Need a break? Luckily, you don't have to go far to find one. In Lake Charles, you’ll find classic Cajun and Creole cuisine, untouched marshlands, local festivals and festivities, high-rolling nightlife, music, and incredible locally owned shops, eateries, and breweries.
Downtown Lake Charles is a walkable area with a hyper-local focus. Here, you can experience Alexander Art Studio, complete with a larger-than-life mural on the outside of the building, which is a must-stop photo opportunity. You can also find fleur-de-lis paintings, souvenirs, and specialty items. Within walking distance, you can enjoy Boombox Frozen Pops and Ice Cream, Botsky’s premium hot dogs, and plenty of other interesting finds from one of the Lake Area’s favorite restaurants, Luna Bar & Grill, to the newly opened Panorama Music House.
For luxurious surroundings, check out Las Vegas-style gaming at Golden Nugget Lake Charles and L’Auberge Casino Resort. These properties sit side by side and offer golf courses, spa facilities, restaurants, live entertainment, and amazing pools with a lazy river. The Isle of Capri Casino & Hotel has games of chance, restaurants, and a dance floor with live entertainment, great for anyone wanting to Cajun two-step. In Vinton, patrons can experience the heart-pounding thoroughbred racing action at Delta Downs Racetrack Casino & Hotel.
Your taste buds will thank you as you enjoy delicious Cajun/Creole food like gumbo, jambalaya, crab, and boudin (Southwest Louisiana’s favorite snack). Or you can try the local spirits at Bayou Rum and Yellowfin Vodka, and craft beer at Crying Eagle Brewing Company. Crying Eagle features a taproom, beer garden, gift shop, and live music, as well as The Bistro, which serves up hot and delicious stone-fired pizza that pairs perfectly with one of their cold brews. Don’t miss out on Oktoberfest on October 26, complete with a full lineup of German beers, games, and live music.
While you are in town, you owe it to yourself to explore outdoor adventures along the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road. The road features four wildlife refuges, walking trails out over the marsh, Gulf beaches, and endless opportunities to reconnect with nature and unplug from the day-to-day. The Creole Nature Trail is one of only 43 All-American Roads in the nation, and the sunrises and sunsets along the marshlands and Gulf beaches boast some of the most brilliant shades of pink, orange, gold, and violet.
For a relaxing escape, check out places to stay and things to experience at www.visitlakecharles.org.
