Southwest Louisiana Travel Guide

Explore the culturally and naturally rich Southwest Louisiana with our comprehensive tour guide. Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food to try, and more.


Southwest Louisiana, located in the Acadiana region of Louisiana in the South of the United States, is a treasure trove of cultural and natural attractions. From historic sites and museums to scenic parks and outdoor adventures, this region has something for everyone. In this comprehensive tour guide to Southwest Louisiana, we will cover all the must-visit places, best things to do, local culture, food and drink scene, and more.

Introduction to Southwest Louisiana

Southwest Louisiana is known for its unique blend of French, Spanish, and Creole culture, which is reflected in its food, music, and architecture. The region is also home to several natural wonders, including bayous, beaches, and national parks. The major cities in Southwest Louisiana are Lake Charles, Lafayette, and Sulphur.

List of Places to Visit in Southwest Louisiana

Here are some of the top places to visit in Southwest Louisiana:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Vermilionville Living History Museum and Folklife Park: A recreated 18th-century village that showcases the Acadian, Native American, and Creole cultures that shaped the region.
  • Acadian Village: A restored 19th-century Acadian village with guided tours and live demonstrations of traditional crafts such as blacksmithing, weaving, and candle-making.
  • Creole Nature Trail: A scenic drive through the wetlands and prairies of Southwest Louisiana, home to hundreds of species of birds and wildlife.
  • Shadows-on-the-Teche: A historic antebellum mansion and gardens that offer guided tours and educational programs.
  • Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu: A museum dedicated to the history and pageantry of Mardi Gras, the iconic Louisiana festival.
  • Charpentier Historic District: A neighborhood in Lake Charles that features beautiful homes and buildings with unique architectural styles.
  • Ella West Freeman Foundation: A museum that celebrates African American culture and history in Southwest Louisiana.

Natural Attractions of Southwest Louisiana: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Charles: A freshwater lake that offers fishing, boating, and camping opportunities.
  • Sam Houston Jones State Park: A 1,087-acre park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping facilities.
  • Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge: A 9,621-acre national park that provides a habitat for the endangered Louisiana pine snake and other wildlife.
  • Calcasieu Lake: A saltwater lake that is popular for fishing and kayaking.
  • Prien Lake Park: A 29-acre park that offers a beach, playground, and picnic areas.
  • The Boudin Trail: A trail that takes you to some of the best boudin (a local sausage) spots in the region.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southwest Louisiana

Southwest Louisiana is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Lake Charles Boudin Bicycle Trail: A 2.8-mile trail that takes you through scenic parks and over historic bridges.
  • Prien Lake Park Nature Trail: A 1.4-mile trail that winds through a natural wetland habitat.
  • Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point: A visitors center that provides information about the various hiking and biking trails in the Creole Nature Trail.
  • Coushatta Casino Resort Trail of the Shadows: A 1.5-mile trail that takes you through the woods and to the site of an old Indian village.

Best Things to Do in Southwest Louisiana: Activities and Tours

From music festivals to food tours, Southwest Louisiana has no shortage of things to see and do. Here are some of the best activities and tours in the region:

  • Louisiana Cajun Food Tours: A guided tour that takes you to some of the best Cajun restaurants and markets in Southwest Louisiana.
  • Mardi Gras: Experience the iconic Louisiana festival in the streets of Lake Charles or Lafayette.
  • Boudin Wars: Sample some of the best boudin in the region and vote for your favorite at this annual festival in Sulphur.
  • Festival International de Louisiane: A celebration of the diverse music and cultures of Louisiana and the world, held annually in Lafayette.
  • The Contraband Days Pirate Festival: A pirate-themed festival that features live music, food, and a parade, held annually in Lake Charles.
  • Vermilionville Performance Center: A venue that showcases live music, theater, and dance performances.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southwest Louisiana

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Southwest Louisiana, here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your trip:

Day Activities
day 1 Tour Vermilionville Living History Museum and Folklife Park, dine at Cafe Des Amis
day 2 Visit the Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu, hike the Lake Charles Boudin Bicycle Trail
day 3 Drive the Creole Nature Trail, picnic at Sam Houston Jones State Park
day 4 Take a Cajun food tour, enjoy a music performance at Vermilionville Performance Center
day 5 Explore the Shadows-on-the-Teche, discover the Charpentier Historic District
day 6 Go fishing or kayaking at Calcasieu Lake, try boudin from The Boudin Trail
day 7 Visit Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge, enjoy the Contraband Days Pirate Festival (if in season)

Food and Drink Scene of Southwest Louisiana

Southwest Louisiana is renowned for its delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine, which features dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya, crawfish, and boudin. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Gumbo: A hearty stew made with seafood, sausage, and vegetables, served over rice.
  • Jambalaya: A dish made with rice, meat, and vegetables, similar to paella.
  • Crawfish Etouffee: A creamy dish made with crawfish, onions, and peppers, served over rice.
  • Boudin: A sausage made with rice, pork, and spices, often served with cracklins and hot sauce.
  • Po’Boy: A sandwich made with a crispy baguette and filled with seafood or roast beef.

Local Beverages

  • Abita Beer: A craft beer from Abita Springs, Louisiana, known for its flavorful brews.
  • Praline Liqueur: A sweet liqueur made with pralines, a popular Southern candy.
  • Hurricane: A fruity rum cocktail that originated in New Orleans.

Where to Stay in Southwest Louisiana: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Southwest Louisiana offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Here are some of the top places to stay:

  • L’Auberge Casino Resort: A luxury hotel and casino in Lake Charles, with a spa, golf course, and fine dining options.
  • Holiday Inn Express and Suites Sulphur: A budget-friendly hotel in Sulphur that offers comfortable rooms and a complimentary breakfast buffet.
  • Drury Inn and Suites Lafayette: A mid-range hotel in Lafayette that includes a breakfast buffet, evening snacks, and access to a fitness center.
  • Red Roof Inn Lake Charles: A pet-friendly hotel in Lake Charles that offers free Wi-Fi and parking.
  • The Good Times Motel: A retro-style motel in Lake Charles that offers affordable rates and a unique atmosphere.

What to Buy in Southwest Louisiana: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are plenty of unique souvenirs and local products to bring back from Southwest Louisiana. Here are some ideas:

  • Tabasco Sauce: A classic hot sauce that is made in Avery Island, Louisiana.
  • Mardi Gras Beads: Colorful beads that are popular souvenirs from the Louisiana festival.
  • Artwork by Local Artists: Southwest Louisiana is home to many talented artists, whose works can be found in galleries and markets.
  • Louisiana Hot Sauce: A spicy sauce that pairs well with Cajun and Creole dishes.
  • Creole Mustard: A tangy, whole-grain mustard that is a staple in many Louisiana kitchens.

Local Culture and Customs of Southwest Louisiana

Southwest Louisiana’s culture is a unique blend of French, Spanish, and African influences, which are reflected in its food, music, and architecture. The region is also known for its Mardi Gras celebrations, which feature parades, costumes, and music. The people of Southwest Louisiana are known for their hospitality and friendliness, and visitors are often welcomed with open arms.

Best Time to Visit Southwest Louisiana

The best time to visit Southwest Louisiana is in the fall (September-November) or spring (March-May), when the weather is mild and pleasant. The region gets very hot and humid in the summer, and hurricanes can be a concern in late summer or early fall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southwest Louisiana

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, especially gumbo, jambalaya, and boudin.
  • Attend a live music performance, such as zydeco or Cajun music.
  • Visit the local markets and shops to buy unique souvenirs.
  • Attend a Mardi Gras parade or festival.
  • Seek out the natural and historic sites in the region.

Don’t:

  • Assume that all Cajun food is spicy.
  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions.
  • Leave valuables in your car when visiting parks or other attractions.
  • Ignore warnings about hurricanes or severe weather.

Safety and Health

Safety in Southwest Louisiana

Southwest Louisiana is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it’s always a good idea to take some precautions. Here are some safety tips:

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in urban areas.
  • Don’t leave valuables in your car.
  • Use caution when swimming or boating in the region’s waterways.
  • Follow the posted safety guidelines at parks and other attractions.

Health in Southwest Louisiana

Southwest Louisiana has several hospitals and medical centers, but it’s a good idea to have travel insurance in case of emergency. Visitors should also take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses, such as Zika virus, by using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants.

Getting to Southwest Louisiana: Transportation Options and Logistics

Southwest Louisiana is served by several airports, bus stations, and highways. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Southwest Louisiana

  • Lake Charles Regional Airport: Located in Lake Charles, with flights to several major U.S. cities.
  • Lafayette Regional Airport: Located in Lafayette, with flights to several major U.S. cities.
  • George Bush Intercontinental Airport: Located in Houston, Texas, with international and domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Southwest Louisiana

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in Lake Charles, with bus service to several cities in the U.S.
  • Jefferson Lines Bus Station: Located in Lafayette, with bus service to several cities in the U.S.

Other Options

  • Amtrak: There are several Amtrak stations within driving distance of Southwest Louisiana, including the Beaumont Station and the New Orleans Station.
  • Car Rental: There are several car rental companies in the region, which offer a convenient way to explore Southwest Louisiana at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Southwest Louisiana

The best way to get around Southwest Louisiana is by car, as public transportation is limited. Car rental companies are available at the airports and in major cities. Bicycles are also a popular way to explore the region, with several scenic cycling routes available.

Where to Go Next from Southwest Louisiana: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Southwest Louisiana is located within driving distance of several other interesting destinations, including:

  • New Orleans, Louisiana: A vibrant city known for its music, food, and historic sites.
  • Houston, Texas: A cosmopolitan city with world-class museums and dining.
  • Austin, Texas: A funky city known for its music, arts, and outdoor activities.
  • Natchez, Mississippi: A quaint historic town with antebellum homes and Southern hospitality.

Conclusion

Southwest Louisiana offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty that is not found anywhere else in the country. Whether you’re interested in Cajun cuisine, Mardi Gras celebrations, or scenic parks, this region has something for everyone. With this comprehensive tour guide, you’ll be able to plan your perfect trip to Southwest Louisiana.



    Cameron
    Jennings
    Lake Charles
    Sulphur