len thompson lacombe tours

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

11 of the Best Things To Do in Lacombe County (for 2024)

Disclaimer: this page may contain affiliate links. please review our full terms and conditions for more information and our privacy policy. note that any pricing, operating hours, or other such information provided below may have changed since initial publication..

Words and Photos by Chelsey and Kurtis Hawkins

Last Updated on January 5, 2024

How often do you really get to see your hometown as a tourist? I was born and raised in Lacombe but moved away over a decade ago. Since then, my time spent there has been to visit family during holidays. However, recently my husband and I had the chance to visit the area through the lens of a tourist and compile a list of what we believe to be the best things to do in Lacombe County.

The community has evolved so much in the last decade that it truly did feel like a new experience.

About Lacombe County

Lacombe County is located in central Alberta, almost exactly smack dab between Edmonton and Calgary. Within the area are more than 5 different communities, the largest of which is the city of Lacombe. The area has scenic lakes, nature preserves, charming communities, exciting businesses, and even a world-record-breaking attraction.

The area stretches west past Eckville and as far east as Mirror. It also borders three of the largest (and arguably best) lakes in Central Alberta. Gull Lake, Sylvan Lake , and Buffalo Lake are great for boating, fishing, or even for a beach day.

To explore the area, we recommend using the city of Lacombe as a hub and making day trips to surrounding communities from there. You will have no problem finding dining options in the surrounding communities. However, Lacombe offers the best options for accommodations.

Best Things To Do in Lacombe County

Explore downtown lacombe.

Lacombe’s historic downtown is one of the most charming small city centers in the province. There are coffee shops, retail stores, restaurants, museums, and parks all located within a few small blocks of each other.

The community has done a great job of ensuring that historical architecture is preserved, making it so incredibly picturesque. The streets are walkable and local businesses and attractions are abundant. We even stumbled upon a blacksmith museum where students were hard at work.

Lacombe has also given itself the title Mural Capital of Alberta and rightly so – there is an abundance of them! These murals are meant to give you a glimpse of what the street and communities may have looked like during different decades. Take a self-guided tour through the murals to acquaint yourself with them.

Visit the World’s Largest Fishing Lure 

Proudly manufactured in Lacombe since 1929 are Len Thompson fishing lures –  so this is the perfect spot to plant the world’s largest fishing lure as recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records. It is pretty new – having only been completed in 2019 – and beat out the previous record-holder by almost 25 feet! The lure is located next to a stocked trout pond, and the pond is catch-and-release only, providing anglers with access to great recreational fishing within the city limits.

Location: From Hwy 2A head East on Wolf Creek Drive, and turn North (left turn) onto Len Thompson Drive. The Len Thompson Trout Pond (and the World’s Largest Lure) is located at the end of the road. Public parking is available.

Sample Craft Beer at Blindman Brewing

Alberta is booming with craft breweries but Blindman Brewing really stands out from the pack. Blindman’s distribution has expanded across the province which has made them a household name. They are continually developing new products and seem to have something for everyone, from beer aficionados to brew-newbies (brewbies?) We had a quick tour of their production and it was impressive to see how they have expanded over the years.

The atmosphere in the taproom and patio was exceptional – they have created a huge patio complete with canopies, heaters, and most importantly, cornhole! They also often feature food from local restaurants. Blindman has their hometown pride on display with the 5 of Diamonds Beer – this is a must-try! Named after the signature Len Thompson 5 of Diamond fishing lure manufactured in Lacombe.

Location: In the Lacombe Industrial Area at Bay F, 3413 53 Ave.

Go Fishing on Gull Lake

One of our favourite features of this province is all the pretty lakes in Alberta – and what better way to experience them than with some fishing? Adventure Ice Fishing took us out for an afternoon excursion on their 20-foot pontoon boat. This fishing trip felt pretty luxurious – it was as simple as showing up, strolling onto the boat, and trying to catch some fish.

Using a charter like this is great for both experienced anglers and beginners. It allows you to make the most of your time on the water with the least amount of work. If you are a beginner, there is someone there to show you the ropes and help where needed.

Maybe fishing isn’t your thing but you still want to get into the water – book a sunset cruise! 

Camping is also popular here – check out our guide to Gull Lake campgrounds to ensure a great stay.

Visiting in winter? No problem! This is actually Adventure Ice Fishing’s top offering: available for rent are ice fishing cabins. They are built for overnight expeditions and have everything you need for a comfortable stay and successful fishing trip, including rods, bait, BBQ, heaters, and so much more.

Location: From Hwy 2 head west on Hwy 12 for 16.5 km, and turn right on RRD 10. Go straight for 1km to the next stop sign, then straight down to the lake to find the cabins near the shore.

Make a Stop at Gull Lake Honey

Honey is a product that we commonly use but how often do you have an opportunity to have a glimpse of what it takes to make it onto your table? The Gull Lake Honey Company blends the values and culture of a small family farm with full-scale commercial honey production. It was fascinating to learn the science behind bees and get up close and personal with some hives. The Prins family was welcoming, and happy to answer all of our questions, and we could really tell they love what they do.

Onsite is also a cute shop where they sell honey and related products like beeswax candles. They also sell products from other artisans in the area, but most spectacularly, there is a honey tap where you can fill your container with a seemingly endless flow of honey. As a bonus, this family farm also has Bison and a small petting zoo. During our visit there we were able to pet some goats and even a baby bison!

Location: 41113, Range Rd 282, Lacombe.

Don’t Miss the Monkey Top 

Monkey Top Saloon has been a staple in central Alberta for decades. It is a favourite destination for bikers in the summer, and in the winter, snowmobilers pop in when they are done on trails around Gull Lake.

The Monkey Top is known for its Caesars, garnished with every accoutrement you can think of! Don’t worry, Monkey Top Saloon is family-friendly until 8 pm so no one has to miss out. They have also established themselves as a live music destination. If you really want to experience the atmosphere of Monkey Top and see why people flock to this spot come on a night when there is live music.

Location: 5002 50 Ave, Bentley.

Have a Meal at Cilantro and Chive

Since its opening Cilantro and Chive has been making waves, offering quality food and a menu that you would expect from culinary destinations in larger centers. This family-owned and operated restaurant has strong community values, but most importantly, the food is exceptional.

We found the menu creative and everything we had was delicious! Be sure to try their “burger of the month” – these burgers are created by local guest chefs and feature seasonal ingredients sourced from local vendors. Also, don’t miss their signature Caesar flight or a “Caesar that eats like a meal” – you won’t be disappointed.

Location: 5021 50 St, Lacombe.

Visit the JJ Collette Nature Center 

Just north of Lacombe is a vast 635 acres of nature preserve. There are 18 km of groomed walking trails making this a great place to experience the true landscape of the area. We went for a sunset walk through the preserve; Alberta sunsets are famous and this was a great spot to take one in. During our walk, we saw a beaver dam and hundreds of varieties of plants, and others on the trail showed us photos of a moose that was in the area. 

Their website has a fun checklist of all of the animals, plants, butterflies, and other natural beauties that are common to the area.

Location: R.R.4, Site 5, Lacombe.

Eat at Tollers Bistro  

Having opened in 2018, Tollers Bistro is pretty new to the Lacombe food scene but they certainly aren’t rookies! In just a few years’ time, they have already become famous for their sandwiches and donuts. Their focus is to offer local and seasonal food, featuring the best of what is currently on offer in the area.

We also had Sunday brunch while we were there and sincerely enjoyed it- breakfast poutine , need I say more!  The atmosphere was calm and relaxing, exactly what you would expect from an upscale bistro. Their donuts are worth mentioning one more time. They are some of the best we have ever had, with a great selection available and creative flavours!

Location: 2-4801 63 St Bay 2, Lacombe.

U-Pick at Billyco Junction Gardens

The farm at Billyco Junction Gardens is beautiful, scenic, and immaculately maintained. There were fruits and berries that we had never even heard of before, plus every variety of the ones we had heard of. I didn’t even know there were that many different kinds of raspberries!

This is a great opportunity to delight in homegrown fruits and vegetables because nothing beats the taste of berries straight from the garden. Located on the farm is also a charming bed and breakfast. Visiting Billyco Junction makes for easy exploration of the natural beauty of the region and would be a peaceful option for someone looking to experience a little taste of country living. It’s one of the more popular things to do in Lacombe County.

Location: 40110 RR260, Lacombe.

Take a Swing at Haunted Lake Golf Course

This golf course is very scenic and great for beginners and experienced golfers alike. It’s located right up against a lake and has lots of stunning rolling hills. Its laid-back environment made it less intimidating for the beginners in our group.

They also have a lakeside campground to pull in your trailer for a weekend of golf, great views, and a quiet weekend getaway.

Location: Hwy 601, Alix.

Bonus: Check out Alix Lake. On our way to the golf course, we decided to drive through the village of Alix. It is another great example of the beautiful lakes in Central Alberta and things to do in Lacombe County. This lake has hosted large water skiing/wakeboarding competitions and has a great beach!

This blog post was produced by us and sponsored by Lacombe Regional Tourism .

Dalene Heck is a co-founder of Road Trip Alberta. She was born in Edmonton, grew up in the Peace Country, and has ventured to almost every corner of Alberta and the world (she’s travelled to 60 countries)! She is a serial blogger, the CEO of HMI Marketing , co-creator of the Trip Chaser card game, a leukemia-slayer, and cat whisperer.

Related Posts

Sharing is caring!

Before Footer

We're here to help you plan your Alberta vacation with real, local advice!

• Destination Guides
• Route Guides
• Driving Advisories
• Alberta Driving Guide
• Alberta Weather
• Alberta itineraries

Play Alberta Road Trip Bingo!

We've created FOUR Alberta specific bingo games to make your road trip even MORE fun. Included are some insider tips on what to see and eat in the province!

*Which you will definitely feel if you miss out on our awesome local advice!

Our guides and itineraries will save you time, money, and heartache*.

19+ Fun Things to Do in Lacombe: Your Guide to Central Alberta’s Most Happening Little City

Rolling countryside meets prairie in the small city of Lacombe, Alberta, about 90 minutes drive north of Calgary.

Often cited as one of the best places to live in the province, Lacombe is up and coming on the travel scene as well.

Always curious to explore lesser known places, we recently visited in both winter and spring to see what Lacombe had to offer for ourselves.

And the answer? Well, for such a relatively compact place, Lacombe has quite a lot going on to say the least! This is especially true if you like nature, good food and history (like us).

In this post, I’ll be sharing the best tried and tested things to do in Lacombe. Because I know you’ll want to plan a trip after reading this guide, I’ve also included some restaurant and accommodation recommendations as well.

Here’s an overview:

• Walk the urban trails
• Go hiking – three trail suggestions

Visit Gull Lake

Discover ellis bird farm.

• Visit the world’s largest fishing lure

Browse the local markets

Step back in time at michener house.

• Visit Alberta’s oldest operating blacksmith

Explore Lacombe’s historical downtown

Enjoy a self guided mural tour, taste local craft beers at blindman brewing, savour artisan ice cream at oodles of chocolates, dine at cilantro and chive, enjoy free music in the park, attend one of many local events.

• Even more things to do in Lacombe
• Where to stay
• Where to eat

We visited Lacombe in March and June 2022, in partnership with Lacombe Regional Tourism.

Introducing Lacombe, Alberta

The City of Lacombe is located on Treaty 6 territory, the traditional home and meeting ground for many Indigenous peoples, including the Blackfoot, Dene, Cree, and Métis.

Settlers of European origin arrived in the late 19th century, with the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) providing accessibility not long after.

The president of the CPR named the fledging community after Albert Lacombe, a French-Canadian Roman Catholic missionary who travelled with (and evangelized) the Cree and Blackfoot.

With the city being located in one of Central Alberta’s most fertile valleys, farming has been a mainstay of the local economy since the beginning.

In the early 20th century, the federal government even established an experimental farm in Lacombe to research livestock and grain production.

Today, Lacombe has a growing population of just over 13k people. Agricultural research and farming continues today, even as the local economy has developed and diversified.

How to get to Lacombe

To get you orientated quickly, Lacombe sits roughly half way between Calgary and Edmonton, around 90 minutes drive from each city.

Positioned just off Highway 2, this small city is a convenient destination for a short stay or even just an afternoon of exploration.

Visiting this area on a road trip? Consider continuing on to Stettler , via Alix.

The best things to do in Lacombe

We were truly blown away by the amount of fun things to do in Lacombe. Central Alberta isn’t known as being a tourist mecca but this area really does have a lot to offer.

So whether you’re visiting family/friends or just looking for somewhere new to explore, here are our top picks for the best things to do in Lacombe.

As a side note, the majority of these ideas are completely free, so a trip to Lacombe can be very cost effective as well as being super fun!

Walk Lacombe’s urban trails

Lacombe’s wide open landscape offers plenty of room for outdoor recreation, with a large network of trails situated right in the urban town area.

For trailhead details and parking locations, download a trail map on the City of Lacombe website . The Bill Neilsen Trail Society cleans and maintains these trails, please consider making a donation if you are able to.

Cranna Lake

A well maintained 1.8km path loops around the shore of Cranna Lake. Completely paved and almost entirely flat, this trail is a great choice for all ages and abilities.

Cranna Lake is an ideal place for a short run. Travel the loop clockwise to run down to one short, steep slope at the southwest corner of the lake.

There are six outdoor fitness stations along the route as well, if you want to mix cardio with strength training.

Despite being just a stone’s throw from downtown Lacombe, the lake is a haven for birds, especially in late spring.

Elizabeth Lake

Elizabeth Lake is another ideal place to go walking close to downtown Lacombe.

An established trail follows the shoreline around most of the lake, with a higher path running parallel on the eastern side. There is interpretive signage along the lake as well as exercise equipment.

Visiting the lookout on the eastern side of the lake is a must. It offers wonderful views across the lake, showcasing the big skies above.

For a longer walk, consider continuing on the connector trails to Barnett Lake (below) or Cranna Lake (above).

Barnett Lake

Barnet Lake sits just west of Elizabeth Lake. A shaded nature trail runs along two thirds of the shoreline, primarily on the eastern edge of the lake. It provides access to a number of small beaches, with views across the lake.

Casey’s Cabin is located at the southern end of the trail, a rentable facility popular for birthday parties and reunions.

Of the two, we preferred Elizabeth Lake over Barnett Lake. Elizabeth Lake has more housing nearby but Barnett Lake is located close to Highway 2 and some of the sound travels.

Henner’s Pond

Located right at the northern edge of Lacombe, Henner’s Pond is a peaceful setting for a walk. The park features a couple of short paved trails, perfect for young families to explore.

The main walking loop is 700m and circles a storm pond to the south of Henner’s Pond itself. There is some interpretive signage to accompany the pretty views.

A short drive from Lacombe reveals a number of scenic spots with easy, accessible hiking trails. Our top pick is JJ Collett Natural Area , but we also enjoyed walking in Kuhnen Park and along the Alix Nature Trail too.

Please be careful to Leave No Trace when exploring these areas. Pack everything out that you brought in with you. Dogs should be kept on a leash and under control.

The following places are free to visit but consider making a donation if you are able to.

JJ Collett Natural Area

Established in 1985, JJ Collett Natural Area features more than 600 acres of protected land. 18km of trails traverse beautiful groves of aspen and white spruce as well as wetlands, meadows and, surprisingly, sand dunes. Hiking here is definitely one of the best things to do in Lacombe.

A wonderful place to visit at any time of year, late spring and early summer are particularly special due to increased animal activity. JJ Collett is a favourite with birders, with 60+ species spotted in this area.

The trails conveniently interconnect to provide huge choice for loop routes, both short and long. This expansive network also means that you’re unlikely to run into anyone else, even with half a dozen other vehicles in the parking lot.

Kuhnen Park

Just south of Lacombe Lake is Kuhnen Park , a forested hiking area with rich plant and wildlife diversity. The land was donated by the generous Kuhnen family, to share this peaceful area with the community.

Another ‘choose your own adventure’ destination, Kuhnen Park offers a relatively large network of short, interconnecting trails.

We followed the boundary of the park from the parking lot, arriving first at a small, shallow lake before climbing up to find sweeping views of rolling countryside. It was a wonderful surprise, especially on such a sunny winter day.

Alix Nature Trail

The Village of Alix , 30 minutes drive east of Lacombe, may seem like an unlikely spot for a hike. But it’s worth the trip for the 6km long nature trail that circuits Alix Lake.

Besides the beautiful views, there is an abundance of wildlife activity to enjoy. Interpretive signage is provided along the way, with outhouses and benches at regular intervals.

Almost completely flat for the entire length, this trail is ideal for families looking for a longer adventure. Note that the northeastern section does run through a residential area.

Gull Lake is one of the largest lakes in this area of Alberta. A relatively shallow lake, it’s very popular with families for summer recreation. There are numerous campgrounds located around the lake in addition to day use areas.

Aspen Lake Provincial Park ‘s Ebeling Beach is only 15 minutes drive from Lacombe and features a huge parking area with easy access to the beach and washroom facilities.

While Gull Lake is exceptionally busy in July and August, it is much quieter during the rest of the year. We saw only a handful of other cars in early June. Of course, expect more traffic on weekends than weekdays.

Gull Lake is a great place for sunset, but be warned that you’ll be joined with plenty of flying insects (thankfully the non-biting kind) in late spring and early summer.

Driving along Range Road 260, about 15 minutes east of Lacombe, it’s hard to imagine a wildlife sanctuary anywhere near the large chemical plant that is situated here.

But exist it does, in the form of Ellis Bird Farm . This non-profit organisation continues the work of local conservationists Charlie and Winnie Ellis, who first built nesting boxes along their fences here in the 1950s.

The working farm comprises expansive gardens, a dipping pond, tearoom, café, walking trails and many, many bird boxes. In fact, Ellis Bird Farm has the largest collection of Mountain Bluebird boxes in the world!

Besides bluebirds, you may also spot Purple Martins, Black-capped Chickadees, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, Yellow Warblers and more.

Allow at least an hour to explore the grounds, taking time to sit on one of the many shady benches and listen to the twittering birds. Bring a picnic or stop by the café for a slice of homemade pie before heading out onto one of the pretty loop trails.

Admission is free, though donations are very welcome.

Check out the world’s largest fishing lure

Are you lured in by giant sized attractions? Don’t resist this one! Lacombe is home to the world’s largest fishing lure , built to celebrate 90 years of Len Thompson Fishing Lures.

The first Len Thompson factory was built right here in Lacombe back in 1958. It’s still family owned and operated today.

The extra large lure is located at the Len Thompson Pond, situated at the end of Len Thompson Drive. It is 12m long and almost 3m wide.

Lacombe has not one, but two markets, both held at Michener Park. The first takes place on Thursday evenings from 3pm to 6pm, with the second on Friday mornings from 9am to 1pm.

The Thursday Farmers’ Market is larger, with more than 90 vendors displaying a variety of products from fresh vegetables, handmade perogies, craft spirits, baked goods and cheese to clothing, paintings, sculptures and bath products.

While the Friday market was smaller at the time of our visit (early June), it’s just as varied, with an entirely different mix of vendors.

Free samples at both markets are commonplace, more so than other markets we have been to. We also found the vendors to be very friendly and we consequently spent a lot longer at both markets than we originally anticipated!

Michener House is one of the oldest buildings in Lacombe and is also the former home of Right Honourable Roland Michener, former Governor General of Canada from 1967 until 1974.

Built in the late 19th century as the Village of Lacombe Methodist Church Parsonage, the house was used by a number of ministers before being converted for use as a church hall. The church itself was eventually demolished but Michener House lives on as a Provincial Historic Site and museum .

Restored to its original turn of the century appearance, the lower floor showcases authentic period furniture. Upstairs, there is an exhibit dedicated to the life of Roland Michener, from his Lacombe beginnings to Rideau Hall. Free admission.

Visit Alberta’s oldest operating blacksmiths

At one time, there were as many as eight blacksmiths operating in Lacombe. They would have had been responsible for making and mending most of the machinery for local farms, such as wagon wheels and plow shears. Of course, farriers were also kept busy with horseshoeing.

Remarkably, one blacksmith remains operational – the Lacombe Blacksmith Shop Museum . The oldest of its kind in Alberta, it was built in 1902 and much of the machinery in the shop is original and remarkably, still functioning.

Visit from late May to early September to watch live demonstrations of blacksmiths bending iron (free admission, donations welcome). The head blacksmith also appears at the Friday morning market.

Filled with heritage Edwardian buildings, Lacombe is home to one of the best preserved historical downtown areas in Alberta.

A huge fire wiped out the majority of the commercial area in 1906, leading local officials to require all new constructions to be built in brick.

Many of the buildings now host creative and community focused businesses, such as Cilantro and Chive , Oodles of Chocolates and the Broom Tree Café , all mentioned elsewhere in this guide.

Walk around the downtown streets and you’ll soon notice black heritage markers. These tell the story of notable properties, such as the iconic Flatiron Building on the corner of 50 Ave and 49c Ave, which now houses rotating museum exhibits.

The retelling of Lacombe’s story is not limited to the heritage markers dotted around downtown. Huge murals adorn the sides and backs of buildings and depict street scenes from years gone by.

Artist Tim Giles used archival photographs as inspiration, with some creative liberties. The murals were originally painted between 2004 and 2013, with touch-ups in 2015.

There are two main clusters of murals – the first between 49b and 49c Avenues and the second between 51 and 52 Streets.

Download a map and guide from the Lacombe & District Historical Society to plan your own self guided tour.

After a day of exploring the local trails, head to Blindman Brewing and try one (or four) of 24+ innovative craft beers.

The newly renovated taproom is sleek yet unpretentious, serving snacks and fresh tacos from the local taqueria alongside glasses and flights of beer.

The brewery is named after a river that winds its way through Central Alberta, a nod to the owner’s community focused approach. Ingredients are sourced locally, something that is easy to do in Lacombe.

Not only is Alberta the largest barley producer in Canada, but the federal and provincial wheat and barley research stations are also located in Lacombe.

Locals call Oodles of Chocolates a hidden gem and it really is, quite literally! Enter the unassuming door at 4915 50 Ave, head down the stairs and down the corridor and you’ll find a treasure trove of treats.

Best known for their hand crafted chocolates, this mother-daughter chocolatier team have recently turned their hand to ice cream as well.

Choose between nine indulgent flavours (if you can!) such as lemon shortcake, key lime, raspberry pistachio and salted caramel. All are served in a fresh baked waffle cone.

Although this guide has a dedicated restaurant section , I just had to mention Cilantro and Chive here. It is an experience that you simply cannot miss while visiting Lacombe.

Contemporary yet still down to earth, Cilantro and Chive offers a creative take on casual dining, serving classic dishes with a fresh twist. The menu changes often, to reflect the seasons and availability of local ingredients.

Head down to the Where to Eat in Lacombe section to read more about this fabulous local restaurant!

Visiting Lacombe in the summer months? Don’t miss Music in the Park !

Local and regional musicians take to the Echo Stage on the south side of the Lacombe Memorial Centre (5214 50 Ave) every Wednesday from early June to the end of August.

Bring a lawn chair or blanket, sit down and enjoy! The music starts at 6.30pm. Food trucks can be found just around the corner, in the parking lot of the Memorial Centre.

The crowd was jovial yet on the small side during our visit in early June, but I’ve heard that the park can be almost full later in summer. Consider arriving early to secure a spot.

In the event of rainy weather, performances will be moved to St. Andrew’s United Church.

Lacombe’s events calendar is pretty busy, especially in summer. Check out the listings on the Lacombe Tourism website .

Lacombe Days , usually held in mid July, is a highlight, featuring a parade, kid’s activities, car show, live music and fireworks.

We just missed the International Trail Day celebrations, held on the first Saturday of June by the Bill Nielsen Trail Society . The group runs regular fundraisers, with organised 10km and 5km runs/walks.

On Father’s Day (19th June in 2022), a free event is taking place on Cranna Lake, with hot dogs, canoe rides and games.

Other great things to do in Lacombe

• Go fishing. The Len Thompson Pond , just minutes from downtown, is stocked with trout. Gull Lake is popular for walleye and northern pike. Don’t forget your fishing licence !
• Play a round of golf at one of Lacombe’s two golf courses . Both welcome non-members
• Visit Kraay Family Farm , which features more than 40+ attractions, including a 15 acre corn maze
• Take in a sunset – I’d recommend heading to the viewpoint above Elizabeth Lake (as described above)
• Bike to Blackfalds along the Trans Canada Trail , a 20km return journey

Where to stay in Lacombe

Best Western Plus Lacombe Inn & Suites is conveniently situated at the entrance to Lacombe from Highway 2. Downtown is a quick three minutes drive away. Tollers Bistro, one of the best places to eat in Lacombe, is across the parking lot. The weekly markets take place just beyond that.

Though built in 2015, the hotel still seems brand new, with plush, modern furnishings. There is a mix of room configurations, with some of the larger suites offering full kitchens.

Breakfast is complimentary with your stay and includes the standard continental fare (yogurt, granola, cereals, bagels, fruit etc.) as well as breakfast sandwiches and wraps.

Visiting Lacombe with your family? There’s a large indoor swimming pool with water slide to enjoy. The hotel is located right next to a playground and skatepark.

Where to eat in Lacombe

Be careful not to underestimate Lacombe’s dining scene. Central Alberta is, after all, brimming with local producers. You only have to check out the local markets, as mentioned above , to see that!

Such easy access to fresh, high quality ingredients has inspired a new wave of foodie restaurant owners in Lacombe. Most of the below eateries are relatively new, with some opening just in the last few months.

And it’s only going to be get better – we spotted a number of ‘opening soon’ signs while strolling around downtown Lacombe.

Live in Lacombe and don’t see your favourite local restaurant on here? We hope to return and try even more places so watch this space.

Tollers Bistro

Simplicity is key at Tollers Bistro , where they aim to perfect home style cooking.

Think burgers, pasta and a range of bowls (chicken, falafel, burrito) for dinner, with sandwiches and soup for lunch. Healthier options, such as the ahi tuna poke bowl (below), abound alongside comfort food favourites.

Worth the short trip beyond the downtown area, Tollers Bistro is located next door to the Best Western and Michener Park, where the weekly markets are held.

Tollers is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, but you can also just pop by for a coffee and sweet treat. The front counter case is filled with handmade doughnuts finished with gourmet toppings, made fresh every morning.

Cilantro and Chive

I’ve already raved about Cilantro and Chive , but another mention in this section seemed mandatory (just so you don’t miss out!)

Go big or go home with the Bacon Quad Burger, which sits on top of Cilantro and Chive’s signature Caesar cocktail. Don’t worry, there are lighter options too!

Thinking of drinks, you’re spoiled for choice here. Seriously! The beer menu is eight pages long, with craft varieties from across Canada alongside local favourites.

If you’re looking for something stronger, try a flight of cold brew coffees or fruity mule cocktails, both made with Alberta craft spirits.

As a side note, this restaurant has one of the best non-alcoholic menus I’ve ever seen. Many of the cocktails can be made without alcohol as well.

Kavaccino’s

The cutest coffee shop on the block, Kavaccino’s is the place to go for a morning (or anytime, let’s be real!) perk-up. Choose a cosy corner inside or the sunny patio outside.

If the idea of a hot coffee on a warm day doesn’t suit, there are plenty of innovative iced options to help cool you down. I loved my pina colada soda, one of the current summer specials alongside Vietnamese iced coffee and rhubarb cordial.

The sandwiches, made fresh to order, are a steal of a deal, priced between $3.50 and $5.50. There are plenty of treats on offer too, including made from scratch cinnamon buns, sandwich cookies and scones.

Milly Oak Café

This bright and airy downtown café is a must stop when visiting Lacombe. Everything is homemade (including the pastries in the front case!) with an emphasis on quality. Menus change seasonally to highlight locally sourced ingredients.

Breakfast and lunch are served at the Milly Oak Café from Tuesday to Sunday, with the addition of brunch on weekends.

Time your trip to Lacombe right and you may be able to attend one of the special (ticketed) events – think five course dinners, wine tasting and more.

Family owned and operated, service is warm and friendly. Portions are generous, so come hungry or enjoy the bonus of leftovers!

Blindman Brewing

Come for the beer, stay for the food! Enjoy an extended stay at Blindman Brewing’s brand new taproom with fresh and flavourful tacos from the local taqueria, made with ingredients from local producers.

Meats are sourced from a local butcher shop, with the corn tortillas and salsa coming from Edmonton. In a wonderfully circular move, the oyster mushrooms are grown from brewery waste, care of Ceres Solutions (Crossfield).

Buying local in this way supports the community and also reduces Blindman’s environmental impact. Continuing on this theme, 180 solar panels line the roof of the taproom (see how much power is currently being generated here !)

Brunch Glory

Brunch Glory is one of Lacombe’s newest restaurants and is a solid choice for classic Canadian breakfast dishes.

Located close to the industrial side of town, it’s a longer walk from downtown than some of the other options here. The exterior is a bit dated (a hangover from the previous owner) but the interior is a lot brighter.

As you may guess, breakfast dishes are available all day. The large menu includes all of the classics, including Eggs Benedict and Steak and Eggs.

The Broom Tree Café

Feel good about your morning java at the Broom Tree Café , where every purchase gives back to the community.

All revenues are directed back to the Broom Tree Foundation , which supports women in need. In turn, the café provides employment for women associated with the Foundation.

As well as coffee, the menu also features light breakfast options, sandwiches and soup.

While you wait, take in the gorgeous interior of the café, which features exposed brick walls, minimalist furnishings and a molded art deco style ceiling.

Read these other Alberta posts next

Best Things to Do in Alix, Alberta: Complete Village Guide Unique Places to Stay: Charming Inns of Alberta Pigeon Lake Ice G olf Tournament: Alberta’s Most Unique Winter Event 11 of the Best Things to Do in Sundre, Alberta 42+ Amazing Things to Do in Banff in Winter: Complete Travel Guide Hiking the Kananaskis Valley from Mount Engadine Lodge, Alberta Climbing Mt Norquay’s Via Ferrata, Banff

Adventure in your inbox

Subscribe to our monthly email newsletter and receive a round-up of our latest outdoor adventures plus other exciting beyond the beaten path destinations 

We never share your information with third parties and will protect it in accordance with our  Privacy Policy

One half of the Canadian/British couple behind Off Track Travel, Gemma is happiest when hiking on the trail or planning the next big travel adventure. JR and Gemma are currently based in the beautiful Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

Central Alberta

See what's new and exciting in the cities and towns in our region., len thompson fish pond.

Lacombe has its own fish pond located on the north end of Len Thompson Drive, within Lacombe’s Wolf Creek Industrial Park.  It was developed many years ago through the joint efforts of the Lacombe Fish and Game Association and the City of Lacombe.  Youngsters can practice their catch and release skills at this stocked pond.  Please check the Alberta Fishing Regulations for the rules and when the season is open on this pond.

5913 Len Thompson Drive Lacombe, AB

Visit website, find us online.

THINGS TO DO

Accommodation

Food & Entertainment

Guided Tours

Meetings & Events

Natural Attraction

Outdoor Recreation

Self Guided Tours

Signature Events

Support Service

Tourism Marketing Partner

Transportation

Visitor Service

Alberta family reels in record for world's largest fishing lure

Fourth-generation bait company hopes spoon will lure travelling anglers.

Social Sharing

You could call it a big catch. 

A central Alberta family with a passion for angling has reeled in a record for the world's largest fishing lure. 

The 28-foot long lure — complete with a 14-foot long treble hook — towers over the banks of Len Thompson Pond in Lacombe, Alta., a few kilometres from the factory where its much, much smaller counterparts are manufactured. 

The monument, installed at the stocked trout pond last year, is now Guinness World Record certified, dwarfing the previous record holder.

"There is one in Texas that was 15 and a half feet long," said Brad Pallister, president of the Thompson-Pallister Bait Company. 

"And we thought, if we're going to beat that, we might as well beat it good."

The statue was commissioned by the company last year and is an exact replica of their Yellow & Red Five of Diamonds spoon. 

The company's most popular pattern has found its place at the end of at least 55 million fishing lines since the business began.

The outsized lure was installed last June to celebrate the company's 90th anniversary. 

The company dates back to 1929. Len Thompson, Pallister's great-grandfather, spent years perfecting a "fishing spoon" design that would better attract game fish. 

Thompson, a farmer, made and sold spoons as a side business before opening up a factory in Abernathy, Sask., in 1945.

In 1958, the company relocated to Lacombe where they continue to operate as a family-run business, crafting more than 500,000 spoons each year.

• Big things: Tourism in Alberta

Pallister said the lure was inspired by Alberta's bizarre collection of large monuments, including Mundare's oversized sausage and Vegreville's giant Easter egg. 

"We wanted to do something that was commemorative, not only to the business but something for the community," Pallister said in an interview Thursday with CBC Radio's Edmonton AM.

"One of our employees made a suggestion that maybe we should do the world's largest lure because he's from the largest sausage and egg part of the world. 

"We thought, 'Wow, yeah, that sounds like a great idea. Let's let's see what we can do.'"

• How a giant perogy saved this small town
• Towering Alberta Buddha brings prairie blessings

The company started drafting prototypes, eventually commissioning Devon Hulsman with Comet Welding to complete the project. 

Getting the work into the lure into the record books was no easy task, said Jessica Pallister Dew, a fellow fourth-generation owner of the bait company. 

"The evidence requirements are lengthy," she said. "You have to provide a lot of video and professional affidavits and that kind of thing. 

"It definitely felt like a big accomplishment once that certification came through," she said. 

And while some naysayers in their own family suggested the statue might be ill-received, residents and visitors alike seem to have taken the bait.

"We've had such positive reviews and I think the story coming out, with all that's going in the world, is just a nice, positive news story that people can enjoy." 

For his part, Pallister hopes the statue will be a welcome addition to Lacombe's tourist tackle box and help lure anglers to the community's most coveted fishing spots. 

"Lacombe, it's a great community," he said. "Hopefully it's just one more thing that attracts visitors to our great little city."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Wallis Snowdon is a journalist with CBC Edmonton focused on bringing stories to the website and the airwaves. Originally from New Brunswick, Wallis has reported in communities across Canada, from Halifax to Fort McMurray. She previously worked as a digital and current affairs producer with CBC Radio in Edmonton. Share your stories with Wallis at [email protected].

City of Lacombe

• City of Lacombe , Communities , Route 12

Centrally located on the Hwy 2 corridor, the City of Lacombe is just over an hour’s drive away from Calgary and Edmonton.

Whether through a historic guided tour, tasting local food, attending a festival or discovering our beaches and countryside attractions, visitors to the city will find many ways to make new favourite memories.

 Lacombe is rich in culture and heritage and home to vibrant communities with a strong sense of their past. Landmarks such as the Michener House, the Flatiron Building, the Lacombe Blacksmith Shop and the Pico House are permanent highlights for their history, local importance and architecture. 

ATTRACTIONS | POINTS OF INTEREST

Flatiron Building – Built in 1904, and modelled after the Fuller Building in New York City, it is the oldest flatiron style building in Western Canada.

Lacombe Blacksmith Shop Museum Dedicated to blacksmithing in Lacombe, It was built in 1902, and is the oldest operating blacksmith shop in Alberta. The building still stands on its original site and much of the machinery is operational, and original.

Michener House Museum The house is also historically significant as one of the oldest remaining buildings in Lacombe, and illustrates the important first phase of the town’s development. The Michener House is a modest example of typical turn-of-the-century frame building construction.

Ellis Bird Farm Located in Lacombe County, Ellis Bird Farm is both a working farm as well as a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of Mountain Bluebirds, Tree Swallows and other native cavity-nesting birds.

The Track on 2 The Track on 2 Horse Racing & Event Centre is located just west of Lacombe, Alberta along Highway 2. Open year round, the property boasts a large grandstand with plenty of indoor seating for viewing the races on both the first and second floor, as well as a third floor with luxury suites above the finish line.

FOOD & DINING

Cilantro & Chive- Family owned and operated restaurant located in historic Lacombe Blindman Brewing- Join us in our taproom for tours, snacks and tastings of our beers as well we hope for conversation and good times with your neighbors. We’re kid-friendly! Tollers Bistro – gourmet sandwiches and panini, delicious breakfast and dinner, homemade doughnuts and espresso drinks.

CAMPGROUNDS | HOTELS

Best Western Lacombe Inn & Suites This Premium Hotel is The Hotel is situated adjacent to Michener Park which is home to various outdoor activities including access to the walking trails, a skate park and playground, ball diamonds and soccer pitches. The Lacombe Community Golf Course is also conveniently located across the street. Michner Park Campground Michener Campground has 37 power sites that are available for $32 per night.

Trans Canada Trail – The first section stretches 8 km between the City of Lacombe and the Town of Blackfalds winding its way through farmland, around Lacombe Lake and past Kuhnen Park. The trail is a dream for hikers, bikers and runners! Boating and canoeing At Lacombe Lake Len Thompson Trout Pond – Lacombe has its own fish pond located on the north end of Len Thompson Drive, where Youngsters can practice their catch and release skills at this stocked pond. Second Sport Fishing Pond

5432 56 Avenue Lacombe, AB T4L 1E9 403-782-6666 Website

Village of Consort

Servus Credit Union Lacombe Harvest Dinner

5024 General Store

Elite Bridal & Fashion Boutique

Haunted Lakes Golf Club and Campground

Lacombe Regional Tourism is situated in the traditional territories of the Nêhiyaw (Cree) people of Treaty 6 and Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3. We honour the people of this territory for their continuous contribution to the region and respectfully acknowledge the region we work, play, live in, and welcome visitors to.

Membership for Businesses

Submit an Event

[email protected]

403.782.1046

PO Box 5822 STN Main. Lacombe, Alberta T4L 1X4

© 2024 Lacombe Regional Tourism • All rights reserved.

Subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date on activities in the Lacombe Region!

Thompson-Pallister Bait Co. Ltd.  5860 Len Thompson Drive Lacombe, Alberta, Canada T4L 1E7

Ph. (403)782-3528 E.   [email protected]

Monday-Thursday: 8:00am - 5:00pm MST Friday: 8:00am - 4:30pm MST

Len Thompson: The lure of fishing

Some of the world’s best fishing lures—spoons for casting and trolling—are manufactured in lacombe, alberta.

I remember the sun’s brassy reflection, smooth on the surface of prairie pothole lakes we fished as a kid—so bright it made my uncle Al’s eyes water. I fished for perch back then with earthworms on a snell hook under a red and white bobber. What I really wanted was to cast Len Thompson spoons like the big boys. Uncle Al and Dad launched plain brass, and red and white No. 2 spoons in a pretty arc. Monofilament line hung in the morning air after the spoons splashed. When the line settled on the water, they started to crank.

“Count one, two, three—then crank—one-one-thousand, two-one thousand, not-too-fast,” my Dad said, when I finally got to cast a real fishing lure from an open-faced spinning reel on a stiff-backed rod. That first big-boy fish hit me so hard it felt like electrodes sparked somewhere inside of me.

Len Thompson lures have been Canadian-made since 1929. Thompson developed a heavy, easy-to-cast spoon that wiggle-wobbles in a way that fish can’t resist. Since 1958, these lures have been manufactured in Lacombe, Alberta. Punched from solid brass on the original press Thompson bought in 1945 for $711, “spoons” are hand dipped in lacquer to keep that brand-new brassy shine, hand painted in irresistible coloured patterns, hand packaged, labeled and shipped all over the world. Even the hooks are attached with stainless steel split rings—all by hand.

Back in 1929, after returning from the First World War, Thompson fiddled with fishing lures. He cut a chunk of tin can to the right shape and beat it with a ball-peen hammer until it wiggle-wobbled in the water just so. Once he got the action right, he loaded it with lead to get the casting distance and run depth he knew was what he needed to fish successfully. Even today Thompson lures are manufactured of heavy brass for casting distance and perfect run depth.  

Every year when I sort my tackle box for the season ahead, I figure out which Thompson lures in which patterns and sizes need to be added to the fold-out trays.

Each fishing trip is carefully stacked in my memory, each fish hook-up experienced again every time a fish takes the lure. I have hooked thousands of fish on Thompson lures over my lifetime. I can almost smell shore lunch right now: woodsmoke, sizzling butter, onions, potatoes and a couple of fish fillets fresh from the deep.

Richard Pallister, Len Thompson’s grandson, recently took me on a personal tour of the factory where the Thompson-Pallister Bait Company manufactures Len Thompson and Northern King fishing lures. On the tour I lamented the disappearance of the plain dimpled brass No. 16 they used to sell. The last one of mine was left on a piece of submerged granite in the Northwest Territories. 

“Do you think you can find a box of 16 plain dimpled?” Pallister said to one of his guys. He a appeared a moment later with a box of my favourite lure (now out of production).

The wall of brass showing the nearly 90 years of progress of Thompson lures reflected back a lifetime of fishing memories with some of the people I hold dearest to me.

The reflection was enough to make my eyes water.

The all-time favourites:

Most popular colour/pattern by volume sold:

• YR: Red Five of Diamonds on Yellow background
• RW: A Red stripe with White either side
• LF: Lemon Flame is a fluorescent yellow with fluorescent orange Five of Diamonds

Related Articles

ArrKann RV celebrates 40 years

 Ken Friedenberg, owner of ArrKann RV,  has spent the last four decades helping people take to the highway and live the dream. RVwest sat down with him to discuss life, work and future roads. 

RVing across North America with a family of three

Join the Itchy Feet Fam as they navigate the open road, from Ontario to Baja, Mexico.

Find your oasis at Carefree Village Resort: A premier 55+ RV resort

 Luxury living and a vibrant community have RVers flocking to this manufactured home and RV resort in Yuma.

Thompson-Pallister Bait Co. Ltd. 5860 Len Thompson Drive Lacombe, Alberta, Canada T4L 1E7

Ph.   (403)782-3528 E.   [email protected]

Office Hours

Monday-Thursday: 9:00am - 5:00pm MST Friday: 9:00am - 3:00pm MST