Explore Our Community
Nestled on the banks of the Ouachita River and Bayou Desiard, Monroe-West Monroe, Louisiana has everything you need for an unforgettable North Louisiana vacation.
Browse the largest shopping mall in North Louisiana and treasure hunt in Antique Alley. Dine at more than 100 locally owned restaurants that serve everything from catfish and po’boys to enchiladas and sushi. Hike breathtaking nature trails, sip a pint of craft beer, and sample the wines of a local vineyard. There is no end to all the adventure you will have here. Plan your next visit to Monroe-West Monroe today!
HISTORIC HOTSPOTS
Monroe-West Monroe is no stranger to history! Hear the tale of the man who first bottled Coca-Cola, explore the breathtaking garden that Emy-Lou designed, or grab a glass bottled coke for a nickel at the Biedenharn Museum and Gardens. See one of the last standing buildings from the WWII Selman Army Airfield Navigation School, hear about General Claire Chennault, leader of the Flying Tigers, and see one of the many restored military airplanes at the Chennault Aviation & Military Museum. You can even hear about the birth of Delta Airlines! Learn about Swiss immigrant Judge Henry Bry and his role in developing North Louisiana at Layton Castle. This creole cottage turned castle is one of the few historic homes in the Unites State still lived in by descendants of European settlers to the area.
MUST TRY BITES
Crispy fried catfish, mouthwatering po-boys, and good old-fashioned barbecue are just a few of the tasty things you can sink your teeth into when you visit one of the many restaurants in Monroe-West Monroe. Enjoy locally sourced cuisine from award-winning chef Cory Bahr at Parish Restaurant and Bar. With Cory’s passion for food and local ingredients, you are sure to have a meal you won’t forget. Start your meal with the original ducks wraps and end the night with a slice of their Pop’s lemon pie. What sounds better than Cajun cuisine with a view of the Ouachita River? Trapp’s offers a scenic view and a meal you won’t forget. Try their famous seafood nachos, po-boys, and seafood platters for a taste of Louisiana. Flavorful, Spicy, Tangy – these are just a few words that describe JAC’s Craft Smokehouse. What started out as a good truck quickly turned into a local favorite. JAC’s menu items range from delicious handheld sandwiches to large meat plates to even fried brussels sprouts.
RAISE YOUR GLASS
Flying Tiger Brewery is inspired by General Claire Chennault’s Flying Tigers. Guests can enjoy a flight of their specialty beers like the Burma Blonde or Heroic Hops at the bar under the nose of a P-40 plane. And be sure to check out their new pizza joint, Victory Pizza! Flying Heart Brewing and Pub, located in the heart of Downtown West Monroe, serves six beers year-round with a rotating variety of seasonal brews that are sure to please any palate. They’re known for their craft pizzas made with fresh ingredients on thin, NY-style dough. Located in the rolling hills of West Monroe, Landry Vineyards is a local tradition and a must-see stop for visitors. Enjoy the views from the Tasting Room while sampling their wines that range from dry to semi-sweet. Don’t miss the Fall and Spring Outdoor Concert Series. Established in June of 2022, Thirsty Farmer is the area’s newest winery & vineyard. The family-owned winery crafts wines for all wine lovers. In the mood for mead? Two Warriors Meadery is the first and only meadery in the state of Louisiana! Enjoy unique flavors like Bayou Blues Berry and Lemon Zinger.
ENJOY LOCAL EVENTS
Bring a chair and head to downtown West Monroe for a night filled with fun! The Ouachita Live concert series is a free downtown event hosted that features local musicians. This family-friendly event takes place the last Friday of the month from March – October. Don’t forget to grab a bite to eat from food trucks on site. Get ready to crawl at the Downtown Gallery Art Crawls! Downtown Gallery Crawls are held on the first Thursday bi-monthly (starting in February) in both Monroe and West Monroe. Enjoy food, drinks, and live music. Explore both cities like never before with a Heron Hunt. 100 heron sculptures are spread out throughout Ouachita Parish, and each one has its own unique, beautiful design. Hop in the car and visit as many as you can!
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE AWAITS
An outdoor adventure is waiting for you in Monroe-West Monroe with our many waterways, parks, and outdoor activities! Rent a canoe or kayak from Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge and get a closer look at the gorgeous lake. Explore trails, outdoor libraries, a dog park, mountain bike trails, and more at Kiroli Park. Take a walk on the wild side at the Louisiana Purchase and Gardens Zoo or explore a beautiful 70-acre forest and wetland park at Restoration Park. Monroe-West Monroe offers a range of outdoor fun!
FESTIVE FUN & HOLIDAY CHEER
Monroe-West Monroe is home to several festivals and events! Let the good times roll during Mardi Gras with the Krewe of Janus and Krewe de Riviere. Enjoy two parades and two weekends of fun! Celebrate the river at Ouachita Riverfest. This festival is held in the spring and includes a duck drop, fishing tournament, food trucks, and more. The Northeast Louisiana Celtic Festival happens each October. Participate in the Highland Games, enjoy a kid’s zone, and Celtic themed food trucks and makers. It’s the most wonderful time of year at Christmas on the River! From a redneck parade to ballet gala, Christmas on the River is jam packed with events for the whole family to enjoy throughout November and December.