If you’re looking for a unique way to spend a couple of hours in Hagerstown, Maryland, this Murder Mystery Detective Experience offers a playful, interactive twist on sightseeing. Designed for individuals, couples, or groups of mystery fans, this audio-based adventure invites you to step into the shoes of a detective and solve a case across the city’s streets and outskirts. While it won’t replace a traditional tour, it provides a fascinating blend of storytelling, outdoor activity, and problem-solving that’s perfect for those who enjoy a little mystery with their sightseeing.
What we love about this experience is how flexible it is—offering both walking and driving options—and how engaging the story feels thanks to professional voice acting and a built-in scoring system that makes it feel like a real detective game. Still, it’s worth noting that the experience may be less suited for younger children or those sensitive to mature themes, as adult content is included.
This adventure is best suited for travelers who enjoy interactive experiences, want an affordable activity, and appreciate a good mystery. If you’re looking for a way to explore Hagerstown in a different light—without the crowds or typical tourist spots—this could be just the ticket.
Key Points
- Flexible format: Choose between walking or driving to suit your mood and weather.
- Engaging storytelling: 16 professional voice actors bring the characters to life.
- Time-efficient: Around 2.5 hours, with flexibility to pause and take breaks.
- Age consideration: Contains adult themes, so might not suit children.
- Budget-friendly: At $14.99 per person, it offers a fun, interactive experience without breaking the bank.
- Scored gameplay: Includes a built-in scoring system to add a competitive edge or just measure your detective skills.
If you’re fond of mysteries or just want a different way to explore Hagerstown, this audio-based detective game is worth considering. It’s not a traditional tour but a self-guided, story-driven adventure that combines outdoor walking or driving with clues and character interactions.
The Setup and Booking
Booking is straightforward and flexible; you’ll receive email and text confirmation along with instructions on how to start. The fact that you can choose any time after booking (since it’s available 24/7) makes this ideal for fitting into your schedule. The price of $14.99 per person is quite reasonable, especially considering the level of engagement and the professional voice acting involved. Remember, the number of tickets corresponds to the number of devices you’ll use, making it easy for groups to participate on separate devices or together on a single device.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Frederick.
Starting Point and Route
Your journey begins at 305 W Antietam St, Hagerstown, with the activity culminating back at the same spot. You have two route options: a downtown walking map or a driving map for exploring the outskirts of the city. The walking option allows you to enjoy Hagerstown’s storefronts, parks, and historic touches at a leisurely pace, while the driving route might suit those who prefer staying warm or have mobility issues.
The walking route takes you through 10 carefully mapped locations—each one a piece of the puzzle—while the driving option covers the outskirts, ideal for those who want to cover more ground quickly or prefer to listen from the comfort of their vehicle.
The Experience Itself
Once underway, you’ll put on headphones (or earbuds if you prefer) and listen to a professional cast bring the story to life. The narrative features 16 unique characters with adult themes, including profanity and mature references, so it’s not suited for children. The storyline is designed to be immersive, with clues scattered across each location that you’ll need to gather and analyze.
The game offers Normal Mode for a more relaxed experience and Hard Mode for those who want a more challenging detective test. This flexibility is great whether you’re playing solo, as a duo, or in a competitive group—there’s even a scoring system to evaluate your detective abilities.
What Makes It Special?
We loved the way this experience encourages outdoor activity while being entirely story-driven. The voice acting adds authenticity, making the characters more believable than a typical audio guide. The ability to pause and take breaks makes it accessible for all fitness levels and busy schedules. Plus, the built-in GPS with turn-by-turn directions ensures you won’t get lost, and the live map makes navigation simple.
Another highlight is the scoring system, which adds a layer of fun—whether you’re trying to beat your friends or just see how sharp your deduction skills are. The story itself is crafted to be engaging, with hints, clues, and red herrings designed to challenge even seasoned mystery fans.
Value for Money
At just under $15 a ticket, this experience offers good value, especially when considering the professional voice-overs, interactive gameplay, and flexible timing. It’s a budget-friendly way to add a memorable, immersive activity to your trip. However, remember that you’ll need to bring your own headphones or earbuds and ensure your device is charged—these are not included.
What Travelers Say
Although there are no formal reviews yet, the detailed description hints at an engaging and well-structured experience. The emphasis on professional voice actors, multiple modes, and scoring suggests an immersive game that’s both fun and challenging. Its flexible nature and the fact that it’s available all day long make it adaptable to various schedules.
Potential Drawbacks
The adult themes and language might not be suitable for all travelers or families with young children. Also, since the experience requires a charged smartphone and headphones, it’s not as self-contained as a guided tour—be prepared to bring your gear. And for those who prefer a more traditional sightseeing experience, this game could feel a bit “gamey” rather than educational.
This murder mystery is ideal for mystery lovers, group adventurers, or solo travelers who appreciate a mix of outdoor exploration and storytelling. It’s especially suited for those on a budget who want a unique, interactive activity that breaks away from typical tours. It would appeal to people comfortable with adult content and those comfortable using their smartphone for guided storytelling.
If you’re looking for a relaxing walk with a dose of intrigue or a fun challenge to test your deduction skills, this experience will definitely entertain. However, if you prefer historical facts or guided commentary, a traditional walking tour or museum visit might be more your style.
Is this activity suitable for children?
Not entirely. The storyline contains adult themes, profanity, and mature references, so it’s better suited for teens and adults.
How long does the experience last?
Approximately 2.5 hours, but you can pause or take breaks as needed, providing flexibility.
Can I do this activity alone or do I need a group?
You can do it solo, as a duo, or with a group. The number of tickets corresponds to the devices you plan to use, and the experience supports both team play and competition.
What should I bring?
A charged smartphone, headphones or earbuds, and a sense of adventure. The activity does not include those items.
Is it available any time?
Yes, once booked, you can start anytime during their open hours, which are 12:00 AM to 11:30 PM daily.
Where does the activity start and end?
At 305 W Antietam St, Hagerstown, MD. It ends back at the same location.
Is transportation provided?
No, you’ll need your own transportation if choosing the driving option. For walking, just bring comfortable shoes.
What if I need help during the game?
Customer service help is available, so if you run into issues, support is just a message or call away.
This Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Hagerstown offers an inventive way to see the city while solving a crime. It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking a lighthearted, interactive adventure without the expense or commitment of a guided tour. Whether you’re a mystery enthusiast or just looking for something different, this activity promises a fun, memorable time.