Murder Mystery Dinner Train
Murder Mystery Dinner Train
Murder Mystery Dinner Train
4.1
9:00 AM - 6:30 PM
Monday
Closed
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 6:30 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 6:30 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 6:30 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 6:30 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 6:30 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
About
The Murder Mystery Dinner Train (owned and operated by Seminole Gulf Railway) offers a Unique Dining Experience where passengers enjoy our table side Murder Mystery Show and a Nostalgic Train Trip as our On-board Chef prepares a delicious Five Course Dinner. The train seats up to 208 people and operates year round, Wednesday through Sunday, and holds special holiday events, like a Sweetheart Express for Valentine's Day, a New Year's Eve Gala, two traditional New England style Thanksgiving dinners, and Halloween Ghost Trains. The Murder Mystery Dinner Train also offers hotel Get-Away packages with special rates available only through the railroad.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.1
681 reviews
Excellent
347
Very good
183
Average
71
Poor
45
Terrible
35
GTSSurrey
Bisley, UK1,091 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
Lovely experiene overall even if the ride is still a bit shorter than in the past due to the ongoing impact of hurricane Ian. The organisation from booking advance tickets through to arrival on the evening in question was faultless. The mystery show itself was fun and entertaining with more clues and sidetracks than you could shake a stick at. The actors seeed to be really enjoying themselves in telling the story and in keeping the guests on the train entertained and intrigued. Whilst we did guess "who dun it" the motive and assorted clues were more of a challenge to get fully right - but it was a great night regardless. The food was tasty and generously served wth enough choice for us to all be happy with our selections; drinks are varied and reasonably priced as extras. Pricing and menu options were all made very clear from the time we looked at booking the trip so there were no surprises. Overall a great night out and I am sure we will be back.
Written October 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FITraveler1011
St. Petersburg, FL61 contributions
Jan 2024 • Friends
It was a great evening to entertain out of town company!
It was fun seeing the play and guessing the murderer. The staff was friendly and attentive. Actors were decent. Food (we all got the prime rib) which was really great.
The bridge across the Caloosahatchee River is still damaged (as of 1/2024 but enough of the bridge is repaired to allow the train to pull out over the water a bit and stopped during dinner. The staff indicated that the bridge will be completed sometime very soon.
It’s costly, but if you added up the cost of a prime rib dinner with salad, soup, entree, and dessert (served in 4 courses between segments of the play) plus the cost of a show, it’s a fair price (not great, but fair)
Overall, it was a great evening
It was fun seeing the play and guessing the murderer. The staff was friendly and attentive. Actors were decent. Food (we all got the prime rib) which was really great.
The bridge across the Caloosahatchee River is still damaged (as of 1/2024 but enough of the bridge is repaired to allow the train to pull out over the water a bit and stopped during dinner. The staff indicated that the bridge will be completed sometime very soon.
It’s costly, but if you added up the cost of a prime rib dinner with salad, soup, entree, and dessert (served in 4 courses between segments of the play) plus the cost of a show, it’s a fair price (not great, but fair)
Overall, it was a great evening
Written January 14, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lisa S
Hummelstown, PA10,112 contributions
Jun 2021 • Couples
This was a very fun evening with a few exceptions. The check in process was quick and easy but you must have your email notification to show them prior to being given your tickets. We arrived just before it was time to board so I got my tickets and walked right on. Parking is free and it’s a big paved lot.
Waiting on the table were grapes, crackers and cheese. Enough for the table of 4 but following covid guidelines we sat alone. We were greeted quickly for drink orders but a full glass of water had already been poured.
The prime rib was very good and served hot. My portions were big, I wasn’t sure I would finish it all but I did. My only comment was how long it took between courses. I’m not sure if this was due to the actors in the cars in front or what? We both found the dessert too sweet.
The play was very funny. The actors were all very good. Sadly we did not guess the murderer!
Unfortunately our experience was hampered by a man who either was dumb or just rude! He talked almost the entire time, loudly. At one point an actor touched him gently on the shoulder to get him to stop. They do not wear mics but talk loudly and trying to stay in character when dealing with a jerk like him, well not fun. She even shushed him a few minutes later when he had not stopped. After the scene was over and he had continued on telling his table mates his very important story, a man said could you please talk louder we can’t hear you! The rest of us laughed and clapped. The talker acted embarrassed like he didn’t get he was being so loud. Being loud is one thing but being loud during a show is NOT acceptable! We should have shamed him earlier, then the ride would have been more pleasant!
Waiting on the table were grapes, crackers and cheese. Enough for the table of 4 but following covid guidelines we sat alone. We were greeted quickly for drink orders but a full glass of water had already been poured.
The prime rib was very good and served hot. My portions were big, I wasn’t sure I would finish it all but I did. My only comment was how long it took between courses. I’m not sure if this was due to the actors in the cars in front or what? We both found the dessert too sweet.
The play was very funny. The actors were all very good. Sadly we did not guess the murderer!
Unfortunately our experience was hampered by a man who either was dumb or just rude! He talked almost the entire time, loudly. At one point an actor touched him gently on the shoulder to get him to stop. They do not wear mics but talk loudly and trying to stay in character when dealing with a jerk like him, well not fun. She even shushed him a few minutes later when he had not stopped. After the scene was over and he had continued on telling his table mates his very important story, a man said could you please talk louder we can’t hear you! The rest of us laughed and clapped. The talker acted embarrassed like he didn’t get he was being so loud. Being loud is one thing but being loud during a show is NOT acceptable! We should have shamed him earlier, then the ride would have been more pleasant!
Written June 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Janet C
3 contributions
Dec 2023 • Friends
I've been seeing billboards for this since I moved here. Finally did it. Honestly it was a great meal although the service did lack because only 2 servers for each car and I'm going to say it was 16 to 18 tables of 4. I asked for coffee 4 to 5 times and it was at least 30 minutes to get a refill. The servers did one table at a time so it was a long time in between each course. It drug a 5 course meal out into 3.5 hours and with the poor service it became very boring. The scenery was not pleasant to say the least. It was night time but you could still see because it took you through the absolute seediest part of the county. There was trash and graffiti everywhere. Shady people hanging around the tracks. As for the show, the 5 actors went from car to car repeating the scene for the murder mystery. It left a lot of time in between each small scene ( about 3 minutes per scene and there were about 5). The angel and Mrs Clause were decent actors. The elf was a very sweet old man and he did a good job. The reindeer was not good at all. Very monotone and with no emotion, just had memorized lines and put on a reindeer suit. Santa was very memorized lines and very corny jokes delivered with no emotion. I'm usually not this critical but I was disappointed after really being excited about doing it. The meal was very good but at $130 for the ticket I could have gotten a nice prime rib at Pewter Mug with their awesome salad bar for $33, and considering the show was a mere 15 minutes total ( more like a skit) I'm going to say that this adventure was not worth the price. Considering if I took my family of 5 it would have cost $660 plus tip I'm glad I only took myself. Just my opinion oh and the prize for solving the mystery ( only 1 per car) is a coffe mug. Who needs a coffee mug? Lol. I wanted to share in case anyone is considering it. This was a one and done for me.
Written December 3, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
living the dream
3 contributions
Feb 2025 • Couples
Firstly, the good…it was a unique experience. The acting was great. The story was just okay. The food was fairly good. The part that was bad…the service! There was only two servers for our entire car. Drinks took forever when they brought the drinks and food to the table, they were in such a hurry, that they quite literally tossed the plates down on the table with so much speed and force, my horseradish cup, literally flew off plate and into my lap. It took a long time to clear the tables. Our waitress wasn’t very friendly either… We actually had to show our waitress how to open a bottle of wine. We just didn’t even want to order any more drinks because we knew it would just take way too long. Speaking of long, the train ride ended up being four hours long. We were stuck on the track for 45 minutes with no food, No drinks service, no entertainment and no train movement before it turned around and made its way back. Then, while we were just a couple minutes from being back, they stopped the train. We finally asked the server what the holdup was and he said they hadn’t finish collecting the checks, so they stopped the train. I have no idea if they were just extremely short staffed but really they should’ve just canceled the train ride when they knew they were just gonna have such a short on staffing. It was a lot of money to spend, and have such bad service and such a long delay. I would not do it again.
Written February 15, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bill G
Sarasota, FL1 contribution
Mar 2023 • Friends
We visited on Saturday March 23rd, 2023 there were 4 of us. We were riding in the the Pine Island car. We boarded at around 5:45 and the train started moving at about 6:50. Cheese, crackers and grapes were at the table waiting. We started moving and it was a nice slow ride. All of the courses of our meal were served in a perfectly timed manner, no rushing to finish one course before the next arrived. The food was very good. And the show was great! I had a few issues, first with the train as there was several times we stopped and sat for long periods of time. I think at one point we were stopped for at least 30 minutes. It would've been nice if nothing else they reversed the train and went back and forth. Now I realize that hurricane Ian passed through and there was a lot of damage. But it would be nice if the railroad would have cleaned up the shoulders of the tracks as there was tons of trash. And last maybe consider dimming the lights in the cars as it was way too bright once the sun went down, a little more romantic environment.
Written March 27, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Traveler
Bradenton, FL6 contributions
Feb 2023
EXTREMELY UNPROFESSIONAL! After hitting someone the night before they stopped the train in the middle of no where to kick off people the staff falsely accused of bringing a beer on the train. A waitress even falsely accused one of the people of throwing knife at her. No knives were ever thrown at anyone! The waitress followed the couples heckling them on their way off the train. As if the people weren't embarrassed and scared enough she further bullied them! After they left the waitress came by the table picked up something that had been left behind on the table and threw it. I think the waitress has anger issues. This was an extremely scary situation that was created by the horrible actions of the wait staff. I would advise people to not risk loosing your money and your safety by riding this train. There are plenty of trains out there that you can do in other cities.
Written February 14, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
will
1 contribution
Nov 2021 • Couples
My wife, daughter and I took the murder mystery dinner train on November 20, 2021. We were seated in the Pine Island car. The food was excellent = 1 star, the acting was excellent = 1 star, but there was a group of 20 something women, about half of the car, that ruined the whole trip. They were way too loud, inconsiderate and down right obnoxious. We couldn’t hear each other unless we yelled at each other. They did quiet down when the actors played their parts in the car but as soon as they left these women would turn it right up again. It was deafening. Three and a half hours of that crap. A couple of times the staff did ask them to keep their noise down but all that really happened was that the staff kept bringing them pitchers of Sangria and they kept getting louder. We will never go back nor recommend anyone we know to try this murder mystery dinner train show for the simple fact that the staff cannot control the patrons.
Written November 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Exnortherner
Dobbs Ferry, NY998 contributions
Aug 2023
My wife and I took the Murder Mystery Train out of Ft Myers on Friday night. I wish I could say it was great fun, but I have mixed feelings about it. The premise is that, while we enjoy dinner in a railroad dining car, a group of players perform a murder mystery play in the aisle. As for the meal part, it was mostly okay. The tables seat four people, so couples are paired up with strangers. It our case, the other couple was a good match for us. The meal consists of a cheese/cracker/grape’s appetizer, a potato leek soup, a pretzel roll, a Caesar salad and of choice of Prime Ribs, Chicken Breast or Salmon entree. My wife had the salmon and liked it. My chicken was good but a little dry. The best choice appeared to be the Prime Ribs. Looked delicious. Two servers took care of the entire car of diners and they did an excellent job. As for the performance, we were presented with a series of acts throughout the dinner, each act used to establish the identity of a murderer on the train. We were to guess the murderer. The story line was confusing. The actors did not use microphones and it was difficult to hear what they were saying. Frankly, I stopped paying attention to the performance early on. As for the train ride itself, it should have been partially through the brush of Ft Myers and partially spanning the Caloosahatchee River. However, due to hurricane damage to the bridge, we could not go over the river and had to stay in Ft Myers. Not the fault of the organizers, but very disappointing to the diners. Not sure the entire package is worth the price paid.
Written August 12, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Irish4love
Lake Wales, FL659 contributions
Aug 2023 • Friends
We thoroughly enjoyed the murder mystery train and dinner. The actors were good and entertaining. The food was very well prepared and I enjoyed every bit of it. There is a lot of food and they keep bringing courses. There are a couple of pictures below. When you first come in, the tables are all set up. You do have assigned seating. There is cheese and crackers and fruit. You’ll have an opportunity to order alcoholic drinks. They are extra and tips are requested. We received a pretzel bread roll followed by a Caesar salad, potato soup, then a choice of entrées. This particular night, choices were salmon, a chicken dish or prime rib, cooked to your liking. Finally, dessert was apple spice cake. It was delicious and that would be one of my least favorite choices for a dessert but I really liked it. I also asked for coffee. The staff works hard to accommodate everyone and how they all work together simultaneously to put a show on and serve a meal is something to watch.
The only suggestion I have is to make the train ride a little more interesting. It simply goes through the railroad yard 6 miles. it used to go down the river I believe, but hurricane Ian destroyed some of the tracks. Another suggestion would be to provide different chairs for seating. The current chairs are pretty hard and after three hours plus of sitting, they are a little uncomfortable. The train was also pretty warm however, I realize because of the 96+ degree temperatures, it would be hard to keep it cool. I would definitely come again and so I would my friend. She has been there two times before to see shows.
The only suggestion I have is to make the train ride a little more interesting. It simply goes through the railroad yard 6 miles. it used to go down the river I believe, but hurricane Ian destroyed some of the tracks. Another suggestion would be to provide different chairs for seating. The current chairs are pretty hard and after three hours plus of sitting, they are a little uncomfortable. The train was also pretty warm however, I realize because of the 96+ degree temperatures, it would be hard to keep it cool. I would definitely come again and so I would my friend. She has been there two times before to see shows.
Written August 10, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Sandra. All cancellations of prepaid reservations must be made by 12 noon of the day prior to the day of departure in order to receive a refund. Otherwise, refunds are not available. All cancellations must be received in writing via email, or live on the phone with one of our reservationists. Cancellations left in our voicemail system or in an email will not be honored until they have been conmfirmed by one of of reservationists.
Written January 18, 2023
I'm hoping to do this as a birthday present to my 89 year old father - will he and his wife be able to climb up into the train? Are there handicap entrances to make it easier for them?
Written March 31, 2021
There were steps up into the train cars. There were a lot of older people in attendance as well. I didn’t see any handicap ramps though and I don’t know how to answer your question. I would contact the venue I think just to be safe. Sorry!
Written April 10, 2021
Hi,
Are children welcome on the murder mystery trains ?
Thank you
Laurence
Written October 22, 2018
As our other guests have suggested, the regularly scheduled Murder Mystery Dinner Train may not be for all children under the age of 12. It is a 3 1/2 hour trip, not returning until 10pm (9pm on Sun). However, we do have our annual Thanksgiving Day feast with an extra trip at midday which is oriented more for families. Not only do we offer children's pricing for that trip, but it is also shorter (only 2.5 hours). The trade off is that trip does not have the murder mystery show, but still has our wonderful turkey dinner as the evening trip that day. Ultimately it is your call to make with your own children. We do hope to see you soon. Alllll aboard!
Written October 28, 2018
The train leaves at 6:30 but guests are asked to arrive 45 minutes before hand to check in. It costs about $90 for the train, dinners and show, but they also offer a very attractive hotel package. All the details are on their website.
Written September 18, 2018
I see a lot of people are mentioning that seating is tight. My husband is a large man 6' 4" and is heavy so I'm concerned about him being comfortable with the seating arrangements. Are these booths, which he normally has issues with or actual tables so the seat can be adjusted?
Written July 9, 2018
We have tables with chairs that may be moved, although the seating is still a bit constrained in our vintage dining cars. We have had some very large NBA players aboard and they made it through just fine. We look forward to seeing you and your husband on the train.
Written July 10, 2018
shandri
Miami, Florida
Hi, I would like to know how much the tickets cost per adult? Thank you
Written June 2, 2018
$79.95 pp on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday. $84.95 pp on Saturday.
Written June 4, 2018
2 questions-- are sodas included in the price? (I've read very recent reviews that say they are, but website says coffee and tea), and are tips required for the actors, as well as the servers (is it $8 pp, or 20%???) Just paid over $500 for a party of 6 and I need to try to figure how much additional cash to bring for the extra expenses. Thank you!
Written March 21, 2018
Coffee, tea, and iced tea are included, as is tap water. However, sodas, bottled water, specialty drinks and alcoholic beverages are not included.
As for gratuities, we suggest $8 per person for the meal service plus normal percent based on each party's beverage service. Your gratuities are for the waitstaff, and we hope you join us soon for an evening of food, fun and of course a little murder :-) Allll aboard!
Written March 26, 2018
Apologies for the delay in this response.
All cancellations of prepaid reservations must be made by 12 PM (12 noon) EST of the day prior to the day of departure in order to receive a refund. Otherwise refunds are not available.
Written March 26, 2018
Jean B
Venice, Florida
I am a single traveler' would this be a problem for seating arrangements
Written January 7, 2018
We always find a way to make it work. Most likely we would seat you with a couple.
Written January 8, 2018
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