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You know that everyone who lights up a room gets murdered, right? But do you also long for answers about the murder of sweet JonBenet Ramsey? Is your idea of a dream come true being chosen for jury duty in a long and arduous trial? Do you love a good Mrs. White-in-the-library-with-the-rope reference?
True crime has become a culture of its own, and while many question its appeal altogether, I would venture to say it has something to do with curiosity and escape. Those of us who love to follow the heartbreaking and gruesome details of unsolved crimes are engaged so intently that it takes us away from our lives and problems. True crime stories remind us that there’s a lot of evil in the world — but also so much good and love (as we see in the victims’ families and the cops, lawyers and investigators who solve their cases).
If you’re a true crime buff like me, you are in for a chilling treat! As it turns out, you can take your love of crime on the road, turning it into a hair-raising vacation. Here are a few of the best true crime-inspired getaways for your travel bucket list:
JFK Assassination Tour
Pack your cowgirl boots and an overnight bag, and head to Dallas, Texas, where you’ll examine all the details of the eerie and fateful day JFK was assassinated. The tour, according to the website, “explores the facts and recounts the incredible coincidences and timing that culminated in the event that shocked the world.” There are three different tour options: walking, bus or self-guided. Each will take you through the motorcade route, have you follow Oswald’s post-assassination footsteps, and, of course, allow you to stop at the Grassy Knoll. All tours end at The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which is located on the sixth floor of the former Texas School Book Depository Building and is the exact location where JFK was assassinated. You can visit the museum for a closer look at artifacts, news footage and historic images of the infamous crime.
CrimeCon
Every year, thousands of crime enthusiasts, criminal experts, podcasters and forensic scientists gather for this weekend-long event, whose “mission is to bring together the true crime community for a weekend filled with education, empathy, understanding, advocacy and lots of fun.” It’s an event that promises to be captivating and entertaining. Past guests include Nancy Grace, Gabby Petito’s family, your favorite Dateline personnel and John Walsh from America’s Most Wanted. Attend a live podcast recording, hear personal stories of courage and triumph from victims, take part in a mock “jury experience” and meet the detectives, sketch artists and legal personnel who live the Law & Order life every day. CrimeCon 2025 takes place in Denver, CO, from September 5-7 at The Gaylord Rockies Resort and Convention Center. Check the website for this year’s official lineup.
Lizzie Borden House
If you’re brave enough for a paranormal thrill, then pack your bags and head to Fall River, MA, and spend the night in the reportedly haunted home of Lizzie Borden, who, in 1892, was accused of violently killing her parents, Andrew and Abby, with multiple blows of an axe. She was later acquitted of all charges, and the murders remain unsolved. According to the website, “the furnishings retain their rightful place, the décor has been painstakingly duplicated, and the original hardware and doors are still intact. Artifacts from the murder are displayed, while memorabilia from the era line shelves and mantel tops. A visitor is literally transported back to that morning when a perfect storm of events culminated in a double murder.” The home now operates as an inn with several available rooms and a museum with different tour options. If you know 20 people as dark and twisted as you are, well then, I have good news! You can book the entire house. Want to show your love and appreciation for your partners in crime? Purchase a Lizzie axe souvenir to be placed on the pillow of your guests upon arrival, because nothing says “sweet dreams” like a mock murder weapon!
Whodunit Cruises: Murder at Sea
What pairs better with murder than being stranded on a floating vessel in the middle of the unpredictable and vast ocean? Whodunit Cruises offers all the perks of normal (crimeless) sailings paired with a mystery (and a victim or two) of its own. But don’t fear, Girlfriends, the website assures guests that it is more comedy than horror! Every guest will receive an assigned role, but you are given full freedom as to how much (or little) you want to get into character. Cruises range from three to seven nights and start at $898 per person. The dress code? Dressed to kill, of course.
Can you handle the excitement of great food, entertainment and beautiful views while solving or reliving a gruesome murder? How about the intensity of a weekend-long event dedicated to the true crime genre? Can you do all this and live to tell? Your summer vacation may hold the answer. Muahahahahaha!
Are you a fan of true crime? What shows do you watch? Let us know in the comments below.
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