Interrogate the suspects. Follow the clues. Solve the case before anyone else.
TRUE CRIME WITH A SIDE OF COMEDY.
A high-stakes mystery driven by improv. Sharp, fast, and different every night.
ONE NIGHT. ZERO PLANNING.
Everything is included… you just show up and play!
WHY THE DINNER DETECTIVE IS Des Moines, IA'S #1 MURDER MYSTERY EXPERIENCE
A Live, Immersive Murder Mystery Unlike Any Other
Most murder mystery dinner shows put actors on a stage in silly costumes. We do the opposite — our professional cast is hidden in the audience, turning every guest into a potential suspect. You'll tackle a challenging crime while you feast on a fantastic dinner, and the criminal is lurking somewhere in the room with you. Before the night is over, you just might find yourself as a Prime Suspect.
Dinner and a Show, All in One Ticket
Every admission includes our multi-course plated dinner, wait staff gratuity, the full interactive show, and a prize package for the Top Sleuth — no hidden fees, no surprises. Visit our FAQ page for location-specific details including parking, bar availability, and menu info, then click a show date below to see pricing and get tickets.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Our murder mystery dinner is one of the most popular choices for date nights, birthday parties, bachelorette celebrations, corporate events, team-building outings, and holiday gatherings — consistently rated one of the top experiences in Des Moines, IA on TripAdvisor, Google, and Yelp. Our shows are geared toward adults; some mild content, loud noises, and adult humor will be present. Teenagers with adult supervision may be permitted — see our FAQ for age restrictions at this location. No infants or young children may attend.
Award-Winning Live Entertainment, 20+ Years Running
The Dinner Detective has been performing live murder mystery dinner shows since 2004 and now operates in over 100 cities across North America. Our Des Moines, IA location is beloved by locals and visitors alike. Visit our FAQ page for complete show details including showtimes, accessibility info, and rescheduling policies.
Our Location
Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown
101 E Locust St Des Moines, IA 50309
PARKING INFO: City Parking Garage is available across the street for $1 per hour.
Our Menu
What's on the Menu
Bleu Cheese & Walnut Bites served in an Edible Pastry Cup, Caprese Skewer with Balsamic Glaze, Assorted Mini Quiche
Field Green Salad
Choice of Entrée
Chicken
Asiago Encrusted Chicken with Chardonnay Cream Sauce
garnished with Red Onion Confit, served with Roasted Red Potatoes and Green Bean Almandine
Pork
Roast Pork Loin Au Poivre
oven-roasted with a creamy Dijon Mustard and Cracked Black Pepper Sauce, served with Roasted Red Potatoes and Green Bean Almandine
Vegetarian
Eggplant Parmesan
w/ Marinara & Spring Vegetables
NY Style Cheesecake
Iced Tea & Coffee (served upon request)
Some menu offerings may change without notice due to supply chain issues that are beyond our control.
PLEASE NOTE: For each show, ticket sales close at 12:00 PM the day before the show!
*
Prices do not include local taxes & fees or performer gratuity. Taxes & fees will be displayed before checkout, and performer gratuity is optional and always appreciated.
Pricing may change for certain in-demand dates and holidays.
Looking for a unique gift?
Our Des Moines, IA Murder Mystery Gift Certificates make a perfect surprise for birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays.
Shop Gift Certificates →
