Published: July 21, 2025
By: Adam Burns
Vermont, with its rolling green mountains, charming small towns, and vibrant fall foliage, is known for its picturesque beauty and quintessential New England charm.
Unfortunately, there are no longer any murdery mystery dinner trains available in the state. However, until recently the Green Mountain Railroad hosted this popular event via its Champlain Valley Dinner Train. Perhaps one day soon they will return to the Green Mountain State!
Imagine stepping aboard a beautifully restored vintage train, the sound of steam hissing gently as it departs through the idyllic countryside. As the train travels along the tracks, passengers step back in time to an era of elegance and opulence. The antique décor, complete with plush seats and ornate fixtures, sets the stage for an evening of suspense and culinary delight.
These themed dinner trains offer an interactive theater experience where guests become part of the action. You’re not just a passenger observing from afar; you’re a character in the unfolding drama. Actors subtly mingle with the crowd, dropping clues and engaging guests in conversation to further the plot.
At the heart of the ride is a gourmet dining experience. Guests can expect a multi-course dinner, featuring locally sourced ingredients and culinary interpretations inspired by the charm of the region or state where the train is operated.
As the evening progresses, the plot thickens. Perhaps it’s a 1920s-themed whodunit, where flappers and dapper gents are embroiled in intrigue, or a Victorian era mystery set in the midst of high society scandal.
With each course, new clues emerge, and the story takes unexpected twists and turns. Guests sip wine, ponder alibis, and question motives, all while enjoying the picturesque vistas outside their window.
The murder mystery element is the gravitational force of the experience. Guests are encouraged to work together, forming sleuthing teams to crack the case. Actors playfully interject, offering clues or red herrings to keep passengers on their toes. There’s something uniquely captivating about solving a mystery in such an intimate and immersive setting.
These train rides typically span three to four hours, providing ample time for passengers to immerse themselves in the narrative. As the train chugs along its return journey, the mystery reaches a climactic close. Solutions are revealed, crime-solving skills are put to the test, and prizes are often awarded to the top detectives of the night.
Beyond the landscape rolling by while guests are aboard the train, there's something inherently fitting about solving a mystery amid the cozy yet sophisticated setting of a restored passenger car.
These train rides capitalize on that spirit. Enthusiastic guests often arrive in period attire, fully embracing the evening's theme and contributing to the atmosphere of camaraderie and fun.
The murder mystery trains also offer a remarkable way to enjoy the changing seasons. From the blooming greens of spring to the amber hues of fall foliage, passengers witness a living painting from their window seats.
These experiences are a masterful blend of theater, gastronomy, and scenic grandeur. They offer a one-of-a-kind adventure, perfect for couples, groups of friends, or anyone seeking something out of the ordinary.
With an engaging plot, delicious dinner, and panoramic views, these train rides are not just a trip across the state but an exciting journey into a world of mystery.
Whether you’re a seasoned detective or a first-time sleuth, murder mystery dinner trains promise thrills, laughter, and an evening you won't soon forget. So, gather your wits, board the train, and prepare for a journey that will tantalize your taste buds and test your powers of deduction.
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