Can you expose the motive and find the killer on this murder mystery date? Solve clues detective-style while savoring Italian courses. Everyone’s a suspect.
The Background
Since 1985, Keith and Margo’s Murder Mystery has produced over 7,000 live and virtual murder mysteries around the globe. Creators Keith O’Leary and Margo Morrison put their skills in television, theatrical production, and film into each story, and it shows.
With awards for directing, writing, and producing, this married couple has led corporate events for almost every Fortune 500 company. Media features include highlights on Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous, mention on all major TV networks, and write-ups by over 35 countries. Come join the club.
The Standout Features
Here’s why this date is killer:
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Partners in Crime: See how well you two collaborate and work within your larger team to problem solve.
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Thrilling Entertainment: As you discover clues, question your fellow diners, and witness murders, you’ll be on the edge of your seat. The excitement and fun puts you in a great place for a deeper connection.
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Dine Divine: Enjoy drinks and a three-course dinner packed with food. Sharing a meal is a wonderful bonding experience, and you can take some home as an added reminder.
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Puzzle Pro: Does your plus one love an intellectual challenge? Do they embrace their nerdy side as they decode riddles? Find out!
The Experience
Date Lead Up - Meeting Our Partners
We arrive at 7 pm, 30 minutes before the event begins. Past the revolving door, we check in at the end of the corridor. The desk woman points us towards a staircase crowned with a chandelier and we ascend the steps.
At the top, we give our names to a new lady. In response, she hands us two free drink tickets and our assigned dining spot. Then we move through a large room with a timeless wooden bar to the main hall. Once there, we introduce ourselves to the others at table 6. They’ll be our team for the evening.
Our six co-detectives are delightful. One group is celebrating a 19th birthday and the other a wedding. We’re fast friends, joking and exchanging pleasant conversation. Soon, the host gives us questions to ask the other attendees. Our fellow diners hold clues, and it’s up to us to find them.
Paper in hand, I cash in a drink ticket before standing in the hors d’oeuvres line. While waiting, I casually ask the couple behind me what brought them to the event. “Was it for revenge?!” I say, smiling. Everyone laughs and I decide no one here’s a murderer. After filling my plate, I return to my table.
Date Main Event - Looking for Suspects
At 7:30 pm, our host gives us the ground rules, and then the games begin. The sheriff leads a handcuffed man. “He had a gun in the kitchen, but I stopped him.” The hitman protests before he’s carried out. Now, the crowd buzzes with excitement.
Suddenly, I’m out of my seat searching for clues. Soon, I discover a blackmail note and relay the juicy intel to my team. After putting the finding on the “clue” table, I notice a suspicious gentleman. I’m not alone in this assessment. After a few of us question him, we catch him in a lie!
My date and I work the room and share our theories over salad. Then, a man screams, clutching a knife wound. After he’s declared dead, I mull over the data, but the killer isn’t clear. In the meantime, they serve the main course. I’m impressed by the options and sheer volume of food. While chewing my Italian with glee, my companion works to crack an anagram.
We’re having a blast, but time is running out. As they bring out a decorated dessert plate, we’re told to make last guesses. Our team, Tequila Mockingbird, does our best. When they’ve determined a winner, the sheriff starts the reveal.
Date Wrap Up - Catching the Killer
As I sip my complimentary decaf coffee, my mind is racing. Who could it be? Then, the host reads off group accusations. In response, a woman stands up, exposing her co-conspirator. My jaw dropped in disbelief. We spoke earlier, and I trusted her! As the true events unfold, I’m beaming with delight.
Once the Sheriff unveils the full plot, we cheer for the cast and hear the awards. Yes, groups win prizes! Afterwards, a waiter hands us to-go boxes and I’m thankful for the fancy salmon and pasta lunch tomorrow. My date and I say warm goodbyes to our table before heading out. As we stroll to the car, I’m glad we went. While he discusses clues we missed, I grab his hand and we disappear into the night together.
The Planning
No need to do all the planning yourself. Here are the highlights, though always double check!
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for... | ✔ First date ✔ A few dates in ✔ Steady couple |
| Seasons | Runs year round |
| Typical Hours | Days and times vary but dinners typically start 6-7pm on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. On occasion, there are afternoon and weekday shows. |
| Duration | 3 hours which includes checking in 30 minutes before the show starts (highly recommended). |
| Cost | Usually $69 with tax but prices may vary by date, occasion (such as New Years Eve), and location. The ticket includes 1-2 alcoholic drinks (wine or beer), teas, coffees, sodas, a 3-course meal, and the show. |
| Booking | Get tickets here. You will likely be redirected to an Eventbrite page. |
| Website | |
| Address | Dinners occur at several locations throughout Maryland (Annapolis, Chevy Chase, National Harbor) and Virginia (Springfield, Tysons Corner, Richmond). Often, events take place at Maggiano's Little Italy restaurants. |
| Transportation | Transportation varies by location. |
| Attire | Wear what's comfortable. No need to dress up. |
| Contact Info | Phone: (877) 528-9020 Email: info@murdermystery.com |
| Special Considerations | Each show lists the dinner menu on the tickets page. If you have dietary restrictions, contact the restaurant in advance. When you call/email, let them know you're participating in a murder mystery dinner on your selected date and that you need an alternative food option. Once you arrive, tell the person who checks your ticket of your restrictions to ensure they know where you're seated. |
The Pre- and Post-Date Options
We love that this event occurs in many local cities, but it means we can’t plan specific post-date ideas for this one. Don’t worry. We still have your back.
Go to our Find Your Next Date page and enter the neighborhood/city of your murder mystery event into the search bar. You may need to enter nearby neighborhoods to find the right hit. When a post comes up, read through the post-date options for inspiration. As we grow our date repository, the results will get better and better!