Come by the visitors' center and have a cup of coffee, check your e-mail and find out what's going on in the area. As a snap shot, we have great... 1. Festivals: From Mardi Gras and our Louisiana Pirate Festival to Cajun celebrations in the summer and a parish-wide Christmas Festival to top off the year. Cajun food & music is served up with a Southern smile. Bring the whole family to celebrate with us. 2. Outdoor Recreation: There are many different ways to experience the sights and sounds of Southwest Louisiana. From kayaks to bikes to pontoons, check through the list below to see which is right for you. While you're at it, don't forget to experience the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road. See alligators and numerous bird species, walk along beaches and boardwalks and experience the natural splendor of Louisiana's coastal marshlands. 3. Casinos: Golden Nugget, L'Auberge Casino Resort, Delta Downs Racetrack Casino & Hotel, and Horseshoe Lake Charles (coming Fall 2022). If you are looking for a first-rate casino getaway, you will hit the jackpot when booking your trip to Southwest Louisiana, a short drive from New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Houston. From golf greens and spas to horseracing and island time getaways, you will fall in love with the variety of casino venues. Each casino has luxurious accommodations, a myriad of dining selections, top-name entertainment, and let's not forget - incredible gaming experiences in store for you. The best part, the casinos are their own destination paradise, yet close to everything, including Downtown Lake Charles. 4. Cajun Cooking & Music: Jambalaya, gumbo, spicy crawfish, boudin and bread pudding, these are just a few things you can sample of Southwest Louisiana's famous Cajun French and Creole cuisine. Cajuns in Southwest Louisiana like to tap their toes to good music while dining, and several restaurants in the Southwest Louisiana area feature live Cajun music from time to time. Don't miss out on delicious seafood and fine dining seasoned to perfection. There are also many culinary events throughout the year that feature savory local dishes. Come visit us. Check http://www.visitlakecharles.org/ for the latest selection of accommodations.
