If you’re looking for a night out in Colorado Springs that mixes entertainment, a bit of a mental challenge, and good food, the Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery offers just that. From what we’ve seen, this experience is designed to keep you guessing while you enjoy a multi-course meal in a lively, interactive setting. It’s a different kind of evening that’s perfect for those who appreciate a little theater, a sprinkle of mystery, and some social fun.
One of the things we really like about this tour is how it turns a typical dinner into an engaging game. You’re not just sitting back and watching—you’re actively participating, trying to figure out who the murderer is before the reveal. Plus, the fact that the show incorporates performers in disguise and audience members as part of the story adds an unpredictable, lively vibe. On the downside, it’s worth noting that some reviews mentioned moments of profanity, which might not sit well with everyone. Also, the food, although described as a gourmet 4-course meal, received mixed comments about its quality, so don’t expect a five-star dining experience.
If you’re someone who enjoys a night full of surprises, social interaction, and a bit of friendly competition, this experience could be a great pick. It’s particularly suited for groups who want a fun, memorable evening—whether you’re with friends, a couple, or even a family with older teens (minimum age is 15). Just keep in mind that this isn’t a quiet, romantic dinner—it’s lively, interactive, and best approached with a sense of humor.
Key Points

- Interactive and social: It’s a murder mystery where you’re part of the story, not just an observer.
- Gourmet dining: You’ll enjoy a 4-course meal, though food quality varies.
- Prize for the best detective: Engage in the challenge and win a prize if you solve the case.
- Set in present day with disguises: The unique setup includes hidden actors and audience participation.
- Timing and group size: About 3 hours with a small group (max 15), making for an intimate experience.
- Book in advance: The tour is popular, averaging 33 days booked ahead, so plan accordingly.
A Closer Look at the Experience
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The Venue and Setting
The Dinner Detective takes place in Colorado Springs, with guests heading to a designated venue where the show unfolds. The setting is casual yet dressy—business casual or dressy casual is recommended—to match the vibe of a semi-formal dinner combined with theatrical entertainment. The small group size (up to 15 travelers) adds to the cozy, interactive atmosphere, making it easier to engage with the performers and fellow guests.
The Itinerary and What to Expect
The event kicks off at 6:00 pm, so arriving on time is a good idea. Once everyone is seated, the evening begins with a multi-course plated dinner—a typical feature that allows you to enjoy your meal while mingling or observing the unfolding story. The performance itself is designed to be hilarious, challenging, and very much set in the present day, which helps keep things relatable and lively.
What sets this experience apart is the way it integrates audience members into the story. Some of the performers are in disguise and hidden within the crowd, which keeps everyone guessing who’s involved. The goal? To identify the culprit before the show ends. Throughout the night, you’ll receive clues, interact with actors, and try your hand at solving the mystery.
The Performance
According to reviews and the description, the show is very interactive. Audience members, not just actors, contribute to the lively atmosphere. You might find yourself as a prime suspect or trying to piece together clues with fellow guests. The addition of audience participation makes each night unique, and it keeps the experience fresh and engaging.
The show is set during the current day, meaning it feels less like a period piece and more like a real-life scenario. This modern approach makes the mystery more relatable, especially for folks who enjoy being part of the action rather than just watching from the sidelines.
The Food
The meal is a gourmet 4-course affair, which sounds promising. But, based on some reviews, the food’s quality can vary from okay to just average. It’s worth considering that this isn’t necessarily a top-tier culinary experience but rather an added bonus to the entertainment. You’ll also have options like iced tea, coffee, and a cash bar for alcohol, which you can choose to purchase. It’s nice that gratuity for waitstaff is included, but performer gratuity is optional.
The Price and Value
At around $88.44 per person, the price seems reasonable given the combination of dinner and interactive theater. When you think about the experience as a whole—an evening of entertainment, a chance to test your detective skills, and a sit-down meal—it offers decent value, especially for a night out that’s different from the usual dinner-and-movie routine. Of course, if you’re expecting gourmet cuisine, keep your expectations tempered, as some guests felt the food was only “just okay.”
The Critics and the Realities
The reviews show a generally favorable reception with a 4.3 rating from 13 reviews, which is quite good for an experience like this. One reviewer, Bob_P, mentioned that “some of the audience participants who were not actors were just as entertaining,” which highlights how unpredictable and fun the night can be. However, profanity during a performance was a concern for some, so if you prefer family-friendly shows, you might want to inquire further or consider that this is PG-13 territory.
The main takeaway is that this experience is best enjoyed with an open mind and a sense of humor. It’s not a formal dinner party—rather, it’s a playful, energetic event that encourages interaction.
Who Should Consider This Tour?

This murder mystery dinner is perfect for groups of friends, couples, or even older teens who enjoy interactive entertainment with a social twist. If you like trying to solve puzzles or guessing games and don’t mind some lively humor, you’ll likely find this a fun evening. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a memorable night out that combines dining with a bit of mystery and comedy.
However, if you prefer a quiet, romantic dinner or aren’t a fan of audience participation, this might not be your best choice. Also, consider that the experience lasts about three hours, so plan your evening accordingly.
Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery – Colorado Springs, CO
“Some of the audience participants who were not actors were just as entertaining. The profanity was uncalled for and lead to our lower review. Food …”
Frequently Asked Questions

Is the event suitable for children?
The minimum age is 15, making it suitable for teenagers and older. The show is PG-13 and involves audience participation, so younger children might not find it appropriate.
Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available. Just make sure to advise at the time of booking if needed.
What is the dress code?
The recommended dress code is business casual to dressy casual, so casual attire might feel out of place.
How long does the experience last?
The entire event runs approximately 3 hours, so plan your evening accordingly.
Can I book last-minute?
Most travelers book about 33 days in advance on average, so last-minute bookings might be tricky if the show is sold out.
Is alcohol included?
No, alcohol is not included but is available for purchase at the cash bar.
What if I want to cancel?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed or canceled for a refund, so be sure about your plans before booking.
How many people will be in the group?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personal.
How do I get to the venue?
The tour is near public transportation, making it easier to reach the venue without a car.
In short, the Dinner Detective Murder Mystery in Colorado Springs offers a fun, engaging night out that combines dining with interactive entertainment. While the food may be average and some moments might be a bit provocative, it’s a unique way to spend an evening if you’re up for cracking a case, laughing, and enjoying a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re a mystery lover or just looking for a different kind of dinner experience, this one has the potential to be a highlight of your trip.
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