About Us
We at the Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce are honored to represent over 450 member businesses. They encompass all types of business from the small one-person shop to the large industrial manufacturer. They also include the biggest name in health care, all forms of agri-business and familiar names in the retail business. We are justifiably proud of our many home grown businesses that began with true entrepreneurial spirit and have grown to be recognized regionally, nationally and internationally.
We welcome you to the southern gateway of Minnesota, conveniently located at the intersection of Interstates 35 and 90. This “crossroads community” is rich in agriculture, industry, retail, residential assets, and the natural beauty of our local lakes!
Albert Lea-Freeborn County is an ideal community, offering a good education for our children, a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities, convenient access to work and play, services, a low cost of living, and a place where you can feel safe and secure.
The history of Albert Lea-Freeborn County is rich! Coupling a bountiful countryside to a thriving regional retail and commercial hub, the growth potential is unlimited. Surrounded by picturesque lakes and landscapes, the community continues to thrive.
Albert Lea and Freeborn County boasts abundant natural beauty. Several lakes throughout the county provide recreation, fishing, wildlife watching and scenic beauty. Myre-Big Island State Park features hiking, biking and cross country ski trails to observe glacial formations and spectacular examples of the vanishing oak savanna landscape. The Blazing Star Bike Trail explores the beautiful countryside and will soon connect to several rural communities adjacent to Albert Lea and Freeborn County.
Known for extremely fertile soils, Freeborn County is a state leader in corn, soybean, hog and potato production. Agriculture is a thriving industry, providing a strong base for the area’s economy.
As the county seat and largest city, Albert Lea thrives with a variety of manufacturing, service and retail businesses. Numerous businesses have made the Albert Lea-Freeborn County area their home because of its key location at the intersection of Interstates 35 & 90. Many of those are “homegrown” businesses that have advanced from an entrepreneurial idea to some of our largest employers. Shopping abounds with five business districts, a major shopping mall, new strip malls and the first major refueling stops when entering Minnesota from the south on I-35. A thriving historic downtown retail district contributes charm and provides ample shopping opportunities with plenty of character. The area has recently been revitalized by a major reconstruction and streetscape project including a fresh new look to Fountain Lake Park.
Be sure to check out our online business directory which is updated with our most current members. Our map page will assist you in finding local businesses and attractions.