Situated on more than 80 acres and located in Monroe, the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo provides entertainment, family fun and educational programs for both children and adults. Take a scenic boat ride during the spring and summer months, and see animals, primates and native Louisiana flora. Stop by and feed the giraffes, or catch a lion feeding. If you're feeling hungry, grab a "Jungle Meal" at the concession stand and enjoy it at one of the several provided picnic areas. The zoo also has a gift shop and hosts year-round charity events. The Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo is open year-round from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo
1405 Bernstein Park Road
Monroe, LA 71202
318-329-2400
monroezoo.org
Located on the corner of Riverside Drive and Forsythe Avenue in the Garden District of Monroe, the Biedenharn home was built in 1914 by Joseph A. Biedenharn, the first bottler of Coca-Cola. The Museum and Gardens now encompass this home, a Coca-Cola Museum, a Bible Museum and the exquisite "Elsong" Garden, named after Emy-Lou Biedenharn, an acclaimed European singer and daughter of Joseph A. Biedenharn. The Coca-Cola Museum features both indoor and outdoor exhibits, including an original Model T Coca-Cola delivery truck, a representation of the actual bottling process and numerous vintage signs. Take a leisurely stroll through the English-inspired Elsong Garden, with its conservatories, fountains and Oriental Pavilion. The garden was recently named "The Best Garden You've Never Heard Of" by Southern Living Magazine. The Bible Museum exhibits texts and artifacts that celebrate the contribution and importance of the Bible to Western civilization and American culture. Hours are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Biedenharn Museum and Gardens
2000 Riverside Drive
Monroe, LA 71201
318-387-5281
bmuseum.org
Spend the day at the popular Chennault Park, located on Millhaven Road adjacent to the Monroe Regional Airport. The park is home to an 18-hole, par-72 golf course, tennis courts, Frisbee courts, a soccer complex and softball fields. The golf course is a championship length 7,042-yards from the farthest tee boxes, and provides three sets of tees for players of all skill levels. The park features extensive picnic facilities and several rest rooms. Go hiking or biking on the miles of bike paths and trails and enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Chennault Park
8475 Millhaven Road
Monroe, LA 71202
318-329-2440
ci.monroe.la.us
