During the 19th century, Coatbridge became a major centre for mining and the production of iron and steel with the town becoming known as 'the industrial heartland of Scotland'. Summerlee - The Museum of Scottish Industrial Life lies on the site of the former Summerlee Ironworks and includes an electric tramway, underground mine and working machinery, providing an insight into the town's former industrial life.
Other attractions include the Time Capsule leisure centre, which includes a water park and ice rink, and Drumpellier Country Park. The park contains two natural lochs, one of which is a registered Site of Special Scientific Interest, as well as extensive woodlands, a visitor centre and butterfly house. The Coatbridge railway bridges, the former Cattle Market Building, St Mary's Church and Coatbridge Library are all B-listed buildings. Coatbridge is also the site of a famous 10 day long St Patrick's Day Festival. Famous faces from the town include Mark Millar, the noted comic book writer. A sculpture paying homage to Millar can be found in the town by Monkland Canal.
The town has a number of eateries as well as a variety of local and high street shops. The town is well served by a variety of railway lines which cover six railway stations. Coatbridge is easily accessible from Edinburgh, Stirling and Glasgow by road. Regular bus services connect the town to the surrounding area, including East Kilbride and Hamilton.