Monroe County offers a little bit of everything . . . history, recreation, shopping, educational opportunities, and the arts. And it’s all nestled on the shores of beautiful Lake Erie, with easy access to nearby freeways. Ann Arbor, Detroit and Toledo are each less than an hour away, but there are plenty of things to do and to enjoy right here. Monroe County prides itself on having a small town environment with big city advantages.
Highlights Include
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Schools and libraries:
Monroe County offers a variety of public, charter and private schools for preschool through grade 12. Post secondary institutions include Monroe County Community College, a satellite center for Siena Heights University, and various specialty training schools. Monroe County is also less than an hour away from four-year universities including the University of Michigan, Wayne State University, Eastern Michigan University and the University of Toledo. The Monroe County Library System has 16 branches. |
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The arts:
Monroe’s River Raisin Jazz Festival, featuring free performances by noted jazz musicians, draws thousands to downtown Monroe each August. The Annual Blues festival, sponsored by the Monroe County Library System, brings renowned blues musicians to perform at a series of free concerts in honor of Black History Month. Theater and music enthusiasts can choose from a variety of amateur and professionals performances at Monroe’s historic River Raisin Centre for the Arts and at the new La-Z-Boy Center Meyer Theater at Monroe County Community College. |
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Recreation:
With more than 50 miles of shoreline along the western basin of Lake Erie, Monroe County is popular destination for those who love boating, fishing, swimming and camping. The 1300- acre Sterling State Park, the only state park on Lake Erie, is located just north of Monroe, and the county boasts more than 20 golf courses. Monroe County also has an extensive local parks system and is home to a variety of year-round festivals. |
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History:
The City of Monroe, dating back to 1785, is one of Michigan’s oldest communities. More than 100 marked historic sites, including local museums, can be visited around the county. Visitors to downtown Monroe can walk a two-mile Historic Heritage Route, dine and listen to live entertainment at downtown restaurants and stroll along the River Raisin, which winds through the heart of the city. |
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Dining and shopping:
Monroe County abounds with specialty, ethnic, and fine dining restaurants. Shopping opportunities include Frenchtown Square Mall, the Horizon Outlet mall and Cabela’s, the world’s foremost outfitter and one of the top tourist attractions in Michigan. Other large retailers include Meijer and Wal-Mart. |
