If you’re looking for a low-stress, high-reward weekend escape from Edmonton, you don’t need to go far. Just two hours south, Lacombe delivers small-town charm, local food, kid-friendly stops, and enough fresh air to reset your whole week.
Whether you make it a spontaneous overnight or a long day trip, here’s how to spend 24 hours in Lacombe — complete with beach time, a brewery lunch, and an ice cream cone (or two) that’ll live rent-free in your summer memories.
Morning: Coffee, History, and Browsing Downtown
Start your day in Lacombe’s historic downtown, where red-brick buildings and boutique shops make for a very photogenic morning stroll. Grab coffee and a breakfast treat at Milly Oak Café & Catering or Tollers Bistro—both are local favourites with a strong community vibe.
Once you’ve fuelled up, take a quick walk to the Michener House Museum, birthplace of Governor General Roland Michener and a window into Lacombe’s early settler days. It’s small but surprisingly engaging — and usually not crowded.
If you’re visiting on a Thursday between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m., pop over to the Lacombe Farmers’ Market at Michener Park. It’s one of Alberta’s longest-running markets and a great stop for local honey, baking, and small handmade treasures.
Midday: Ice Cream and a Brewery (Yes, It Works)
Noon is when things start to heat up — time for something cool. The Cone Ice Cream, tucked right downtown, is an essential stop. With 40+ flavours and generous portions, this place is often busy for good reason. Grab a bench nearby and enjoy a scoop in the sun.
For lunch, walk over to Blindman Brewing, just on the edge of town. While it’s a craft brewery, it’s surprisingly family-friendly during the day. They often have food trucks on-site (check ahead), or you can bring in your own takeout from town. There’s space for kids to hang out, and adults can sample small-batch local beer — win-win.
Afternoon: Gull Lake, Ellis Bird Farm, or Both
Depending on the weather and your crew’s energy levels, you’ve got two great options:
Option 1: Beach Time at Gull Lake
Drive 20 minutes west to Gull Lake, where Aspen Beach Provincial Park offers sandy shores, shallow swimming areas, and picnic spots. The water’s usually warm by late June, and the vibe is relaxed and family-focused. Bring sand toys, towels, and maybe a kite.
Option 2: A Gentle Stroll at Ellis Bird Farm
Open Tuesday through Saturday in summer, Ellis Bird Farm (just 10 minutes from Lacombe) is a peaceful spot for families who love birds, butterflies, or anything outdoorsy-but-not-exhausting. Wander the trails, climb the treehouse lookout, or just enjoy a snack in the garden. Admission is by donation.
Evening: Farm Stay or Scenic Drive Home
If you’re not quite ready to leave Lacombe behind, consider booking a farm stay or B&B nearby. Options like Prairie Creek Inn, or Wolf Creek Bed & Breakfast, offer that cozy-country experience without the tent poles.
Prefer to head home? The two-hour drive north to Edmonton is an easy evening cruise, especially with a sleepy backseat crew and a full day behind you.
Final Thought:
Lacombe is one of those places that doesn’t shout — it just delivers. In just 24 hours, you can hit the beach, tour a heritage house, eat well, meet some chickens, and be back in your own bed by nightfall. For a laid-back summer day trip or a spontaneous overnight, it’s hard to beat. 
