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As the snow and cold of a Wisconsin winter began to wear on our family, we decided it was time for a change of scenery. So we packed our bags, said goodbye to the frigid temperatures, and our family headed south to the warm and welcoming city of Lake Charles, Louisiana, to partner with them for a visit. With its rich history, natural beauty, and diverse range of activities and attractions, we knew that Lake Charles, Louisiana, would be the perfect destination for a family adventure.
And as we soon discovered, this vibrant city did not disappoint, offering our family the chance to explore new sights, tastes, and experiences that we will never forget.
Where is Lake Charles
Lake Charles is a city situated in southwest Louisiana, United States. It is the fifth-largest incorporated city in the state and serves as the parish seat of Calcasieu Parish. The city is situated on the banks of the Calcasieu River and is located approximately 30 miles east of the Texas-Louisiana border and 135 miles east of Houston, Texas.
I knew I would love it
I met the amazing Shalisa at a blogger conference last fall and had just enough time to be teased about her amazing community. I think I drooled over the flyer I was given that talked about everything from the fact that they have 75 fairs and festivals a year to things like Gas Station Eats and even Albino Dolphins. Sam Houston Jones State Park sealed the deal for me – but you will read more about that later.
Let’s take a look at why Lake Charles, Louisiana, is a wonderful destination for any family looking for fun and adventure. With plenty of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and events, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city… based on our visit.
Outdoor Activities
One of the best things to do in Lake Charles, Louisiana, with the family is to explore the city’s beautiful outdoor spaces. This is especially true for those of us from the north who escape our cold climate to enjoy a little heat and sunshine!
Sam Houston Jones State Park is a beautiful nature reserve located in southwestern Louisiana, just a short drive from Lake Charles. The park is named after Sam Houston Jones, a former Louisiana governor who was an advocate for conservation and outdoor recreation.
The park covers over 1,000 acres and features a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and wildlife and bird watching. The park has several trails, ranging from easy nature walks to more challenging hikes that offer scenic views of the surrounding forests and wetlands.
For camping enthusiasts, the park has several options for overnight stays, including RV sites, tent camping sites, and cabins. You will read more about our experience here later, but we loved the nature trails. Stick to the walking paths, though, as one of the main attractions of the park is its diverse wildlife, including a variety of birds, reptiles, and mammals.
Visitors can spot alligators, deer, and even black bears in their natural habitats, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Um, I can honestly say I am happy we didn’t see any gators on this trip. They can go up to 33 miles an hour on land, and I can’t.
Millennium Park aka Bord du Lac Park, is another great option, with a playground, walking trails, and a disc golf course. The park also has several picnic areas and a pavilion that can be rented for events. When we say playground, that is a huge understatement.
It is a beautiful dream park that lets kids of all abilities enjoy fun in a slightly educational setting, in addition to having a splash pad to keep cool on those warm days. The different stations incorporate their history with a Pirate ship, a lighthouse, a lumber yard, and more. It is a subtle educational experience.
Pro Tip: Just across the street, along the water, are several monuments worth checking out. From 9/11 beams to a local legend, you can learn a bit as you take in the sights.
Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point is a visitor center and interactive exhibit located in Sulphur, Louisiana, near Lake Charles. OK, this is NOT outdoors, but it prepares you for it. The center is designed to showcase the unique wildlife and natural habitats found along the Creole Nature Trail, a scenic byway that runs through southwestern Louisiana.
Visitors can also learn about the area’s unique history and culture through exhibits that focus on the region’s Native American heritage, Cajun and Creole traditions, and the oil and gas industry. It tells you all about the wildlife refuges and more in the area.
This cultural center is a great place to start a visit to the Creole Nature Trail, as it provides information about the various points of interest along the trail and offers suggestions for scenic drives and outdoor activities. It is also a fun and educational destination for families with kids, as the interactive exhibits and hands-on activities are designed to engage and entertain visitors of all ages, from younger children to those of us who still wish we were. OOOH, and it is one of the FREE things you can do!
The staff is beyond friendly and helpful – they even gave us a crabbin’ lesson!
Go crabbin’
Roadside crabbing is a popular activity in the Lake Charles area and is a fun and unique way to experience the local culture and natural surroundings. The activity involves catching blue crabs along the side of the road using baited lines and nets.
To go roadside crabbing, you’ll need a few supplies, including a crab net or trap, a long-handled dip net, and some bait like raw chicken legs. You’ll also need a bucket or cooler to hold your catch…unless you are like us and just after a catch-and-release experience. Locals head over to Brown’s for their raw chicken. Just go to the back right-hand corner of the store, and you will even find the string and nets!
Once you have your supplies, head to one of the many roadside crabbing spots in the area. Look for bridges, docks, or other structures that provide easy access to the water and are located in areas where crabs are known to be abundant.
To set up your crabbing line, tie a piece of bait to the end of a string or fishing line and attach a weight to the other end. Drop the line into the water and wait for a crab to take the bait. Once you feel a tug on the line, slowly pull it in, using the dip net to scoop up any crabs that are caught.
It’s important to note that there are regulations in place for crabbing, including licensing, size, and quantity limits, so be sure to familiarize yourself with these rules before you start crabbing. Additionally, always be mindful of your surroundings and be careful when crabbing near busy roads or other potentially hazardous areas.
Roadside crabbing is a fun and unique way to experience the local culture and natural surroundings in the Lake Charles area, and is a great activity for families and groups looking for a fun outdoor adventure.
Visit the Sallier Oak Tree
This historic and beloved landmark is estimated to be over 375 years old and stands at an impressive 85 feet tall with a trunk circumference of over 25 feet. The Sallier Oak is believed to be one of the oldest and largest live oak trees in the state of Louisiana.
The tree is located on the grounds of the Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center and is accessible to the public year-round. Visitors can stroll around the tree, marvel at its size and age, and take plenty of photos. The area surrounding the tree is also a perfect place for picnics and outdoor events.
In addition to its impressive size and age, the Sallier Oak also has a rich history. It was named after Charles Sallier, a prominent figure in the early history of Lake Charles who owned the land on which the tree stands. The tree is said to have provided shade and shelter to travelers and locals alike throughout the centuries.
The Sallier Oak Tree is a symbol of the deep roots and history of Lake Charles and is a must-see for visitors to the area.
Pro tip: Kiss your sweetie under it – it is a popular spot for couples to take romantic photos or even get engaged. The tree’s impressive size and age, as well as its serene surroundings, make it a natural backdrop for special moments.
Hunt Street Art
Lake Charles, Louisiana, is home to a vibrant and colorful street art scene, with dozens of murals and public artworks located throughout the city, which makes it the perfect family-friendly location. These murals and street art installations are not only visually stunning but also serve as a celebration of Lake Charles’ rich history and culture.
One of the most popular spots for street art in Lake Charles is the downtown area, where visitors can take a stroll and admire a variety of murals and graffiti-style art pieces. These artworks range from abstract and modern to more traditional depictions of the city’s history and landmarks. They actually put this together for you to help your hunt! Murals & Street Art.
Cultural Activities
For a family that is interested in history and culture, Lake Charles, Louisiana, has plenty of options.
The Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu
So, Lake Charles rivals (or beats, depending on who you talk to) the celebration in New Orleans. This museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Mardi Gras celebrations in the Lake Charles area. The museum is located in the historic Central School Arts and Humanities Center in downtown Lake Charles and is dedicated to preserving and sharing the traditions of Mardi Gras.
The museum features a vast collection of Mardi Gras memorabilia, including elaborately decorated costumes, intricate masks, and intricate floats. Visitors can explore the exhibits at their own pace, learning about the history and evolution of Mardi Gras celebrations in the region and the role they have played in local culture.
One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is the “Royal Court” display, which showcases the ornate costumes worn by Mardi Gras kings and queens throughout the years. The museum also has a gift shop where visitors can purchase Mardi Gras-themed souvenirs and gifts.
1911 Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center
I LOVE older buildings, even better when they are repurposed, as this one is. Built in 1911, the City Hall is a prominent landmark in the city and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The building is designed in the Neoclassical style and features a grand staircase, ornate plasterwork, and a dome with a cupola.
The City Hall has been renovated several times over the years, with the most recent renovation completed in 2010. The renovation restored many of the building’s original features, including the grand staircase and dome, and added modern amenities like a new elevator and updated technology systems. It currently houses an amazing variety of art and highlights local artists.
When we were there, we saw a showcased collection from Troy Guilbeaux, a collection of things from the Great Fire of 1910, and a fun collection of other local artists, as well as a display on American Impressionism.
We could have spent hours there.
Eat.
Known for its delicious and diverse food scene, there are plenty of dining options to satisfy every craving and budget. From classic Cajun and Creole cuisine to fresh seafood and international fare, the area’s restaurants and cafes offer something for everyone.
For a taste of local Cajun and Creole flavors, head to one of the many traditional Louisiana-style restaurants in the area. These restaurants serve up classic dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and crawfish étouffée, as well as other Cajun and Creole specialties. Some popular Cajun and Creole restaurants in the area include Darrell’s, Steamboat Bill’s, and Pat’s of Henderson. We tried two of the three.
Steamboat Bill’s is known for its bold and flavorful Cajun seasoning and its mouth-watering crawfish boil. Their seasoning blend is used to add flavor and heat to many of their signature dishes, including the crawfish étouffée, shrimp po’boy, and seafood platter. The restaurant’s crawfish boil is a local favorite and is served with traditional sides like potatoes, andouille sausage, and corn on the cob.
Steamboat Bill’s is where the hubby had crawfish for the first time – it was fun watching him try to peel and eat them without instructions! Even their Red Beans and Rice had a nice little kick to it! If you are trying Steamboat Bill’s, ya need to hit the original location. It is as much fun to look around as it is to eat their food!
Pro Tip: Get the Gator Bites – they really do taste like chicken and are yummy!
Darrell’s Po-Boys is a popular eatery in Lake Charles known for its signature po’boys, a classic Louisiana sandwich. The restaurant is famous for its unique spin on the traditional po’boy, with a menu that includes a variety of creative sandwich combinations.
We loved the beef ones we indulged in for a beach picnic. They even had Uncrustables to whip up a kid’s meal for those younger, less-adventurous palates in the family.
Where else did we go?
Leonard’s Food Quarters made for a great breakfast stop.
Even the scrambled eggs were seasoned so perfectly that I didn’t have to add more salt or pepper… And tell me, talk about the coffee? It’ll put a little Jesus in your step as you are listening to an amazing classic 60s & 70s soundtrack.
From Aretha to Otis Redding, you can’t help but start your day off with a smile when you have breakfast here.
Luna Bar and Grill Lake Charles
Want an out-of-this-world experience? This is the place to hit! Whether you are sitting outside next to the amazing mural or inside with your Saturn turkey sandwich, you can’t go wrong. The hubs had
the Jupiter roast beef while our teen had a Sun Burger. A Juicfer IPA (very hoppy beer) and a tart Pearl Jam cocktail were the perfect endings to our day.
Pro Tip: Get the Super Nova sauce and try it on the fried cheese appetizer!
Boudin Balls and Cajun Egg Rolls… this makes for a perfect snack break on your way to crabbin’. Hubster said they taste like MORE. Stuffed with boudin, bacon, and pepper jack cheese, I mean, who could refute that?
Seriously – who doesn’t love cookies? The story behind the cookies is heart-warming, but you need to go there to ask. With a motto like “Quality Ingredients. Superior Experience,” you know this is a place to stop at and stock up on delectable 4-ounce cookies.
Mrs. Johnnie’s Gingerbread House
Sweet Potato Sweet Dough Hand Pies. Just another bite of Louisiana heaven… yes, they have other flavors, but stick with the sweet potato, although the hubs loved his gingerbread. You can’t go wrong with either!
Just want a good donut?
We hit several places and narrowed it down to two: We thought Dino’s Donuts were light, fluffy bits of heaven in our mouths, but appreciated how Westlake Donuts also gave us the donut holes!
Entertainment and Events
So, this is what originally drew me to the city, and then, we didn’t take part in any of them, LOL! With over 75 festivals a year, this is certainly the town to party! Let’s touch on the ones that are perfect for a family in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
- The Louisiana Pirate Festival is one of the most popular, with live music, food vendors, and pirate-themed activities for all ages. The festival takes place over several days in May and includes a parade, fireworks, and a boat parade.
- The Louisiana Railroad Days Festival is just 20 miles north of Lake Charles in DeQuincy. The festival celebrates the rich history of the railroad industry in Louisiana and the important role it played in the development of the state. The festival features a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages, including live music performances, carnival rides and games, arts and crafts vendors, and food vendors serving up a variety of tasty treats. One of the highlights of the festival is the Railroad Museum, which showcases a variety of historical exhibits and artifacts related to the railroad industry.
- The Cajun Food and Music Festival is another great event, with Cajun cuisine, live music, and dancing. The festival takes place over several days in July and includes a variety of Cajun dishes, such as jambalaya, gumbo, and crawfish étouffée. Visitors can also enjoy live music from Cajun and Zydeco bands and participate in dance lessons. (They had me at food.)
Final Thoughts on Fun Family Things To Do in Lake Charles, Louisiana
It isn’t difficult to see how Lake Charles is Louisiana’s Playground with all of that fun, food, and family-friendly adventure to experience. So many things are free or almost free to do. Whether you fly in like we did or want to make an epic road trip out of it, there is no doubt that this is one of the best places to have a great time.
