- Dates
- Nov 21 to Dec 26, 2026, open nightly
- Hours
- 5 to 9 pm Sun to Thu, 5 to 10 pm Fri and Sat
- Cost
- Free to walk in. Onsite parking is $12, or $10 cash
- Walk from Canal Park
- About 15 minutes over the Minnesota Slip bridge
Why walk
On busy nights the line of cars into the Bentleyville lots can back up well before the lights come on. When you walk from Canal Park, you go straight to the entrance. You also don't have to find your car in the dark after.
How to get there
From Canal Park, head toward the harbor side and follow Harbor Drive across the Minnesota Slip bridge. You'll pass the Great Lakes Aquarium and see the 128-foot tree ahead at Bayfront Festival Park. The path inside is about 3/4 mile and takes 30 to 45 minutes to walk through.
Dress for the lake
The wind off Lake Superior is colder than the thermometer says. Wear a hat, mittens and boots, and bring a warm layer for kids in strollers. There are fire pits, free cocoa, cookies and popcorn inside, and Santa is there nightly from Nov 21 to Dec 23, 5 to 9 pm.
After the lights
Walk back to Canal Park for a late dinner, then you're home in a few minutes. No driving, no lot.
Quick questions
How much is parking at Bentleyville?
Onsite parking is $12 per vehicle, or $10 if you pay cash. Entry to Bentleyville is free.
Can you walk to Bentleyville from Canal Park?
Yes. Bayfront Festival Park is next to Canal Park. It's about a 15 minute walk across the Minnesota Slip bridge.
What are Bentleyville's hours in 2026?
Nov 21 to Dec 26, 5 to 9 pm Sunday to Thursday and 5 to 10 pm Friday and Saturday. Check bentleyvilleusa.org for weather closures.
More ideas: Our full Bentleyville guide
