Monroe is the seat of Monroe County in Michigan, United States. It is the largest city in Monroe county, with a population of over twenty thousand. Monroe city is one of the historical places in the state.
The city can be inarguably categorized as one of the most friendly tourist destinations in Michigan, offering a diverse selection of opportunities. Young George Armstrong Custer ( a former US Army officer and cavalry commander) and other members of his family lived in Monroe.
There are amazing attractions like River Raisin National Battlefield Park, William C. Sterling State Park, George Armstrong Custer Equestrian Monument, Cappuccilli Park, Harbortown RV Resort, and more.
Are you planning to explore Monroe? Here are the best and fun things to do in Monroe, MI.
Things to Do in Monroe, MI
1. William C. Sterling State Park
William C. Sterling State Park
William C. Sterling State Park attracts visitors because of its three lagoons, walleye fishing, and a sandy beachfront by the mouth of Sandy Creek.
You can explore Lake Erie through boating and fishing from the Park, with a sandy beach that extends for 1,300 acres.
There are numerous kayak access and fishing piers in and within the Park. In addition, you can watch Lake freighters from its shore.
Address: 2800 State Park Rd, Monroe, MI 48162, United States
2. Monroe County Museum
Monroe County Museum
This attraction is housed in what was formerly the home of General & Mrs. Cluster in downtown in a Georgian Post Office, which dates back to1911.
The Monroe County Museum features one of the largest collections of antiques focused on southeastern Michigan.
It showcases exhibits that feature historical artifacts and materials from the lives of Civil War soldiers of Monroe county and the woodland culture of Native Americans.
You will also learn a lot about Victoriana and early French-Canadian immigrants with lots of displays about them and other essential facts.
The Monroe County Museum conducts massive research on Monroe County’s history, archives, and genealogy; you definitely need to check it out.
The archives welcome thousands of scholars and students annually. You will also find cemetery indexes, obituaries, and more.
Address: 126 S Monroe St, Monroe, MI 48161, United States
3. The Old Michigan at Sawyer Homestead
Old Michigan at Sawyer Homestead
The Old Michigan at Sawyer Homestead has been a significant part of the city’s long history and has played a vital role in the day-to-day lives of the locals.
The first white pioneer of the city, Francois Navarre, dwelled on the property after acquiring the land in 1785 from Potowatomi Indians.
An Amry headquarters were housed on the property in Navarre in 1813 before the Battle of River Raisin by General Winchester.
The Old Michigan at Sawyer Homestead currently sits on the same spot as the house, serving as a remembrance of the city’s past.
This historic Sawyer Homestead was included in the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s historic conference guide.
The facilities are available for rental for different events, such as dinners, corporate luncheons, receptions, or private weddings.
Address: 320 E Front St, Monroe, MI 48161, United States
4. Harbortown RV Resort
If you’re searching for where to reside during your stay, booking a room at Harbortown RV Resort is among the top things to do in Monroe, MI.
Harbortown RV Resort is a region filled with incredible history and thrilling outdoor exploration opportunities.
The resort features eighty sites large enough to contain even the largest RV on the road, so come along with friends and family.
There are numerous exciting amenities for both locals and visitors to explore, such as batting cages, go-karts, and so on.
You will also find a mini-golf course and an arcade section in the recreation facility of the clubhouse. In addition, there is a swimming area for those who would want to cool off.
Address: 14931 Laplaisance Rd, Monroe, MI 48161, United States
5. River Raisin Marina & Campground
On the northern part of River Raisin Marina & Campground lies the Monroe Turning Basin Port in Monroe, Michigan.
John and Veronica operate River Raisin Marina & Campground with the effort of their three children.
They acquired the site in a bid to conserve their sailboat of 50-foot in deep water, which would come to be the River Raisin Marina.
The 50-foot vessel, known as bark, was bought in 1987, and they utilized five whole years roaming around the South Pacific.
They explored numerous unique islands in the Pacific Ocean, including the Philippines, Tahiti, Australia, and Hawaii.
John singlehandedly sailed this boat from Japan to Santa Barbara. They have been sailing for about thirty years and have logged more than 100,000 nautical kilometers.
Address: 2502 E Elm Ave, Monroe, MI 48162, United States
6. Michigan Welcome Center
Michigan Welcome Center
Michigan Welcome Center is a center that attracts hundreds of people annually. It is managed and operated by MDOT.
The Center provides essential information about Pure Michigan tourism and travel with several amenities.
There are rest areas that are open throughout the day, fresh drinking water, a pet exercise area, and paved parking areas.
Michigan Welcome Center features picnic areas where visitors can hang out and enjoy some delicious snacks and drinks.
Modern bathroom facilities and telephones are available for everyone to use.
The staff is welcoming, highly knowledgeable, and always ready to assist travelers and partner with the state’s tourism industry to enhance the state’s events, destinations, and activities.
Address: I-75 NB, Monroe, MI 48161, United States
7. George Armstrong Custer Equestrian Monument
George Armstrong Custer Equestrian Monument
George Armstrong Custer’s Equestrian Monument “moaning the Enemy ” illustrates the Custer of the Civil war. Edward Clark Potter designed it.
Custer wasn’t a native of Monroe, but he spent a significant part of his early life here with his family and attended school in the city.
In order to attend the Military Academy of the United States and participate in the Civil War of America, Custer relocated from Monroe.
Custer earned significant general promotion due to his dedication, hard work, and achievement all through the era of the war.
He took part in the Western Indian wars after the Civil War, and he was defeated and killed on the 25th of June, 1876, during the Little Big Horn Battle.
His wife, Elizabeth Bacon Custer, and President William Howard Taft uncovered a bronze horse monument of 14 feet for $24,000 in Monroe in June 1910 to honor him. George Armstrong Custer Equestrian Monument is a historic site in Michigan; it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on the 9th of December, 1994.
Address: Monroe, MI 48162, United States
8. Monroe County Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Museum
Make sure to include a visit to Monroe County Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Museum to your list of top things to do in Monroe, MI.
Monroe County Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Museum has collected and showcased more than one thousand five hundred unique items from the Era of Vietnam Ear for more than fifteen years.
The exhibits consist of magazine articles, newspaper clippings, dioramas, and personal letters from local service members.
A Cobra Gunship was added to the memorial site by the city of Monroe on the 27th of August, 1994. In addition, Monroe city uncovered the “Killed in Action” and “Living Memorial” on the 17th of May, 1987, to honor those who died or got missing in action.
Monroe County Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Museum showcases models, medals, artifacts, ribbons, military uniforms, and more exclusively from the Vietnam War.
As a seasonal site, the Monroe County Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Museum is open from memorial day weekend to Labour Day Weekend on Saturdays.
Address: 1095 North Dixie Highway, Monroe, MI 48162, United States
Also, check out our list of things to do in Novi and things to do in Benton Harbor for a fun time in these cities of Michigan.
9. River Raisin Center for the Arts
River Raisin Center for the Arts
River Raisin Center for the Arts was established with the goal of supporting art groups by displaying high-quality art learning, art promotion education, and performances.
Founded by an association of community leaders in 1987, River Raisin Center for the Arts is a non-profit organization.
The group wanted to convert the Monroe movie theatre, which dates back to 1938 in the middle of the historic downtown of Monroe, into an art hub.
The establishment is dedicated to teaching, motivating, and promoting the city and the surrounding communities as a dominating center for regional art.
River Raisin Center for the Arts offers numerous theatre and dance programs, including holiday presentations and musicals for everybody to enjoy.
Address: 114 S Monroe St, Monroe, MI 48161, United States
10. River Raisin National Battlefield Park
River Raisin National Battlefield Park
The construction of River Raisin National Battlefield Park began in October 2010, but it officially opened in May 2011.
River Raisin National Battlefield Park was established to preserve, honor, and interpret the 1812 battle in Monroe and Wayne counties in January 1813.
The American Indians Tecumseh alliance won the battle while the United States experienced its horrible defeat.
This battle was one of the most remarkable ones of the 1812 war, while only thirty-three Americans out of the one thousand who fought lived.
Its visitor center consists of life-sized Indian, British, and American troops presentations, dioramas, and a 17-minute long video provided on the River Raisin Battle. The center is open to everyone throughout the year, free of charge, and every day of the week.
Address: 333 N. Dixie Hwy. Monroe, MI 48162, United States
11. Go Karts Plus
If you want to try something new or adventurous, visit Go Karts Plus in Monroe. Go Karts Plus features several lanes and go-karts as well as putt-putt and batting cages for adults and children to enjoy.
There is an arcade section featuring numerous mindblowing games, which usually captivates the attention of game enthusiasts.
This family fun entertainment center features a lovely mini golf course and an ice cream section that offers a variety of ice cream flavors. Taking part in the activities offered by Go Karts Plus is one of the fun things to do in Monroe, MI.
Go Karts Plus is an excellent place for activities such as school programs, birthday parties, and group gatherings.
Address: 14999 Laplaisance Rd, Monroe, MI 48161, United States
12. Soldiers and Sailors Park
Soldiers and Sailors Park, Monroe County’s oldest park, was founded in 1909 after half a mile-long riverfront parcel was bought from the IIgenfritz family of Monroe City.
The property was acquired for $700 through the support of Monroe’s Civic Improvement Society. It was modified into a gorgeous Park through flowers, shrubs, and planting trees.
Soldiers and Sailors Park was initially known as “Riverside Park” between 1909 to 1923. In 1923, just a week before Custer Statue was unveiled in the park, the Park’s name was changed to its current name.
The Custer Statue was in the Park till 1955, when it was moved; Soldiers and Sailors Park was the Civil War Veterans’ last annual meeting place.
In the 1920s and 1930s, the local war veterans usually gathered at the Custer Statue on Memorial Day. They hosted memorial services for the fallen heroes in the Civil War.
Address: 687 E Front St #583, Monroe, MI 48161, United States
13. Barn Owl Studio’s Wood Workshop
Stop by Barn Owl Studio’s Wood Workshop whenever you want to do a makeover for your personal space. Barn Owl Studio’s Wood Workshop offers you the best rustic decor, one of the most sought-after interior designs.
The studio offers customers a wide variety of rustic designs for affordable costs by creating woodwork.
When you visit, you get the chance to bring to life something worthy of being proud of at the end of the session.
Barn Owl Studio’s Wood Workshop session, which lasts for 2-hours, enables students to partake in every kind of hands-on program after picking a design.
After the wood has been sanded and stained, the decals are placed and painted. However, the decals can be removed after drying for a few minutes showcasing a gorgeous decoration.
Each workshop is perfect for various events or gatherings, including get-togethers, couples dates, and corporate meetings.
Address: 20 S Monroe St, Monroe, MI 48161, United States
14. Phoenix Theatres Mall of Monroe
Phoenix Theatres Mall of Monroe offers a high-quality video display with an outstanding sound system and attractive light.
The theatre uses the latest sound technology with great phase and frequency, guaranteeing visitors an amazing experience.
It features heated reclining seats, which are comfortable and relaxing to sit on, offering clear views from any point.
Phoenix Theatres Mall of Monroe is well-maintained and always clean, featuring a snack bar that offers snacks and drinks.
If you’re a movie fan, don’t hesitate to book your movie tickets at Phoenix Theatres Mall of Monroe, as it is one of the best places to visit in Monroe, MI.
Address: 2121 N Monroe St, Monroe, MI 48162, United States
15. Monroe Escape Rooms
Test the ability of your team to work together when you play a game at Monroe Escape Rooms in the city of Monroe.
Monroe Escape Rooms offers families a fantastic experience through the various unique escape room themes.
The escape facility offers you a chance to choose from the available escape themes where you can create new memories.
Each room offers puzzles to solve and involves searching for ideas and opinions to help you escape the room in time.
The games require full concentration, logical thinking, and fast decision-making if you truly want to win.
Monroe Escape Rooms is beautifully designed with gorgeous decor, grey walls, glass doors, comfortable seats, and more. Don’t forget to take beautiful pictures of yourself in the escape room.
Address: 14750 Laplaisance Rd., Suite H30, Monroe, MI 48161, United States
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16. Munson Park
Munson Park, recognized as the largest park in Monroe, provides enormous greenery where many activities can take place.
Munson Park is located on the city’s western outskirts, beside Monroe Custer Airport. It features a walking route within the park and hiking and biking trails through the forests and meadows.
The Park features many sports fields for children and adults to explore through baseball, softball, and soccer.
There is a large play structure with several play equipment for the little ones to run around and have fun on native woodland regions and the natural prairie lawn.
Munson Park is home to a skate park and community gardens, so get ready to have fun with your loved ones. Exploring the destination is one of the fun things to do in Monroe, MI.
Address: 114 S Monroe St, Monroe, MI 48161, United States
17. Serendipitous Vintage
Serendipitous Vintage, located in downtown Monroe, is a one-of-a-kind vintage shop offering nearly everything you need.
Serendipitous Vintage offers various items for women, men, and children dating back to the 1940s to 1990s.
You will find timeless housewares and glassware on display, including toys from the old era. In addition, they offer an extensive collection of 8-track tapes, records, DVDs, CDs, and VHS; there is also a large display of rock t-shirts.
Serendipitous Vintage operates The Flower Market featuring cacti, bonsai trees, houseplants, cactus succulents, and more.
There is a gift store fully packed with anything about garden art, ceramics, terrariums, and fairy gardens.
Take a walk through the lush outdoor greenhouse and bonsai garden; it is absolutely worth it. The Flower Marker offers full-time florist services.
Address: 403 E Front St, Monroe, MI 48161, United States
18. Heck Park
If you’re traveling with your loved ones and do not know what to do in Monroe, MI, visit Heck Park, which Monroe County currently owns.
Heck Park was initially owned and managed by Monroe city in partnership with Monroe county, featuring a good number of amenities.
The Park features a Vietnam Veterans Memorial managed by a special committee of Heck park, which contains members from the Vietnam Veterans Chapter 142, the County Board, and the Park Commission.
It consists of a playground with play equipment for little children to run around, play, and have fun with their counterparts.
Heck Park features a pavilion that can accommodate up to thirty persons at once, making it perfect for get-togethers and friends to hang out.
There are cooking grills operated by charcoal, trails, a sled hill, and a basketball court for everyone to explore.
Address: 1095 N Dixie Highway, Frenchtown Township, Monroe, MI 48161, United States
19. Don Larson’s Bar
The prestigious Don Larson’s Bar is one of the best places to visit in Monroe, MI, especially after a hectic and stressful day.
Whenever you ask a resident where they could get the best burger, all fingers would point towards Don Larson’s Bar.
Don Larson’s Bar is a family-owned and operated bar that has existed for about fifty years after Don Larson founded it, Don’s grandfather.
They offer wings, soft or hard tacos, chicken snackers, chili dogs, and more, including a wide variety of beverages to blend with them.
Address: 713 Stone St, Monroe, MI 48161, United States
20. The Mall of Monroe
Mall of Monroe
Previously known as Frenchtown Square Mall, the Mall of Monroe is an indoor shopping mall located in Frenchtown Charter Township.
The Mall of Monroe officially opened its doors in 1988, housing more than thirty occupants and a church in a 600,000-square-foot facility.
Youngstown’s Cafaro Company manages it with four anchor stores, including Domka Outdoors, Phoenix theaters, and Planet Fitness.
It also includes four vacant anchor stores previously occupied by Pat Catan’s, Sears, and Target.
The Mall of Monroe, due to extensive renovations, has been transformed into an eclectic center with establishments offering different services.
They cater to various visitors’ needs, from outdoor recreation to physical training, performing arts to vehicle customization, and marketing.
Address: 2121 N Monroe St, Monroe, MI 48162, United States
21. Cappuccilli Park
Cappuccilli Park is a beautiful neighborhood park in the city. Cappuccilli Park is nestled on the Trail of the River Raisin Heritage, offering gorgeous views of its surroundings.
It is found not too far from the Riviere Aux Raisins Park and the River Raisin National Battlefield Park, so you can stop by if you like.
There is a designated picnic region with grills where you can hold an unforgettable picnic with family and friends. In addition, Cappuccilli Park offers access to fishing down to the River Raisin bank.
Address: 880 East Elm Ave, Monroe, MI 48162-2519, United States
22. Green Meadows Golf Courses
Swing your club in one of the most beautiful golf courses in the United States when you golf at Green Meadows Golf Course, a family-owned and operated golf course.
Green Meadows Golf Course was founded in 1973 in the southeastern part of Michigan, about 4-miles west of Monroe.
Green Meadows Golf Course, n Monroe County, is an 18-hole public golf course. The golf course offers public play, league play, memberships, fundraisers, and other special events, including a banquet room for small events throughout the year.
Green Meadows Golf Course is nicely manicured with a challenging but fun layout featuring two creeks.
When you’re done with your round, stop by the clubhouse, where you can relax and enjoy a meal and drink, including visiting the fully stocked pro shop.
Address: 1555 Strasburg Rd, Monroe, MI 48161, United States
23. Carrington Golf Club
For an exceptional tee time, visit Carrington Golf Club with your friends. It is an 18-hole golf course.
Carrington Golf Club was designed by Brian Huntley, measuring 6873 yards with a 137 slope rate and a USGA rating of 73.7.
As a standard golf course, it consists of 4 tee sets, making it an excellent place for players of various skill levels.
The adequately maintained golf course has nice fairways and target greens, including sand bunkers and grass tees.
It is considered a state-of-the-art facility with a driving range and different chipping green as a traditional course that offers unique challenges and excitement.
Carrington Golf Club features a full-time restaurant known as Rivers Edge, offering Italian-American dishes. It is open throughout the year.
Address: 911 St James Park Ave, Monroe, MI 48161, United States
24. Old Town Golf and Sportland
The Old Town Golf is a 9-hole golf facility in Monroe, MI. The golf course was opened in 1998 and is owned and operated by Jeffrey Mackinnon.
The golf course was designed by Brian Huntley, a member of the American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA).
Old Town Golf & Sport Land is open to the entire public throughout the year and is perfect for all skill-level golf players. It has well-manicured fairways and putting greens with bunkers and hazards that make golfing challenging and fun.
One unique thing about this golf course is its impressive views, which make golfing much more enjoyable. Carts are available, but most players go on foot to explore the scenic environment.
Address: 6724 N Monroe St, Monroe, MI 48162, United States
25. Margo’s Garden Center
Margo’s Garden Center
The Margo’s Garden Center is owned by couples James and Jessica Upton. They bought the land in 2019 to establish this business.
The whole place was wholly forested, so they had to cut down some of the trees to set up this large garden center.
Some mature trees were retained to serve as shelter, and walking pathways were incorporated.
The Garden Center was named after the grandmother of James, Margaret Mickelson, and its opening was done on Mother’s Day.
The Margo’s Garden Center spans over six acres of land. Some things to purchase in the garden include trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials, mulch, gardening equipment, fertilizers, and bulk topsoil. House and tropical plants are available for purchase in spring.
Like other Garden Centers, springtime is always the busiest period for the Margo’s. Some of the top choices for customers are coneflowers, hydrangeas, bee balm, astilbe, and lilacs. In fall, popular choices amongst customers are hibiscus, aster, daisies, mums, and sedum.
Address: 6585 N Telegraph Rd, Monroe, MI 48162, United States
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Plan Your Trip to Monroe
Monroe can be best described as a borough with an eclectic mix of attractions that caters to the needs of everyone.
It is a place that celebrates history, art, culture, and tourism as top units, making it unique and different.
There are several places to visit and activities to take part in. Have a fun Monroe trip!