The Best Things to Do in Monroe, NC

Posted by Deborah Rodrigues in Charlotte, Local Guides and Resources

Updated January 2022

This small city in Union County is growing quickly. The long, winding roads of Monroe lead you to hidden gems where you can go thrift shopping, jog through the park, or sip on a variety of local wines. Read on to discover some of the best things to do in Monroe, NC!

Places to Eat

Attention all coffee lovers! If you’re a sucker for a great latte paired with a delicious scone, Alice Jules Coffee is the place for you. Their drink menu is packed with fun flavors and anything from a classic Americano to a Pina Colada Smoothie.

On top of their main menu, this Monroe coffee shop offers you a list with even more yummy choices – I recommend the Cinnamon Toast Crunch latte. Choose your ideal treat from the selection of muffins, scones, bagels, breads, and cake. There are even a few different gluten-free options available!

If you want something with a little more sustenance, there are quite a few other places to grab a bite. I could give you a long list of the best restaurants in Monroe, NC, but I’ll stick to highlighting one in particular.

East Frank Superette & Kitchen serves up vintage vibes, but more importantly they serve great sandwiches, salads, and daily soups and sides. You also have the option to customize your breakfast or lunch dish to be vegan or vegetarian, depending on your preferences. The “Big Ol’ Breakfast Burrito” is incredible!

You’ll be hit with nostalgia when you browse the old school sodas, candy, toys, and gifts. East Frank is a bottle shop with various craft beers and a large wine collection, and there is also an espresso bar! There’s no doubt that you’ll find something you enjoy or will bring back fun memories of your childhood.

Places to Shop

If you love to shop secondhand and help a great cause along the way, check out this thrift shop in Monroe, NC. Second Chance Boutique is an upscale thrift shop and home décor store where you can find a new dress or an accessory to boost your favorite outfit. As a bonus, the proceeds all go to the Union County Turning Point victim services agency.

There are many other boutiques downtown, such as M-Bellish and Studio Boutique, where you can find charming additions to your spring and summer wardrobes. If you like locally made goodies or tchotchkes of the like, check out Peddler’s Paradise for anything from stained glass gnomes to custom charm bracelets.

Of course, there is always Poplin Place Shopping Center down Highway 74 in Monroe, where more mainstream shops such as Target or TJ Maxx are located. A newer store in this shopping center, pOpshelf, offers cute and cost-efficient home décor, toys, kitchen items, beauty products, and more. Get ready to plan your next shopping day in Monroe!

Places to Play

Enjoy spending time outside rather than in stores all day? No problem. Right as you enter Downtown Monroe, you will find Belk-Tonawanda Park. This park is connected to the City of Monroe’s Greenway system.

With a large playground, covered picnic tables, and a pleasant walking trail, you are guaranteed to have a nice family day at Belk-Tonawanda. There is a huge amount of open space at this park, providing the location of many special events that happen in the City of Monroe.

If you want to explore Historic Downtown Monroe, you can walk to the Union County Government buildings, the Old County Courthouse, and all of the local shops and restaurants.

Another gem in downtown is the Union County Farmers Market, across the way from Belk-Tonawanda park. Open every Saturday, this Monroe farmers market features fresh and local produce, eggs, honey, handmade gifts, and more.

Lastly, if you are a wine aficionado, enjoy sipping on a locally made glass of wine, or just love chatting with new or old friends while admiring the view, you need to visit Treehouse Vineyards.

Treehouse Vineyards is owned by a North Carolina family and has been welcoming visitors to try their award-winning wines for over a decade. Get your friends together for a tasting, or book the “Date Nite Treehouse” for the evening and take in the beautiful scenery as you watch the sunset.

Wine doesn’t appeal to everyone’s taste, but luckily there are other options in the area. To find your preferred beverage, stop by The Courthouse Self-Pour Taphouse, Home Brew, or Southern Range Brewing Co. to get a cold pint.

If you are thinking about relocating to Monroe, NC, your day trip awaits. Get a coffee, stroll around Historic Downtown, grab lunch, have a picnic at the park, shop until you almost drop, and end the day with a glass of wine and a gorgeous sunset. Perfect!

Places to Call Home

Ready to make the move? Our team at M/I Homes is here to help. Browse our communities in the Monroe area today!

Deborah Rodrigues

Internet Sales Manager

Deborah started at M/I Homes in January 2021. Before her role as an Internet Sales Manager, she assisted home buyers in the Charlotte Metro area as a Sales Associate and the Land Department as a Market Analyst. Originally from Brazil, Deborah moved to the United States with her family when she was nine. She is fluent in Portuguese, Spanish, and English. She is married and has two adorable huskies, Loki and Bella. She is very passionate about dogs and hopes to one day be able to start a non-profit for rescues. In her free time, Deborah enjoys spending time with family watching movies or out in the Queen City exploring the many new restaurants. Her favorite part about new home construction is the excitement that comes with new beginnings for buyers. She believes communication is key and is highly motivated about providing her customers with the best experience possible. Reach out today.