Monroe, Louisiana: 10 Must-Do Activities and Attractions Nearby

10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Monroe, Louisiana (Ouachita Parish)

Planning a trip to Monroe, Louisiana and wondering what to do? Or maybe you’re driving along I‑20 and thinking about pulling off for a day or weekend. Monroe might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think “vacation,” but that’s exactly why it’s such a pleasant surprise. From beautiful river views and local food to museums and family‑friendly attractions, there’s a lot packed into this corner of Ouachita Parish. Below are 10 things to do in and near Monroe, LA that give you a real taste of northeast Louisiana.

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1. Stroll the Riverfront in Downtown Monroe

Downtown Monroe sits right along the Ouachita River, and it’s a great place to start your visit. Park the car, stretch your legs, and just walk. You’ll find:

• Riverfront views and photo spots
• Local shops and boutiques
• Bars and restaurants with Southern flavor

If you’re there around sunset, head toward the river and watch the sky change colors over the water. On some weekends, you might catch live music or small festivals downtown. It’s an easy way to get a feel for Monroe’s pace of life—laid back, friendly, and a little bit quirky in the best way.

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2. Meet the Otters at Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo

Traveling with kids? Or just love animals? The Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo is one of the most popular things to do in Monroe. What to expect:

• Over 400 animals from around the world
• A small train ride through parts of the zoo
• A boat tour (when operating) that lets you see some animals from the water

The zoo is not huge, which is actually nice. You can see most of it in a couple of hours without feeling rushed or exhausted. Bring water, especially in the summer—the Louisiana heat is no joke. Tip: Check their website or call ahead for hours and boat/train ride schedules, as these can change with the season.

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3. Explore Local History at Chennault Aviation & Military Museum

If you’re into history, especially military or aviation history, you’ll want to stop at the Chennault Aviation & Military Museum. The museum honors General Claire Lee Chennault and covers:

• World War II aviation
• The famous Flying Tigers
• Stories from local veterans from various wars

You’ll see uniforms, aircraft parts, photos, and personal items that help bring the past to life. The volunteers are often veterans themselves and love sharing stories and answering questions. It’s one of those free (or low-cost donation-based) attractions that really sticks with you.

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4. Step Back in Time at Biedenharn Museum & Gardens

The Biedenharn Museum & Gardens is one of Monroe’s real gems and a must‑see for first‑time visitors. Why it’s special:

• It’s the historic home of Joseph Biedenharn, the first person to bottle Coca‑Cola.
• You can tour the house and see period furniture and decor.
• The gardens are carefully landscaped and perfect for a quiet walk or photos.
• There’s a Coca‑Cola museum area with vintage bottles and ads.

If you love old homes, history, or just want a peaceful place to wander, this spot is for you. It’s also one of the prettiest places in Monroe during spring bloom and around the holidays.

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5. Enjoy the Outdoors at Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Located just a short drive north of Monroe, Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge feels like stepping into another world—cypress trees, Spanish moss, and still, dark water. Here you can:

• Walk easy trails and boardwalks
• Go bird‑watching (bring binoculars if you have them)
• Rent a canoe or kayak (seasonal) and paddle through the cypress trees
• Look for turtles, alligators, and all kinds of birds

On a quiet morning, you might hear nothing but birds and the splash of a fish jumping. It’s a great way to experience the wild side of Louisiana without needing special gear or a long drive into the swamp. Tip: Wear bug spray, especially in warmer months, and closed‑toe shoes for the trails.

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6. Cross the River to West Monroe’s Antique Alley

Monroe and West Monroe are sister cities, just across the Ouachita River from each other. A quick drive over the bridge takes you into one of the area’s most charming spots: Antique Alley. Along Trenton Street, you’ll find:

• Antique shops full of furniture, glassware, and collectibles
• Vintage clothing and decor
• Cute boutiques with gifts, candles, and home goods
• Cafés and bakeries for a snack break

Even if you’re not a hardcore antique hunter, it’s fun to browse. You never know what you’ll stumble across—old records, vintage signs, or that one quirky piece you didn’t know you needed. This area is also very walkable, which makes it a nice change of pace from highway driving.

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7. Cheer on the Warhawks at the University of Louisiana Monroe

If you visit during the school year, check out what’s happening at the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM)

A ULM Warhawks football game at Malone Stadium

Basketball, baseball, or softball games

Campus events, concerts, or theater productions

College sports in smaller cities have a special kind of energy. Tickets are usually affordable, parking is easier than at big universities, and you can sit close to the action. Even if there’s no game, the campus is nice for a short walk along Bayou Desiard. Bring a coffee, find a bench, and enjoy the water views.

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8. Sample Local Flavors: From Crawfish to Catfish

You can’t talk about things to do in Monroe, LA without talking about things to eat. Northeast Louisiana has its own spin on Southern and Cajun‑influenced food. While restaurant names change over time, here’s what you should look for on menus around Monroe and West Monroe:

• Boiled crawfish (in season, typically late winter through spring)
• Fried catfish with hush puppies and coleslaw
• Gumbo and étouffée
• Po’boys loaded with shrimp, oysters, or roast beef
• Boudin and other smoked sausages

Ask locals where they go for seafood or plate lunches. People in Monroe are usually happy to share their favorite spots and might even tell you what to order. If you’re driving through on a road trip, this is a great place to get a “real” Louisiana meal instead of another fast‑food burger off the interstate.

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9. Get Outdoors at Kiroli Park in West Monroe

Just across the river in West Monroe, Kiroli Park is a family‑friendly spot packed with simple outdoor fun. You’ll find:

• Walking trails and wooded paths
• Ponds with ducks (kids love feeding them—just use duck‑friendly feed, not bread if possible)
• Playgrounds and open fields
• Picnic spots and pavilions

It’s the kind of place where you can slow down for a few hours: let the kids run, take a walk, or just sit under the trees with a book. If you’ve been on the road for a while, this is a great “reset” stop.

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10. Discover Local Art and Culture at Masur Museum of Art

For a smaller city, Monroe has a surprisingly strong art scene. The Masur Museum of Art is one of the highlights. Housed in a historic home, the museum features:

• Rotating art exhibitions
• Regional and national artists
• Workshops and community events

The space itself feels cozy and welcoming, not overwhelming like a giant museum. It’s perfect if you enjoy art but want something low‑key and approachable. Afterward, you can pair your visit with coffee or lunch at a local café and make it a relaxed, artsy afternoon.

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Planning Your Visit to Monroe, Louisiana

Monroe sits along I‑20 in northeast Louisiana, making it an easy stop between bigger cities like Shreveport and Jackson. Many people are surprised by how much there is to do in and around Ouachita Parish once they get off the highway and look around. A few quick tips:

• Best time to visit: Spring and fall for milder weather.
• Getting around: You’ll want a car; attractions are spread out.
• What to pack: Comfortable walking shoes, bug spray for outdoor spots, and light clothing in warmer months.

Whether you’re into history, nature, food, or family fun, Monroe has something that fits—without the crowds or high prices of bigger tourist cities.

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What Would You Do First in Monroe?

Have you been to Monroe or West Monroe before? Did you:

• Paddle through the cypress trees at Black Bayou?
• Find a treasure on Antique Alley?
• Try your first bowl of gumbo in northeast Louisiana?

I’d love to hear about your favorite things to do in Monroe, LA or anywhere in Ouachita Parish. Drop a comment with your tips, stories, or questions—and if you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend planning a Louisiana road trip. It might just inspire them to add Monroe to their must‑see list.