Monroe, MI

Travel Guide

A sunset over a coastal landscape with a small island surrounded by water.
A calm river reflecting buildings and a water tower.
A green metal bridge over a river with clear water, surrounded by trees and pebbles on the shore.
A tree by the water's edge, waves gently lapping at the shore, and a clear sky above.
A marina with several yachts docked in calm waters under a clear blue sky.

The absorbing history, wildlife, lakes and year-round sporting activities make this southeast Michigan city an excellent spot for a vacation.

Museums, monuments and a battlefield commemorate Monroe’s history as the home of the famous military general George Armstrong Custer and the site of a major 19th-centrury conflict. Visit to learn about the history and to benefit from the city's location between Lake Erie and the River Raisin.

Start your trip by journeying back into Monroe's past. Go to River Raisin National Battlefield Park to tour the site where American forces suffered one of their worst defeats during the War of 1812. See original firearms and artifacts inside the visitor center. Visit Monroe County Historical Museum, built on the site of General Custer's former home. Browse collections that cover the history of southeast Michigan. Photograph the statue of General Custer, located at the corner of Elm Avenue and North Monroe Street.

Drive a few minutes out of Monroe for Sterling State Park, located on the shores of Lake Erie. Relax on the beach, swim or boat across the lake and hike the nature trails. Grab your binoculars to spot waterfowl and shore birds by the dikes and freshwater marsh at Pointe Mouillee State Game Area. Visit parks inside the city, including Father Cairns Field and others. Veterans Park has a river walk, memorials, playground and sensory garden.

At Munson Park, find a skate park, spray ground and picnic areas. Come here during winter for sledding and ice skating on its frozen pond.

Golfers can pursue their favorite sporting activity on more than two dozen golf courses throughout the Monroe County area.

Reach Monroe through Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, 25 miles (40 kilometers) away. From there, you can pick up a rental car. If you want to explore a little farther afield during your Monroe vacation, consider daytrips to Toledo, Ohio or Detroit. Both cities are less than an hour’s drive away.

Monroe is a good vacation spot, whether you want to play outdoors or pick up historical insights.

Stay near popular Monroe attractions

A beach with calm waters, people swimming, and a stroller under a tree.
Photo by Skyy
Open Photo by Skyy

William C. Sterling State Park

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You can take time to visit William C. Sterling State Park during your travels to Monroe. Wander the lakeside and parks while you're in the area.
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Frequently asked questions

Is Monroe worth visiting?
Monroe is worth visiting for its outdoor activities, like those found at William C. Sterling State Park, and for various events hosted at Monroe County Fairgrounds. Travelers can also enjoy diverse dining experiences, with options ranging from classic North American dishes to Italian cuisine.
When is the best time to visit Monroe?
The best time to visit Monroe is from May through September, when the weather is generally pleasant for travelers. For fewer crowds and better value, the months of December through March are a good option. During this quieter period, you can expect cooler temperatures, which can be quite enjoyable for exploring.
What is Monroe known for?
Monroe is known for being named after James Monroe, and as a riverside city on the River Raisin. Travelers can explore William C. Sterling State Park, visit the Monroe County Fairgrounds, and shop at The Mall of Monroe. The city also offers a variety of North American food.
What is a good itinerary length for Monroe?
A good itinerary length for Monroe is two to three days to enjoy William C. Sterling State Park and local dining. An extended stay of four to five days allows more time to explore the park thoroughly, visit The Mall of Monroe, and check for events at the Monroe County Fairgrounds.
What are the top things to do in and around Monroe?
Monroe offers a mix of outdoor spaces, local landmarks, and shopping opportunities for travelers:

  • Visit William C. Sterling State Park for outdoor recreation and nature.
  • Explore the Monroe County Fairgrounds, a prominent local landmark.
  • Shop at The Mall of Monroe, offering various retail options.
  • Stroll through Woodland Park, another pleasant natural area.
  • Discover the Frenchtown Dixie Library, a local point of interest.

How do I plan a trip to Monroe?
To plan your trip to Monroe, book flights, hotels, and rental cars ahead of time. Explore attractions such as William C. Sterling State Park, Monroe County Fairgrounds, and The Mall of Monroe. When planning your activities, be sure to pair outdoor plans with indoor backups for flexibility with the weather.
What cuisines can you find in Monroe?
In Monroe you can find Cajun Creole cuisine, with dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and étouffée. Travelers also get Southern soul food and New American options. Other choices include Italian, Mexican, and various Asian cuisines like Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and Indian, plus Mediterranean dishes.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Monroe?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Monroe by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Monroe with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Monroe trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Monroe?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Monroe can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Monroe trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Monroe trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Monroe trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Monroe trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Monroe?
If it's your first trip to Monroe, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Monroe hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Monroe hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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