Things To Do
in Lake Charles
Lake Charles is a city located in southwest Louisiana along the banks of the Calcasieu River. It is known for its vibrant cultural scene, including festivals, events, and a thriving arts community. The city also offers outdoor recreational opportunities, with nearby lakes, rivers, and parks for fishing, boating, and hiking.
Lake Charles is home to several casinos, providing entertainment and gaming options for visitors and residents alike.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $12 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful hike at the Sam Houston Jones State Park. Enjoy the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife as you explore the trails.
After lunch, head to the Lake Charles Civic Center for a stroll along the waterfront. The views are stunning, and you can relax by the water.
Finish the day with dinner at a local seafood restaurant. Savor the fresh catches while enjoying the sunset over the lake.
Visit the Imperial Calcasieu Museum to learn about the local culture and history. The exhibits feature art and artifacts from the region.
Stop by the Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center to view rotating art exhibits. The building itself is a work of art worth admiring.
Join a guided tour of the historic district for a glimpse into Lake Charles' past. Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant that serves traditional Southern cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to national averages.
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local festivals.
- Proximity to beautiful natural attractions, including rivers and lakes.
- Strong sense of community and friendly residents.
- Growing economic opportunities, particularly in the energy sector.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Higher humidity and heat during the summer months.
- Vulnerability to hurricanes and flooding.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to larger cities.
- Challenges with healthcare access and facilities.
Best Activities in Lake Charles
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the well-preserved historic district with beautiful architecture and scenic views.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the boardwalk with stunning views of the lake and surrounding nature.
Engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching within this expansive state park.
Tours
Uncover the best of Lake Charles with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Lake Charles
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the lake and the city skyline, as well as various photo opportunities along the boardwalk.
Provides beautiful views of Prien Lake and the surrounding landscapes, ideal for capturing scenic photos.
Boasts picturesque views of the lake and a perfect spot to capture memorable photos, especially during sunset.
Food in Lake Charles
Lake Charles Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try pork and rice sausage with a blend of Cajun spices, often served with crackers or in po' boys. Local favorites include Kartchner's and Sonnier's Sausage and Boudin.
Must-Try!
This flavorful stew features a mix of seafood, sausage, or poultry, combined with a dark roux, the 'holy trinity' of onions, bell peppers, and celery, and served over rice. Indulge in traditional gumbo at Harlequin Steaks & Seafood or Pat's of Henderson.
A classic Cajun dish showcasing crawfish smothered in a rich and savory sauce of onions, bell peppers, and roux, served over rice. Look for this dish at Steamboat Bill's and Luna Bar & Grill.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Lake Charles better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the historic Charlestown Cultural District, this weekly market offers a diverse selection of locally sourced produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats such as boudin balls, pralines, and beignets.
A beloved bakery known for its delectable King Cakes, eclairs, and beignets, a delightful spot to savor a taste of authentic Louisiana pastry traditions.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Lake Charles, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when engaging in conversations or interactions.
Politeness and respect are highly valued in Lake Charles, so using please, thank you, and other polite language and gestures is important in interactions with locals.
Lake Charles is a diverse city, so it's important to be respectful of different cultures and traditions, and to avoid making assumptions based on stereotypes.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Lake Charles with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Lake Charles
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in Lake Charles, United States, particularly in the service industry such as restaurants, hotels, and taxis. It is generally expected to tip around 15-20% of the total bill for good service.
Payment in Lake Charles, United States, is mostly done through credit/debit cards, cash, or mobile payment apps. Most establishments accept major credit cards, but it's always good to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller local businesses.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is an ideal time to visit Lake Charles as the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F. The city comes to life with colorful blooms and festivals, making it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities and cultural events.
Summer in Lake Charles brings hot and humid weather, with temperatures often reaching into the 90s. It's a popular time for water-based activities and outdoor events, but visitors should be prepared for the heat and occasional afternoon thunderstorms.
Fall is another wonderful time to visit Lake Charles, with milder temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F. The city's foliage transforms into vibrant shades of red and gold, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures and fall festivals.
Winter in Lake Charles is relatively mild, with temperatures typically ranging from 40°F to 60°F. While it may be too cool for water activities, it's a great time to explore indoor attractions, enjoy holiday events, and savor the city's delicious cuisine.
Lake Charles at Night
Hiking in Lake Charles
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park with trails winding through pine forests and wetlands, offering a chance to explore diverse wildlife.
This expansive forest boasts numerous trails, allowing for both hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Louisiana's uplands.
Features trails that lead through wetlands and marshes, ideal for birdwatching and enjoying the serene landscape.
A charming spot for hiking and enjoying nature, with trails that offer beautiful views of the water and surrounding areas.
Provides opportunities for hiking alongside wildlife observation, with trails that traverse through local ecosystems.
Aiports
How to reach Lake Charles by plane.
Lake Charles Regional Airport is located just outside Lake Charles, offering domestic flights.
Located in Houston, Texas, approximately 125 miles from Lake Charles, it is one of the largest airports in the region, servicing international flights.
Also in Houston, Texas, this airport is about 130 miles from Lake Charles and offers domestic and some international flights.
Located approximately 200 miles from Lake Charles, this airport serves as a major international gateway to New Orleans.
About 130 miles from Lake Charles, this airport provides limited domestic flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Approximately 61.5% of the population identifies as White.
The African American population makes up about 30.1% of the population.
Hispanic or Latino individuals represent around 4.2% of the population.
The Asian demographic accounts for about 2.1% of Lake Charles's population.
Native Americans constitute approximately 0.5% of the population.
Individuals identifying as two or more races make up roughly 1.6% of the population.
Individuals identifying as other races constitute about 0.5% of the population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a highly popular sport in Lake Charles, particularly at the high school and collegiate levels. With local teams often drawing large crowds, it is a significant part of the community's culture.
Baseball has a strong following in Lake Charles, with youth leagues and high school teams being very active. The local community participates through various leagues and events.
Basketball is widely played in Lake Charles, with many local schools having competitive teams. The sport is also enjoyed recreationally, with numerous courts available throughout the city.
Soccer has been growing in popularity in Lake Charles, with youth leagues and clubs promoting the sport among children and young adults.
Given the proximity to numerous lakes and waterways, fishing is a popular recreational activity in Lake Charles, with many anglers participating in both fresh and saltwater fishing.
Rodeo events are a tradition in Lake Charles, celebrating the region's heritage. Local competitions attract participants and spectators alike, showcasing skills in riding and livestock handling.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lake Charles.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Lake Charles provide vegetarian and vegan options, including Luna Bar & Grill with its vegan jambalaya, and Panorama Music House offering vegetarian plates.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable dishes at many restaurants in the area, such as Seafood Palace, which offers gluten-free seafood options, and Tia Juanita's Fish Camp, serving gluten-free seafood and salad choices.