A Closer Look at The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery in Fort Collins
Thinking about adding a bit of intrigue and entertainment to your evening in Fort Collins? The Dinner Detective’s murder mystery dinner show offers just that—a chance to enjoy a gourmet meal while putting your sleuthing skills to the test. This isn’t just a dinner; it’s an interactive experience that combines humor, mystery, and a lively social atmosphere.
We love that this experience offers a unique blend of dining and entertainment, making it a memorable option for those looking for something different from the usual night out. Plus, the chance to win a prize as the top detective adds an extra layer of excitement. On the flip side, some guests have experienced issues with the sound quality and food, so it’s worth considering whether these factors matter a lot to you.
This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers, crime buffs, or groups seeking a lively, interactive evening. If you enjoy puzzles, live theater, or fun social experiences, this might just be the highlight of your trip to Fort Collins.
Key Points
- Interactive & engaging: You’ll be part of a lively murder mystery, not just a passive audience.
- Gourmet dinner included: The multi-course meal is a highlight, though some reviews mention food quality issues.
- Night out with a twist: Perfect for those looking for entertainment that combines food, fun, and a little mystery.
- Prize for top sleuth: Adds a competitive element—test your detective skills for a chance to win.
- Flexible beverage options: Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, making it suitable for adult groups.
- Limited group size: Smaller groups (max 15 travelers) help keep the experience intimate and interactive.
Planning more time in Fort Collins? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What to Expect from the Experience
The Dinner Detective in Fort Collins offers a three-hour evening event that combines a multi-course dinner with an interactive murder mystery. Starting at 6 pm, you’ll arrive at the venue dressed smartly in business casual or dressy casual attire, setting the tone for a special night. You’ll be seated in a room where the action unfolds, but this isn’t your typical theater show—it’s designed to be social and immersive.
The core of the event involves hidden actors blending into the audience—some in plain sight—adding an element of unpredictability. They will be pretending to be part of the crowd, making it easy to get caught up in the fun and confusion. The actors present a comical yet challenging crime scenario set in the present day, making the whole experience feel lively and relevant.
While enjoying your gourmet, multi-course plated dinner, you and your fellow guests will be encouraged to ask questions, observe details, and piece clues together. The show is designed to encourage interaction, so expect moments of laughter, friendly accusations, and lively discussion. Think of it as a fun, adult game of whodunit.
The prize for the best detective keeps the stakes high, and the event’s setting—an intimate room with a maximum of 15 guests—means your group will get plenty of chances to participate actively. If you’re someone who loves puzzles, performances, or just a good laugh over dinner, this will likely be a hit.
The Breakdown of the Itinerary
Start at 6 pm: Guests arrive and settle into the venue, which is conveniently near public transportation in Fort Collins. The dress code is business casual, so plan to look sharp but comfortable.
Dinner time: As the room fills, waitstaff serve a multi-course plated meal. While the specifics of the menu depend on your booking, the experience includes a gourmet dinner designed to keep everyone energized and engaged.
The show begins: Once everyone is seated, the interactive murder mystery kicks off. Actors—some in costume, others in plain sight—lead you through the storyline, which unfolds in the present day. The goal? Identify the killer hiding among you while avoiding becoming a suspect yourself.
Audience participation: The fun is in the details—listening carefully, asking questions, and analyzing the clues. Since non-costumed actors are placed among guests, the line between audience and performers blurs, making it a lively, social experience.
Prize and conclusion: As the mystery wraps up, the top detective is announced and awarded a prize package. The event lasts around three hours, so it’s a good idea to plan for an evening dedicated to this unique experience.
Authentic Guest Experiences and Honest Feedback
While many guests rave about the entertaining nature and good value, some reviews highlight areas for improvement. One guest, William_M, called it “a real bust,” mentioning poor acting and room setup, along with overcooked chicken. Those are significant drawbacks if you prioritize high-quality food and production.
However, other guests appreciate the knowledgeable guides and engaging show. The fact that the actors are hidden among the audience adds a level of unpredictability that makes the experience feel more real and social. It’s clear that the interactive format resonates with many, especially those who enjoy a lively, participatory night out.
As with all events, there’s a non-refundable policy in place, so if you have doubts, it’s best to confirm your plans beforehand. The ticket price of around $88 per person might seem steep, but when you consider the inclusion of dinner, entertainment, and the chance to win a prize, many find it to be good value.
Who Will Enjoy This the Most?
This experience is ideal for adults and older teens (minimum age is 15), especially those who appreciate dinner theater, solving puzzles, or just a night filled with laughs and surprises. It works well for groups of friends, couples, or even small family gatherings that enjoy a bit of playful intrigue.
If you’re a traveler who values interactive entertainment over passive shows, you’ll probably find this to be a refreshing change. Those seeking a traditional or high-end dining experience might be disappointed if they’re expecting gourmet food to be the main feature, as some reviews suggest the food quality can vary.
Final Thoughts
The Dinner Detective in Fort Collins is a unique way to spend an evening, combining a delicious meal with an engaging, interactive murder mystery. The small group size and audience participation make it a lively, social experience that can turn an ordinary night into something memorable.
While the food quality and sound issues have been points of criticism, the overall value lies in the fun, detective-themed entertainment and the chance to challenge yourself. If you’re looking for a different kind of night out that mixes mystery, comedy, and good company, this could be just the ticket.
It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy interactive experiences and are open-minded about some imperfections. With careful planning and a sense of humor, you’re likely to walk away with some great stories—and maybe even a prize.
The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery – Fort Collins, CO
“The best part of the evening was when it was finally over. The acting was poor and the room set-up was poor. We couldn't hear 50% of what the act…”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Dinner Detective suitable for families with teenagers?
The minimum age is 15, so it’s suitable for older teens who enjoy mystery and social fun. Keep in mind that the show’s interactive nature might be more engaging for teenagers than very young children.
Can I purchase alcohol during the event?
Yes, there’s a cash bar available, so you can buy alcoholic beverages if you wish, but they are not included in the ticket price.
What should I wear?
The recommended dress code is business casual or dressy casual, so think smart but comfortable—perfect for a special night out.
How long does the experience last?
It’s approximately three hours from start to finish, including dinner and the mystery-solving portion.
Is this experience family-friendly?
Yes, as long as your family members are 15 or older, and comfortable with a lively, interactive environment.
Are tickets difficult to get?
Most travelers book about 24 days in advance, which is a good idea if you want to secure your spot—especially during peak times.
What is the cost, and is it worth it?
The ticket price is around $88.44 per person, including dinner and entertainment. Many guests find the value worthwhile for a fun, memorable night, but be aware that some aspects like food quality are variable.
What should I expect from the food?
A multi-course plated dinner is included, but some reviews mention overcooked chicken or food quality issues. Vegetarian or vegan options are available if advised at the time of booking.
How interactive is the show?
Very interactive—hidden actors blend into the audience, and your participation is encouraged to help solve the crime.
If you’re after a fun, different night in Fort Collins, The Dinner Detective could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a lively mix of mystery, comedy, and good food (with some caveats), perfect for those who enjoy a little puzzle-solving with their evening out.