Best hotels in Lake Charles
Courtyard by Marriott Lake Charles
2995 L’Auberge Boulevard, LA, 70601
Reserve a spacious suite at this Marriott hotel, just 15 minutes from the airport. Guests can enjoy the 24-hour fitness center and heated outdoor pool. Grab breakfast and a Starbucks coffee at The Bistro then return for classic comfort food at night.
Golden Nugget Lake Charles Hotel & Casino
2550 Golden Nugget Boulevard, LA, 70601
Indulge in the luxury and glamor of this casino hotel sat smack on the waterfront. The hotel features more than 1,000 stylish suites offering spectacular views across the lake. As well as having a go on the slots and roulette tables at the casino, guests can relax at the spa or by the pool bar.
Della Belle Bed & Breakfast
1301 Shell Beach Drive, LA, 70601
Enjoy a romantic excursion at this intimate B&B by Contraband Bayou Golf Club. Each of the five suites is uniquely designed with comfort in mind, featuring plush furnishings and cozy décor. Play a hand of cards in the garden parlor, swim in the pool or take a stroll through the lovely grounds.
Best restaurants in Lake Charles
La Truffe Sauvage
815 W Bayou Pine Drive, LA, 70601
This elegant restaurant boasts a welcoming atmosphere and serves French cuisine with an intriguing Louisiana twist. Try the crispy duck leg confit, on creamy risotto, or the jumbo lump crabmeat Mary Louise in puff pastry.
The Villa Harlequin
324 Pujo Street, LA, 70601
Authentic Italian fare is the focus at this restaurant, which is housed in a historic building in Lake Charles. Try the deep-dish lasagna, which is topped with rich mozzarella and parmesan cheeses and cooked to perfection before being served with garlic bread and salad. For dessert, the tiramisu is the must-try staple on the menu or opt for a refreshing scoop of lemon sorbet.
Pat’s of Henderson
1500 Siebarth Drive, LA, 70615
Visit Pat’s to feast on classic southern comforts and some of the best Cajun food in this part of Louisiana. Order the fettuccine with shrimp, crawfish, chicken or seafood mix or go for the classic shrimp gumbo with a side of cream corn. You won’t leave hungry.
What to do in Lake Charles
Sam Houston Jones State Park
107 Sutherland Road, LA, 70611
Begin your exploration of the city’s great outdoors at this glorious preservation area. Saunter among more than 1,000 acres of hardwood pine trees, past pleasant lakes and rushing rivers. There are plenty of hiking trails and perfect picnic spots where you’ll likely be greeted by the local geese.
Creole Nature Trail All-American Road
1205 N Lakeshore Drive, LA, 70601
Use your Lake Charles rental car to take a scenic drive through Louisiana’s Outback. Starting from the Adventure Point on Lakeshore Drive, you’ll head south through balmy swamplands where alligators dwell. The trail is 180 miles, with more than 26 miles skating the Gulf Coast, so you’re guaranteed spectacular views for the whole journey.
Millennium Park
900 Lakeshore Drive, LA, 70601
Nestled along the banks of the lake that gave the city its name, Millennium Park is the perfect place in the city to spend a sunny afternoon. There are several playgrounds where kids can go wild. There’s also a rock-climbing wall, splash pad area and plenty of interactive activities, such as kayaking on the lake.