Connecticut ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides

Published: January 16, 2026

All aboard the intrigue express! Connecticut, with its charming landscapes and vibrant culture, offers a unique and thrilling experience for both locals and visitors alike: murder mystery trains.

These interactive adventures blend the excitement of a classic whodunit with the pleasure of a gourmet dining experience, all set against the backdrop of the state's scenic railways.

The Essex Steam Train - a very popular tourist attraction in Essex - was offering a murder mystery experience aboard their trains through the 2024 season. However, there current schedule no longer lists this popular excursion.

Valley Railroad's then-new Chinese-built SY (Tangshan Locomotive Works) 2-8-2 #1647 in 1989. Today, she is owned by the Delaware River Railroad as #142. Steve Cryan photo.

A Brief History of Mystery Trains

Murder mystery dinner trains have been a form of entertainment since the 1980s, and combining this concept with train rides adds an extra layer of excitement and immersion.

Set aboard a moving train, these events are designed to captivate and engage participants, allowing them to step into the shoes of a detective.

The Experience

Participants can expect an evening filled with drama, laughter, and, of course, a delicious meal. As the train chugs along through the countryside, actors portraying various characters interweave themselves among the guests.

The plot unfolds through a series of staged events, and passengers must use their powers of deduction to identify the murderer before the train returns to the station. Here is what a typical experience may entail:

The Story: The mystery can be set in any era, from the Roaring Twenties to a modern-day escapade. Each storyline comes with a unique twist—guests must pay attention to every detail as they interview suspects and piece together clues.

The Cuisine: While the mystery unfolds, guests are treated to a gourmet dining experience. The meal often reflects the theme of the night, with several courses mirroring the opulence or adaptability of the era in which the mystery is set.

The Interaction: Part of the thrill is not just watching the story unravel, but interacting with the characters. Guests may be offered chance roles in the mystery or tasked with finding specific pieces of evidence.

Notable Locations

The Essex Steam Train in Essex offered a unique murder mystery dinner train in 2024 but their schedule for 2025 does not include this popular event. Hopefully, it will soon return!

Essex Steam Train

The Essex Steam Train offers a nostalgic journey through the scenic Connecticut River Valley. Departing from the historic 1892 Essex Station in Essex, Connecticut, this vintage steam train takes passengers on a 12-mile round trip through picturesque towns and natural landscapes, including beautiful river views and lush forests.

The experience is enhanced by the authentic feel of the restored steam locomotives and traditional coaches. Operated by the Valley Railroad Company, the train ride often features themed excursions, such as seasonal foliage tours, holiday events, and family-friendly rides, providing an entertaining experience for all ages.

In addition to the train ride, many excursions also include a riverboat cruise on the Becky Thatcher further enhancing the experience with vistas of historic landmarks and abundant wildlife. The Essex Steam Train is a beloved attraction offering both a step back in time and a captivating adventure in one of New England’s most beautiful regions.

Final Thoughts

Murder mystery dinner trains offer a delightful blend of intrigue, scenic beauty, and culinary pleasure. Whether you are a long-time sleuth or new to the world of whodunits, these rides provide an ideal setting to test your detective skills.

So grab your magnifying glass, don your detective hat, and climb aboard for an evening of suspense, fun, and fine dining. Whether it's a night out with friends, a unique date idea, or a special celebration, these train rides offer a truly one-of-a-kind experience.