Outdoor fun abounds at Chennault Park. While the oak-filled, 500-acre reserve is best known for its 18-hole golf course that’s loved by locals and visitors alike, the park is also home to a full disc/frisbee golf course, 12 NHPA-sanctioned horseshoe pits, and a paved 1.2-mile walking and biking path. The Northeast Louisiana Delta African American Heritage Museum is also located within the park and offers visitors a chance to explore artifacts that relate to the life and culture of the Black community in Northeast Louisiana.

Marvel at the quiet beauty found at Restoration Park in West Monroe, featuring 70 acres of forest and wetland perfect for exploring. Along the way, take time to soak up panoramic views of the park’s scenic lake and many overlooks. Bring your furry friend along for a light jog or leisurely stroll along the scenic 1.2-mile stone trail.

Immerse in the natural beauty and wonder of the majestic Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge. With 4,500 acres of lake, swamp, bottomland hardwoods and woody uplands, the opportunities for adventure are endless. Embark on a sight-seeing journey of the refuge’s abundant wildlife, from alligators and turtles to coyotes, deer and countless bird species.

Bring your boat or rent a canoe and enjoy a water-filled day at the heart of the reserve—a 1,600-acre lake, lined with stately cypress and tupelo trees and filled with plentiful fishing. Kick the fun up a notch and get your learning on with the reserve’s interactive experiences, live animal exhibits and arboretum.

While you’re here, make sure you fit in some of Monroe-West Monroe’s signature outdoor experiences.

Master the art of archery at Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office Training Center’s Archery Park. The range features a number of natural areas for every type of archer, including a youth area and a space designated for elevated shooting. If you’re new to the sport, not to worry—range personnel are available to help you along the way.

Yearning to get out on the water? Head over to H2 Go Paddle and rent a kayak or stand-up paddle board and blaze a liquid trail along the scenic Ouachita River, Bayou Desiard or the expansive lake at Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge. You can even sign up for a guided paddle from one of their pros!

Don’t miss out on the wildly good fun at Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo. The 80+ acre zoological park and gardens are home to over 300 animals of roughly 130 species, and offer a true zoo experience, with two miles of pathways that will take you and your crew through animal exhibits ranging from lions to zebras, bison, baboons and more. In addition to scores of wildlife, Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo also features nearly 30 acres of landscaped grounds flourishing with native fauna, where you’ll also find a walk-through greenhouse.

Your outdoor adventure in Monroe-West Monroe wouldn’t be complete without savoring some of the local flavors that can be found along the banks of our area’s waterways. The hardest part will be deciding which ones to try!

If stunning views of the Ouachita River while you dine is what you’re looking for, make your way to Trapp’s, Warehouse No. 1, and Cotton. They each bring something unique to the table—the best thing to do is let your taste buds choose which one(s) to experience on this Monroe-West Monroe visit and which ones to save for your next one.

Trapp’s is a local favorite known for their seafood nachos, spuds, and Cajun cuisine. Warehouse No. 1 is also known for tasty Cajun creations, but what really sets this eatery apart is its unique history. The building, located in Monroe’s historic district, has withstood the test of time, standing for roughly half of the city’s 200-year heritage. If you’re craving some of the best comfort food this side of the Mississippi, look no further than Cotton, known for their creative Southern cuisine.

For waterfront dining views along the beautiful Bayou DeSiard, head over to the Waterfront Grill and Catahoula's. One of Monroe’s best-known restaurants, the Waterfront Grill serves up chargrilled burgers, sandwiches and po’boys, and a variety of mouth-watering entrees, including Black Angus steaks, succulent chicken dishes and savory seafood cuisine.