When my husband and I celebrated our wedding anniversary in December 2025, we wanted a destination that was close enough for a weekend road trip but full of unique experiences. We found exactly that in West Monroe Louisiana.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Duck Dynasty, enjoy treasure hunting through antique stores, or simply love discovering charming Southern towns, West Monroe Louisiana offers a relaxing getaway with plenty to see and do.
Why Visit West Monroe?
Located in northeastern Louisiana, West Monroe sits across the Ouachita River from Monroe and has become well known thanks to the Robertson family and the hit television show Duck Dynasty. But there's much more to the city than television fame.
You'll find friendly people, delicious Southern food, locally owned shops, and plenty of opportunities to slow down and enjoy a weekend away.
Start Your Morning at Haskell's Donuts
No trip to West Monroe is complete without stopping at Haskell's Donuts.
Locals line up early for these fresh-made donuts, and after one bite, it's easy to understand why. The donuts are light, fluffy, and melt in your mouth. If you're an early riser, arrive soon after they open for the best selection.
Pair your donut with a hot cup of coffee, and you've got the perfect way to begin exploring the area.
Spend Time Exploring Local Antique Stores
One of our favorite parts of the trip was browsing the antique stores scattered throughout West Monroe.
If you're anything like me, you can spend hours wandering through booths filled with vintage kitchenware, farmhouse décor, collectibles, old advertising signs, furniture, and one-of-a-kind treasures.
Every store had its own personality, and you never knew what hidden gem might be waiting around the next corner. Even if you don't leave with a purchase, exploring these shops is part of the experience.
The Highlight: Touring Duck Commander
The absolute highlight of our anniversary trip was visiting Duck Commander.
Walking through the building feels like stepping into a piece of television history. Fans of Duck Dynasty will recognize many of the places they've seen on the show, and the self-guided tour shares the story of how the Robertson family built their company from a small duck call business into a nationally recognized brand.
Along the tour you'll find:
- Historic duck calls and hunting memorabilia
- Displays featuring the Robertson family
- Behind-the-scenes exhibits from Duck Dynasty
- Company history
- A large gift shop filled with Duck Commander merchandise
Even if you weren't an avid viewer of the show, the story of faith, family, hard work, and entrepreneurship makes the visit worthwhile.
The gift shop alone is worth spending time in. You'll find everything from apparel and duck calls to books, souvenirs, coffee mugs, seasonings, and unique gifts.
For us, this stop was the reason we planned the trip—and it exceeded our expectations.
Other Great Places to Eat
West Monroe has no shortage of delicious Southern restaurants. Throughout your visit you'll find everything from barbecue and seafood to burgers and classic Louisiana comfort food.
If you're spending a weekend in town, plan to enjoy several locally owned restaurants instead of relying on chain eateries. It's one of the best ways to experience the area's hospitality.
Why West Monroe Makes a Great Anniversary Trip
Sometimes the best trips aren't the ones filled with elaborate itineraries. They're the ones where you slow down, browse local shops, enjoy good food, and make memories together.
That's exactly what West Monroe Louisiana gave us.
Between hunting for antiques, eating incredible local food, and finally seeing Duck Commander Museum in person after watching Duck Dynasty for years, our anniversary weekend turned into one we'll always remember.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
- Visit Duck Commander early in the day before larger crowds arrive.
- Wear comfortable shoes for shopping and exploring.
- Start your morning with Haskell's Donuts before they sell out.
- Leave room in your vehicle—you never know what treasures you'll find while antique shopping.
- Spend at least two days to fully enjoy the area without feeling rushed.
Final Thoughts
West Monroe may not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning a Louisiana getaway, but it surprised us in the best possible way.
The combination of Southern hospitality, unique shopping, fantastic food, and the opportunity to visit Duck Commander makes it a destination well worth adding to your travel bucket list.
If you're looking for a laid-back road trip filled with memorable experiences, West Monroe deserves a spot on your list. We left with full stomachs, a few antique treasures, and wonderful memories from celebrating another year of marriage together.
And honestly, that's exactly what a great anniversary trip should be.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is West Monroe worth visiting?
Absolutely. West Monroe offers a mix of local restaurants, shopping, outdoor recreation, and attractions like Duck Commander, making it an excellent weekend destination.
How much time do you need in West Monroe?
Two to three days is perfect for enjoying the shops, restaurants, and attractions without rushing.
Is Duck Commander free to visit?
The retail store is free to browse, while tour availability and pricing may vary depending on the current offerings. Check before you visit if you're interested in taking the full tour.
What is West Monroe known for?
West Monroe is best known as the home of Duck Commander and the Robertson family from Duck Dynasty, but it's also popular for antique shopping, Southern restaurants, and its welcoming small-town atmosphere.