For families looking to be part of something smaller, yet so much larger, the Town of Bentley promises a kaleidoscopic life of colourful moments worth basking in – be it on the sunbaked sandy shores of Gull Lake or the slopes and trails of the sacred Medicine Hills, in the unique shops along main street, or among the tasty treats and farm fresh finds of the regionally renowned Bentley Farmers Market. A twist of the kaleidoscope reveals no angles – just the most affordable housing and cost of living options within the Highway 2 Corridor.. giving rise to all ages ownership, growing families , and cultural diversity. Be free to just be; supported by safe streets, warm and welcoming smiles and a school system that truly cares to get to know its students.
In 1899, Major Wm. B. McPherson, a veteran of the American Civil War and his sons filed on land in Township 40, the present site of the Town of Bentley. The centre point of the four quarters is 50th Avenue and 50th Street and is a continuation of Highway 12 as it passes west through the Town. Major McPherson built the first store in Bentley in the early 1900’s. With this start, the community began to grow.
1916 saw a disastrous fire that destroyed all buildings on the south side of the community. The centre roadway was made 36 meters wide and new buildings could not be constructed inside that area. In 1930, a centre boulevard was constructed for fire protection and street lights installed. This wide main street has been and continues to be the pride of Bentley.
LANDMARKS | POINTS OF INTEREST
- Main Street Bentley – “Jewel of the Blindman Valley “Take a walk down Bentley’s thriving Mainstreet to shop, eat, and explore the town’s abundant hidden gems.
- Bentley Museum – See photographs and histories of all the area schools. Stroll through “Pico House”, a 1924 farmhouse, and visit the displays in the Agricultural Building. Relive more of Bentley’s history on a historical, downtown walking tour.
- Bentley Mural on the wall of Merry’s Mercantile. Created by artist Lauren Cowles, this mural that represents the natural beauty around Bentley. Be sure to take a picture with the butterfly wings!
ACTIVITIES | EVENTS
- Sandy Point Fishing – Campground & Beach
- Aspen Beach Provincial Park offers year-round recreation on the south shores of Gull Lake.
- Bentley Fair & Rodeo Days
- Bentley Farmers Market
- Bentley Christmas with Santa
FOOD & DINING
- The Drop Coffee & Tea Shop – brewed coffee, teas, espresso drinks and fresh baking. As well as Gelato and Sorbet.
- Piccolo Pizza – Great pizza, and classic diner fare in a cozy restaurant with a cute little patio for soaking up the sunshine.
CAMPGROUNDS | HOTELS
- Bentley Municipal Campground – Located at 5102 – 51 Street, is just five minutes from Gull Lake, and fifteen minutes from Sylvan Lake. The campground features a washroom/shower facility and a children’s play area. A dumping station and water tap are also available. Fire pits are provided, although campers must provide their own firewood. Camping fees are $25.00 per night (one unit per stall).
- Bentley’s Hotel – Free WIFI, pool, and dining. Right on Bentley’s Main Street.
4918-50th Avenue, Bentley, AB, Canada, T0C 0J0
(403) 748-4044
Email
Website
