Let Lake Charles be the backdrop for your love story! Capture the magic of your engagement with stunning visuals in this vibrant city. From parks draped in Spanish moss to charming historic buildings and unique street art, Lake Charles has a variety of picture-perfect locations to commemorate this exciting milestone.

 

1911 Historic City Arts & Cultural Center 

The dramatic exterior of the 1911 Historic City Hall Museum will add beauty and drama to your engagement portraits. This three-story Italianate building, now an art and cultural hub, boasts a clock tower and a striking cream and brick-red exterior rich with architectural details.

 

Almosta Ranch

Are you a lover of animals? From charming horses and ponies to vibrantly colored peacocks, Almosta Ranch is the perfect location for your rural engagement photos. The photoshoot includes a choice of two animals that will be cleaned and ready for your shoot. A staff member will also be available to assist with placing the animals. For a romantic and vintage addition to your proposal rent one of their horse-drawn carriages!

 

Beautiful Street Murals

Capture the love and your unique style with a Lake Charles engagement shoot infused with the city's vibrant street art scene.

Let the kaleidoscope of colors at the Van Gogh Murals on Recent Relics Antiques & Collectibles be your backdrop. These stunning murals guarantee a bold and artistic vibe for your photos. Channel a playful retro vibe at the corner of Ryan and Broad Streets. The Walgreens and Elmer's Candy mural featuring vintage advertising provides a fun and nostalgic setting for your engagement pictures.

Wine lovers, raise a glass (or pose for a photo) before the Roman God of Wine mural outside Cotten’s Downtown. It's a romantic and symbolic backdrop to celebrate your love story.

 

 

Lake Charles Historic District 

Step back in time in the Lake Charles Historic District, also known as the Charpentier Historic District (French for "carpenter"). Spanning 40 vibrant blocks in downtown Lake Charles, this area overflows with southern charm. Lush landscaping graces the streets, creating a vintage backdrop for the district's crown jewels: the elaborate Victorian homes. These architectural delights, with their intricate details, are a testament to the skill of the area's namesake carpenters.

 

Lakefront Promenade

Couple on the Lakefront

For the water-loving couple, the Lakefront Promenade offers a maritime dream. Stroll along charming brick walkways that lead straight to the glistening lake, where sailboats add a touch of nautical charm. Overlooking the vast expanse of Lake Charles itself, the sky spreads out wide and clear, making it a perfect locale for capturing romantic golden hour portraits.

 

Lorrain Park Bridge

Just outside Lake Charles, Lorrain Park’s Bridge offers the perfect backdrop to capture your love story forever. This charming bridge graces the landscape, ideal for those golden hour engagement photos. But the magic doesn't stop there! Also pose for photos surrounded by the park’s majestic moss-draped trees.

 

Prien Lake Park

Overlooking Indian Bay, Prien Lake Park is another excellent waterfront option for engagement photos. Indian Bay provides a breathtaking backdrop, while the iconic I-210 bridge adds a touch of modern elegance. Prien Lake Park is also a fantastic location for capturing romantic sunset photos.

 

Sallier Oak Tree in Lake Charles

Create photo-worthy moments underneath the majesty of a live oak tree, estimated to be over 375 years old! This awe-inspiring survivor of countless storms boasts a towering canopy and swooping limbs, creating an evergreen stage for your love story. The marvelous tree resides at the Imperial Calcasieu Museum

 

Sam Houston Jones State Park

Sam Houston Jones State Park is one of the best places to take pictures in Lake Charles for couples who love the outdoors. Moss-draped Cypress trees and glistening bayous create a stunning setting for you and your bride or groom-to-be. 

 

The Secret Garden in Sulphur

For the couple seeking a touch of fairytale whimsy, look no further than The Secret Garden in Sulphur. This magical location, a photography and elopement venue, boasts a breathtaking ambiance that’ll transport you to another world.

Stroll through an arched brick gate, past a 100-year-old historic home, and into a wonderland of seasonal beauty. Lush gardens, a charming swing beneath moss-draped oaks, and whimsical touches like vintage bicycles create a picturesque backdrop for your photos. The Secret Garden's elegant interiors, with a grand piano and gilded mirrors, provide timeless glamor for a truly unforgettable engagement shoot.

 

Walnut Grove

Transport yourself to Europe without leaving Lake Charles! Walnut Grove boasts several backdrops that evoke a European atmosphere. Capture the grandeur of the Lawton Building's dramatic archways, or head to the boardwalk for breathtaking sunset photos.

 

Lake Charles offers endless possibilities to capture the joy of your engagement. Choose your perfect location and let the setting tell your unique love story. For more wedding inspiration check out our Say Yes to the Venue series where we follow along with Eloise and Grant as they search for the perfect wedding venue in Southwest Louisiana.