Discover Unforgettable Journeys
TOURS, TOURS, TOURS!
Western Canada is a beautiful and diverse place to explore as a tourist or as a writer doing research for your next book. When you plan your trip to Bouchercon 2026: Calgary, consider adding a few days before or after the convention to take advantage of our special hotel room rates and one or more of the fantastic tours, activities and experiences our team has curated for you!
Pre and Post Tour Options
Anderson Vacations has prepared several tour and excursion itineraries just for Bouchercon attendees, family and friends. You will explore Calgary and surrounding area with fellow mystery lovers on these professionally-directed tours. Anderson Vacations will manage all reservations, payments, and tour logistics. Click here to view these exclusive tours – and check back frequently for new additions!
Banff & Lake Louise in the Rockies
From USD $208 / Person
Two Day Drumheller and the Hoodos
From USD $595 / Person
Souther Alberta Two Day Indigenous Tour
From USD $891 / Person
Southern Alberta & Waterton Day Tour
From USD $206 / Person
Local Tour Options
Vertigo Mystery Theatre
Join us at Vertigo Theatre, Canada’s preeminent professional Theatre for Mystery and Intrigue, for our 50th Anniversary Bouchercon exclusive experience. Witness the performance of a World Premiere mystery/thriller play, co-written by one of Canada’s most celebrated mystery/horror novelists and one of Canada’s most lauded playwrights. For now, any further details… will remain a ‘mystery’!
Vertigo Theatre is located at the base of the Calgary Tower, directly across from the Calgary Convention Centre. Celebrating our 50th Anniversary Season we invite you to this exclusive performance being offered to Bouchercon attendees. Tickets will be available in the Spring of 2026. More details to follow.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026 – 7:30pm
https://www.vertigotheatre.com/
Vertigo Mystery Theatre
Join us at Vertigo Theatre, Canada’s preeminent professional Theatre for Mystery and Intrigue, for our 50th Anniversary Bouchercon exclusive experience. Witness the performance of a World Premiere mystery/thriller play, co-written by one of Canada’s most celebrated mystery/horror novelists and one of Canada’s most lauded playwrights. For now, any further details… will remain a ‘mystery’!
Vertigo Theatre is located at the base of the Calgary Tower, directly across from the Calgary Convention Centre. Celebrating our 50th Anniversary Season we invite you to this exclusive performance being offered to Bouchercon attendees. Tickets will be available in the Spring of 2026. More details to follow.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026 – 7:30pm
https://www.vertigotheatre.com/
Historical Literary Walking Tour of Downtown Calgary
The Story of Calgary through Writers’ Eyes
Discover Calgary’s history and its literary connections on this 90-minute guided walking tour. Join local author and historian Shaun Hunter and find out how the city has inspired writers of prose, poetry and mystery fiction, and the ways they have captured the city’s storied past on the page. This outdoor walking tour explores the blocks around Stephen Avenue, Calgary’s historic main street and steps from the conference venue. The tour will run whatever the weather so come prepared with appropriate outerwear.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026, 9:30 am – 11:00 am
Registration link will be added March 2026
Your guide, Shaun Hunter, is the author of Calgary through the Eyes of Writers (2018) You can find her at www.shaunhunter.ca
Free Calgary Public Library Tours
Several of these free tours will be offered exclusively to Bouchercon attendees, friends and family. Check back for registration beginning Spring 2026.
Calgary Public Library Architectural Tours
Learn about the stories, history, and architectural features of Calgary’s award-winning Central Library, located a block away from the convention centre. These free, 60-minute tours are led by a volunteer guide.
Click here to explore the Central Library: https://www.calgarylibrary.ca/read-learn-and-explore/central-library
Calgary Public Library Indigenous Placemaking Tours
Learn about the original caretakers of the land you are visiting. Central Library is home to 7 Indigenous Placemaking installations, which tell the stories of the artist’s connection to the land, and showcase meaningful collaboration with artists across Treaty 7.
Learn more at: https://www.calgarylibrary.ca/connect/indigenous-services/indigenous-placemaking
Free Calgary Public Library Tours
Several of these free tours will be offered exclusively to Bouchercon attendees, friends and family. Check back for registration beginning Spring 2026.
Calgary Public Library Architectural Tours
Learn about the stories, history, and architectural features of Calgary’s award-winning Central Library, located a block away from the convention centre. These free, 60-minute tours are led by a volunteer guide.
Click here to explore the Central Library: https://www.calgarylibrary.ca/read-learn-and-explore/central-library
Calgary Public Library Indigenous Placemaking Tours
Learn about the original caretakers of the land you are visiting. Central Library is home to 7 Indigenous Placemaking installations, which tell the stories of the artist’s connection to the land, and showcase meaningful collaboration with artists across Treaty 7.
Learn more at: https://www.calgarylibrary.ca/connect/indigenous-services/indigenous-placemaking
Discover Calgary, the Blue Sky City!
Visit www.visitcalgary.com/Bouchercon2026 for more information on world-class culinary experiences, shopping, attractions, tours, and other trip planning inspiration. Connect via the LiveChat option when you visit the website and receive advice from a Local Expert to help you plan your visit. Make sure you sign up for the Explore More Pass, available in February 2026, to access discounts and special offers so you can explore Calgary your own way.
Tour FAQs
Find answers to common questions about our tours, including details on pricing, transportation, and what to expect during your journey.
How do I register for the tours?
We will add registration links as they become available. These links will take you directly to the tour/ticket provider, who will handle registration, payment, and cancellation, if required. The tours and excursions offered by Anderson Vacations will be available early, so you can plan your travel and book your hotel.
Will the tours sell out?
It is possible that tours will sell out. If possible, additional dates may be added. Tours that do not fill adequately may be cancelled, so be sure to reserve your seat as soon as possible, if you are interested in a tour or activity.
Is travel insurance required?
It is advisable to purchase travel insurance for the bigger trips. More information is provided on the Anderson Vacations website.
Why are some of the prices in American dollars?
Each tour provider should clearly state the currency you will be charged for your ticket or registration, according to their company policy.
What is an exclusive tour?
‘Exclusive’ tours or activities are available only for Bouchercon attendees, plus friends and family who may be travelling with them. These tours are not open to the general public.
What should I bring or wear?
Comfortable footwear, outerwear, and a camera are strongly recommended for all tours. More detailed information will be provided when you register.