Monroe, Louisiana is a fun city to visit and live even temporarily, with many great old mansions that have been converted into museums. One of them, the Biedenharn Museum and Gardens, belonged to Mr. Biedenharn, the first person to bottle Coca-Cola, and has a small exhibition about the popular drink. Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo has almost 500 wild animals and a small petting zoo. Restored aircraft from WWII to today are on display at Chennault Aviation and Military Museum, while the Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge protects endangered plants and animals and is great spot for hiking and nature watching. New adventures spots too like The Flying Tiger Brewery. Great food options and places to hang out downtown Monroe and West Monroe. Standard Coffee, The Flying Heart Brewery and Pub, Jaq’s Craft Smokehouse and Trapp’s are just to name a few to enjoy. Our southern hospitality will always welcome you home.