From indoor galleries to outdoor adventures, Lake Charles has plenty of ways to pack in joy. Explore classic historic sites, indulge in authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine, and visit popular attractions and activities throughout the region. Read on to learn about the original experiences you can find here for couples, solo travelers, and families alike.
Local Experiences Worth Exploring
A cultural gumbo, the arts community offers an authentic taste of pastimes and creativity, be it on the palate or the palette. World-class museums delve into history, including the Black Heritage Gallery at the 1911 Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center, which highlights the work and stories of Black and African American artists, and the DeQuincy Railroad Museum, home to a vintage locomotive that showcases the town’s role as a railroad hub.
Kids will love The Children’s Museum of Southwest Louisiana at Port Wonder, with hands-on exhibits such as the Nature Gallery, offering opportunities to try crabbing, while historic landmarks — including the Charpentier Historic District — highlight the region’s eclectic and colorful architecture.
Art-lovers will find plenty to marvel at, too. Explore downtown’s Alexander Art Studio, run by artist Candice Alexander, who puts her signature fleur-de-lis stamps on everything from jewelry and prints to mugs and apparel. At The Art Factory, visitors can DIY art, with classes and workshops ranging from clay to drawing. You can also paint your own pottery at Paint & Fire or explore fun, interactive projects at GP’s Creative Corner, a local favorite for all ages.
To round out the experience, treat yourself to Afternoon Tea at the Golden Doors Event Center. Served in an elegant setting, this refined tradition features a selection of teas paired with tiered trays of pastries, sandwiches, and sweets. It’s a relaxing way to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy a taste of Southern hospitality with a touch of timeless charm.
Dine, Discover, & Indulge
Art takes edible form in the city’s most iconic restaurants. Eat your way along the Boudin Trail, celebrating Southwest Louisiana’s signature finger food at favorites such as Chesson’s Grocery and Famous Foods. Try beignets at Coffee:30 Cafe, cracklins at B&O Kitchen & Grocery, overstuffed po'boys at Darrell’s Famous Poboys, and crawfish at Steamboat Bill’s on the Lake. And save room for bread pudding at Paul’s Rib Shack Barbecue.
Beyond these classics, Lake Charles also offers unique dining experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Roll up your sleeves for pasta-making classes at Pasta Lab, or enjoy a chef-driven meal from Louisiana Seafood Queen Amanda Cusey, the award-winning executive chef of The Terrace at Lake Area Adventures. This high-end restaurant features locally sourced ingredients, premium beef, and carefully paired drinks. Set apart from the main complex, it offers indoor and outdoor seating and is accessible without admission to Lake Area Adventures.
Off-the-Beaten Path Adventures
Outdoor recreation runs the gamut from crabbing at the Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge, to swimming in — or ziplining over — Almosta Lake. The Creole Nature Trail, a 26-mile All-American Road, is a scenic byway renowned for sightings of alligators and birds, with the Peveto Woods Sanctuary among its key stops.
Birding Paradise
Southwest Louisiana is one of the country’s premier birding destinations, thanks to its location along the Mississippi Flyway and its mix of marshes, forests, and coastal habitats. During the spring migration, thousands of species pass through, creating unforgettable opportunities for birdwatchers.
Keep an eye out for bucket-list birds such as the vibrant Painted Bunting, the pink-plumed Roseate Spoonbill, the striking Swallow-tailed Kite, the colorful Purple Gallinule, and the Crested Caracara, one of the region’s most abundant birds of prey. Popular spots for birding include Peveto Woods Sanctuary, Sabine National Wildlife Refuge, and the Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge.
Parks, Trails, & Family Fun
The area’s parks offer something for everyone: camping and kayaking at Sam Houston Jones State Park, fishing and picnicking at Alligator Park, and walking and pickleball at Hillcrest Park. Families will love Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park, which packs in cabins, fishing, kayaking, a WIBIT obstacle course, four swimming pools, a waterslide, mini golf, a jumping pillow, and even live entertainment.
Lined with waterways, Lake Charles is a paradise for paddle sports. Rent from River Raft Rentals, or launch a boat at White Oak Park or Niblett’s Bluff Park. There’s also a self-serve kayak rental from Bayou Adventure, at Sam Houston Jones State Park.
Seasonal Celebrations
Come winter, the annual Louisiana Fur & Wildlife Festival serves as the “oldest and coldest” festival in the region. Visitors can watch unusual competitions, such as nutria skinning, along with duck calling, trap shooting, oyster shucking, and a lively gumbo cook-off that keeps the crowds entertained.
By summer, the spotlight shifts to the coast with the Holly Beach Crab Festival, a family-friendly beach gathering where live music sets the tone for cooking demos, a crab cook-off, and the one-of-a-kind Crab Calling Contest, a playful nod to the area’s seafood heritage.
Hidden Gems to Discover
For every iconic eatery, this getaway spot boasts just as many unique under-the-radar gems. Biscuits N Jamz serves inventive takes on Southern staples, including shrimp toast stuffed with bacon and cheesy grits topped with salmon croquettes. On The Rocks is a comfy pub that gets crafty with pizza toppings, like shrimp and cilantro pesto, while La Truffe Sauvage offers upscale French-inspired fare. Wine-lovers can raise a glass at Bodega Restaurant & Wine Bar, a lively South Lake Charles spot that pairs charcuterie boards with wine flights and an extensive by-the-glass selection.
Looking for one-of-a-kind souvenirs? Bux Kajun Korner is a funky, modern-day mercantile brimming with jewelry, art, chocolates, and gifts. From scarves and boots to broaches and feathered hats, Cruella’s Boutique is a treasure trove of eclectic style, while the Fair Vintage Market offers an array of clothes, home goods, accessories, toys, and collectibles.
Between shops, look for street art, including the Van Gogh murals at Recent Relics Antiques & Collectibles, and the Lovin’ Lake Charles mural — featuring musical gators and crawfish — in Millennium Park.
Plan Your Visit
Be it a museum, a restaurant, or a trail, this destination offers memorable experiences for all visitors. By venturing off the beaten path, you’ll find endless attractions and activities that speak to the heart and soul of Southwest Louisiana. Visit our Things to Do page for more inspiration, and start planning your adventure today.