10 Things to
Do This Spring

Top Things To Do

1. Attend a Louisiana Festival

Spring is here, and that means celebrating with Southwest Louisiana's unique festivals. Celebrate the music, food, and culture at the Black Heritage Festival or head to DeQuincy and enjoy the charming Louisiana Railroad Days Festival complete with carnival rides! Enjoy a celebration of the Gulf Coast’s colorful history and ties to the Caribbean at Rum Revival. Tap your feet to the talented lineup of local and regional musical acts at This is Home Fest.

2.Catch 'Em, Clean 'Em, Peel 'Em & Eat 'Em 

Crawfish and seafood are a Louisiana delight – and Spring is the best time to get 'em! Order them by the pound and remember to request the lagniappe of corn, potatoes, and dipping sauce. You can find them at drive-through locations like Paradise Daiquiri, local restaurants like Honey B Ham, and events all season long. 

3. Treat Yourself 

Spring is the time for rejuvenation and our Lake Charles casino resorts certainly know how to define luxury. The Spa du Lac at L'Auberge is a full-service spa offering everything from massages and manicures to soaks and scrubs. At the Golden Nugget, the Spa and Salon features a multitude of luxurious 24K treatments, a sauna and a whirlpool to name a few of the amenities. Alevan Salon & Spa Sanctuary is a popular multi-cultural addition to spas in the Lake Area, and you can also check out Scarborough's.

4. Cruise the Creole Nature Trail

Start your journey at Adventure Point for information about the trail and a family-friendly interactive experience. A birders paradise, the spring season brings flocks of birds to the shoreline of the 180-mile All-American Road. Stop at Holly Beach before making the loop to the breathtaking Pintail Wildlife Drive where you can see a variety of wildlife, including alligators! After you're done exploring, enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner at Lighthouse Bend.

5. World-Class Golfing

At Golden Nugget Lake Charles, The Country Club is known for its enjoyable layout and extensive pro shop. Next door at L'Auberge Casino Resort is the Contraband Bayou Golf Club, offering extensive play packages and well-maintained greens. The National Golf Club in Westlake, features 14 lakes, 65 bunkers and is one of the most challenging courses. The Scottish links-inspired Mallard Golf Club recently opened with five sets of tee boxes, elevated greens, and is surrounded by native areas. 

6. Geaux Pokes and Gumbeaux Gators

Take yourself out to a McNeese State University baseball game for an afternoon of cheering on the Cowboys (or your favorite visiting rival team). The Joe Miller Ball Park is near the regional airport and has great dining options, including the family-friendly Crying Eagle Brewing-University. We also cheer on the Gumbeaux Gators, one of three Louisiana baseball teams in the Texas Collegiate League who will also be playing at Joe Miller Ball Park. Check out the Cowboys' season schedule and the Gators' season schedule and get your tickets early or at the gate.

7. Bike or Paddle Around in the Lake Area

Ride around Downtown Lake Charles on a glow-in-the-dark bike tour with Biking Through the Lake or Lake City Cruisers. Gear up for Spring with a tune-up and new specialized bike equipment from Southern Bicycle Company. Traveling with your bike? Prien Lake Park and the Lakefront Promenade are great places to go for a spin. For a kayaking adventure check out River Raft Rentals and hit the waterways. 

8. Art & Farmers Markets

Southwest Louisiana boasts four weekly farmers markets brimming with fresh produce and local art. On Tuesday's at Lake Charles Farm & Table Market, and every Saturday at the Moss Bluff and Charlestown Farmers Market. The first Saturday of every month, Meet Me at the Market hosted by the 1911 Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center, features live performances and special vendors. The Spring Market returns in March at the DeQuincy Railroad Museum. The annual Spring Art Walk takes over downtown Lake Charles with local artists and live demonstrations.

9. Dine Under the Stars and Oaks 

The beer gardens of the much-loved Crying Eagle Brewing-University and Rikenjaks are bustling each spring with live music multiple nights a week and pet-friendly areas. Paul's Rib Shack boasts bone-licking barbeque favorites of brisket, pork, and baked macaroni all served on a welcoming outdoor patio. The Terrace at Lake Area Adventures offers a high-end dining experience closed off from the main complex. Enjoy locally sourced ingredients, perfectly paired drinks, and live music. Your four-legged friends can also order from their "For the Puppers" menu.

10. Spring Concert Series

A little bit rock and roll and a little bit country, Lake Charles is a blend of contrasts. Springs kicks off with national touring acts performing at the casino resorts, free Live at the Lakefront and Downtown at Sundown concerts and more live music at restaurants each night of the week. Banners at McNeese State University brings engaging cultural programs from all over the world to Southwest Louisiana with little to no cost events and free memberships for military, first responders, seniors, and those in the education field.