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

If you’re looking for a night of entertainment that combines good food, a touch of mystery, and a healthy dose of humor, the Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Show in St. Louis might just be your next favorite outing. This isn’t your typical dinner theatre — it’s an interactive experience where the murderer could be sitting right next to you, and everyone gets to play detective.

What we love about this experience is the engaging mix of theater and dining, plus the opportunity to participate in solving the crime. The fact that this show consistently scores a perfect 5-star rating from 24 reviews tells you it’s well-loved. However, it’s worth noting that the experience is somewhat intimate, with a maximum of six participants, which means booking well in advance is advisable. This event is ideal for groups eager for a fun, original night out—perfect for couples, friends, or small family gatherings looking for something beyond the usual dinner.

One consideration for potential guests is the absence of included alcoholic beverages, which are available for purchase. Also, the experience isn’t suitable for those who prefer a large, bustling crowd — it’s more personal and interactive. If you enjoy puzzles, role-play, or just want a night of good food with a twist, this show should be on your list.

Key Points

• Location: Inside the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac, with free parking
• Duration: About 3 hours, perfect for an evening plan
• Price: $88.44 per person, with a 4-course meal included
• Unique feature: Actors double as diners, increasing the authenticity and fun
• Interactive element: Guests participate in crime-solving, with prizes for the top detective
• Food & drinks: Delicious 4-course dinner with a cash bar (no alcohol included)
• Group size: Small — maximum of 6 travelers, which lends itself to a more intimate experience
• Booking: Average of 36 days in advance, so plan early

An In-Depth Look at the Murder Mystery Experience

Setting and Venue: The Hilton Frontenac

Starting your evening at the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac offers both convenience and comfort. Located at 1335 S. Lindbergh Blvd, it’s straightforward to find, with plenty of parking — something we always appreciate after a long day of travel. The venue’s atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it an ideal backdrop for a fun evening filled with intrigue and laughter.

The Dinner: More than Just a Meal

Guests are served a 4-course dinner, with options to choose between chicken or vegetarian (or default to chicken if no selection is made). The reviews suggest the food is good—nothing overly fancy, but definitely tasty enough to keep your energy up for sleuthing. Coffee and tea are included, making sure you’re refreshed as you dive into clues and conversation.

The dining experience isn’t just about eating; it’s woven into the theatrical plot, with actors mingling as diners—sometimes suspects, sometimes witnesses. The atmosphere is lively, and the interaction keeps everyone on their toes, turning a simple meal into part of the mystery.

The Show: Interactive, Hilarious, and Engaging

The core of the experience is the interactive murder mystery. Actors are both performers and participants, lurking as fellow diners and sometimes even sowing confusion or humor. The reviews consistently highlight how hilarious and well-acted the cast is, with some reviewers noting that the humor is a big part of the appeal. One guest said, “The actors that were part of the audience did a great job of remaining incognito,” which means the game maintains its mystery and surprise.

The host guides guests through clues, encouraging everyone to create a fake name and follow the storyline. Audience members are questioned, accused, and challenged—adding a layer of spontaneity that makes each night unique. The fact that prizes are awarded for the best detective adds motivation and a sense of friendly competition.

Authentic reviews praise the cast’s humor, with one noting, “The cast were just hilarious,” and another mentioning that some suspects were obvious, yet the overall experience was hilarious and entertaining. The mix of mystery and comedy keeps the energy lively and ensures that no two nights are alike.

The Value: Price, Quality, and Experience

At $88.44 per person, the experience offers solid value for what you get: a multi-course meal, interactive entertainment, and the chance to test your detective skills. The inclusion of gratuity for the waitstaff and the prize package for the top sleuth add to the sense of value.

Considering the price of comparable evening entertainment and dinner experiences, you’re getting a well-rounded, engaging event that is as much about fun as it is about food. It’s not just a meal, it’s an immersive theatrical outing.

Booking and Small Group Dynamics

One notable feature is the small group size, capped at six travelers. This makes for a more personal, immersive experience — you’re not lost in a crowd. Booking about a month ahead is recommended, given the limited spots and high demand.

The tour is straightforward: you meet at the Hilton, select your meal preferences, and prepare for a night of fun. The experience is most suitable for adults or older teens who can participate actively and enjoy role-playing.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This murder mystery dinner is perfect for small groups of friends or couples who enjoy a bit of theatrics mixed with socializing. It suits travelers who appreciate humor, interactive storytelling, and delicious food. It’s especially appealing if you’re looking for a memorable night that combines dining with a little puzzle-solving.

It’s less ideal for those seeking a traditional, large-scale show or family-friendly entertainment, given the intimate setting and the nature of the mystery. Also, if you’re sensitive to non-included drinks, remember that alcohol must be purchased separately.

Summary: Is It Worth It?

In short, the Dinner Detective in St. Louis offers a delightful mix of comedy, mystery, and good food. The small group setting fosters a lively and engaging atmosphere, ideal for travelers who want a night of original entertainment without leaving the city’s comforts. The 4-course meal and the chance to participate actively in solving the crime elevate this beyond a typical dinner outing.

For value, the experience delivers a lot: dinner, entertainment, and a chance to flex your detective muscles for a reasonable price. The reviews consistently point to great acting, hilarious moments, and good food—all ingredients for a memorable evening.

If you’re in St. Louis and craving something immersive and fun, this murder mystery dinner is a solid choice, especially if you enjoy a good laugh and a tasty meal with a twist.

FAQs

Is there parking available at the venue?
Yes, there is free self-parking available at the Hilton Frontenac, making it easy to arrive without stress or extra cost.

How long does the experience last?
The event lasts approximately 3 hours, which makes for an enjoyable evening without being too long or exhausting.

What meals are offered?
Guests choose between a chicken or vegetarian entrée; if no choice is made, chicken is served by default. The meal includes a 4-course dinner with coffee and/or tea.

Are alcoholic drinks included?
No, alcohol is not included but it is available for purchase at the cash bar, so you can enjoy wine or other beverages during the evening.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 6, perfect for a small, interactive experience that encourages participation.

Can I participate if I don’t enjoy acting or puzzles?
While not specifically tailored for those who dislike interactive activities, the experience is designed to be lighthearted and fun, so most guests find it enjoyable even if they’re not acting or solving puzzles regularly.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s geared toward adults or older teens, given the nature of the mystery and the interactive, role-playing elements.

What is the booking process?
Most travelers book about 36 days in advance, and tickets are purchased with a mobile ticket, making it easy to plan ahead.

To sum it up, the Dinner Detective in St. Louis offers a unique, engaging evening that blends comedy, mystery, and a tasty meal. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking to turn an ordinary dinner into a memorable adventure, especially if you appreciate humor, interactive fun, and small-group intimacy. Perfect for a special night out, this experience promises laughs, surprises, and a chance to become the star detective of the night.