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Indiana's Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides

Published: July 19, 2025

By: Adam Burns

From the storytelling spirit of Hoosier folklore to its mesmerizing landscapes, Indiana has always been a confluence of tradition and thrill. Few activities encapsulate this unique blend quite like the murder mystery dinner trains that weave a tapestry of drama, suspense, and culinary delight.

These experiences transport passengers back to an era when locomotives were the epitome of travel elegance, all while challenging them to unravel a fiendish plot.

As recently as 2023 the Nickel Plate Express in Noblesville was hosting an event, the "Murder on the Orient Express".  However, currently there are no such experiences available throughout the state.

Nevertheless, this piece will explore the allure of these enigmatic attractions and why they are becoming a must-try experience for mystery enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.  Perhaps one day soon they will return in Indiana!

A Journey Back in Time

Murder mystery dinner trains offer more than just a rail excursion; they provide an escape into another era. Passengers are encouraged to don costumes that reflect the period – be it the roaring twenties, the rugged western frontier, or the glamorous 1940s.

This immersive experience is further accentuated by the stunningly restored vintage train carriages, complete with plush seating and classic dining setups. From the moment the train pulls away from the station, guests are enveloped in a world where the lines between fantasy and reality blur into a thrilling narrative.

The Unveiling of Mystery

The heart of the experience is, of course, the murder mystery itself. Professional actors intersperse among the diners, each playing characters with murky pasts or dubious intentions.

As courses are served, drama unfolds—conversations bristle with tension, alliances form, and shocking revelations come to light. Guests become detectives, collecting clues, interrogating suspects, and piecing together the puzzle.

Every attendee is encouraged to engage, crafting theories over appetizers and revising them with each course. The crescendo of this theatrical tale is a suspenseful unveiling, where those who deduce correctly can bask in their detective prowess.

A Culinary Delight

While the mystery grips your mind, the dinner delights your palate. These experiences are known for their exquisite cuisine, often featuring locally sourced ingredients. A typical trip includes a multi-course meal with a selection of appetizers, entrees, and desserts that deftly blend modern culinary trends with classic favorites.

Scenes from the Tracks: A Scenic Experience

As the plot thickens inside the train, the world outside offers its own kind of theater. Indiana's diverse terrain rolls by the windows, providing a breathtaking backdrop to the unfolding drama.

The routes often traverse picturesque countryside vistas, iconic Midwestern farmland, and charming small towns. Each trip is a showcase of Indiana's natural beauty, with routes designed to highlight seasonal landscapes, whether it's the vibrant palette of autumn leaves or the serene, snow-blanketed fields of winter. This blend of thriller and tranquility creates an atmosphere where diners can unwind even as their curiosity is piqued.

Nickel Plate Express

The Nickel Plate Express is a heritage railroad in Indiana, offering scenic train excursions through Hamilton County. It operates along a historic rail line originally built by the Lake Erie & Western Railroad in the late 19th century, later part of the Nickel Plate Road (1923).

The Nickel Plate Express begins its journey in Atlanta, Indiana, and provides passengers with a delightful experience aboard vintage train cars that evoke the charm of early-to-mid 20th-century rail travel.

Passengers can enjoy various themed excursions throughout the year, such as seasonal events, holiday-themed rides, and specialty excursions that include wine or chocolate tastings. 

The train's leisurely pace allows riders to take in the picturesque landscape of Indiana’s countryside, providing a unique perspective and a peaceful retreat from modern life.

Final Thoughts

Murder mystery dinner trains are more than just events; they are immersive experiences that captivate the senses and the mind. They offer a unique way to explore Indiana's rich heritage and natural beauty while engaging passengers in a good old-fashioned whodunit.

Whether you are a seasoned sleuth or a casual observer, these journeys weave together culinary delight, scenic landscapes, and interactive theater into an unforgettable narrative that invites you to step aboard and become part of the mystery.