Lacombe: People, Pride, Progress

Lacombe may be a quick 30-minute drive from Red Deer’s city centre – but Lacombe is truly a city in its own right. As Alberta’s newest city, Lacombe boasts a population of almost 12,000 people and a wide array of amenities, giving you the luxury of choosing between traveling to Red Deer and staying close to home. People are drawn to this charming, vibrant community, and it’s easy to see why. Read on to find out why you might like to call Lacombe home too.

Tourist Attractions

First settled over a hundred years ago, Lacombe is alive with history, and nowhere is that more evident than in its museums. Located in the Flatiron Building – downtown Lacombe’s most prominent building – the Lacombe Interpretive Centre features displays of local artifacts and photos, as well as a film that chronicles the city’s history. Just down the block is the Michener House Museum. Once the birthplace of former Governor General Roland Michener, this heritage home now sets the stage for costumed interpreters. Lacombe’s Blacksmith Shop Museum – one of only two turn-of-the-century blacksmith shops still standing in Alberta – is another must-see tourist attraction in Lacombe that adds to the exciting heritage of this growing community.

Of course, for those looking to spend some time outdoors, the Lacombe Corn Maze, Aspen Beach Provincial Park, and the Ellis Bird Farm and Tea Room are all a short drive from Lacombe.

Recreation

There’s certainly plenty of things to see in Lacombe, but there’s also plenty of things to do. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the many parks and trails – and the year-round recreational opportunities they offer – located throughout the city. A fitness centre at the College (complete with racquetball courts and gymnasium), an arena, an aquatic centre, and a yoga studio offer ways to stay active indoors. Or, if you’re looking for other ways to pass the time, Lacombe has a two-screen theatre and a bowling centre located right downtown. New to the area is the Alberta Downs Horse Racing and Entertainment Centre, an expansive race track open throughout summer and fall.    

Lacombe has many advantages due to its ideal location. Within 10 minutes of Gull Lake and Aspen Beach Provincial Park, 20 minutes from Alix Lake and 1 hour from Rocky Mountain House in close proximity to Alberta's Rocky Mountains. Recreation is never far making it the perfect home base for you.

Shopping

Lacombe’s downtown offers an eclectic mix of boutique shops and eateries housed in beautifully restored heritage buildings. One of Central Alberta’s best-kept secrets, downtown Lacombe has the same funky vibe as that of Whyte Avenue in Edmonton, but without the crowds. And every summer, area farmers and craftspeople share their bounty and wares at the Lacombe Farmers’ Market, conveniently located just off the Queen Elizabeth II highway at Michener Park.

Schools

There are educational opportunities for people of all ages in Lacombe. Home to a grades kindergarten to 12 public school system and a grades kindergarten to junior high Catholic school system, Lacombe also offers alternative and private schools and some French immersion programs. For adult learners, Canadian University College offers a number of Degree programs at a scenic campus right in Lacombe.  

Work

Lacombe is nestled in the heart of rich farmland, so it’s no wonder that the city’s largest employer – Agriculture Financial Services Corporation – is a provincial Crown corporation that provides Alberta agricultural producers with risk management products and financial services. The Lacombe Research Centre, a Federal institute that conducts both livestock and crop research, is another significant employer in the area. With a growing manufacturing and industrial industry, Lacombe provides many exciting career opportunities, both within the city and in neighbouring communities.  

Worship

Those looking for a place to worship will find many options in Lacombe. With over a dozen different churches of several different denominations, including Catholic, Baptist, and United, Lacombe quite likely has a place of worship that will welcome you.

The City of Lacombe: