Cost: $$ ($75 per person as of October 2024)
Description: "Murder on the Delta King" is an interactive murder mystery dinner theater experience aboard the historic Delta King riverboat, docked on the Sacramento River. The event combines live theater, comedy, and audience participation, all set against the backdrop of a 1920s-inspired mystery. The theme right now is “Old Hollywood”, and it’s a blast! The characters have names that have additional meaning to the night and story like Hugh Ego, Donna Badthing, Prissy Peacock, Cherry Bomb, Dr. Sarah Dippity, Oohh La La, and Professor Purple.
Guests are treated to a night of intrigue as actors weave a complex tale of deceit and betrayal, all while engaging with diners in an effort to solve the murder. The intimate setting on the beautifully restored paddlewheel boat enhances the immersion, with period details, vintage décor, and actors in period costumes adding to the overall ambiance.
Deals: "Murder on the Delta King" offers a few opportunities for guests to save on their experience. The Delta King often offers package deals that include a murder mystery show ticket, a multi-course dinner, and, sometimes, a hotel stay aboard the boat itself. For groups, they occasionally offer discounts for larger parties, making it a great option for a special occasion, such as birthdays or corporate events.
Tips & Hacks: To make the most of your evening, you’ll want to arrive early to take in the sights of Old Sacramento and enjoy the ambiance of the Delta King or even a cocktail in their bar. Secure parking nearby can be a bit of a challenge, especially during peak times, so it’s recommended to plan for extra time or opt for ride-sharing services. For the best seating, it’s helpful to book early as seating is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
Another great hack is to brush up on your 1920s lingo and history beforehand; the actors love interacting with guests who get into character. If you're looking for a fun extra touch, some guests even attend in 1920s-themed attire, adding to the immersion and the fun of the evening. You’ll likely share a table with another group and you have to work together to solve the mystery, so if you’re timid, make sure the person you’re dining with is ready to mingle.
Dining: The dining aspect of "Murder on the Delta King" is a central part of the experience. The multi-course meal served during the show is delicious and well-prepared, featuring local ingredients and classic American cuisine with an upscale touch. We LOVED the Ancho Chili Rubbed Flat Iron Steak with mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. Vegetarian and special dietary options are usually available upon request, so it’s important to inform the staff ahead of time if you have any restrictions. The service is timed well with the pacing of the show, and the staff is courteous, keeping the mood light and ensuring that the dinner enhances the overall experience.
Don't Miss: Be sure to spend time exploring the Delta King before or after the show. The riverboat is a restored relic from the 1920s and has a fascinating history, including a stint as a floating hospital during World War II. There’s a small museum on board that showcases the boat's history, which is worth a visit. Also, don’t miss the chance to interact with the actors during the show. They’re skilled at improvisation and make the experience much more engaging and immersive when guests play along.
Skip It: If you’re not a fan of audience participation or immersive theater, "Murder on the Delta King" might not be for you. The show relies heavily on guest interaction, and while it’s not mandatory, it’s a big part of the fun. Finally, if you're not into period themes or mysteries, this particular experience might fall flat for you, so it’s better suited for those who enjoy immersive, themed events.