-
Home
›
-
Murder Mystery Trains
›
-
New Hampshire
New Hampshire ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Published: January 18, 2026
By: Adam Burns
New Hampshire, nestled in the heart of New England, offers a variety of unique and thrilling experiences for both residents and visitors.
Among these, the murder mystery dinner trains stand out as a captivating blend of theatrical drama, exquisite dining, and scenic rail travel.
These exhilarating excursions combine the allure of a classic whodunit with the charm of New Hampshire's picturesque landscapes, providing an unforgettable evening of enjoyment and suspense.
Conway Scenic Railroad S4 #1055 poses in front of the beautiful depot in North Conway. Ronald Johnson photo.
A Journey Through Intrigue
Murder mystery dinner trains offer an interactive and immersive experience where passengers become amateur sleuths, working alongside their fellow travelers to solve a “murder” that happens on board.
These events are more than just a passive observance; they demand keen attention and collaborative problem-solving skills. The setting? A moving train, where each car is steeped in mystery and comfort, enveloping guests in an atmosphere akin to classic Agatha Christie novels.
The Granite State’s Heritage Railroads
Just one heritage railroad has currently embraced the murder mystery theme, transforming their trains into stages for these interactive performances; the Conway Scenic Railroad.
The system operates out of North Conway and is known for its beautifully restored vintage trains, providing a culturally rich and historically significant backdrop to its murder mystery dinner events. The scenic journey through the Mount Washington Valley adds an extra dimension to the unfolding drama.
The railroad hosts their "Murder on the Rails" during a few weekends in July. This 55 minute experience does not include a dinner on board but the railroad does have a snack bar avaliable for guests to purchase refreshments.
An Experience for Everyone
While the concept of a murder mystery may sound daunting, the events are designed to be enjoyable for participants of all ages. They are often family-friendly, with age-appropriate storylines and content. Actors guide the guests through the evening, ensuring that everyone, from seasoned detectives to first-time sleuths, can engage fully in the story.
The thrill of solving a mystery, coupled with the supportive atmosphere created by the actors, makes these train rides an excellent choice for groups, couples, and solo adventurers. Beyond merely offering entertainment, the experiences foster social interaction as participants team up and share theories about the unfolding crime.
Embracing New Hampshire’s Heritage
Murder mystery dinner trains also serve as a means to explore and celebrate New Hampshire’s rich railroad heritage. The state’s railroads were instrumental in its development during the 19th and early 20th centuries, and these tours offer a nostalgic glimpse into that era.
Railroads in America trace their genesis to the New England region. As a result, New Hampshire was one of the first states to see its arrival. Its first was the Nashua & Lowell Railroad (N&L), chartered in New Hampshire on June 26, 1835 to connect with the Boston & Lowell at Lowell, Massachusetts and extend northwesterly along the Merrimack River to Nashua, New Hampshire.
Conway Scenic Railroad's "Murder on the Rails"
The “Murder on the Rails” excursion is one of the most entertaining and immersive specialty events offered by the railroad. Blending classic rail travel with live theater, this themed experience transforms a scenic train ride through the Mount Washington Valley into an interactive whodunit straight out of a vintage mystery novel.
Passengers step aboard historic railcars and immediately become part of the story. Costumed actors portray a cast of colorful characters—each with secrets, motives, and carefully crafted alibis—while a fictional crime unfolds during the journey. As the plot thickens, guests are encouraged to observe clues, question suspects, and piece together the mystery as the train rolls through New Hampshire’s picturesque countryside.
While the storyline changes from season to season, the format remains consistent: engaging performances, audience interaction, and a lighthearted tone that balances suspense with humor. Guests may dress up to match the theme—often in vintage or semi-formal attire—adding another layer of immersion to the evening.
Unfortunately, this particular experience does not offer onboard dining included. Nevertheless, “Murder on the Rails” has become a signature special event for the railroad, showcasing how heritage railroads can offer more than sightseeing alone. It’s an experience that combines rail history, live entertainment, and dining into a memorable night out in one of New England’s most charming rail settings. To learn more about particular dates, times, and ticket prices please click here to visit the railroad's website.
Concluding the Adventure
Whether you are a local looking for a new way to experience New Hampshire’s landscapes or a visitor wanting to take part in a unique theatrical escapade, these unique excursions offer an evening filled with intrigue and scenic beauty.
The experience reveals the mystique of New Hampshire's railroads while engaging passengers in tales of suspense—transforming a simple train ride into a memory that will linger long after the final curtain is drawn.
-
Jan 18, 26 01:54 PM
In the rolling hills of southern Indiana, the Spirit of Jasper offers one of those rare attractions that feels equal parts throwback and treat-yourself night out: a classic excursion train paired with…
Read More
-
Jan 18, 26 01:37 PM
If your heart is set on clinking glasses while the desert glows at sunset, you can absolutely do that here—just know which operator offers what, and plan accordingly.
Read More
-
Jan 18, 26 01:10 PM
The state's murder mystery trains stand out as a captivating blend of theatrical drama, exquisite dining, and scenic rail travel.
Read More
-
Jan 18, 26 12:32 PM
At its best, the Adirondack Railroad delivers exactly what railfans and casual riders alike hope for: vintage coaches, classic depots, rivers and forests right outside the window.
Read More
-
Jan 18, 26 10:50 AM
Whether you’re a dedicated railfan chasing preserved equipment or a couple looking for a memorable night out, CCR&M offers a “small railroad, big experience” vibe—one that shines brightest on its spec…
Read More
-
Jan 18, 26 10:49 AM
The Royal Gorge Route Railroad is the kind of trip that feels tailor-made for railfans and casual travelers alike, including during Valentine's weekend.
Read More
-
Jan 18, 26 10:42 AM
f you’ve ridden the SAM Shortline, it’s easy to think of it purely as a modern-day pleasure train—vintage cars, wide South Georgia skies, and a relaxed pace that feels worlds away from interstates and…
Read More
-
Jan 17, 26 01:16 PM
There are currently no murder mystery dinner trains available in New Jersey although until 2023 the Cape May Seashore Lines offered this event. Perhaps they will again soon!
Read More
-
Jan 17, 26 01:08 PM
The D&GV offers the kind of rail experience that feels purpose-built for railfans and casual travelers.
Read More
-
Jan 17, 26 11:55 AM
If you’ve ever wished you could pair a classic scenic train ride with a genuinely satisfying meal—served at your table while the countryside rolls by—the Virginia Scenic Railway was built for you.
Read More
-
Jan 17, 26 10:23 AM
The cold weather rarely invades Florida and the state nearly always warm and balmy early spring temperatures. Learn more about where you can find Easter-themed train rides across the Sunshine State.
Read More
-
Jan 17, 26 10:13 AM
Ohio is home to several museums and excursion trains preserving the state's rich railroading heritage. A few of these locations host Easter-themed train rides each spring.
Read More
-
Jan 17, 26 09:58 AM
The Cape Cod Central Railroad (CCCR) blends classic New England scenery with heritage equipment, narrated sightseeing, and some of the region’s best-known “rails-and-meals” experiences.
Read More
-
Jan 17, 26 09:53 AM
Operating out of West Sacramento, this excursion railroad has built a calendar that blends scenery with experiences—wine pours, themed parties, dinner-and-entertainment outings, and seasonal specials…
Read More
-
Jan 16, 26 11:13 PM
There is only location in the Palmetto State offering a true dinner train experience can be found at the South Carolina Railroad Museum. Learn more here.
Read More
-
Jan 16, 26 11:01 PM
Despite its small size, Rhode Island is home to one popular dinner train experience where guests can enjoy the breathtaking views of Aquidneck Island.
Read More
-
Jan 16, 26 04:13 PM
"A Day Out With Thomas” train rides offer a unique opportunity for children and their families to engage in a magical and memorable experience, setting the stage for a full day of fun and adventure.
Read More
-
Jan 16, 26 02:23 PM
In Illinois, the "A Day Out With Thomas" event offers a unique chance for families to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Thomas and friends, creating memories that last a lifetime.
Read More
-
Jan 16, 26 02:11 PM
Here's a comprehensive guide to what you can expect at Day Out With Thomas events in New Jersey.
Read More
-
Jan 16, 26 01:54 PM
Here’s a comprehensive look into the world of murder mystery dinner trains in Texas.
Read More
-
Jan 16, 26 01:26 PM
All aboard the intrigue express! One location in Connecticut typically offers a unique and thrilling experience for both locals and visitors alike, murder mystery trains.
Read More
-
Jan 16, 26 10:47 AM
Tucked into the heart of New Hampshire’s Mount Washington Valley, the Conway Scenic Railroad is one of New England’s most beloved heritage railways
Read More
-
Jan 16, 26 10:44 AM
The Mt. Hood Railroad is the moving part of that postcard—a century-old short line that began as a working railroad.
Read More
-
Jan 15, 26 02:59 PM
This article delves into the enchanting world of wine tasting train experiences in Maryland, providing a detailed exploration of their offerings, history, and allure.
Read More
-
Jan 15, 26 02:46 PM
To truly savor these local flavors while soaking in the scenic beauty of Colorado, the concept of wine tasting trains has emerged, offering both locals and tourists a luxurious and immersive indulgenc…
Read More
-
Jan 15, 26 02:36 PM
The state not only boasts a burgeoning wine industry but also offers unique experiences such as wine by rail aboard the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad.
Read More
-
Jan 15, 26 02:26 PM
While the railroad offers a range of themed trips throughout the year, one of its most crowd-pleasing special events is the Wine & Cheese Train—a short, scenic round trip designed to feel like a t…
Read More
-
Jan 15, 26 02:22 PM
This piece explores the allure of murder mystery trains and why they are becoming a must-try experience for enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.
Read More
-
Jan 15, 26 02:10 PM
The murder mystery dinner train rides in Ohio provide an immersive experience that combines fine dining, an engaging narrative, and the beauty of Ohio's landscapes.
Read More
-
Jan 15, 26 02:01 PM
If you’ve ever wished you could step through a time portal into the hard-working world of a 1900s short line the Nevada Northern Railway in Ely is about as close as it gets.
Read More
-
Jan 15, 26 09:46 AM
The Steam Railroading Institute is best known as the home of Pere Marquette #1225 and even occasionally hosts a dinner train!
Read More
-
Jan 14, 26 02:04 PM
For those who want to experience the charm of Arizona's wine scene while embracing the romance of rail travel, wine tasting train rides offer a memorable journey through the state's picturesque landsc…
Read More
-
Jan 14, 26 01:57 PM
This article takes you through the experience of wine tasting train rides in Arkansas, highlighting their offerings, routes, and the delightful blend of history, scenery, and flavor that makes them so…
Read More
-
Jan 14, 26 01:42 PM
Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue.
Read More
-
Jan 14, 26 01:26 PM
When it comes to experiencing the allure of crime-solving sprinkled with delicious dining, California's murder mystery dinner train rides have carved a niche for themselves among both locals and touri…
Read More
-
Jan 14, 26 01:13 PM
Among Illinois's scenic train rides, one of the most unique and captivating experiences is the murder mystery excursion.
Read More
-
Jan 14, 26 12:57 PM
There are currently murder mystery dinner trains offered in Vermont but until recently the Champlain Valley Dinner Train offered such a trip!
Read More
-
Jan 14, 26 12:20 PM
The Cape Cod Central Railroad (CCCR) has carved out a special niche by pairing classic New England scenery with old-school hospitality, including some of the best-known dining train experiences in the…
Read More
-
Jan 14, 26 11:31 AM
While this isn’t generally a “dinner train” railroad in the traditional sense—no multi-course meal served en route—Maine Narrow Gauge does offer several popular ride experiences where food and drink a…
Read More
-
Jan 13, 26 01:14 PM
The essence of My Old Kentucky Dinner Train is part restaurant, part scenic excursion, and part living piece of Kentucky rail history.
Read More
-
Jan 13, 26 12:44 PM
If you’re looking for a heritage railroad that feels authentically Kansas—equal parts prairie scenery, small-town history, and hands-on railroading—the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad (A&SV) delivers.
Read More
-
Jan 13, 26 11:24 AM
Among the lesser-known treasures of this state are the intriguing murder mystery dinner train rides—a perfect blend of suspense, dining, and scenic exploration.
Read More
-
Jan 13, 26 11:11 AM
Among the state's railroad attractions, murder mystery dinner trains stand out as a captivating fusion of theatrical entertainment, fine dining, and scenic travel.
Read More
-
Jan 13, 26 10:59 AM
While the Grand Canyon Railway does not offer a true, onboard dinner train experience it does offer several upscale options and off-train dining.
Read More
-
Jan 13, 26 10:27 AM
If you’ve ever wished you could slow down, trade traffic for jointed rail, and let a small-town landscape roll by your window while a hot meal is served at your table, the Azalea Sprinter delivers tha…
Read More
-
Jan 12, 26 04:27 PM
If you’ve ever wished you could step into a time when passenger trains were a Saturday-night treat and a whistle echoing across farm fields meant “adventure,” the Nickel Plate Express delivers that fe…
Read More
-
Jan 12, 26 04:20 PM
The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway offers one of the region’s most atmospheric ways to experience the Hocking Hills area: from the rhythmic click of jointed rail to the glow of vintage coaches rolling…
Read More
-
Jan 12, 26 03:10 PM
Wisconsin might not be the first state that comes to mind when one thinks of wine, but this scenic region is increasingly gaining recognition for its unique offerings in viticulture.
Read More
-
Jan 12, 26 02:34 PM
This article explores the charm, routes, and offerings of these unique wine tasting trains that traverse California’s picturesque landscapes.
Read More
-
Jan 12, 26 02:20 PM
The Mid-Continent Railway Museum is a living-history museum built around the sights, sounds, and everyday rhythms of small-town and shortline railroading in the early 20th century, what the museum cal…
Read More