Top Ten Best Things to Do in Lake Charles and Southwest Louisiana

There is no shortage of colorful adventures to be had in Southwest Louisiana from cultural events to the great outdoors, live entertainment and casino gaming. Check below for a list of the Top 10 Things to Do, listed in no particular order. So, what are you waiting for? Get out and explore! #VisitLakeCharles

Mardi Gras, Black Heritage Festival, Iowa Rabbit Festival, Westlake Family Fun & Food Festival, Louisiana Pirate Festival, Cajun Music & Food Festival, Cal-Cam Fair, and the Southwest Louisiana Christmas Lighting Festival are truly the tip of the festival iceberg. Learn More>


Gaming at its finest at our 4 casinos: L'Auberge Casino Resort, the Isle of Capri Casino & Hotel, Delta Downs Racetrack Casino & Hotel and the brand new Golden Nugget! Learn More >


Exploring the Creole Nature Trail where you can view birds, alligators and wildlife up close - not to mention - Gulf beaches with excellent shelling and relaxation. Learn More>


Culinary delights are at every turn, so be sure to taste our seafood. You can also experience stops along the Southwest Louisiana Boudin Trail. Learn More >


From railroads to sulfur mining, pirate legends to Cajun/Creole roots, the area has 7 museums: Mardi Gras Museum, DeQuincy Railroad Museum, Brimstone Museum, Children's Museum, DeQuincy Town Hall Museum, Imperial Calcasieu Museum and the USS Orleck Naval Museum. Learn More>


The area has a thriving arts scene with live music, galleries, art shows and events. The 1911 Historic City Hall brings in traveling exhibits from around the world. Also, the Henning Cultural Center has local art, and there are other galleries with displays year round. Learn More>


Nature's bounty is in full force in Southwest Louisiana. We have guides that can take you to the sweet spots and the honey holes so that you can hit your limit! Learn More>


For the more adventurous souls who want to feel the wind on their face and get into the spirit of the great outdoors, you can explore fun options. Learn More>


The Charleston Cultural District and the Cottage Shop District are just two examples of places where you can find unique gift items in Southwest Louisiana. Many of our grocery stores also carry authentic Louisiana spices and products that you can rarely find outside the state. Learn More >


There are several venues where you can relax and listen to great music, or get out and dance.
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