Denver’s vibrant food scene, combined with its lively entertainment options, makes it a fantastic city for dinner tours. The city’s mix of modern eateries, colorful neighborhoods like RiNo, and unique experiences like murder mystery shows create a variety of ways to enjoy an evening out. Whether you’re a fan of solving crimes while dining or prefer tasting your way through Denver’s best bites, there’s something to fit your style. With excellent reviews and carefully curated experiences, these tours promise memorable nights with plenty of local flavor.
In this guide, we’ll explore the two best dinner tours in Denver — from an interactive murder mystery that keeps you guessing to a walking food tour through RiNo’s colorful streets. Both tours offer engaging ways to experience Denver’s culinary and entertainment scenes, perfect for a fun night out.
1. The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Show – Denver, CO
At number one, the Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Show offers a highly interactive and fun experience that has earned a 4.5/5 rating from 26 reviews. Priced at $88.44 per person, this 3-hour event combines a full dinner with a crime-solving game that unfolds right in front of you. Unlike traditional shows, non-costumed actors hidden among the audience add a layer of surprise, making this a lively, unpredictable evening.
What makes this show stand out is its interactive nature. You and your fellow diners become part of the story—solving clues, interrogating suspects, and even competing for the “Top Sleuth” prize. The setting is contemporary, making it feel like a real-time crime scene. Alcoholic drinks are available from a cash bar, which keeps things relaxed. The show is suitable for adults who enjoy a mix of comedy, mystery, and social interaction. The reviews highlight its hilarity and unique format, with one guest calling it “a hoot” and another praising the “hilarious interrogations.” The experience is perfect for groups looking for something different to spice up their Denver night.
Bottom Line: If you love a lively, engaging, and slightly competitive evening with dinner included, the Dinner Detective provides a memorable and highly entertaining experience that’s great for groups or couples.
2. Dinner Food Tour in RiNo Denver
Next on our list, the Dinner Food Tour in RiNo Denver offers a relaxed, 3-hour exploration of Denver’s creative culinary scene. At $99.00 per person, this walking tour covers about 2 miles and visits four carefully selected spots, showcasing the city’s diverse flavors. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour combines tasting some of Denver’s best dishes with stories about the city’s evolving food and drink scene.
The tour begins at La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal, where you’ll sample traditional pozole and a stewed taco. You’ll then walk to Pit Fiend Barbecue for some tender brisket and perhaps a local beer from Our Mutual Friend Brewery, depending on the day. The final stop, Stem Ciders, offers a chance to enjoy small plates like mushroom and bison poutine, along with tastings of various ciders. Reviewers praise the guide’s friendliness and expertise, with many noting how the tour offers a genuine taste of Denver’s street art and local neighborhoods.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a casual, food-focused experience with a side of Denver’s neighborhood vibe. It’s also a great way to explore RiNo’s colorful murals while indulging in top-notch bites. Keep in mind that some stops are seasonal or day-specific, so check availability.
Bottom Line: For those who enjoy sampling local specialties, learning about Denver’s culinary evolution, and strolling through street art, this food tour offers a delicious and authentic evening out.
How to Choose Your Perfect Denver Dinner Experience
When deciding between these two options, consider your interests and style. If you’re after interactive entertainment combined with dinner, the Dinner Detective is perfect. It’s suited for groups wanting a lively, humorous night with a mystery to solve. On the other hand, if you prefer a relaxed walk through Denver’s neighborhoods with tastings at local spots, then the RiNo Food Tour is a better fit.
Budget-wise, both tours offer good value, considering the meals and entertainment provided. The murder mystery provides a full dinner and interactive fun, making it excellent for a single memorable night. The walking food tour balances tasting multiple dishes with cultural insight, ideal for food lovers wanting a broader experience.
Plan your booking early, especially for the food tour, which might have limited spots on popular days. Also, check the tour days and seasonal availability—some stops are seasonal or day-specific.
Final Thoughts
Denver offers a range of evening experiences, from the hilarious and interactive Murder Mystery Show to the culinary adventure of a walking food tour in RiNo. Both are excellent choices depending on your mood—whether you want to challenge your sleuthing skills or just enjoy sampling local flavors while soaking in street art.
For a fun, energetic night, the Murder Mystery provides an engaging blend of comedy, mystery, and dinner. If you’re more interested in exploring Denver’s diverse food scene at a relaxed pace, then the RiNo Food Tour will satisfy your appetite for both good food and local culture.
No matter your choice, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these popular experiences. Now, all that’s left is to pick your adventure and enjoy a memorable Denver evening.