Fall Festival Weekend Itinerary

Day 1: Places to Stay in Lake Charles

Check-in at the hotel of your choice and embark on your Lake Charles adventure! The region features several upscale gaming resorts, with Delta Downs offering horse racing and  L’Auberge Casino Resort and Golden Nugget offering picturesque golf courses as part of their charm. 

Each resort boasts a variety of restaurants and amenities, including luxurious spas for a bit of relaxation. A little closer to downtown, the Horseshoe provides breathtaking lake views, or you can opt for the convenience of Marriott, Hilton, or other favorite hotels along Holly Hill Circle.

After settling in, treat yourself to a delicious drink and bite at Crying Eagle Brewing University or Lakefront, or enjoy the modern sports betting restaurants and bars, Brew Brothers, DraftKings Sportsbook and The Sportsbook at L'Auberge and the Delta Downs Sportsbook, inside the resort properties.

Day 2: Things to Do in Southwest Louisiana-Shopping, Outdoor Adventure and Upscale Dining

No visit to the Lake Area is complete without getting on the water. Licensed local guides like Captain Andrew Soileau or Captain Bradley Laningham with Cat 5 Fishing Charters are ready to take both seasoned and novice anglers on memorable half-day or full-day fishing tours.

If you’re staying at L’Auberge or Golden Nugget, some captains can even pick you up directly from the dock! Be sure to bring a cooler for your haul of redfish, drum, flounder, and trout.

For lunch, head to Darrell’s for one of Southwest Louisiana’s most famous po-boys, topped with their signature jalapeño mayonnaise! After indulging in this beloved local dish, pop into Coffee:30 Café for fresh beignets to cap off your meal. Then, take a leisurely stroll through Downtown Lake Charles, where you can browse antiques, apparel for both women and men, original art, and unique Louisiana souvenirs.

Return to your hotel for a rejuvenating afternoon nap before dressing up for an exciting night out. Reserve a table at The Villa Harlequin for exquisite service and elevated Louisiana cuisine. Or, venture south to Bodega Wine Dive for a wine-tasting experience paired with delicious pasta and pizza – perfect for a ladies night out.

Day 3: Fall Festivals and Special Events in Southwest Louisiana

Begin your Saturday at The Bekery, a quaint French style café with unique pastries, soups, sandwiches, and more! Then, gather your crew and head to the fall festival of choice. From music and arts centered festivals like Chuck Fest and White Linen Night to celebrations of culture like Día de los Muertos Festival, each offer a genuine Southwest Louisiana experience highlighting our delicious food and drink scene, talented artists and welcoming culture.

A great aspect of the fall festival lineup is that many events are held in Downtown Lake Charles, making dinner plans effortless with numerous delicious restaurants within walking distance, such as Pujo Street Café or Augustine, both in historic buildings along Ryan Street. Alternatively, take the scenic, oak-lined Shell Beach Drive on your way back to the hotel and dine at Restaurant Calla to end an evening of celebration.

Not ready to turn in? In addition to wonderful festivals, Lake Charles has several restaurants with live music and offers special events and casino entertainment nearly every weekend for you to keep the good times rolling!

Day 4: Where to Dine for Sunday Brunch in Southwest Louisiana

Sunday is Funday in Louisiana’s Playground! After all the excitement, consider sleeping in before treating yourself to a late brunch at MacFarlane's Celtic Pub or Biscuits n Jamz to wrap up your fall festival weekend.

For a lively brunch experience, head to the Zydeco Brunch at Rikenjaks, where the Creole culture will have you dancing away your brunch calories! If jazz suits your taste, Luna Bar & Grill’s Jazz Brunch features Louisiana staples, classic mimosas, and delicious Bloody Marys. Crying Eagle's Brew-zy Brunch and Brunch at the Terrace are great for enjoying one last party before the festival weekend ends.

A weekend isn’t complete without an afternoon of pampering at the spa or a hike at Sam Houston Jones State Park. Extend your stay through Sunday for a true funday, filled with carefree excitement and affordable nightly rates.

And if time doesn't allow, don't worry, there is always next time.