Kid-Approved Summer Fun in Monroe-West Monroe
Summer is for making memories, and Monroe-West Monroe is packed with adventures the whole family will love. Whether your kids want to race go-karts, meet budgies, conquer a ropes course, or simply burn off some energy outdoors, there's no shortage of ways to keep everyone entertained. Before you hear the dreaded "I'm bored," check out these kid-approved summer activities in Ouachita Parish!
Race Into Fun at Excalibur Family Fun Center
If your kids love a little friendly competition, Excalibur Family Fun Center is a must-visit. It's easy to spend an entire afternoon here with attractions for every age.
You'll find:
Go-karts
Mini golf
Laser tag
Escape rooms
Arcade games
And more!
Whether your family is racing for bragging rights or working together to escape the clock, there's something for everyone.
Make It a Full Day at Surge Entertainment
One stop. Endless fun.
Surge Entertainment is one of the area's largest family entertainment destinations and perfect for those hot summer afternoons.
Challenge your family on:
The indoor ropes course
Bowling lanes
Laser tag
Arcade games
Sports simulators
Indoor playground
And more!
Don't forget to grab lunch while you're there - you won't even have to leave the building.
Strike Up Some Fun at Bayou Bowl
Sometimes the classics are still the best.
Spend an afternoon bowling a few frames, competing in the arcade, and enjoying snacks at Bayou Bowl. It's a great rainy-day option and perfect for families looking to cool off indoors.
Visit the Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo
No summer bucket list is complete without a trip to the Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo.
Meet animals from around the world while exploring more than 80 acres of beautiful grounds. Families can also enjoy:
Train rides
Boat rides
The petting zoo
Budgie feeding
Tortoise encounters
Shaded walking paths
Splash Bad
Pack your camera - you'll definitely want photos with your favorite animals!
Paddle Together
Looking for an adventure the whole family will remember?
The Ouachita Paddling Trails offer beginner-friendly routes perfect for introducing kids to kayaking. Paddle beneath towering cypress trees, keep an eye out for turtles and birds, and experience Northeast Louisiana from a whole new perspective.
Morning and evening paddles are especially enjoyable during the summer months.
Discover, Learn & Play
The Northeast Louisiana Children's Museum is filled with hands-on exhibits that encourage imagination, creativity, and play. From toddlers to elementary-aged children, there's something designed to keep curious minds busy for hours.
It's the perfect stop when you need an indoor break from the summer heat.
End the Day with Something Sweet
Every great summer adventure deserves a sweet ending.
Treat the family to:
Frozen custard from Eskamoe's
Ice cream from The Creamery
A gluten free dessert from Butter
Fresh cookies from CAKE
A specialty drink or pastry from your favorite local coffee shop
Because calories don't count during summer vacation... right?
Whether your family loves animals, outdoor adventures, bowling, racing go-karts, or simply spending time together, Monroe-West Monroe has enough kid-approved fun to fill an entire summer. So, grab the sunscreen, pile everyone into the car, and start checking these adventures off your family's summer bucket list. The best memories are waiting to be made in the Twin Cities.