Monroe is Michigan’s third oldest settlement. French missionaries traveled on the Riviere Aux Raisins, or River Raisin, and first settled here in 1634. Later, the settlement was the site of one of the most important battles of the War of 1812. The first pioneers sailed Lake Erie and disembarked in Monroe to points westward. From it’s earliest days Monroe has been an important crossroads in Michigan.

Today, everything you need in Historic Downtown Monroe is within walking distance. Walk across the River Raisin on our lighted pedestrian bridge or walk along the river on our river walk. Enjoy free concerts in the park at the band shell in St. Mary’s Park. Shop in our cozy, one-of-a-kind specialty stores. Browse through our antique, collectible, and re-sale shops. Grab a bite to eat or get a cold drink at one of our bustling restaurants or local pubs. Visit the Monroe Historical Museum or take in a play or show at the River Raisin Centre for the Arts. Plan to spend the day exploring Historic Downtown Monroe.

• Free customer parking is available with over 1,430 downtown parking spaces. See Parking & Map
  
• Monroe is located only 45 minutes south of Detroit off of I-75, take exit 15 and follow the Historic Monroe signs.


• We are just 20 minutes north of Toledo off I-75, take exit 11 and follow the Historic Monroe signs.


• From Ann Arbor take U.S. 23 south to Dundee and then take M-50 east to the heart of Historic Downtown Monroe.