Monroe, LA Travel Guide

Must-Visit Attractions and Landmarks

Monroe, LA is home to a variety of beautiful parks and landmarks that offer a unique blend of nature, history, and recreation. From serene wildlife refuges to stunning gardens, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this charming city.

Biedenharn Museum & Garden is a must-visit attraction, featuring the historic home of Joseph Biedenharn, the first bottler of Coca-Cola. The museum showcases fascinating exhibits, while the lush gardens provide a tranquil retreat. With a 4.7-star rating and 289 reviews, this hidden gem is a favorite among visitors and locals alike.

For nature enthusiasts, the is a must-see. This 4.6-star rated park with 160 reviews offers a peaceful escape, where visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and fishing. The refuge is home to diverse wildlife, including white-tailed deer, alligators, and various bird species.

Another popular park is Forsythe Park, which boasts a 4.3-star rating and 817 reviews. This family-friendly destination offers a variety of recreational activities, including a playground, tennis courts, and a golf course. The park also features a scenic walking trail along the Ouachita River.

For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, check out Restoration Park West Monroe. This 4.6-star rated park with 338 reviews offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban revitalization. The park features walking trails, a boardwalk, and picturesque views of the surrounding wetlands.

• Other notable parks and landmarks in Monroe, LA include:
  • Henry Bry Park (3.5 stars, 8 reviews)
  • West Monroe Recreation Complex (4.4 stars, 77 reviews)
  • Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center (4.7 stars, 550 reviews)
  • East Ouachita Recreation Department (4.7 stars, 3 reviews)
  • Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana (4.7 stars, 18 reviews)
  • Chennault Park Golf Course (4.2 stars, 155 reviews)
  • Cheniere Lake Park (4.2 stars, 315 reviews)
  • Ouachita Sportsplex/Osterland Recreation Center (4.5 stars, 63 reviews)
  • Alley Park (4.3 stars, 3 reviews)
  • Anna Gray Noe Park

Pro-tips

When visiting parks and wildlife refuges, be sure to pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water. Also, remember to practice “Leave No Trace” principles by picking up any trash and respecting the natural environment.

Did You Know?

Joseph Biedenharn, the founder of the Biedenharn Museum & Garden, was the first person to bottle Coca-Cola in the early 20th century. Before that, the popular soft drink was only available at soda fountains.

Beautiful Parks and Gardens in Monroe, LA

Monroe, Louisiana, is home to a variety of picturesque parks and gardens that offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. From lush green spaces to tranquil lakes, these hidden gems provide the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll, picnic, or outdoor adventure.

Biedenharn Museum & Garden is a must-visit destination for those who appreciate history and horticulture. The beautiful gardens surrounding the historic Biedenharn home are a sight to behold, with vibrant blooms and well-manicured lawns. The museum itself houses a fascinating collection of artifacts and memorabilia related to the Biedenharn family and the history of Coca-Cola.

For nature enthusiasts, Restoration Park West Monroe is a haven of tranquility. This park features a series of walking trails that meander through lush wetlands, providing ample opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. The park also has a picturesque pond that makes for a perfect backdrop for a relaxing afternoon.

Another gem in the area is the Chennault Park Golf Course, which offers a beautiful and well-maintained golf course surrounded by picturesque scenery. The park also features a playground, picnic areas, and walking trails, making it an ideal spot for a family outing.

For a truly unique experience, visit the Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana park. This park is designed with children in mind and features an interactive, educational garden that encourages hands-on learning about plants, insects, and the environment.

Other notable parks in Monroe include Forsythe Park, Henry Bry Park, and West Monroe Recreation Complex. Each park offers its own unique charm and amenities, making them perfect spots for a leisurely day outdoors.

• River Oaks Neighborhood Park: A quiet, residential park with a playground and green space.
• Henry Bry Park: A small park in downtown Monroe with a playground and picnic tables.
• West Monroe Recreation Complex: A large park with sports fields, a playground, and a skate park.
• Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center: A beautiful wildlife refuge with walking trails, a lake, and an educational visitor center.
• East Ouchita Recreation Department: A small park with a playground and sports fields.
• Cheniere Lake Park: A scenic park with a lake, camping facilities, and a nature trail.

Pro-tips

Visit the parks during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat for sun protection.

Did You Know?

Monroe, Louisiana, is named after the fifth President of the United States, James Monroe. The city was founded in 1785 and has a rich history that can be explored through its many parks and historic sites.

Top Hotels and Accommodations in Monroe, LA

Monroe, Louisiana, offers a variety of hotels and accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs. From luxurious stays to budget-friendly options, you’ll find the perfect place to rest your head after a day of exploring this charming city. Here are some of the top hotels and accommodations in Monroe, LA:

Hilton Garden Inn West Monroe is located at 400 Mane Street, West Monroe. With a 4.0 rating and over 800 reviews, this hotel offers a comfortable stay with modern amenities. Visit their website for more information and booking.

Quality Inn is situated at 1407 Martin Luther King Junior Drive, Monroe. With a 3.7 rating and over 450 reviews, this lodging option provides a budget-friendly stay without compromising on quality. Check out their for more details and reservations.

Courtyard by Marriott Monroe Airport can be found at 4915 Pecanland Mall Drive, Monroe. With a 3.7 rating and over 420 reviews, this hotel offers a convenient location near the airport and modern amenities. Visit their website for more information and booking.

Hampton Inn West Monroe is located at 601 Mane Street, West Monroe. With an impressive 4.4 rating and over 780 reviews, this hotel offers a comfortable stay with excellent customer service. Check out their website for more details and reservations.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites West Monroe, an IHG Hotel is situated at 603 Constitution Drive, West Monroe. With a 4.1 rating and over 480 reviews, this hotel offers a pleasant stay with modern amenities and a convenient location. Visit their website for more information and booking.

Residence Inn by Marriott Monroe is located at 4960 Millhaven Road, Monroe. With a 4.1 rating and over 330 reviews, this hotel offers spacious suites and a home-away-from-home experience. Check out their website for more details and reservations.

Red Roof Inn West Monroe is situated at 102 Constitution Drive, West Monroe. With a 3.2 rating and over 790 reviews, this budget-friendly lodging option offers basic amenities and a convenient location. Visit their website for more information and booking.

Pro-tips

Always compare prices and read reviews from multiple sources before booking your accommodation. Don’t forget to check for any ongoing promotions or discounts!

Did You Know?

Monroe, Louisiana, is known as the “Birthplace of Delta Airlines.” The city’s rich history in aviation dates back to the early 20th century when Delta Air Lines was founded as a crop-dusting service.

Unique Shopping Destinations in Monroe, LA

Discover the hidden gems of Monroe’s shopping scene, where you’ll find everything from fashionable footwear to the latest tech gadgets. Skip the national chains and explore these local favorites for a truly memorable shopping experience.

Foot Locker

Located at 4700 Millhaven Road Space 1524, Foot Locker is a popular destination for sneaker enthusiasts and casual shoppers alike. With a 4.4-star rating and 60 reviews, this store offers a wide variety of athletic footwear and apparel for all ages.

AT&T Store

Upgrade your tech game at the AT&T Store located at 2334 Sterlington Road. Boasting a 4.3-star rating and 105 reviews, this store offers the latest smartphones, tablets, and accessories to keep you connected.

Kids Foot Locker

Keep your little ones stylish and comfortable with a visit to Kids Foot Locker at 4700 Millhaven Road Suite 1058. With a 4.2-star rating and 21 reviews, this store specializes in children’s footwear and apparel, ensuring your kids look their best.

Car Town 1

For those in search of a new set of wheels, at 11 Louisville Avenue is the place to go. With a 4.4-star rating and 105 reviews, this dealership offers a wide selection of pre-owned vehicles and exceptional customer service.

Buckle

Located in Pecanland Mall at 4700 Millhaven Road Ste 1532, Buckle is a trendy clothing store with a 4.1-star rating and 32 reviews. Find the latest fashion trends and accessories for men and women at this stylish boutique.

The UPS Store

Need to ship something or looking for printing services? Visit The UPS Store at 3103 Cypress Street Suite 3 in West Monroe. With a 3.5-star rating and 48 reviews, this store offers a variety of services to meet your shipping and printing needs.

Belk

For a department store experience with a local touch, visit at 4920 Millhaven Road. With a 4.2-star rating and an impressive 657 reviews, this store offers a wide selection of clothing, accessories, and home goods for the whole family.

Pro-tips

Plan your shopping trip during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. Don’t forget to check store hours before visiting, as they may vary throughout the week.

Did You Know?

Monroe, LA, is home to the annual RiverMarket, a seasonal open-air market featuring local artisans, food vendors, and live entertainment. Be sure to check it out for a truly unique shopping experience!

Nightlife and Entertainment Spots

Monroe, LA, offers a variety of nightlife and entertainment spots for those looking to unwind after a day of exploring. From laid-back vape lounges to lively nightclubs, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.

One popular spot is The e Spot Vape Shop Monroe, located at 3201 Louisville Avenue #1. With a 4.4-star rating and 236 reviews, this vape shop and night club offers a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy a variety of e-juices and vape products while mingling with locals and fellow travelers.

For those looking for a more traditional nightclub experience, Mustang Sally at 207 Olive Street is a popular choice. With a 3.7-star rating and 32 reviews, this lively spot offers a dance floor, live music, and a full bar to keep the party going all night long.

If you’re in the mood for some friendly competition, head over to Downtown Billiards at 524 Desiard Street. This 3.0-star rated pool hall offers a laid-back environment where you can shoot some pool, enjoy a drink, and socialize with friends.

Another option for a night out in Monroe is Vibez Lounge, located at 705 Desiard Street. While there are no reviews available, this stylish lounge offers a chic atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a cocktail and catching up with friends.

For a unique experience, check out Bayou Smoke Monroe at 2503 Sterlington Road. This 4.8-star rated night club offers a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy a variety of hookah flavors and unwind with friends.

• The e Spot Vape Shop Monroe – 3201 Louisville Avenue #1
• Mustang Sally – 207 Olive Street
• Downtown Billiards – 524 Desiard Street
• Vibez Lounge – 705 Desiard Street
• Bayou Smoke Monroe – 2503 Sterlington Road

Pro-tips

Check out the social media pages of these nightlife spots to stay updated on special events, promotions, and live music performances.

Did You Know?

Monroe, LA, is home to the annual North Delta Food & Wine Festival, which showcases the region’s culinary, wine, and craft beer offerings, making it a great destination for foodies and nightlife enthusiasts alike.

Outdoor Activities and Adventures

Monroe, Louisiana, offers a variety of outdoor activities and adventures for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. From serene parks to exciting recreational complexes, there’s something for everyone in this charming Southern city.

One of the hidden gems in Monroe is River Oaks Neighborhood Park (3704 Barbados Boulevard). This quaint park boasts a 4.5-star rating and 44 reviews, making it a favorite among locals. Enjoy a peaceful walk or a family picnic surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful scenery.

For a more urban park experience, check out Henry Bry Park (110 Desiard Street). Located in the heart of downtown Monroe, this park offers a 3.5-star rating and 8 reviews. It’s the perfect spot to relax and people-watch while exploring the city.

West Monroe Recreation Complex (1802 North 7th Street) is a popular destination for sports enthusiasts, with a 4.4-star rating and 77 reviews. This expansive complex offers a variety of recreational activities, including basketball courts, soccer fields, and a skate park.

For a serene escape, visit Restoration Park West Monroe (700 Downing Pines Road). With a 4.6-star rating and 338 reviews, this park offers a beautiful boardwalk trail, perfect for birdwatching and nature photography. The park also features a picturesque pond and a peaceful meditation garden.

Experience the beauty of Louisiana’s wildlife at Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center (480 Richland Place). With a 4.7-star rating and 550 reviews, this park offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse ecosystems of the region, including swamps, forests, and wetlands.

For a more intimate park experience, visit East Ouachita Recreation Department (512 Lincoln Hills Drive). This small park, with a 4.7-star rating and 3 reviews, offers a quiet retreat for relaxation and recreation.

Finally, immerse yourself in the history and beauty of the Biedenharn Museum & Garden (2006 Riverside Drive). With a 4.7-star rating and 289 reviews, this park features stunning gardens, a historic home, and a fascinating museum dedicated to the history of Coca-Cola.

• River Oaks Neighborhood Park
• Henry Bry Park
• West Monroe Recreation Complex
• Restoration Park West Monroe
• Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
• East Ouachita Recreation Department
• Biedenharn Museum & Garden

Pro-tips

For the best wildlife viewing experience at Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge, visit during the early morning or late afternoon hours when animals are most active.

Did You Know?

Monroe is home to the Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana (117 Hall Street), a unique park that features an interactive outdoor learning environment, including a community garden, a butterfly garden, and a sensory pathway.

Wellness and Relaxation Centers in Monroe, LA

Monroe, Louisiana is home to a variety of wellness and relaxation centers that cater to your self-care needs. From holistic spas to gyms and dermatology centers, you’ll find everything you need to unwind and rejuvenate in this charming city. Here are some of the top wellness and relaxation centers in Monroe:

INFIT Gym

Located at 1401 North 18th Street, INFIT Gym is a popular gym and spa in Monroe. With a 4.9-star rating and 14 reviews, this fitness center offers a variety of workout equipment, classes, and spa services to help you stay fit and relaxed. [image]

Arlette Aveda Concept Salon

Arlette Aveda Concept Salon is a luxurious spa located at 1603 North 18th Street. With a 4.7-star rating and 26 reviews, this Aveda salon offers a range of hair, skin, and body treatments using natural and eco-friendly products. [image]

Professional Laser Center

The Professional Laser Center at 1900 North 18th Street offers top-notch laser treatments for hair removal, skin rejuvenation, and more. With a perfect 5-star rating and five reviews, this spa is known for its professional staff and effective treatments. [image]

Pamper Palace Spa

At 2013 Tower Drive, you’ll find the Pamper Palace Spa, a 4.9-star rated spa with 28 reviews. This relaxation haven offers a variety of spa services, including massages, facials, and body treatments. [image]

DermaMediQ

DermaMediQ, located at 1705 Lamy Lane, is a 5-star rated spa with 10 reviews. Offering a range of skincare treatments, specializes in medical-grade facials, chemical peels, and more. [image]

Alexis Cherrell Holistic Wellness Spa

With a 5-star rating and an impressive 149 reviews, Alexis Cherrell Holistic Wellness Spa at 5709 Desiard Street is a must-visit for anyone seeking a holistic approach to wellness. This spa offers a range of services, including massages, facials, and energy healing. [image]

NBliss @ Spa Blue

NBliss @ Spa Blue, located at 520 Trenton Street in West Monroe, is a 3.7-star rated spa with 35 reviews. Offering a variety of spa services, Spa Blue is the perfect place to unwind and treat yourself to a day of relaxation. [image]

Hopkins Dermatology

For all your skincare needs, visit at 2509 Broadmoor Boulevard. With a 4.9-star rating and a whopping 402 reviews, this dermatology center offers a range of treatments to help you achieve healthy, radiant skin. [image]

Pro-tips

Always call ahead to book appointments, as many of these wellness centers can get busy. Don’t forget to inquire about any specials or promotions they may be running.

Did You Know?

Monroe, Louisiana is not only a great place for wellness and relaxation, but it’s also a city rich in history and culture. Be sure to explore the local attractions, such as the Biedenharn Museum & Gardens and the Chennault Aviation & Military Museum, during your visit.