Soak Up the Last Days of Summer in Monroe-West Monroe
Summer may be winding down, but there's still plenty of time to squeeze in one more adventure. Whether you're looking for outdoor recreation, family fun, or a relaxing weekend getaway, Monroe-West Monroe offers plenty of ways to make the most of the season before fall arrives. Here are a few experiences to add to your end-of-summer bucket list.
Paddle the Ouachita Paddling Trails: There's no better way to appreciate northeast Louisiana's natural beauty than from the water. The Ouachita Paddling Trails offer routes for paddlers of all experience levels, winding through scenic waterways like Bayou DeSiard, Black Bayou Lake, Moon Lake, Cheniere Lake, and the Ouachita River. Rent a kayak from Ouachita Paddle & Provisions or bring your own and discover a new perspective of the area before cooler weather arrives.
Catch a Sunset Along the River: Late summer evenings are perfect for slowing down and enjoying a river sunset. Grab dinner on the patio at Warehouse No. 1, Trapp's, or Planters Gastropub, or take a walk along Campbell's Landing or the Monroe RiverMarket. The golden light reflecting off the Ouachita River is one of the area's most beautiful sights.
Visit Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge: If you're looking to escape the crowds, spend an afternoon exploring Black Bayou Lake NWR. Paddle through cypress trees, fish from the pier, or walk along the nature trails. It's a peaceful retreat just minutes from town.
Explore Downtown Monroe and West Monroe: Spend a day browsing Antique Alley or Desiard Street, discovering locally owned boutiques, enjoying lunch at a favorite local restaurant, and stopping for coffee or dessert. Downtown Monroe and West Monroe offer plenty to explore, from murals and historic buildings to unique shops you won't find anywhere else.
Enjoy One More Family Adventure: Before school schedules take over, gather the family for one last summer outing. Spend the day exploring the Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo, where you'll find everything from exotic animals to the Zoo Oasis Splash Pad - the perfect place for kids to cool off on a warm August afternoon. Keep the fun going at the Northeast Louisiana Children's Museum, where hands-on exhibits inspire creativity and imagination. This summer, families can step back in time with the museum's exciting dinosaur exhibit, offering young paleontologists the chance to dig, discover, and explore the prehistoric world through interactive play. It's a fun and educational stop that's sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.
Tour the Biedenharn Museum & Gardens: Escape the afternoon heat inside one of Monroe's most unique attractions. Learn about the first bottling of Coca-Cola, tour the historic Biedenharn family home, stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, and explore one of the nation's largest Bible collections - all in one visit.
Experience Local Flavor: Summer is the perfect excuse to try somewhere new. Whether you're craving fresh seafood, authentic Louisiana cuisine, barbecue, pizza, or homemade desserts, Monroe-West Monroe's locally owned restaurants offer something for every taste. End your meal with ice cream, coffee, or a fresh-baked treat from one of the area's bakeries.
Plan a Weekend Getaway: Sometimes the best way to end summer is simply slowing down. Book a weekend, stay by the river, explore local attractions, attend an event, and discover why Monroe-West Monroe is the perfect destination for a spontaneous getaway before the busy fall season begins.
Summer may be coming to a close, but the memories don't have to. Whether you're paddling a quiet bayou, enjoying dinner overlooking the river, or discovering a new favorite local shop, Monroe-West Monroe offers plenty of reasons to make one more trip before summer slips away.
