Lake Charles is a blend of contrasts from the abundant wildlife and great outdoors to the stunning surroundings of area casino resorts with a Cajun and Creole twist. You can literally explore nature in great abundance one day and fall into the lap of luxury the next. Experience the convenience of two world-class casino resorts side-by-side: the Golden Nugget Lake Charles and L’Auberge Casino & Resort. Both offer golf courses, spa facilities, restaurants, a variety of pools with lazy rivers – not to mention – award-winning chefs. To the west, close to the Texas border, explore restaurants, games of chance and horseracing at Delta Downs Racetrack Casino.
If the outdoors is more your speed, reconnect with nature with the sights and sounds of the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road. Additionally, there are many choices for people to go paddle boarding, kayaking or biking near waterways and parks in the city, or shelling along the scenic Gulf beaches or birdwatching on local wildlife refuges. After a day on the lake, you can head downtown where unbeatable dining experiences and eclectic shops await or check out the sights south of town with a stop at Crying Eagle Brewing Company and sip seasonal brews on tap. Nothing pairs better with a cold brew than the new, delicious menu choices at The Bistro at Crying Eagle.
Speaking of good eats, jambalaya, gumbo, shrimp or crawfish étouffée, boudin and bread pudding are just a few things you can sample of Southwest Louisiana's famous Cajun French and Creole cuisine. The thing is, the Cajuns in Southwest Louisiana have gotten creative over the years, and the sauces and tangy flavors mixed together with Southwest Louisiana’s very own brews and spirits make the trip as memorable for its culinary culture as the other attractions to be found in the area. Check out the Southwest Louisiana Boudin Trail or the Southwest Louisiana Brews & Spirits Trail.
When you’re in town, be sure to enjoy jazz or Zydeco brunches at Rikenjaks or Luna Bar & Grill. You can taste hot beignets at Pujo Street Café, delicious cuisine at Villa Harlequin or Cajun seafood at Seafood Palace, Buffi’s Peaux Boys, Hollier’s or Steamboat Bill’s! There are many more selections where those came from too! Check out local restaurants in Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana.
Arts, culture, events, live music and brunches are on the rise again! Whether you’re in town to enjoy an outdoor concert, jazz brunch, or you’re in the market to view or purchase art, Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana has a thriving arts’ scene. Check out local art on the Heartbeat Tour! View original art by Candace Alexander at Alexander Art Studio in the center of downtown Lake Charles. On the west side of the parish, the Henning Cultural Center sits beneath sleepy oak trees next to The Grove Park and Heritage Square Pavilion and features local art, exhibits and events. There is always something lively to experience in #LouisianasPlayground.
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