Denver stands out as a food city thanks to its eclectic mix of old-school eateries, innovative chefs, and vibrant neighborhoods. What makes Denver especially appealing is its willingness to blend fun with food—whether it’s an evening of solving crimes over dinner or exploring the city’s diverse culinary scene on foot. We’re especially fond of the Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Show for combining a lively interactive experience with a hearty meal. It’s a perfect pick for those who enjoy a little humor and suspense with their dinner.
For food lovers eager to sample Denver’s best bites while soaking in local street art, the Dinner Food Tour in RiNo Denver offers an engaging, walkable evening. And if you’re up for a playful challenge that combines sightseeing with trivia, the Denver Scavenger Hunt: Eat Denver Dining Deck Hunt adds a dash of competition to your culinary exploration. These unique experiences showcase Denver’s lively, diverse food scene and promise memorable moments for every kind of traveler.
1. The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Show – Denver, CO
At number one, the Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Show takes the cake for its engaging blend of comedy, mystery, and dinner. This show is the nation’s largest murder mystery dinner experience, and it’s designed to make everyone a part of the story. You’ll be seated in a lively theater setting where actors mingle with the audience, hiding in plain sight. Your job? Solve the crime by paying close attention to clues and interactions—all while enjoying a full dinner and drinks (cash bar available).
What sets this tour apart is its blend of humor and suspense. The actors are not in costumes, which makes the experience more spontaneous and social. You could find yourself interrogating your table mates or suspecting an innocent-looking guest as the culprit. The show lasts about three hours and has received a solid 4.5-star rating from 26 reviews. People love the interactive element, especially the chance to win the Top Sleuth prize. Plus, the setting makes it perfect for couples, groups, or anyone wanting a lively night out with a story to tell.
Bottom Line: If you want a fun, theatrical dinner with a dash of mystery and comedy, this show offers excellent value at $88.44 per person. It’s a lively way to experience Denver’s nightlife and test your detective skills.
2. Dinner Food Tour in RiNo Denver
Next on our list, the Dinner Food Tour in RiNo Denver offers a relaxed, flavorful journey through one of Denver’s most dynamic neighborhoods. For around $99, you’ll enjoy a roughly three-hour walk covering just two miles but packed with culinary highlights. Your guide, a knowledgeable local, will lead you to four carefully selected stops, each showcasing different styles of food and drink.
Starting at La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal, you’ll sample hearty pozole and flavorful tacos, complemented by locally crafted margaritas. Then, you’ll head to Pit Fiend Barbecue for some tender brisket and perhaps a local brew from Our Mutual Friend Brewery. The tour continues with a visit to Stem Ciders, where you can try a variety of ciders or pair small plates like mushroom and bison poutine. Along the way, you’ll hear stories about Denver’s food scene and see some stunning murals in RiNo, a neighborhood famous for its street art.
This tour has garnered high praise for its guiding and food quality, with reviews highlighting Jeremy’s extensive knowledge and personable style. It’s perfect for those wanting a balanced mix of tasting, strolling, and local culture. The only potential downside? It’s not available on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Bottom Line: This tour offers authentic tastes and colorful art, making it ideal for curious travelers who want to combine food with local storytelling and art. It’s a great value at $99.
3. Denver Scavenger Hunt: Eat Denver Dining Deck Hunt!
Finally, for those who love a bit of competitive fun along with their food, the Denver Scavenger Hunt: Eat Denver Dining Deck Hunt offers an inexpensive, engaging way to explore the city’s landmarks and hidden gems. Priced at just $12.31, it lasts about two hours and is best suited for travelers looking for a casual, interactive activity.
Using the Let’s Roam app, teams or solo players walk around Denver answering trivia questions and completing challenges at different locations. It’s a flexible, self-guided way to discover the city’s history, architecture, and culinary spots, making it ideal for curious, active visitors who prefer a DIY approach. While it has no reviews yet, the format is popular for birthdays, corporate outings, and bachelorette parties—anyone who enjoys a good challenge.
This scavenger hunt is a different kind of dining experience—more about discovery than tasting—but it complements any culinary adventure by giving context and fun stories about Denver’s streets and neighborhoods.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active, independent travelers or groups wanting a memorable, social activity, this cost-effective hunt adds a playful edge to your Denver visit.
$12.31 per person
How to Choose the Best Dining Experience in Denver
When selecting between these options, consider your budget, interests, and the kind of experience you want. The Dinner Detective murder mystery is great for a lively, entertaining night that combines dinner with comedy and mystery. It’s ideal for couples or groups looking for something uniquely fun.
The Dinner Food Tour in RiNo appeals to those who prefer a more relaxed, cultural exploration—sampling local dishes while discovering street art. It’s best suited for foodies and culture lovers with a few hours to spare.
For budget-conscious travelers or those who love a playful challenge, the Denver Scavenger Hunt offers a flexible, inexpensive way to see the city through trivia and challenges. It’s perfect for groups, families, or solo adventurers who want to explore actively.
Booking early is recommended for the food tour and scavenger hunt, especially during busy times like weekends or festivals. The murder mystery show tends to sell out, so reserve well in advance if you want a seat.
Final Thoughts
Denver offers a wide range of memorable dining experiences that go beyond just eating. Whether you’re solving crimes, sampling local flavors, or exploring the city’s streets through a fun scavenger hunt, there’s something for every traveler. For a lively evening with a story, the Dinner Detective stands out. If you prefer a relaxed, culinary journey through the RiNo district, the Dinner Food Tour is a perfect choice. And for those who want to combine sightseeing with a game, the Denver Scavenger Hunt adds a playful twist.
No matter what you choose, these experiences promise a taste of Denver’s lively spirit and culinary creativity. Be sure to book ahead, and enjoy your time in the Mile High City.