A Fun-Filled Fall Getaway to Monroe-West Monroe, Louisiana
There’s just something special about the fall—the cool, refreshing temps after a long, hot summer; the crisp air and colorful trees; the seasonal foods and festivities. All of these things and more make it one of the perfect times for a visit to Monroe-West Monroe, Louisiana. From vineyard tastings and outdoor concerts, to fascinating museums and gardens, nature-filled outdoor activities and entertaining events, Northeast Louisiana’s lively twin cities, Monroe-West Monroe, have a season full of festive fun planned. Start crafting an unforgettable fall getaway itinerary for the whole family with the favorites to follow.
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Wine and Music Events in Monroe-West Monroe
While known for their exquisite wines that draw visitors from all over for tastings and tours, Landry Vineyards —a family-owned and operated winery located in West Monroe—is also a popular hot spot for their Outdoor Concert Series.
The line-up ranges from country to jazz, and the concerts are suitable for all ages. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and get ready for a rockin’ good time! The cost is $10 for adults; $5 for ages 13-18, and free for children 12 and under.
Click here for details on the 2023 fall concert season.
Unique Museums and Gardens in Monroe-West Monroe
Landry Vineyard Concerts and local events are just the beginning of all the fun that awaits in Monroe-West Monroe this autumn. Your fall getaway wouldn’t be complete without exploring two of the most prominent local attractions: Biedenharn Museum & Gardens and the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum.
Biedenharn Museum & Gardens
Biedenharn Museum & Gardens is the homesite of Joseph Biedenharn, the first bottler of Coca-Cola, where visitors can tour his beautiful home; learn about Coca-Cola’s bottling beginnings from an entertaining soda jerk; and check out early Coca-Cola memorabilia at the on-site Coke Museum.
During the home tour, be sure to stroll through the gorgeous ELSong Gardens, named after Biedenharn’s daughter, Emy-Lou, a renowned opera singer prior to World War II. The expansive garden features dozens of beautiful, year-round blooms, along with an array of impressive terraces, fountains, statues, and more.
Don’t let your visit end without exploring the extensive collection of historical artifacts—including unique Bibles, Russian icons, and a variety of rotating exhibits—from the Smithsonian and other distinguished institutions.
Chennault Aviation & Military Museum
Step back in time to three historic chapters in the nation’s and Monroe’s history with a visit to Chennault Aviation & Military Museum. Delve into the fascinating past of the Navigation School, where more than 15,000 pilots were trained during WWII; the birth of Delta Airlines from a regional crop-dusting service; and Louisiana native General Claire Chennault, leader of the Flying Tigers.
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Outdoor Activities in Monroe-West Monroe
Next to seasonal celebrations and exploring local attractions, fall is one of the best times to get outside for some fresh-air fun. For the outdoor enthusiast, a world of adventure awaits at top Monroe-West Monroe nature spots.
Area Parks
Bring your bike and blaze the six cycling trails based out of Forysthe Park that take you throughout the city of Monroe. Or lace up your walking shoes and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the nature trails at the beautiful Restoration Park.
Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo
You could easily spend an entire day at the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo! The 80-plus-acre zoological park and gardens offers much more than the typical zoo. In addition to the two miles of animal exhibits where you’ll see everything from lions, sloths, and bears to zebras, birds, reptiles, and more, other unique and memorable attractions include:
• Train rides through open grassland and cypress tree forests
• Zooasis Splash Pad, perfect for cooling off from the summer heat
• Children’s petting zoo
• Boat rides on the Safari Boat through swamps
• Budgie Exhibit and Tortoises Feeding Exhibit
Heron Hunt
Hop in your car and scope out the 100 hidden Herons on the Bayou located throughout the twin cities while taking in the local scene.
Browse Monroe-West Monroe’s diverse lodging options and book your stay for your upcoming fall getaway.