The community that would become Monroe was founded when the Great Northern Railway came through the area. Merchants living in nearby Park Place moved to take advantage of more accessible transportation to sell their wares. They called their new home Tye City. However, the name was later changed to Monroe (after President James Monroe).
Monroe's economy was built on timber. However, when local cedar stocks became depleted, agriculture took over. The agricultural industry is still a major force in the area. The farms, which produce berries, vegetables, poultry, beef, and dairy, contribute to the pastoral fabric of Monroe.
Monroe is the largest city between Everett and Wenatchee, but, with around 18,000 residents, it's not big enough to overwhelm travelers. From picturesque hiking trails to thrilling NASCAR events, its attractions appeal to all tastes. Take your time to discover the very best of this Washington gem.
When should you visit Monroe, WA?
Monroe has a warm Mediterranean climate with small differences between its high and low temperatures. Winters are cool but relatively comfortable, with typical daytime temperatures between the mid-40s and low 50s. Summers are warm but rarely oppressive, with average daytime temperatures in the low to mid-70s. During heat waves, temperatures can exceed 100 degrees, but Monroe's mid-year conditions are usually enjoyable. It's no coincidence that this time of year is the height of Monroe's tourism season, so expect to pay a little more for your accommodations.
If you want to avoid more expensive rates, consider visiting Monroe during the fall or spring, when the crowds are much scarcer and the temperatures range between the low 50s and the low 70s. Expect some snow during March and November. September is usually as warm as June, so it's a great option for travelers who want to have a summer-like vacation on a budget.
Monroe usually experiences some rain year-round, so be sure to pack your umbrella. If you really do not want to face any rain, avoid Monroe between November and January. July and August are Monroe's driest months.
Though a city's weather matters to many people, other travelers let events guide their decisions. While it's no longer used for the NASCAR National Series, the Evergreen Speedway does host feeder events in the Whelen All-American Series and K&N Pro Series West. Since it is the only NASCAR-sanctioned weekly track in the state, it attracts tourists from across Washington and beyond. The Evergreen State Fair, held every August, also attracts a lot of tourists. This 12-day event is the largest county fair in the Pacific Northwest, so many fair enthusiasts gladly pay more for accommodations in order to not miss it!
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Monroe, WA:
Monroe, WA: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. nightly cost trends by star rating class in Monroe, WA. Browse these charts to calculate the least expensive months to stay in Monroe during the year.
What are the best hotels near the Monroe, WA area?
4 Star Average Prices: $217.08
For a more indulgent vacation, stay at one of the best luxury hotels around Monroe. Though these hotels, which are located in the nearby wine district of Woodinville, will cost a little more than many in downtown Monroe, guests agree that the extra features and the high-quality rooms make them worth the splurge.
With its modern decor and brick exterior, Hampton Inn & Suites Woodinville oozes elegance. It's located close to almost 50 wineries, but you don't need to venture from your hotel to taste their wines. The hotel has four wine-tasting rooms that showcase the best local wineries.
Before exploring the town, make sure to take advantage of the hotel's free all-you-can-eat breakfast bar. The On the Run breakfast bags, which are available every weekday, are perfect if you're short on time. Work off the food and wine in the heated indoor pool or at the fitness center.
Offering beautifully appointed rooms and suites with fireplaces, soaking tubs, and plenty of space for unwinding, Willows Lodge is one of Washington's best resorts. If you need some help relaxing, book a treatment at the on-site spa, and, when those cravings hit, indulge at the AAA 5-Diamond award-winning Herbfarm Restaurant, the acclaimed Barking Frog, or the lively Fireside Lounge. Willows Lodge is bordered by the Burke Gilman Trail, a 26-mile paved path that runs all the way to Seattle. It's the perfect place for a walk, a run, or a ride on one of the hotel's complimentary bikes.
What budget hotels will you find in Monroe, Washington?
3 Star Average Prices: $147.89
You don't need to spend a lot of money on your Monroe accommodations. The area has several budget-friendly hotels that cater to frugal tourists. Though they do not have as many features as more expensive hotels, these modest establishments pride themselves on their clean, affordable rooms.
Monroe Motel is a pet-friendly boutique motel with a rustic country atmosphere. Its standard rooms feature cable television, mini-fridges, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Some of the large rooms have sitting areas, and the studio apartments have kitchenettes. However, the rooms aren't air-conditioned, so they can become warm during the summer. While there's no on-site gym, you can burn calories by strolling around the 3 acres of woodland on the hotel property. The Monroe Motel also offers free breakfasts and parking.
Fairgrounds Inn in Monroe is another affordable boutique hotel nearby. Its recently renovated rooms feature flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, microwave ovens, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The upgraded rooms come with sofas or kitchenettes and give you more space. If you're counting your pennies, you'll appreciate the free parking and the continental breakfast, which is served until 9:30 a.m. every day. Well-behaved pets are always welcome.
