Whether you're looking to kick back and relax in the lap of luxury, dance until you drop, or savor our spectacular weather, Southwest Louisiana/Lake Charles has your pleasure. From slots to table games to horseracing, three casinos provide a wealth of excitement that never ends. If the great outdoors is more your style, check out the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road. Renowned as one of the top birding destinations in the country, the trail offers a rare opportunity to commune with nature up-close and personal while indulging in world-class fishing and crabbing. Experience a legendary Louisiana crawfish boil, where eating with your hands is not just acceptable, it's the rule. Get a second helping of duck and andouille gumbo, but leave room for that slice of pecan pie. And when you're ready to work off those calories, Southwest Louisiana always has a celebration that'll get you moving. Renowned as the Festival Capital of Louisiana, we host more than 75 fairs, festivals and special events each year, complete with food, music, dancing, and laughter. This includes a Mardi Gras extravaganza second only to New Orleans, and our two-week long celebration known as the Contraband Days Pirate Festival. No matter the time of year, there's always something happening in Southwest Louisiana/Lake Charles. We consider ourselves a gumbo pot full of great activities and people, but we're still missing one important ingredient---you! When planning your next vacation, choose a recipe for success. Choose Southwest Louisiana/Lake Charles!
The southern part of the United States is one of the most popular destinations in the world, and if you have been wondering where to go on holidays Louisiana should be at the top of your list. There are delicious restaurants, great activities and very affordable package deals available.
Once you check into your hotel, it is time to get out and see the sights. Spend the day on a Swamp Air Boat. Imagine exploring the bayous. You may even catch a glimpse of an alligator. Your captain was born and raised in Louisiana, so you will get to learn the rich history of the area. Take a bus tour and visit the French Quarter, Jackson Square and Pointe Coupee. You will be in awe as you pass by the remarkable architecture and landmarks that the city is famous for. A trip to New Orleans is not complete without taking a river boat cruise. Climb aboard the Natchez steamboat where you can listen to authentic jazz while you enjoy a delicious meal. Make sure that you spend some time in Pointe Coupee. The famous parish will introduce you to Cajun cuisine and the true flavors of the bayou.
The climate in Louisiana is perfect all year round. Expect warm temperatures during the fall, winter and spring. It gets hot during the summer so our advice is that you stay in hotel that has air-conditioning.
Located between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, Pointe Coupee will give you a real taste of Creole culture. Before you head home make your way to the local deli and buy a couple of sandwiches to take to a national park. The Barataria Preserve offers visitors easy to manoeuvre trails where you can walk right alongside the Mississippi River. Expect to see local flora and fauna as you make your way through the swampland. Kayaks and canoes are available when weather permits. The French Quarter is home to the world famous Mardi Gras. Here you can enjoy street entertainment or go on a carriage tour. Be sure that you bring some extra cash as you will want to pick up some souvenirs in the French Market, and do not forget to take a look at the Mardi Gras Exhibit.
The Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is located just west of New Orleans. From there you can get a shuttle that will take you into the city. If you rent a car, there are major highways such as the US 90 that will take you wherever your heart desires. Public transport is available by way of light rail, buses and streetcars.
Come show your love for New Orleans! Treat yourself to unparalleled cuisine, enjoy world-class live jazz in the city where jazz was born, and soak up the rich culture that continues to resonate from every sidewalk and street lamp.
More on New Orleans Tourism
Come fall in love with New Orleans all over again! Start your trip with jazz, the music that started here. Or catch New Orleans' signature brand of rhythm and blues, gospel, Cajun, zydeco, and hip-hop, playing every night.
Dine at some of America's most highly acclaimed—and oldest—restaurants. Gumbo, po-boys, jambalaya, bread pudding--the menu goes on and on.
Find inspiration at the New Orleans Museum of Art, National WWII Museum, Ogden Museum of Southern Art, and scores of innovative museums.
Shop for fine art and antiques along Royal and Chartres streets in the French Quarter.
Grab some beignets and browse the historic French Market. Discover contemporary art in the chic galleries of the Arts District. Then explore six miles of fun and funky boutiques, cafés, and shops along Magazine Street.
Play at Audubon Zoo and Audubon Aquarium of the Americas. Hop aboard streetcars and riverboats. Tour historic homes and neighborhoods. And come celebrate music, food, and frivolity at major festivals like Essence Music Festival, Satchmo SummerFest, VOODOO Music Experience, and Christmas New Orleans Style.
There's so much happening this year, and there's always something new to love! To learn more and to get your free guide to New Orleans, visit www.NewOrleansOnline.com.
Welcome to Southwest Louisiana/Lake Charles! With over 75 festivals a year, fabulous casinos and horseracing, and our breath-taking Creole Nature Trail All-American Road, come see why the definition of a good time was invented in Cajun Country!
More on Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana
Whether you're looking to kick back and relax in the lap of luxury, dance until you drop, or savor our spectacular weather, Southwest Louisiana/Lake Charles has your pleasure. From slots to table games to horseracing, three casinos provide a wealth of excitement that never ends. If the great outdoors is more your style, check out the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road. Renowned as one of the top birding destinations in the country, the trail offers a rare opportunity to commune with nature up-close and personal while indulging in world-class fishing and crabbing. Experience a legendary Louisiana crawfish boil, where eating with your hands is not just acceptable, it's the rule. Get a second helping of duck and andouille gumbo, but leave room for that slice of pecan pie. And when you're ready to work off those calories, Southwest Louisiana always has a celebration that'll get you moving. Renowned as the Festival Capital of Louisiana, we host more than 75 fairs, festivals and special events each year, complete with food, music, dancing, and laughter. This includes a Mardi Gras extravaganza second only to New Orleans, and our two-week long celebration known as the Contraband Days Pirate Festival. No matter the time of year, there's always something happening in Southwest Louisiana/Lake Charles. We consider ourselves a gumbo pot full of great activities and people, but we're still missing one important ingredient---you! When planning your next vacation, choose a recipe for success. Choose Southwest Louisiana/Lake Charles!
Pointe Coupee Parish, where several of Louisiana's most important rivers intersect, is an area rich in history, culture, hospitality and excellent cuisine. It is truly a sportman's paradise, but it's also a haven for antique shoppers and travelers seeking a friendly place to relax in the atmosphere of Louisiana at its absolute best.
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