New Hampshire ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides

Published: January 18, 2026

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.