If you've lived in the Charlotte Area for a while, you'll probably already know that downtown Monoroe is going through a major revitalization plan - with new small businesses popping up every day. As the largest city in Union County, it's home to the school district offices and courthouse AND so very much more. If you're looking for a fun quick "day trip" or just to explore your own town more, Monroe is such a fun spot!
Start your morning at East Frank's Superette for breakfast; this kitschy spot is owned by an incredible family who continues to give back to the community. I used to visit the Common Market in Plaza Midwood for years and when I learned that East Frank's was opening in Monroe, it quickly became a family favorite. There are old-school pinball games in the back room and so many great breakfast and sandwich options from which to choose. And on a cold day - SOUP! If you're looking for more traditional coffee/pastry breakfast, you'll want to check out Alice Jules on the other side of downtown - also a fan-favorite, the coffee is always brewed to perfection!
Head over to the brand-new Monroe Science Center. While its much smaller than Discovery Place Science, this museum is named after Christine Mann Darden - one of NASAs hidden figures and a Union County native. The space has been wonderfully designed and has some really cool features for "kids" of all ages.
Grab lunch at the Franklin Court Grille and if it's nice, sit outside. For your kids who love the police, this is right next to the Monroe Police Department, so they'll see their fair share of our best in blue - all of whom are more than happy to high-five or take pics with your kiddos (or they have for mine when they were little!).
If you're looking for something a little different for lunch, you might want to try the Main Street Bistro or Oasis as well. Monroe is also home to Home Brew Tap Room and Smoothies - which will absolutely quench your thirst. AND, our favorite pizza from the town of Matthew's opened an outpost in downtown Monroe - the Pizza Exchange. This pizza is among the best in the Charlotte metro area! And don't forget to stop at Gingham Girls for a slice of their cake rolls - or even bring a whole roll home!
Once your bellies are full, it's time to shop! Some of the great stores you'll find in downtown Monroe include:
And, if you plan the right way, before heading home you can catch a show at the newly-renovated Dowd Center Theatre.
This multi-purpose performing arts facility, built in the Art Moderne style, seats 560 people and is perfect for movies, meetings, business and civic gatherings, receptions, concerts, music and theatre performances, and weddings. It's often rented by local performance arts groups and is home to the Union County Symphony as well.
