows, what often comes to mind are clichéd performances and predictable plots. The Dinner Detective in St. Louis breaks that mold—delivering a lively, well-executed event that pulls guests right into the action. For nearly 24 reviews, travelers have praised the experience with a perfect rating of 5.0 out of 5. One guest, Marie, appreciated the easy-to-find location and ample parking, noting that the actors, both confirmed and audience-participating, maintained their roles convincingly.

The Venue and Location

The event takes place at the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac, situated conveniently in the suburbs with free self-parking. The location is straightforward to locate, and the parking is ample—something that makes arriving relaxed rather than stressed. The Hilton’s setting offers a comfortable atmosphere for a night of mystery and merriment.

The Meal: Four Courses of Fun and Flavor

A key part of the experience is the four-course plated dinner, which is thoughtfully prepared and well-reviewed. Guests typically choose between chicken or vegetarian entrees, with chicken served by default if no selection is made. The reviews suggest the food is “good,” with some guests specifically mentioning the chicken as a highlight. The dinner is served with coffee and tea, and a cash bar is available for those wanting wine or other drinks. This setup allows you to relax and focus on the fun, knowing your meal is taken care of.

The Crime-Solving Action

This isn’t just dinner with a side of entertainment—it’s America’s largest interactive murder mystery comedy dinner show. Actors perform at your table, some as part of the audience, others as part of the cast, all maintaining their roles with comic timing. The goal? Identify the killer among you.

Guests are encouraged to create a fake identity upon arrival, which adds to the fun of the game. The performers will question guests, toss out jokes, and drop clues, all while trying to keep the audience guessing. As Andrew suggests in a review, “Follow the clues and enjoy the night,” because everyone could be a suspect, making it engaging for all.

The Experience Flow

The evening begins with guests arriving and receiving instructions, including choosing a fake name. The actors, who are staged as diners, blend seamlessly into the scene, creating a natural atmosphere of suspicion and humor. As the story unfolds, you’ll be asked to participate actively—questioning suspects, sharing theories, and perhaps even making accusations.

The climax comes with the reveal of the killer, often accompanied by jokes and applause. Best of all, there’s a prize package awarded to the top sleuth, adding a competitive edge to the fun.

Authenticity and Guest Feedback

Reviewers consistently praise the acting quality and the entertaining script, with Ashley G. describing it as “a night of laughter,” and Lisa S. noting that “some actors were obvious and some not,” which kept the game challenging and fun. The food gets a thumbs-up as well, with many visitors appreciating the good quality of their meal.

One common theme in reviews is the balance of comedy and mystery. The cast keeps the atmosphere lively, and the humor is praised for being “hilarious,” making it a great choice for those seeking a relaxed yet engaging night. However, some suggest that microphones could improve audibility, especially for those with hearing difficulties.

Practical Details

• Duration: About three hours, plenty of time for dining and sleuthing without feeling rushed.
• Group Size: Small groups, a maximum of 6 travelers, which creates an intimate and interactive environment.
• Parking: Free self-parking at the Hilton.
• Booking: Most guests book about 36 days in advance, indicating a popular experience.
• Cost: The $88.44 price covers both the meal and the entertainment, making it a good value for a night of memorable fun.

Who Would Enjoy This Experience?

This murder mystery show is ideal for couples, groups of friends, or families looking for something different to do in St. Louis. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate interactive entertainment, comedy, and good food. If you enjoy solving puzzles or want to see talented actors perform in a lively setting, you’ll find this experience engaging. It’s also suitable for those who want a relaxed, social night out without the formality of a traditional dinner.

While it’s generally accessible, those with hearing impairments might want to note the reviews mentioning sound issues. Since the event is non-refundable, booking in advance is recommended to secure your preferred date.

The Sum Up

The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show in St. Louis offers more than just dinner—it’s a chance to test your detective skills, share some laughs, and enjoy a delicious meal, all within a cozy, interactive environment. The high ratings and positive reviews speak to its quality and entertainment value.

This experience suits adventurous diners who love humor and interactive puzzles. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a fun, engaging night out that breaks from the usual dinner-and-a-show routine. If you’re after something memorable, with a good mix of food, fun, and mystery, this event delivers on all counts and promises a genuinely enjoyable evening.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children or families?
Most travelers find it appropriate for a wide age range, as it is designed to be fun and engaging for adults and older children. However, very young children might not grasp the premise or enjoy the interactive nature.

Can I choose my meal in advance?
Yes, you can select between chicken or vegetarian when booking. If no choice is made, chicken will be served as the default.

Is the event fully interactive?
Absolutely. You’ll be asked to participate by creating a fake identity and questioning suspects, making you part of the story rather than just a spectator.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers a four-course dinner, coffee or tea, the entire murder mystery event, gratuity for waitstaff, and a prize for the top sleuth. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the cash bar.

How long does the show last?
The entire experience lasts about three hours, giving ample time for dining, detective work, and the big reveal.

Is there parking available?
Yes, free self-parking is provided at the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac, making arrival effortless.

If you’re in St. Louis and looking for a night of laughter, intrigue, and good food, give this murder mystery dinner a try. It’s a fun, different way to spend an evening—and an experience that’s hard to forget.