There’s a mystery unfolding in the heart of downtown Vancouver — and Tanya Bennett is behind it.
As the owner and operator of Vancouver Mysteries, Tanya has built a one-of-a-kind experience that brings storytelling, puzzle-solving, and city exploration together in unexpected ways.
“I’m a huge fan of Vancouver and mysteries so I guess this is the perfect job for me,” she says. Tanya grew up in Langley, dreaming of life in Vancouver. That dream became real when she moved to the city for university — and she’s called it home ever since. Now based in East Vancouver, Tanya lives with her children, her dog Watson, and a collection of mystery books.
Her business, Vancouver Mysteries, has been adding a touch of suspense and fun to the city since 2014. What started as an idea has grown into a downtown staple, offering five outdoor escape games and two interactive mystery dining experiences. With her business being based out of the Delta Hotels Vancouver Downtown Suites, Tanya is grateful to have found a location for [her] business that is in downtown Vancouver close to the hotels, other attractions, and cruise ship terminals. At Stock and Supply, the restaurant within the hotel, you can play The Legend of Gastown Gold, a 90-minute escape room-style murder mystery game inspired by the true events of Gastown’s history, paired with a cocktail and snacks.
She’s also been collaborating with other well-known local organizations to create custom experiences. From the Vancouver Public Library Central Branch to the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver and soon, the VIFF Centre, these are all original experiences created by Vancouver Mysteries, with Tanya “writing the scripts, direct the shows and creating the puzzles.” She looks forward to “creating many more special events and experiences in the years to come.”
To Tanya, a highlight of running her business is getting to work with “some of the most iconic elements of downtown Vancouver,” whether she’s bringing one of her portable escape games to the Vancouver Lookout, operating a mystery for library visitors or of course, activating a mini murder mystery at Downtown Van’s very own Summer Movie Nights. However, “the greatest highlight of all is the incredible people I get to work with at Vancouver Mysteries,” she shares.
And like many small business owners, Tanya has faced her share of challenges, especially in recent years. She encourages locals to support small businesses when planning outings or team-building events.
Vancouver Mysteries is open 362 days a year—rain or shine. Visit their website for more information or to book your next downtown adventure.
