While Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to treat your special someone to an unforgettable experience, Lake Charles has plenty of romance to offer year round. From romantic getaways and upscale dinners to laid back walks along the lakefront at sunset, Louisiana's Playground is the perfect destination for romance. Fall in love with seven romantic date ideas to experience in Lake Charles!

hands rolling out pasta to make ravioli

Couples Cooking Class at Pasta Lab

Looking to shake up the routine date night? Look no further than a class at Pasta Lab. During your session you'll cover ingredients, equipment, and best practices for sheeting, extruding, and infusing. Not to mention two taster-size dishes are provided and you can bring your own preferred beverages! Small class sizes and hands on instruction expertly prepare you to recreate the mouthwatering magic at home!

two kayakers sit and talk in the water on orange and pink kayaks

A Romantic Boat Tour or Kayak Excursion

Southwest Louisiana is home to numerous waterways waiting to be explored by you and your loved ones! Pack a few snacks and drinks from Crying Eagle Brewing to enjoy, then sit back, relax with your love, and let your Lake Area Adventures guide you on a boat tour. Or, plan your own personalized adventure with single, tandem, or fishing kayaks!

Magical Moments luxury picnic

Pack Up a Romantic Picnic for Two

Romantic picnics are the perfect addition to a Valentine's day celebration or as the main event! Pick up a charcuterie board from Bayou Boards by Gabrielle and wine from Lake Street Liquor, then head over to picture perfect spots like like Sam Houston Jones State Park, Prien Lake Park, or The Grove at Heritage Square! Add a magical touch to your evening with a perfectly curated experience from the experts at Magical Moments Picnics.

soft robes in white, ceam, and lavendar at alevan spa

A Couples Spa Experience

Unwind as a couple with a little pampering and a rejuvenation package for two at one of our spas, such as Golden Nugget's Spa & Salon, L'Auberge Casino Resort's Spa du Lac, Scarborough's Salon & Day Spa, or Alevan Salon Spa Sanctuary!

steak being lit on fire at ember grille and wine bar

An Extravagant Dinner

Whether you're dining in a casino resort or around town in Southwest Louisiana, you are sure to get your fill of flavors! From fine wines and creative cocktails to seafood and steaks, seasoned to perfection – Lake Charles boasts a number of upscale restaurants that are ideal for treating yourself to the luxury dining experience or a special date night. 

oak trees lining shell beach drive

A Cozy Stroll along the Lakefront Promenade and Shell Beach Drive

A romantic stroll may seem antiquated, but like an old fashioned cocktail it never goes out of style! Take a break from your daily hustle and bustle and enjoy the simple pleasures of strolling hand-in-hand down scenic routes in Southwest Louisiana. Enjoy the breathtaking sunsets while strolling past the charming homes on Shell Beach Drive or along the picturesque Lakefront Promenade.

rutherford beach

Chase the Sunset along the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road

Other must-visit locations for unforgettable sunsets are one of the many beaches along the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road. Walk along the shoreline at Rutherford Beach admiring the seashells or spend the day relaxing at Holly Beach, listening to the sounds of the Gulf. Extend your trek with a drive down to Peveto Woods Bird and Butterfly Sanctuary where you can explore the Chenieres, unique sanctuaries for migratory birds and gorgeous butterflies.

Lake Charles is a romantic destination waiting to be explored with your loved ones. Start planning your Valentine's Date night, anniversary celebration, or romantic getaway filled with memorable experiences in Louisiana's Playground. Looking to take your relationship to the next level? Check out Top Engagement Photo Destinations in Lake Charles for inspiration.