Lake Charles Travel Guide
Discover the best things to do, places to see, food to eat, and where to stay in Lake Charles, the cultural hub of Southwest Louisiana.
- Introduction to Lake Charles
- List of Places to Visit in Lake Charles
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Lake Charles
- Best Things to Do in Lake Charles: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Lake Charles
- Food and Drink Scene of Lake Charles
- Where to Stay in Lake Charles: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Lake Charles: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Lake Charles
- Best Time to Visit Lake Charles
- Do’s and Don’ts of Lake Charles
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Lake Charles: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Lake Charles
- Where to Go Next from Lake Charles: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Lake Charles is a cultural gem in Southwest Louisiana, steeped in history, natural beauty, and unique Cajun and Creole traditions. With stunning lakes, lush forests, and well-preserved historical buildings, Lake Charles offers a one-of-a-kind travel experience that’s perfect for adventure-seekers, history buffs, foodies, and nature lovers alike. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take you on a journey to the best that Lake Charles has to offer.
Introduction to Lake Charles
Nestled in Acadiana, in Louisiana, in the southern United States, Lake Charles is a thriving city with a population of over 78,000 people. Founded in the 19th century, the city has a rich history and is home to many historical landmarks, museums, and art galleries. Lake Charles is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, fishing, hunting, and water sports.
List of Places to Visit in Lake Charles
If you’re wondering what to see in Lake Charles, you’re in luck! This city is packed with sights and attractions that will satisfy your curiosity and entertain you.
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
If you are interested in history, Lake Charles has many museums and historical places that showcase the city’s past. The Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu is a must-visit, especially if you’re in town during the Mardi Gras celebration. The museum displays extravagant Mardi Gras costumes and other memorabilia and lets visitors experience the essence of this grand celebration.
Another must-see museum is the USS Orleck Naval Museum, which is housed in a decommissioned naval destroyer ship moored on the banks of the Calcasieu River. Visitors can tour the ship, learn about its history, and explore the exhibits inside. The Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center is another excellent destination, offering galleries and exhibits of local and regional art and culture.
Natural Attractions of Lake Charles: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Lake Charles has a wealth of natural beauty, from the vast Calcasieu Lake to the verdant Sam Houston Jones State Park. Prien Lake Park is an excellent spot for family picnics, bike rides, or walks and offers great views of the lake. The Creole Nature Trail All-American Road is a 180-mile journey through Louisiana’s coastal wetlands, wildlife habitats, beaches, and marshes.
For those seeking more outdoor adventures, Lake Charles has plenty of choices. Hiking and biking are popular in Sam Houston Jones State Park, and the trails are packed with beautiful flora and fauna. Fishing is also popular on the Calcasieu River, and many charter companies offer guided tours. Water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are also prevalent on Prien Lake and the Calcasieu River.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Lake Charles
Lake Charles is an ideal destination for those who like to explore nature by foot or bike. Sam Houston Jones State Park has over 85 miles of biking and hiking trails steeped in pine forests, cypress swamps, and scenic waterways. The Lake Front Promenade spans almost a mile and provides a perfect scenic route for walkers.
Best Things to Do in Lake Charles: Activities and Tours
No visit to Lake Charles is complete without trying some of the city’s unique experiences. Take a bayou tour, visit the local breweries, or catch a show at Golden Nugget Casino. Lake Charles also has over fifteen golf courses, where visitors can hit the links and enjoy scenic views of the area.
Week-Long Itinerary for Lake Charles
For travelers planning a week-long vacation, Lake Charles has plenty of attractions to fill your days.
| Day | Itinerary |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Visit the USS Orleck Naval Museum and the Mardi Gras Museum. |
| Day 2 | Explore Sam Houston Jones State Park and hike or bike the trails. |
| Day 3 | Take a Creole Nature Trail tour and see the local wildlife. |
| Day 4 | Visit the Imperial Calcasieu Museum and the Charpentier Historic District. |
| Day 5 | Try your hand at fishing on the Calcasieu River or Prien Lake. |
| Day 6 | Take a brewery tour and sample local beer and cuisine. |
| Day 7 | Relax and enjoy the Lake Charles Beach on the Lake Front Promenade. |
Food and Drink Scene of Lake Charles
Lake Charles is known for its delicious food with a mix of Southern, Creole, and Cajun cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local drinks:
Must-Try Dishes
- Crawfish Etouffee
- Shrimp and Grits
- Boudin
- Fried Catfish
- Gumbo
Local Beverages
- Abita Purple Haze Beer
- Hurricane Cocktail
- Sweet Tea
Where to Stay in Lake Charles: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Lake Charles has a wide range of options for accommodation, suiting every budget and preference. From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to stay in Lake Charles:
- L’Auberge Casino Resort
- Golden Nugget Lake Charles
- The Lake Charles Best Western Plus
- Comfort Inn Lake Charles
What to Buy in Lake Charles: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Lake Charles offers a plethora of souvenir options, from Mardi Gras masks and beads to locally made jams and spices. Other must-buy items are hot sauce, Cajun seasoning, and pralines. The Luna Bar and Grill offers hot sauce made from scratch, and The Kitchen Chick in Downtown Lake Charles has a wide range of kitchen gadgets and accessories.
Local Culture and Customs of Lake Charles
Lake Charles is known for its cultural heritage, including the traditions of the Cajun and Creole people. Music is an essential aspect of the city’s culture, and visitors can attend live music events at many local bars and restaurants. Lake Charles also has a rich history of Mardi Gras and hosts one of the largest celebrations in the state.
Best Time to Visit Lake Charles
The best time to visit Lake Charles is during the shoulder season of March to May and September to November. The weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner than in the peak summer months. Lake Charles hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, but the most popular is Mardi Gras, held in February or early March.
Do’s and Don’ts of Lake Charles
Do:
- Visit the local museums and historical sites.
- Try the local cuisine.
- Attend live music events.
- Experience Mardi Gras.
Don’t:
- Litter or damage the natural environment.
- Disrespect local customs and traditions.
- Take the wildlife for granted.
Safety and Health
Safety in Lake Charles is generally not a problem, but visitors should take the usual precautions against theft and be aware of their surroundings at all times. As for health, visitors should avoid drinking tap water and stick to bottled or filtered water.
Getting to Lake Charles: Transportation Options and Logistics
The most convenient way to get to Lake Charles is by air. The nearest airport is Lake Charles Regional Airport, which is served by several airlines. Visitors can also rent a car at the airport or take a taxi to their destination. Greyhound has several bus routes that stop in Lake Charles, and many visitors arrive by car via Interstate 10.
Airports Near Lake Charles
- Lake Charles Regional Airport (LCH)
- Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
- Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
Bus Stations Near Lake Charles
- Greyhound Bus Station in Lake Charles
- Greyhound Bus Station in Houston
Other Options
Visitors can also arrive by train via the Amtrak station in Lake Charles or take a private shuttle service from nearby cities.
How to Get Around in Lake Charles
The best way to get around Lake Charles is by car or by bike. Visitors can rent cars at the airport or in town or use Uber or Lyft. Many of the attractions in Lake Charles are located in the Downtown area and are within walking distance of each other.
Where to Go Next from Lake Charles: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Lake Charles is a gateway to many nearby destinations worth visiting. Lafayette, the heart of Cajun Country, is a mere two-hour drive and offers more great food, music, and culture. Houston, Texas, and New Orleans, Louisiana, are also nearby, both a three-hour drive away.
Conclusion
Lake Charles is a charming destination that packs a punch with its natural beauty, history, and culture. From outdoor adventures to historical landmarks, local cuisine and traditions, visitors can experience a unique and authentic part of the world. We hope this comprehensive tour guide helps you plan your visit to Lake Charles and make the most out of your trip.
