Join a stylish outdoor whodunnit in Lebanon, Ohio, for an evening full of mystery, clues, and an elegant dinner. Can you solve the Best Laid Plans?
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical activity required; suitable for most fitness levels including seniors.
Wildlife
History
Lebanon, Ohio, is known for its rich railroad heritage, which provides an authentic backdrop for this murder mystery experience.
Conservation
The venue actively supports local sustainability by partnering with local caterers and promoting waste reduction during events.
Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad
Join a stylish outdoor whodunnit in Lebanon, Ohio, for an evening full of mystery, clues, and an elegant dinner. Can you solve the Best Laid Plans?
Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad operates scenic and themed train experiences out of historic downtown Lebanon, Ohio. The LM&M Railroad preserves vintage railroad cars and offers a schedule of short and extended excursions that highlight regional scenery and community events.
Popular offerings include the Pizza & Beer Train in partnership with Catch a Fire Pizza, seasonal family rides like the Easter Bunny Express, themed evenings such as Murder Mystery performances, and specialty tastings including the Sweetest Day Wine & Cheese Train. The railroad runs a variety of event types: one-hour social rides, themed dinner and mystery events with Watkins Catering, a four-hour Rare Mileage Excursion to Mason and back, and summer Steam Train weekends that showcase an operational steam locomotive.
Family-oriented options feature the Ice Cream Social with local Brant’s Ice Cream and outdoor activities, while adult-focused events include wine and beer pairings and Bingo For Purses. Trivia On The Tracks provides a game-night format for groups and teams. Tickets and schedules are posted for each specific trip; concessions and onboard amenities vary by service and are noted in individual trip descriptions.
The LM&M Railroad emphasizes safe, enjoyable public events on restored railroad equipment and partners with local food and beverage vendors to enhance the guest experience. Visitors seeking scenic rides, community entertainment, or unique private rentals will find clear trip descriptions and event details to plan their visit. Advance reservations are recommended for popular themed events and limited-seat excursions to ensure availability and plan arrival time accordingly well in advance.
Home Base
Lebanon, OH
Historic downtown departure point
Ride Lengths
1–4 hours
Short and extended scenic trips
Events
Themed & family
Mystery nights to holiday rides
Experiences
10 unique trips
Dining, mystery, seasonal events
Select a themed ride, view schedules, and check ticket availability for Pizza & Beer, Murder Mystery nights, family excursions, and seasonal Steam Train weekends.
Dress to Impress
Wear your finest vintage or elegant attire to match the event’s old Hollywood theme and fully immerse in the mystery.
Arrive on Time
Plan to arrive early to enjoy the full experience, including introductions, clue gathering, and the dinner.
Stay Engaged
Interact with characters actively to collect clues and enhance your chances of solving the mystery.
Dietary Needs
Notify Watkins Catering ahead of time about any dietary restrictions to ensure a delicious meal for everyone.
Elegant Attire
Dressing up enhances immersion and fits the event's sophisticated theme.
Light Jacket or Shawl
Keeps you comfortable during cooler evening temperatures outdoors.
spring|fall|winter
Insect Repellent
Protects against evening bugs during warmer months.
summer
Notebook and Pen
Helpful for jotting down clues and observations during the mystery.