During the past decade, the small town of West Monroe in northeast Louisiana has experienced a growth spurt. The city’s population has increased by more than 20 percent, and its amenities have expanded along with it.
Today, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities without having to drive too far away. Where once there was nothing but a few fast food joints and empty storefronts, today there is an assortment of tasty restaurants, cozy bed-and-breakfasts, boutique hotels and outdoor cafes.
Where once there were only fields and farms, today there is an indoor sports arena, public golf course and lush nature trails. Staycationers will find plenty to do when visiting West Monroe—from museums to microbreweries—and plenty of places to stay while they’re there.
Who Is Going to Like West Monroe?
Anyone who loves small-town charm will adore West Monroe. The city is full of Southern hospitality, friendly people and a relaxed, welcoming vibe. It’s a great place to visit for families with children, but it’s also a nice weekend getaway for couples, retirees and small groups of friends. West Monroe is a great place to go if you like exploring.
There are many places to visit, from museums and art galleries to outdoor nature trails. You can also get outdoorsy by going to one of the nearby lakes or streams. West Monroe is also a great place to eat; you can’t walk more than a few feet without finding a new restaurant or food stand. Whether you’re craving burgers, barbecue, tacos or something else entirely, you’ll find what you’re looking for here.
If you’re visiting in the fall, you can also enjoy a wide variety of festivals, such as the Louisiana State Fair, the Cotton Harvest Celebration or the annual Autumn Arts and Crafts Festival.
Where to Stay in West Monroe
If you plan to stay in West Monroe, you’ll have plenty of options for where to stay. There are many hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, cabins and campgrounds in the area. If you want to try something different, there are also unique places to stay like an RV park or even a treehouse. There are several hotels in West Monroe, including the Hampton Inn, Super 8, Baymont Inn, Holiday Inn Express and Motel 6.
There are also several chain hotels in the nearby cities of Monroe, Alexandria and Shreveport. For something a little different, you can also stay in a barn loft, a hobbit house or a yurt. You can also stay in a treehouse if you’d like to try something adventurous.
Where to Eat in West Monroe
There are so many restaurants in West Monroe it would be impossible to list them all. Whether you want to eat out at a fancy, upscale steakhouse or a casual, family-friendly Mexican restaurant, you’ll find what you’re looking for here. For a nice sit-down meal, try The Steakhouse at the Grand Hotel, The Original Fish House, The Cantina Mexican Restaurant or the Grand Café.
If you want to eat at a family-friendly, casual place, try the Peking Chinese Restaurant, the Italian Restaurant, the Pizza Barn or the West Monroe Café. If you’re in the mood for something different, you can also find places that serve Cajun food, barbecue, tacos, burgers and even crawfish.
Activities for Everyone In West Monroe
– Louisiana Art and Craft Center – As the name suggests, this is a center for art and crafts, but it also doubles as a great place to visit with the whole family. There are many exhibits on display, some rotating and others permanent, which you can view while you’re there. There is also a gift shop, a cafe and an art school, so you can make a whole day out of your visit.
– Cypress Bend Nature Trail – This is a nice, easy trail for the whole family. It’s about a mile long and is a wide, clear trail that winds through a lush forest. Along the trail, you’ll find signs with information about the wildlife and plants in the area.
– Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Indoor Sports Complex – This is a must-visit attraction in West Monroe if you have kids or just like to play sports. There are many different types of sports available, including volleyball, soccer, basketball, indoor golf and racquetball. There are also several different exhibits and sports memorabilia, so it’s fun for both sports fans and avid collectors.
Final Words
West Monroe is a charming, friendly city with a lot to see and do. If you’re in northeast Louisiana, it’s well worth a visit. Whether you plan to stay a night or a week, there’s something for everyone in West Monroe. If you’re looking for somewhere new to go on vacation, West Monroe is a great choice. You’ll enjoy exploring this small town and all it has to offer.
