#VISITLAKECHARLES VISITLAKECHARLES.ORG - 800-456-SWLA - POVERTY POINT WORLD HERITAGE SITE
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VisitLakeCharles.org
#VisitLakeCharles 800-456-SWLA
LAKE CHARLES | SULPHUR | WESTLAKE
DEQUINCY | VINTON | IOWA
e
Welcom
Y ’all! What's Inside?
Share Your Story............................................................4
Casino Time....................................................................6
Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Arts & Culture................................................................8
- The Gateway to Cajun Country Galleries & Museums
Performing Arts
Adventure and exploration await with a diverse offering Cultural Districts
of culture, music, world-famous food, festivals, the great Where to Eat?............................................................... 12
outdoors, casino gaming, top name entertainment and
Dining Options
historic attractions. So, unwind & have fun!
Southwest Louisiana Boudin Trail
Stop by the convention & visitors bureau, 1205 N. Fun Food Facts
Lakeshore Drive, while you are in town. Visit with our Culinary Experiences
friendly staff, have a cup of coffee and get tips on how to Cuisine & Recipes
make your stay as memorable as possible. Creole vs. Cajun............................................................ 23
Music Scene..................................................................24
Connect with us & share your adventures! Looking for Live Music?
facebook.com/lakecharlescvb
Nightlife
www.visitlakecharles.org/blog
#visitlakecharles Adventure Tourism....................................................... 27
Get Your Adventure On!
Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point............................28
Are you a new resident? Creole Nature Trail.......................................................30
Get oriented! www.visitlakecharles.org/NewInTown Explore the Outdoors...................................................34
Wildlife Refuges & Outdoor Attractions
Birding, Shelling & Beaches
Check out our free apps to enhance your experience! Fishing & Hunting
Parks
* Showcasing adventures to be found in the
Tee Time.......................................................................36
great outdoors and details on flora and fauna
History in the Making...................................................38
found along the trail.
Historic Districts
Attractions for History Buffs
Conveniently reference events, live music, Historic Markers
festivals and more while in Southwest Glimpse into Our Past
Louisiana!
Top Things to Do...........................................................42
Kid Friendly Fun............................................................44
* Experience the Charpentier Historic District, Festivals & Events.........................................................46
with a choice of a 30 minute tour, 1 hour tour
Shopping & Spas..........................................................48
or Calcasieu Ghost Tour.
Where to Stay?.............................................................50
* Available in multiple languages Transportation............................................................ 60
Maps............................................................................ 61
www.visitlakecharles.org/apps
*Current as of August 2015.
2 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 3
h a r e Y our
S
S tory! les
echar
#visitlak
We love hearing from visitors. It makes our day!
Please share your story through Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,
Vine or other social media about your adventures in Southwest
Louisiana. Use #visitlakecharles when posting, and your entry
may appear on our Facebook or blog! Take a peek at some top
selections from our fans:
@grossesavanne
@craigcrawford
@thekingofthemoon
@luckeee
@dbenoit85
We look forward to hearing your story and sharing it
BLOG with the world!
www.visitlakecharles.org/blog
@unclebug @theianmcdougall
4 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 5
iinnoo
CCaassm eng
GaTim i
Lake Charles Westlake
L’Auberge Casino Resort Isle of Capri Casino Hotel
777 Avenue L’Auberge; 1-210 at Exit 4/Nelson Rd. 100 Westlake; I-10 at Exit 27
(337) 395-7777 (800) THE ISLE
www.mylauberge.com www.isleofcapricasinos.com
26-story casino resort, 1,000 casually elegant rooms with
Enjoy the ultimate gaming experience with the newest,
147 luxury suites, 70,000 sq. ft. casino with 70 table games
and 1,600+ slot machines. Contraband Bayou® Golf Club, an hottest slots and over 45 table games along with a live
18-hole championship Tom Fazio course. Eight innovative poker room. Have your pick of 3 savory restaurants and
restaurants, world class spa and pool with a lazy river, The two luxurious hotels.
Shops at L’Auberge and top name entertainment round out
the exciting amenities L’Auberge has to offer.
Lake Charles Vinton
Golden Nugget Lake Charles Delta Downs Racetrack Casino & Hotel
2550 Golden Nugget Blvd.; I-210 at Exit 3/Cove Lane 2717 Delta Downs Dr.; I-10 at Exit 4 or 7
(844) 777-4653 (800) 589-7441
www.goldennuggetlc.com www.DeltaDowns.com
With Vegas-style gaming and luxurious hospitality, Golden Over 1,600 of the hottest slots with Texas-sized aisles plus live
Nugget Lake Charles offers 740 guest rooms, an 18-hole golf Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse action from fall through
course, innovative gaming, multiple Landry’s restaurants, retail summer. Off-track betting from the country’s best tracks year-
shops, almost 30,000 square feet of meeting space, a marina, round. Live entertainment in the Delta Event Center and the Gator
a private beach and more. Lounge. Fine dining, buffet and food court. Free valet parking.
6 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 7
Arts &
u Downtown Charlestown District • Cottage Shops District See page 63
Culture Sulphur
Henning Cultural Center
923 Ruth Street; (337) 527-0357
www.brimstonemuseum.org
Local art and traveling exhibits.
Museums
Lake Charles
Children’s Museum
327 Broad St.; (337) 433-9420
www.swlakids.org
Offers three floors of hands-on, educational exhibits in a family
romeroandromerophotography.com atmosphere. Features many exhibits including a television studio,
shopping market, toddler area and several science exhibits.
The arts scene is on the move with colorful and exciting Imperial Calcasieu Museum
204 W. Sallier St.; (337) 439-3797
events taking place practically every weekend from music www.imperialcalcasieumuseum.org
to exhibits, festivals and creative good times. Historical collection of artifacts and memorabilia depicting life in
the Old Imperial Calcasieu region. Also home to the Gibson-Barham
Galleries Fine Art Gallery, featuring contemporary and traditional visual artists
and master craftsmen, and the 375 year old Sallier Oak.
Lake Charles Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu
◆ 1911 Historic City Hall 809 Kirby St., 2nd floor
1001 Ryan St.; Corner of Ryan and Kirby Streets In Historic Central School Arts & Humanities Center
(337) 491-9147 (337) 436-9588; www.swlamardigras.com
Rotating exhibits of great significance, presentations and festivals. Largest Mardi Gras costume display in the world, history of
Mardi Gras and king cakes, costume design, parade float to
Abercrombie Gallery and Grand Gallery climb aboard and exciting animatronic displays.
McNeese State University; (800) 622-3352 • (337) 475-5060
USS Orleck Naval Museum
4205 Ryan St., Rm. 125; Shearman Fine Arts Center 604 N. Enterprise Blvd.; (337) 214-7447; www.orleck.org
Rotating exhibits by well-known artists as well as university faculty Historic Naval museum featuring the USS Orleck DD886 WWII
and students. destroyer which served during the close of WWII through the
u Alexander Art Studio Vietnam era.
900 Ryan Street, Ste. 102; (337) 433-2299
www.alexanderartstudio.com; candice@alexanderartstudio.com Sulphur
Downtown’s finest art studio with original paintings and amazing Brimstone Museum Complex
designs! 900 S. Huntington; (337) 527-0357
www.brimstonemuseum.org
Art Associates Gallery The museum features a permanent exhibit about the history of the
809 Kirby St., Ste. 208; (337) 439-ARTS early sulfur mines and the City of Sulphur. It is also open for tourist
In Historic Central School Arts & Humanities Center information. Visit the Henning Cultural Center next door with
www.artassociates.org rotating exhibits.
Monthly rotating exhibits by a variety of artists.
DeQuincy
Black Heritage Gallery DeQuincy Railroad Museum
809 Kirby St., Ste. 207; (337) 488-0567 400 Lake Charles Ave.; (337) 786-2823
In Historic Central School Arts & Humanities Center www.dequincyrailroadmuseum.com
On Louisiana's African American Heritage Trail, rotating exhibits Original townsite in 1895 at the intersection of two major
and educational activities representing the contributions of African railroads. 1913 steam locomotive, passenger car, a caboose
Americans to Southwest Louisiana. and other railroad artifacts are on display.
Gallery by the Lake DeQuincy Town Hall Museum
106 W. Pryce St.; (337) 436-1008 218 East Fourth St.; (337) 786-6451
www.lakecharlesartists.com Newport Industries museum and memorabilia. Wall of Honor paying
Largest selection of art by local artists in Southwest Louisiana area. tribute to locals who have served in the U.S. military services.
8 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 9
Arts & Culture
Performing Arts
Music, ballet, theatre! Southwest Louisiana has the lights, the
sound and the talent to bring just about anything onto the stage
to delight crowds.
Artists Civic Theatre (ACTS)
www.actstheatre.com
The Children’s Theatre Company
www.thechildrenstheatre.cc
Itinerant Theatre
romeroandromerophotography.com
www.itineranttheatre.com
The Lake Charles Civic Ballet
www.lakecharlescivicballet.com
The Lake Charles Little Theatre
www.thelclt.com
Lake Charles Symphony
www.lcsymphony.com
McNeese State University Bayou Players
www.mcneese.edu/performingarts
The Mines Sulphur Community Theatre
www.theminestheatre.org
The Lake Charles Community Band, the Francis G. Bulber Youth
Orchestra, the Louisiana Choral Foundation Masterworks Chorale
and Les Petites Voix are among other arts organizations with
performances each spring and fall including holiday concerts and
specials at local festivals.
To learn more about the arts, contact the Arts & Humanities
Council of Southwest Louisiana at (337) 439-2787 or visit them
lindseyjanies.com online at www.ArtsandHumanitiesSWLA.org.
Cultural Districts
For information on the Nellie Lutcher District, the Cottage Shops or the
Downtown Charleston Cultural District, call the Arts and Humanities
Council of Southwest Louisiana at (337) 439-2787 or visit
www.ArtsandHumanitiesSWLA.org.
u Downtown Charlestown District • Cottage Shops District See page 63
Nellie Lutcher District
romeroandromerophotography.com
10 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 11
to
Where
Eat?
www.lindseyjanies.com
What is up with our food? Yes, it’s almost like you need a guide Darrell’s Restaurant & Bar » Claim Jumper
to pronounce our scrumptious cuisine. But, you can easily 119 W. College St.; (337) 474-3651 Full service casuals dining. Open
appreciate the rich and bold flavors that have been simmering Po-boy sandwiches, beer, wine, breakfast, lunch, dinner and late
in pots for centuries. mixed drinks. No minors allowed night.
after 10 p.m. » The Country Club at the
Lake Charles Casa Manana
2510 Ryan St.; (337) 433-4112 Gatti’s Pizza
Golden Nugget
Enjoy chef crafted cuisine with a
121 Artisan Bistro www.casamanana.net 3522 Ryan St.; (337) 474-6625 Cajun flair. Full service bar with
121 Dr. Michael DeBakey Dr. Tex-Mex with a Southwest Louisiana http://stores.gattispizza.com/ extensive wine, beer and liquor
(337) 310-7499 flair! Sulphur, LA location coming location/lakecharles selections, as well as premium
Best steaks and seafood in SWLA; soon! Pizza, pasta, salads, po-boys, cigar list.
WaitrApp.com for to-go orders or desserts, Gatti Land (game room). » Grotto
delivery. Cypress Grill at Gray Plantation Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in a
6150 Graywood Pkwy. Golden Nugget Lake Charles warm, entertaining atmosphere.
Big Daddy’s Sports Grill & (337) 562-1206, ext. 2 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd.
www.grayplantationgolf.com (337) 508-7777, (844) 777-4653 » Landry’s Seafood House
Restaurant Sample world-famous gumbos,
1737 W. Sale Rd., Ste. 101 Visit us for daily chef specials, www.goldennuggetlc.com.
gourmet sandwiches and salads fresh fish and shrimp, oysters
(337) 477-9033 » The Buffet and more.
Cajun comfort food. Hamburgers, made to order. Fresh soups and salads, seafood,
po-boys, seafood, steaks, salads; Asian, Mexican, Italian, American » Lillie’s Asian Cuisine
relaxed neighborhood environment; Coyote Blues Fresh Mexican Grill comfort and carving stations. Traditional Asian noodle dishes,
breakfast, lunch, dinner. Many TVs with Louisiana Soul Weekly dinner specials. sushi and sashimi, traditional
with sports and more. 3624 Ryan St.; (337) 502-5131 and modern Chinese and
» Cadillac Mexican Kitchen & Japanese cuisine.
www.coyotebluesfreshmex.com Tequila Bar
Billedeaux’s Cajun Kitchen Best fajitas in Southwest Louisiana Incredible breakfast, delicious tapas » Saltgrass Steak House
2633 Fruge St.; (337) 439-9944 3 years in a row. Kids eat free every and signature Mexican dishes. Certified Angus Beef® steaks
Boudin, sausage, smoked meats, Tuesday. @CoyoteBluesLC Extensive hand-crafted cocktail known for superior quality and
gumbo and famous burgers. selection and impressive list of tenderness. Wide selection
Dan’s BBQ Express tequila selections. of fresh seafood, chicken
Botsky’s 2635 Country Club Rd. & burgers.
104 W. Pujo St., Ste. 100 (337) 478-5858
(337) 491-1155 www.dansbbqexpress.com
www.botskys.com Slow cooked, tender BBQ brisket,
A high quality purveyor of hotdogs ribs, pulled pork & chicken.
and sausages in downtown Lake
Charles, showcasing a diverse range
of hotdogs & sausages paired with
fresh and outlandish toppings.
12 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 13
Where to Eat? u Downtown Charlestown District • Cottage Shops District See p.63
www.monsoursphotography.net www.monsoursphotography.net
» Starbucks L’Auberge Casino Resort » Touloulou’s Mr. Bill’s Seafood Express
Choose from a variety of hot and 777 Avenue L’Auberge Head out back to our lakeside bar, 500 E. McNeese St.; (337) 477-9746
cold coffee and tea beverages. (337) 395-7777, (866) 580-7444 Touloulou’s. Enjoy a cold beer and a Fresh, fried or grilled seafood,
Full range of Starbucks products www.mylauberge.com burger, enjoy live music, dominate hamburgers, steaks and more.
available. in a game of volleyball or just soak
» Asia SM
up the sun on the beach. The Nina P’s Café
» Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse Asian fusion cuisine; Vietnamese casual deck and beach are open
Indulge at one of America’s Top Ten favorites; sushi 1600 W. McNeese St., Ste. A
weekends and holidays seasonally. (337) 474-6462
Steakhouses.
» Desserts SM A little taste of New Orleans right
For additional dining options, call
Guillory’s Famous Foods Tasty gelato, decadent homage (337) 395-7777 around the corner.
pastries & gourmet coffee from P.J.'s.
1475 Gerstner Memorial
(337) 497-1477 » Ember Grille & Wine Bar ◆ Luna Bar & Grill O.B.’s Bar & Grill
Barbecue ribs, brisket, sausage, Savor signature, wood-fired entrees 719 Ryan St.; (337) 494-LUNA 1301 Ryan St.; (337) 494-7336
homemade boudin, cracklins and in the glow of expansive stone www.lunabarandgrill.com Upscale bar & grill with great food,
beef jerky. fireplaces. Extensive wine cellar. Great food, great atmosphere, great nightlife and entertainment.
» Favorites Southern Kitchen live music, great local culture. Get
Hackett’s Cajun Kitchen down downtown. Papa John’s Pizza
There’s nothing wrong with playing 650 W. McNeese St.; (337) 474-7272
5614 Gerstner Memorial Blvd. favorites! Favorites Southern Kitchen
(337) 474-3731 Market Basket www.papajohns.com
is the spot for delicious breakfast,
www.hackettscajunkitchen.com lunch, dinner and late night cravings. 4431 Nelson Rd.; (337) 477-4868 Deliver quality pizza and products.
Boudin, sausage, Cajun specialty www.marketbasketfoods.com Better ingredients and better pizza.
» Jack Daniel’s® Bar & Grill Full service supermarket with
foods, voted best plate lunches.
Delicious menu of burgers, steaks, boudin kitchen and smokehouse. Pappy’s Deli
barbecue and other roadhouse 2627 Ryan St.; (337) 436-2813
KD’s Diner favorites.
240 W. Prien Lake Rd. ◆ MacFarlane’s Celtic Pub Sports bar and deli: 30 beers on tap.
(337) 479-2009 » J.D.s Patio 417 Ann St.; (337) 433-5992
Open seasonally. Light gourmet www.macfarlanescelticpub.com Peto’s Meat Market
Lake Charles’ favorite all night diner 104 Bruce Circle; (337) 855-0034
serving breakfast, po-boys, gumbo, cuisine on a beautiful veranda Over 140 beers with a complete
overlooking the pool. Celtic menu for lunch and dinner. Boudin, sausage, meats, cracklins,
soups, salads & sandwiches. jerky, hog head cheese, deer
» Lattes SM Mazen’s Restaurant processing.
La Truffe Sauvage Coffee bar featuring P.J.s drinks, 217 W. College St.; (337) 477-8207
815 West Bayou Pines Dr. pastries, sandwiches and light snacks. Fine dining with Continental, New
(337) 439-8364
» Le Beaucoup Buffet SM Orleans; French, and Mediterranean
www.thewildtruffle.com
Extensive selection of breakfast, influences.
European fine dining with Louisiana American, Mexican, Chinese,
influences in an elegant atmosphere. seafood and desserts
14 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 15
Where to Eat?
Popeye’s Rotolo’s Pizzeria Fox’s Pizza Den of Sulphur LeBleu’s Landing
(Multiple Locations) 4201 Nelson Rd.; (337) 478-1996 2590 Maplewood Dr.; (337) 553-1181 202 Henning Dr.; (337) 528-6900
2710 Hwy. 14; (337) 474-1475 www.rotolos.com www.foxspizzadensulphur.com www.lebleuslanding.com
125 W. Prien Lake Rd. lake.charles@rotolos.com www.fpds.com Cajun, seafood, steaks, buffet,
(337) 474-0093 Pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches, Gourmet pizzas, stromboli, specialty meat market, gift shop.
301 Enterprise Blvd.; (337) 436-6130 calzones, in a family-friendly hoagies, wedgies, hot wings,
901 Country Club Rd. atmosphere. Beers on tap. salads, hamburgers & desserts. Pitt Grill
(337) 474-2134 Dine-in & Pick-up. 102 Benoit Lane; (337) 527-9448
400 Sam Houston Jones Pkwy. Seafood Palace www.pittgrill.com
(337) 855-0642 2218 Enterprise Blvd.; (337) 433-9293 Gatti’s Pizza Weekly seafood, buffets daily.
Chicken, shrimp, chicken tenders, Cajun/Creole, boiled seafood in a 1811 S. Ruth St.; (337) 527-0318 Senior discounts.
po-boys, Cajun side dishes, biscuits. family-friendly atmosphere. http://stores.gattispizza.com/
location/sulphur Popeye’s
◆ Pujo Street Café Southern Spice Restaurant & Grill Pizza, subs, salad, pasta, buffet or (Multiple Locations)
901 Ryan St.; (337) 439-2054 3901 Ryan St.; (337) 474-6065 pick up. Gattiland, party/meeting 1613 Ruth St.; (337) 527-8297
www.pujostreet.com 277 N. Hwy. 171; (337) 855-0010 rooms. 102 N. Cities Service Hwy.
American, Cajun and French. Now www.mysouthernspice.com (337) 625-7181
offering brunch on Sundays! Home-style breakfast, lunch and Hollier’s Cajun Kitchen Chicken, shrimp, chicken tenders,
dinner; locally owned and operated. 1709 Ruth St., Exit 20 po-boys, Cajun side dishes,
Que Pasa (337) 527-0061 biscuits.
4080 Nelson Rd. Suite 100 Steamboat Bill’s on the Lake 303 S. Cities Service Hwy.
(337) 310-PASA 1004 N. Lakeshore Dr. (337) 533-2234 Richard’s Boudin & Seafood
www.quepasataqueria.com (337) 494-1070 Steaks, seafood, gumbo, crawfish, Restaurant
Tex-Mex with a Southwest Louisiana www.steamboatbills.com boudin, sausage, lunch & night 2250 E. Napoleon St. (Hwy. 90)
flair! Great Cajun seafood. buffets. (337) 625-8474
Listed in USA Today. Cajun seafood restaurant and mart;
Restaurant Calla Jake's Cakes homemade boudin and sausage;
1400 Market St. Texas Roadhouse 121 S. Huntington St. RV/bus parking available.
(337) 419-1980 3431 Nelson Rd.; (337) 478-7244 (337) 528-6860
www.restaurantcalla.com www.trh.family.com Sandwiches, soups, salads, The Boiling Point
A neighborhood restaurant that has store_lakecharles@ cupcakes, cakes, novelty sweets. 1730 S. Beglis Pkwy.; (337) 625-9282
creative, seasonal, and sustainable texasroadhouse.com www.theboilingpoint.net
dishes with an inviting and Great steak house with made Kem’s Restaurant & Lounge Home cooked lunch Monday-
comfortable feel. from scratch sides and dressings. 330 Arena Rd. Friday. All you can eat seafood buffet
Curb side to go service. (located inside Holiday Inn) Friday and Saturday nights.
Roly Poly Sandwiches (337) 527-0858
3100 Ryan St. / 4423 Nelson Rd. Sulphur www.holidayinn.com/sulphurla The Sausage Link
(337) 433-3130 / (337) 474-3332 GM.SLFHS@aaacompany.com 2400 E. Napoleon Dr.
www.orderrolypoly.com B&O Kitchen and Grocery
3011 E. Burton; (337) 625-4637 Small hotel restaurant which serves (337) 625-2030
Healthy and delicious rolled breakfast & dinner every day. Full-service specialty meats and
sandwiches, soups and salads. Boudin, sausage, specialty meats,
casual Cajun dining. Best boudin.
Catering available & online ordering. cracklins, jerky, hog head cheese, deer
processing.
16 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 17
Where to Eat?
Longhorn Hard Country Café
2374 Hwy. 109 South, I-10 Exit 4 DeRidder
(337) 589-5647 Popeye’s
www.thetexaslonghorncomplex.com 421 N. Pine St.; (337) 462-3551
Family dining, Cajun food, steaks Chicken, shrimp, chicken tenders,
and great specials. po-boys, Cajun side dishes,
biscuits.
Iowa
Rabideaux’s Sausage Kitchen, Inc.
Jennings
105 Hwy. 165; (337) 582-3184 Mike’s Seafood and Steakhouse
www.rabideauxsausagekitchen.com 919 N. Lake Arthur Ave., Ste. A
Boudin & sausage manufacturing (337) 616-0766
plant & restaurant. Casual dining, great value, best
food between Houston & New
www.monsoursphotography.net
Orleans. Atmosphere can’t be beat.
On and off site catering available
and award-winning gumbo.
Westlake DeQuincy
Bar B Que Pit Stop Popeye’s
2400 Westwood Rd.; (337) 433-7818 920 East 4th St.; (337) 786-4880 A complete list of restaurants can be found at
Fresh smoked ribs, sliced brisket, Chicken, shrimp, chicken tenders, po- www.visitlakecharles.org/restaurants
chicken, sausage, homemade slices. boys, Cajun side dishes, biscuits.
Isle of Capri Casino Hotel Vinton
100 Westlake Ave. Delta Downs Racetrack Casino &
(337) 430-2400 (877) ISLE ONE Hotel
www.isleofcapricasinos.com 2717 Delta Downs Dr.
» Farmer’s Pick Buffet (800) 589-7441
Breakfast, lunch, dinner, Italian, www.DeltaDowns.com
Cajun, steaks, barbecue, all you » Food Court
can eat. Burgers, BBQ, baked potatoes,
» Otis & Henry’s Bar & Grill sandwiches and more! Something
Dinner; The comfort of a for everyone.
neighborhood bar and grill with » The Lookout Restaurant
the favorites of a steakhouse. American, steaks and seafood.
» Tradewinds Formal dining in a casual
Deli, burgers and pizza. atmosphere.
» The Triple Crown Buffet
Popeye’s Buffet serving American, Cajun/
1601 Sampson St.; (337) 433-5636 Creole, barbecue, catfish, seafood
Chicken, shrimp, chicken strips, and desserts.
po-boys, Cajun side dishes, biscuits.
» Vista
Enjoy horseracing and fine cuisine
by award-winning chefs.
18 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 19t Louisiana
Southwes od
Boudin Fun Fos
Trail Fact
Napa Valley has wine. New York has pizza. Wisconsin has cheese. What’s Cookin?
Southwest Louisiana has boudin! Boudin is Louisiana's spiced-up Eating is an Attitude.
hybrid of pork or beef sausage. It's a tender, savory mix of pork, rice, All foodies know that an area has “Good Eats” when you can
liver, parsley and onions, variously seasoned with salt, red pepper, overhear residents talking about supper during lunch. In
Southwest Louisiana, we are not sticklers for silly rules like keeping
black pepper and garlic powder. Everything's stirred together, stuffed
your elbows off the table, and we only put our noses in the air to
into casings and sold hot by the pound. Call it "BOO-dan" — or smell what’s cooking in the kitchen.
better, "BOO-dehh," with a French-style fadeoff at the end. Call it a
"link" if the regional sound escapes you. Either way, call it delicious. Cajun vs. Creole Cuisine
What’s the Difference?
There's a mild boudin and hot boudin. There's smoked boudin, with a Creoles are of French and European descent, mainly aristocracy
crispy casing. There's shrimp, crawfish and even alligator boudin. Bite who settled in cities. Cajuns were French settlers of Nova Scotia,
it, slice it, or squeeze it, and you'll discover Louisiana's love of food Canada, mostly peasants who were exiled by the British in the
crammed inside. 1700s and settled along waterways and bayous. While Creole
food is elaborate to prepare, Cajuns became trappers, anglers and
No two boudin recipes are alike. Whether it's sold at a restaurant, hunters, living off the land, making their cooking as flavorful and
steamy as Louisiana’s summers.
a grocery store or a gas station, boudin has fillings and flavors
reflecting the individual tastes and traditions of each boudin maker. The Secrets in the Sauce or Sausage!
Cajuns generally prepare full-bodied or blackened cuisine, and
Creoles take culinary refuge in their sauces, herbs and intricate
spices. Creoles use vast ingredients, reminiscent of the Grand
Go to www.visitlakecharles.org/boudintrail European style, consisting of several courses. Cajun cuisine is more
for a complete listing of eateries on the trail robust—usually made in just one pot.
and attractions along the way.
What’s the Same?
Both have influences from Native American, African, Spanish and
German cooks.
The “Trinity”
Onions, bell peppers and celery.
For information on our Top 20 Restaurants, as
voted on by the people of Southwest Louisiana,
go to www.visitlakecharles.org/Top20.
20 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 21vs.
Creole
Cajun
@LouisianaCookin
Culinary Experiences
• Acadian Coffee Roasters • Crave
2908 Hodges Street 2018 Ryan Street, Suite 100
Lake Charles Lake Charles
(318) 677-9050 (337) 421-0040
www.acadiancoffee.com www.crave-foods.com
Micro Roaster offering 100% Crave is a unique “eat” boutique,
Organic, Fair Trade Organic and offering gourmet baskets, premium
Rain Forest Alliance Coffees. olive oils and balsamics, wine,
Bayou Rum
cheese and other fine foods. What is a Cajun?
20909 South I-10 Frontage Road Crying Eagle Brewing Company Cajuns were French colonists from eastern Canada who were
Lacassine (opening Spring 2016) displaced by war in the late 18th Century and came and settled in
(337) 588-5800 Lake Charles south Louisiana. Their French-Canadian customs, language and
www.BayouRum.com www.cryingeagle.com Catholic religion came with them, as well as their love for fun, a
Handmade from Louisiana Craft Brewery with tasting bar, live strong work ethic and the ability to live off the land.
sugarcane in the largest privately- music, entertainment, beer garden
owned rum distillery in the USA– and more. Free tours. What is Cajun music?
Louisiana Spirits Distillery. Traditional Cajun music, with its waltz-like quality, has an
Offers free distillery tours followed emphasis on the fiddle and accordion. Cajun food, which is
by a rum sampling! growing in popularity nationwide, has a spicy quality.
What is a Creole?
Cuisine & Recipes From the Portuguese word crioulu, which means homegrown,
the term Creole was originally used to refer to Africans born in
the New World. In Southwest Louisiana, Creole has come to
mean the language and traditions that are native to the southern
Dishes like boudin, smoked sausage, kibbie, muffalatas, hoghead part of Louisiana, where African, French, and Spanish influences
cheese, jambalaya, gumbo, crawfish étouffée, shrimp creole, rice were most deeply rooted in our history and culture.
and gravy, fried catfish, raw oysters, smothered cabbage, and an
assortment of other dishes that are known around the state, but What is Zydeco?
prepared a little differently are the hallmarks of our cuisine. View Having its origin in the 1700s, the LaLa dance (sort of a waltz
recipes at www.visitlakecharles.org/recipes. combined with a two-step) was performed to the blend of
accordion, washboard, spoon, and anything else that would
If you are a Cajun and want to submit your secret family recipe, make noise. Then, as today, the lyrics were sung in Creole French.
visit www.visitlakecharles.org/recipeform. The music of south Louisiana's African-American Creoles,
Zydeco, contains elements of the blues. It became popular in the
Learn how to make a roux, eat & prepare crawfish or a little late 1940s. Country Creole combined the Cajun LaLa with the
about our Southwest Louisiana Boudin Trail on our culinary blues and jazz of the urban African Americans. This created the
rollicking syncopated sounds we know as Zydeco.
videos page www.visitlakecharles.org/servedup.
22 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 23Music fe
Scene Nightli
Unwind in a quaint bar, listen to live music, or get down in a
dance club – whatever your preference – you can find your
Looking for Live Music?
style of relaxation. For a weekly list of live music, visit
www.visitlakecharles.org/nightlife.
You don't have to be nocturnal to enjoy the great shows and events
that Southwest Louisiana has going on after hours-but it helps!
Enjoy traditional Cajun and Zydeco music at the local dance halls Lake Charles » Blue Martini
Premier martini lounge. Tapas
and two-step the night away, or experience top entertainment at Cowboys food menu. Stunning décor and
area casinos. 5329 Common St. high energy feel.
(337) 474-8010 » Cadillac Beach Bar & Grille
www.cowboyslc.com Enjoy hand crafted cocktails
If you like your music with a bit more edge to it, our many bars and cowboyslc@yahoo.com with your toes in the sand. Fire
pubs offer nightly live entertainment from local musicians as well Lake Charles Premier night pits and grille favorites.
as talent from around the region. Don't forget to look up headlining club for the past 25 years
@cowboyslc » H2O Pool + Bar
entertainment at the casinos throughout the year! Sleek outdoor pool and
Crystal’s Downtown lounge featuring lazy river,
For streaming live music, you can listen to a variety of genres by 112 W. Broad St.; (337) 433-5457 private cabanas, firepits, hot
Louisiana’s independent artists at www.LouisianaIndieRadio.com. crystalsdowntown@gmail.com tubs—unlike anything on the
Alternative dance club, Louisiana coast.
karaoke, cabaret style shows,
full service bar. » Ice Bar
Enjoy a variety of specialty
Darrell’s Restaurant & Bar cocktails at this ultra-chic
You can also check out music shows at lobby bar.
119 W. College St.
www.visitlakecharles.org/livemusic. (337) 474-3651
Po-boy sandwiches, beer, wine,
mixed drinks. No minors allowed
after 10 p.m.
Golden Nugget Lake Charles
2550 Golden Nugget Blvd.
(337) 508-7777
www.goldennuggetlc.com
@GoldenNuggetLC
» Bar 46
Bar top video poker, action
packed table games while you
enjoy your favorite cocktail.
24 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 25ure
u Downtown Charlestown District • Cottage Shops District See page 63
A d v e n t
Tourism
» Rush Lounge & Party Pit ◆ MacFarlane’s Celtic Pub
Hot spot to enjoy a cocktail, 417 Ann St.
listen to live music and (337) 433-5992
gamble in our high energy Over 140 beers with a complete
party pit. Celtic menu for lunch and
dinner.
◆ Heist
700 Ryan St. O.B.’s Bar & Grill
(337) 433-9199 1301 Ryan St.
Located in historic bank (337) 494-7336
building. Wine, food, cocktails, Upscale bar & grill with
martinis, and music. great food, nightlife and
entertainment.
L’Auberge Casino Resort
777 Avenue L’Auberge • Pappy’s Sports Pub
(337) 395-7777 2627 Ryan St.
www.mylauberge.com (337) 436-2813
Sports bar and deli: 30 beers
» Globar SM on tap.
777 Avenue L’Auberge
(337) 395-7777
www.mylauberge.com Westlake Get Your Adventure On!
» Jack Daniel’s® Bar & Grill Isle of Capri Casino Hotel Glide out onto water, take a carriage ride and get creative
777 Avenue L’Auberge » Caribbean Cove
100 Westlake Ave. with how you view and enjoy nature’s bounty in
(337) 395-7777
www.mylauberge.com (337) 430-2400 (888) ISLE VIP Southwest Louisiana.
Features live entertainment www.isleofcapricasinos.com
every Tues.-Sat. night. Live entertainment every Airboat Rides & Alligators Lady of the Lake
Wed.-Sat. night. 1151 Oak Grove Hwy. 3748 LA Hwy. 3059, Lake Charles
Loggerheads Riverside Bar Grand Chenier (337) 491-6794
3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd)
Lake Charles, LA 70615
Vinton (337) 274-2395 www.lakecharlesdinnercruises.com
Closed most major holidays. info@lakecharlesdinnercruises.com
337-491-6794 Delta Downs Racetrack
www.lakecharlesdinnercruises.com Airboat rides in Louisiana’s Outback 150 passenger yacht, book for
Casino & Hotel on the Creole Nature Trail. dinner or special event cruises.
Upscale bar and grill located on
» Gator Lounge
the Calcasieu River. 2717 Delta Downs Dr.
Grosse Savanne Eco-Tours Paddle Up Boarding Company
(800) 589-7441
◆ Luna Live www.DeltaDowns.com 358 Chalkley Rd., Bell City Lake Charles; (337) 240-8743
710 Ryan St. Sip your favorite drinks. Live (337) 310-4260 www.paddleuplc.com
(337) 433-4388 www.grossesavanne-ecotours.com paddleup@yahoo.com
entertainment and sports.
www.lunabarandgrill.com info@gsecotours.com Stand-up paddle boarding lessons,
lunalivebooking@yahoo.com Boat marsh tours, birding, rentals, parties, fitness and
Longhorn Entertainment
Music venue, event hall,
Complex photography, educational eco- corporate paddles.
night club. 2374 Hwy. 109 South tours, nature & wildlife viewing. @paddleuplakecharles
(337) 589-5647 @GSecotours
www.texaslonghorncomplex.com Redneck Yacht Rentals
Large nightclub, casino, bingo
hall, restaurant, convenience J&R Carriage 1201 Lakeshore Dr.
store, motel, truck stop, equine Downtown Lake Charles (337) 263-1987
training center. (337) 842-0778 www.redneckyachtrentals.com
@TXLonghornClub rdroy@jandrcarriage.com redneckyachtrentals@yahoo.com
Call for reservations, or walk-up Recreational boat rentals.
appointments are also available
at the staging area on the
Promenade for the mule-drawn
carriage service.
26 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 27l
Natu re Trai
Creole ure
Advent
Point
Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point
Kick off your Creole Nature Trail journey at the new Creole
Nature Trail Adventure Point—a free, fun attraction that
immerses you in nature and Louisiana’s unique culture.
Through imaginative, hands-on displays sure to inspire, you
can learn the best places to spot alligators and migrating
songbirds, take a peek at wildlife found in bayous and
marshes, smell mouthwatering aromas of Cajun/Creole
cooking, and “play along” with a Cajun and Zydeco band.
Located at 2740 Ruth St., Sulphur, LA, just south of Interstate
10 at exit 20.
(337) 502-4358
www.VisitLakeCharles.org/AdventurePoint
28 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 29Na ture
Creole l
Trai
www.lindseyjanies.com Brendalafleur.com
Creole Nature Trail All-American Road Pick your adventure:
Scenic byway near Lake Charles, LA
✔ 26 miles of natural Gulf beaches for swimming, shelling,
Explore the vital Louisiana coastal wetlands in Louisiana’s Outback, and surf fishing and picnicking.
see the birds, alligators and other wildlife that inhabit them in their
natural environments. One of only 43 federally-designated All-American ✔ Over 400 different bird species spotted each year (including hundreds
Roads, the more than 180-mile Creole Nature Trail is an outdoor of thousands of migrating waterfowl in winter!)
adventure land. Whether your preference LALA
is to view and
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DeRidder ✔ Four wildlife refuges with walkways, nature drives and boardwalks to
nature, or fish, crab, and hunt,DeQuincy
the Creole Nature Trail, is a natural wonder
DeQuincy explore plus numerous recreational areas to fish and crab.
and a recreational paradise for all ages. Gulf beaches are perfect for
soaking in the sun and collecting
LALA
2727
shells. ✔ Peveto Woods Sanctuary is a critical stop for, and a great place to see,
migrating neo-tropical songbirds and butterflies.
Visit www.CreoleNatureTrail.org to plan your Louisiana Outback
adventure. Free tour app (search “creole” in your app store!) or check-out ✔ Fish from your own boat, pier, shore or the banks or hire
LALA
1212 Sam
Sam 171
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a free rental unit at the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana
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Jones & a local professional guide...it’s up to you!
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30 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 31Creole Nature Trail
Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge Peveto Woods Sanctuary
Wildlife Refuges & Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge
5476 Grand Chenier Hwy., LA 82, 8.5 miles west of LA 27/LA 82
209 Nature Rd.; (337) 774-5923
Outdoor Attractions GPS Coordinates:
Grand Chenier; (337) 491-2593 intersection; (800) 456-7952
GPS coordinates:
GPS Coordinates:
N 30.01594 W 92.78311 N 29.73269 W 92.83146 N 29.76110 W 93.60496
The area is rich with natural Grab your binoculars and enjoy the
(337) 774-5923 View alligators, shorebirds and
beauty and attractions to Self-guided drive at Lacassine Pool. natural beauty of the brightly plumed
wading bird rookery plus great
explore, boasting a myriad of spring warblers, tanagers and orioles
Located 4 miles south of Hayes on fishing (with appropriate licensing)
as well as more sought after species
opportunities to see alligators, Hwy. 14, and 4.5 miles south on including Price Lake Nature Drive such as the Scarlet Tanager. Not to be
birds, and lush scenery via Illinois Plant Rd. for wildlife viewing, bank fishing, outdone, thousands of butterflies call
GPS Coordinates: shrimping and crabbing. Peveto Woods home from late spring
driving and walking trails.
N 30.00555; W 92.91091 to late fall.
Sabine National Wildlife Refuge
Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Excellent wildlife viewing and bird 3000 Holly Beach Hwy., Hackberry; Birding
Refuge & Visitors Center watching including a Spoonbill (337) 762-3816 The Creole Nature Trail is home
1428 Hwy. 27; (337) 598-2216 Roseate rookery. Wetland Walkway; GPS Coordinates: to more than 400 bird species
N 29.866544 W 93.455858 making it one of the Top 10 Birding
GPS Coordinates:
1.5 mile (loop) accessible walking Destinations in the country.
N 29.943344 W 93.08865 Pintail Wildlife Drive trail right into the marsh including Year-round you will be treated
(337) 598-2216 (337) 598-2216 a 2-story observation tower for to a seemingly endless array of
www.fws.gov/swlarefugecomplex GPS Coordinates: panoramic views. raptors, waterfowl, wading birds
Engage in wildlife exploration N 29.946078 W 93.084828 Blue Goose Trail; GPS Coordinates: and shorebirds residing in this
at the Visitors Center featuring state- Three mile self-driving tour located N 29.890783 W 93.400942 lush environment. Bring out your
of-the-art talking dioramas as well as just south of Cameron Prairie 1 mile paved walking trail to the binoculars, camera, or just enjoy
multiple over-water boardwalks and western edge of Lake Calcasieu; Also watching the many varieties of birds
Headquarters. A half mile (loop)
visit nearby Hog Island Gully, Blue flying overhead. For our birding
viewing areas. accessible boardwalk provides an Crab and West Cove recreation areas brochure, log onto
excellent view into the marsh. Nature which offer excellent fishing and www.visitlakecharles.org/birdguide
photography, especially during crabbing.
waterfowl migrations, is spectacular.
www.pbase.com/pattonpix
32 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 33x p l o r e the
E
rs
Outdoo
Parks Lock Park
1535 Ryan St., Lake Charles
Calcasieu Parish boasts numerous Open air pavilion, fire truck, picnic
facilities for the outdoors. Visit tables and covered playground.
www.cppj.net for details.
Millennium Park
Sam Houston Jones State Park 901 Lakeshore Dr.,
107 Sutherland Rd. off of Hwy. 378 Lake Charles at the Civic Center;
in Moss Bluff 20,000 sq ft playground with a
(337) 855-2665, (888) 677-7264; tower, pirate ship and tree house as
www.lastateparks.com well as a splash park.
Featuring 1,087 acres of lakes, trees,
vistas, rivers and streams Sam Ponderosa Park
Shelling & Beaches Fishing Houston Jones is an excellent spot 1000 McKinley St., Westlake
for bird watching with nearly 200 www.cityofwestlake.com
The beaches along the trail are Freshwater fishing. Brackish or
species sited annually. Campsites Play gyms, swings, basketball court,
particularly excellent for shelling. saltwater fishing. Side-of-the-
and cabins available. a walking trail, oak trees and BBQ
Located west of the Mississippi road fishing. Surf-fishing on the
pits.
Delta, they are constantly beaches. If you have a boat or if Niblett’s Bluff Park
replenished by the "muddy river's" you’ve hired a guide, go fishing At the end of Niblett’s Bluff Rd. off of Prien Lake Park
southeast tidal flow which carries in the Gulf of Mexico or “deep- Hwy. 109/Exit 4 in Vinton 3700 West Prien Lake Rd.,
a wide variety of shells including in-the-marsh.” Along the Creole (337) 589-7117 Lake Charles
whelks, cockles, angelwings, olives Nature Trail, variety is the spice of www.niblettsbluffpark.com 29-acre park on Prien Lake featuring
wentletraps, arks and periwinkles. life and the options are pretty much The history of the bluff dates back walking paths with measurement
endless. And don't forget numerous to the Civil War when Niblett's Bluff markings, canoe and boat launches,
Low tide following a storm system waterways along the Creole Nature became an encampment. There is kids playground and SprayGround
offers prime shelling. With a little Trail offer perfect locations to drop also excellent fishing, camping, bird water park, numerous picnic areas,
luck, you'll find a "Sea Bean" — a a line, tip your sun hat forward and watching & hiking opportunities. boat launch, Amphitheater, two
pod carried all the way from Central wait for a nibble. pavilions and free Wi-Fi.
and South American forests. Check www.visitlakecharles.org/charter Drew Park
here for our shelling brochure 416 Dr. Michael DeBakey Dr.,
Riverside Park
www.visitlakecharles.org/shells Lake Charles
Hunting Play gyms, swings, a walking trail,
1700 Fitzenreiter Rd., Lake Charles
Boat launch and dock, a fishing pier,
In addition to Gulf Beaches, we also picnic tables and oak trees. A
The Creole Nature Trail habitat — picnic pavilion and restrooms.
have a white sand inland beach in community center with activities,
known as Louisiana's Outback —
Lake Charles: pool tables, table and video games,
ranks as one of the top waterfowl Intracoastal Park
a TV, snack machines, seasonal
North Beach hunting environments in the 7955 Intracoastal Park Rd., Sulphur
painting classes and tennis.
On the north shore of the lake nation. Outstanding variety and Playground, tent and RV camp sites,
right off I-10, Exit 29 for eastbound sheer quantity of birds provide boat launch, pavilion, picnic tables,
The Grove at Heritage Square
travelers and Exit 30A for hunters with a unique experience. fishing, public restrooms with
1211 Ruth St., Sulphur
westbound travelers. Throughout the fall and winter, showers.
www.sulphurparks.com
feathered visitors include snows,
Pedestrian park featuring fountains,
blues, and speckle belly geese as
walking paths, sitting and picnic
well as mallards, pintails and teal.
areas, a stage, restrooms, WiFi and
Sulphur Regional Library's Little
There is also seasonal hunting
Free Library.
for alligator. Hunting licenses are
required. Get all the details at the
Louisiana Department of Wildlife &
Fisheries website. For a complete list of parish and city parks, visit
www.visitlakecharles.org/hunt www.visitlakecharles.org/parks.
34 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 35Tee
Time
Lush scenery, Louisiana’s landscape and a mild climate The Country Club at the Golden Nugget
makes golfing available year round along with a beautiful 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd., Lake Charles
picturesque backdrop. (844) 777-GOLD (4653) • www.goldennuggetlc.com
The Country Club at the Golden Nugget is an 18 hole, par 72 golf course
Lake Charles designed by the award winning Todd Eckinrode and Origins Golf Design.
Located right on the bayou, the course has Miniverde greens and
Contraband Bayou® Golf Club at L’Auberge Casino Resort Celebration tees, fairways and roughs. The outer grass is planted with
777 Avenue L’Auberge, Lake Charles numerous ornamentals giving it a natural, native look. The most unique
(337) 395-7220 • www.mylauberge.com feature is the 15+ acres of waste bunkers. The contrast of the bayou,
Unique, public 7,077 yard, par-71 championship Tom Fazio designed bunkers and greens make this a must play for visitors of all levels.
course. Natural vegetation lines 8 lakes to challenge golfers of all skill
levels. Pro shop; driving range; concrete paths; Champion Ultradwarf
Bermuda grass; locals rates. An interactive touchscreen GPS is available Sulphur
in every cart. Frasch Park Golf Course
Gray Plantation Golf Course 400 Picard Rd., Sulphur
6150 Graywood Pkwy., Lake Charles (337) 527-2515 • www.sulphurparks.com
(337) 562-1663 • www.grayplantationgolf.com The 6,267-yard municipal course at Sulphur’s Frasch Park is an 18-hole,
Gray Plantation promises you a day of unparalleled golf anywhere par 71 golf course, completed in 1966. Frasch Park is a pretty course to play
in the country on its 18-hole 7,200 yard championship links course. because there are mature trees through the entire design. The terrain is
Conditioning and clubhouse amenities are superior: plus, the course fairly flat with a meandering waterway that runs through the course.
also offers an indoor state-of-the-art teaching academy including video
swing analysis. Also provides club repair and personalized club fitting.
Now is the time for you to “Play the Gray.” Westlake
National Golf Club of Louisiana
Mallard Cove Golf Course 1400 National Dr., Westlake
I-210 Loop Exit 108 On the former Chennault Airbase, Lake Charles (866) 255-6693 • (337) 433-2255 • www.nationalgcla.com
(337) 491-1204 • www.cityoflakecharles.com The 18-hole, par-72 course, designed by David Bennett, is set in a mature
Mallard Cove is a championship layout design with women’s, senior, growth pine forest, featuring an abundance of water hazards, preserved
medium and championship tees. The municipal course features 25 large wetlands, roughly 90 bunkers, and is part of a high-end, residential
bunkers and water hazards on 12 of the 18 holes. The course rating is community. There are five sets of tees with yardage ranging from 6,065 to
73.0, and the slope is 128. Excellent golf course that is well maintained, 7,025 yards. Tee times accepted 7 days in advance.
reasonably price and with a beautiful clubhouse!
36 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 37Histtohrey
u Downtown Charlestown District • Cottage Shops District See page 63
in
Making Attractions For History Buffs
u Lakefront Promenade
The Lakefront Promenade boasts a newly renovated cobblestone
path along the lake complete with custom lighting and seating. At
the entrance of the Promenade, visitors can admire the Louisiana
Landing Fountain. It is walking distance from Millennium Park,
Bord du Lac Marina and the PPG Sprayground.
• 911 Memorial
Located along the Lake Charles seawall, is a memorial
honoring two local men killed in the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks.
There is a piece of granite from the Pentagon honoring
Kevin Yokum and a steel girder from the World Trade Center
honoring L. Russell Keene II. Features 3,000 pieces of colored
glass representing those lost.
• Millennium Statue
Located near the boardwalk along Lake Charles, this 15 ft.
bronze statue of Jesus Christ stands 23 ft. tall over the resting
places of Lake Charles’ earliest and most famous settlers.
• Veteran’s Memorial Park
Located along the boardwalk by the Lake Charles Civic
Center, this park displays the five branches of the Armed
Southwest Louisiana is rich in history, and our six cities each have Forces with engraved bricks representing the men and
a unique story to tell. Visit www.calcasieupreservation.com, or women who have served since WWI. Famous WWII Patton
Tank, UH-1 Huey Helicopter, and First Lieutenant Douglas B.
stop by the bureau 1205 N. Lakeshore Drive for a historic brochure Fournet Memorial on display.
or download a guide from www.visitlakecharles.org/history.
Southwest Louisiana Genealogical & Historical Library
411 Pujo St., Lake Charles • (337) 721-7110
Historic Districts
DOWNLOAD THIS APP
VISITLA
KECHARLES.ORG/APPS
Housed in the historic Carnegie Memorial Library building, this
collection boasts a friendly staff to assist with serious researchers
u Charpentier Historic District or novices in tracing family history.
Covering 40 blocks of downtown Lake Charles and on the National
Register of Historic Places, you can step back in time with a self- Niblett’s Bluff Park
guided walking or driving tour of one of the finest collections of At the end of Niblett’s Bluff Rd., Highway 109/Exit 4 in Vinton
Victorian architecture in Louisiana, dating from the late 1800s to (337) 589-7177 • www.niblettsbluffpark.com
the early 1900s. Call (337) 436-9588 for more information. One of the more significant events was during the Civil War when
Niblett’s Bluff became an Encampment. Among all this history is
DeQuincy Historic District excellent fishing, camping, bird-watching and hiking opportunities.
Journey through the area once known as the “Turpentine
Capital of Louisiana” and tour beautiful and historically significant
buildings. Contact the DeQuincy Railroad Museum at
(337) 786-2823 for more information.
Margaret Place and Shell Beach Drive
A trip down Shell Beach Drive will give visitors a view of some of
the most luxurious homes in the area. The Margaret Place Historical
District celebrated its centennial anniversary in 2012.
Sulphur Historic District
In downtown Sulphur, near the Brimstone Museum and Henning
Cultural Center, there are sites of interest, private historic homes
and shops. For a City of Sulphur Driving Tour brochure, contact the
Henning Cultural Center at (337) 527-0357.
38 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 39History in the Making
Westlake was originally named “Rio Hondo,” and the area from
Westlake up the Sabine River was also known as “No Man’s
Land” to rustlers, pirates and renegades since it belonged to no
one. In the 1800s, settlers came to the area, purchased land and
renamed it Westlake.
www.monsoursphotography.net
In 1897, the Kansas City, Pittsburgh and Gulf Railway, now the
Kansas City Southern, reached the point where its main line
bent southwest toward Beaumont and the old Calcasieu River.
Vernon & Shreveport tram line, now the Lake Charles branch of
Historic Markers the K.C.S., joined the main line causing the rise of the town of
DeQuincy. Today, you can visit the DeQuincy Railroad Museum.
Information on the Atakapas-Ishak Indian marker as well as
the Gerstner Field World War I marker and others can be found The quaint town of Vinton was once traveled by Civil War
online at www.visitlakecharles.org/historicmarkers. soldiers. The soldiers cut a road extending from an area in
Vinton known as “Niblett’s Bluff” on the Sabine River. Area
residents often hold re-enactments of Civil War battles at
Glimpse Into Our Past Niblett’s Bluff Park.
The romantic history of Lake Charles, involving tales of pirates The history of Iowa is filled with stories of the early
and buried treasure, began with the arrival of the first French Midwestern Settlers from Kansas, Illinois and Iowa to the
settlers in the 1760s. The lumber boom was responsible for the French Canadians (Cajuns) to Jean Lafitte’s pirates along the
rapid growth of the city in those early years. Without architects Old Spanish Trail. The railroad that cut through this country
in the area until the early 1900s, the structures reflect the brought settlers who were lured to the prairie land for rice
individual characteristics of the carpenters and builders, and farming, raising cattle and, later, oil fields.
the “Charpentier Historic District” is named after the carpenters
that built the Victorian mansions. The district is on the
National Register of Historic Places.
In the late 1800s, Sulphur was a sulfur mining haven. In 1907,
the average population of the Sulphur Mines area was 5,000,
making it a town unto itself. This fifty-acre tract of land was
then known as the “richest fifty acres in the world.” By the
1940s, the main focus was the petrochemical industry, which is
still the backbone of the city.
40 800-456-SWLA VisitLakeCharles.org 41You can also read
